Dumb-O Dog

© shoutingforha

My son likes to use the term "dumb-o" to describe those who are somewhat lacking in the brain department. Our dog, Brick, is a dumb-o... wonderful, loyal, lovable... but a dumb-o.

As far as dogs go, Brick is nearly perfect. He's never had an accident in the house, doesn't chew things (except the occasional Star Wars figure) and wouldn't hurt a fly. Other than his constant shedding and mountain-like piles of poop, he is a dream.

He does, however, have one flaw. Every few months, Brick decides to run away. As I lead him into the house, he bolts, running as fast as his legs can carry him. Today he ran away 3 times. Dumb-o dog!

The first few times Brick ran away, I spent hours chasing him around our neighborhood. I'm certain my neighbors thought I was crazy and that my dog needed to go to obedience school. I would drag him home, scolding him all they way.

Then, in a stoke of sheer genius, I decided to try reverse psychology on Brick. Hey, if it works on people, why not dogs? I started praising him and giving him treats every time he would come back. My plan worked perfectly.

Now, when Brick decides to go for a sprint, I don't even worry. I hop in my car, drive around the corner, and within 30 seconds, Brick comes trotting over. As I open my car door, he hops into the front seat and we head home. Today, I am proud to say, I didn't even have to get in the car. Good-old Brick ran home as soon as he heard the jingle of my car keys. What a dog!

We have an understanding. I won't punish him if he decides to run off every once in a while, as long as he runs over when he hears the sound of my car (or keys). For some reason it works for us... me and my dumb-0 dog.