I was thinking recently how smart my dog is. Ok so maybe I am a little biased. But Tucker really is smart. I actually have two dogs. Both are smart dogs and good dogs. However, Buddy’s main goal in life is to eat. You could say food is his love language. His second goal in life is to get back rubs. In his defense, he is older than Tucker and doesn’t have as much energy. Tucker, on the other hand, loves to please his parents and to spend time with his parents. As I was analyzing Tucker’s behavior and quirks, I learned a lot of good tips from him.

1 – Put all your effort into your work.

When Tucker sees anything or anyone that does not belong in his clique (such as a neighbor in their yard, a squirrel in our yard, or a Fed Ex truck out on the road), he immediately barks at and chases the offender. He continues until his job is done and the offender has left.

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Colossians 3:23 NLT

2 – When you’re not working, enjoy life.

Tucker loves to play. He is over two years old, but still has a lot of puppy in him. And he tries his best to bully his parents, his big brother, or anyone he can find into playing as well.

“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”- John 10:10 NLT

3 – When you’re feeling down, seek comfort.

Tucker doesn’t like when we leave him at home alone. He gets anxious and sad. So he curls up in a comfortable place and stays there until we return. If only one parent leaves, then he might try to curl up in the lap of the parent who is still at home.

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT

4 – When you’re tired, rest.

Tucker gets tired around midday and again at night. When he wants to sleep, he sleeps. And he doesn’t welcome interruptions. Around lunch time I often like to give him a treat, but he would prefer I didn’t. However if he absolutely must eat the treat, then he would like for us to hand it to him right where he is so the only thing he will have to move is his jaw.

“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.’ “ – Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

Animals are smart. And pets in particular are a blessing. They soothe us when we don’t feel well. And they bring us joy in our daily lives. Isn’t it extraordinary how God thought of every little thing when He created the earth?

(Buddy and Tucker.)