As a result of our love for our pets, we often anthropomorphize certain characteristics that we perhaps hope to see in them (or in ourselves). I’ve always had a clear idea in my mind of what type of "person" each of my dogs is; Cash, a sweet, sensitive, handsome-but-dumb charmer; Chance, a grumpy, hairy, haughty old British man; and Roxy, a strong, saucy, independent woman! Along with their personalities, I also thought I knew the role each dog played within our pack…but I think I might have been wrong this whole time.

Ever since Cash came into our lives, a tall, awkward, lanky, 15 month old rambunctious pup, I’ve always assumed that his and Roxy’s relationship was that of brother and sister. Cash annoys her at great lengths, but Roxy patiently withstands his tomfoolery unless his playfulness gets out of hand, keeping a close watch to ensure his behaviour is that of a proper gentleman or ready to intervene should he act inappropriately (lifting his leg and peeing on the face of a Bernese pup, for example.)

Recently, after closely observing their intimate interactions when they thought they were alone, I’ve come to a new conclusion – I believe that Cash thinks Roxy is his mother. This theory is not as farfetched as you might think; Cash came to us a sad and abandoned puppy who was probably looking for an alpha dog to lead him in the ways of his new home. Roxy had already established herself as the alpha in our pack (even at two, that girl didn’t take any guff) and was happy to show this giant newcomer what-was-what in her territory.

Thus began their deep bond, Roxy guiding Cash in the ways of becoming an absolutely perfect dog, engraining in him the undying trust, love and loyalty that she has bestowed upon us her whole life. When I look at the two of them now, it surprises me that it’s taken so long to arrive at this conclusion. Watching Roxy gently lick Cash’s eyes, ears and face while he sleeps so reminds me of the way mothers admire their sleeping children. Call me crazy, but I think Roxy established herself as Cash’s mother seven years ago when he first joined our family, whether or not we realized it. So I guess that makes me Cash’s grandma, which makes me feel old…and really happy.