Who Let the Dog Out?

Dear Alisa and Gina,

Whenever I visit my friend, her dog (he’s small, but not that small) always jumps up on me. I guess he likes me, but the problem is his nails are sharp and they dig in and they hurt – a lot.  I’ve asked my friend to put him in another room, but someone always lets him out. By the time I leave I’m literally black and blue. It’s gotten to the point that I don’t want to go over there any more. Is there something else I can say to her? - Dog Eared

Dog owners are a funny breed themselves. I have had the same experience with other people’s cats. Sometime, when you’re not in your friend's home, mention the subject and explain how you don’t want to visit in the future. If you can stick to “I” language: “I am uncomfortable with your dog,” you may be able to express your needs without argument. However, before you speak up, consider the importance of the nails vs. your friendship. Your friend may be fine and happy to accommodate you, but before you finalize your choice you should also try on how it might be if your friend doesn’t have such an accommodating response. ~ Alisa

Next time you go over to your friend’s, bring a nice, big, juicy meaty bone. (Or maybe one of those rawhide things.) Throw it in the basement. The dog will run after the bone. Close the basement door. Have a nice visit. ~ Gina