Smilin' G

G is a personality, to say the least. For better or worse, I'd equate to a toddler, who mimics and learns the mannerisms of people around her to help her get what she wants. For example, because I've always lived alone with just G and my cats, I tend to talk to them a lot (go ahead, judge). G has developed into a very vocal dog, who makes a multitude of noises throughout the day, all of which have have their own particular nuance. Quiet whines that escalate into a high pitched bark mean it's time to go outside. Sharp, loud barks mean she needs help with something (needs attention). The standard "someone-is-in-my-hallway-passing-my-door" bark that's simply an alert, and so on.

Interestingly, another way G has learned to mimic human behavior is curling her lip upwards into a smile. Specifically, when we go for our walks when I arrive home from work, G usually sniffs around, pinning her ears back in concentration to find the best places to potty. Recently, if I look at her and smile and quietly say "Hi, Goose..." (her nickname) her lip immediately goes up and eyes get squinty. It is the smallest thing, but it makes me so happy to know that she understands I'm just letting her know I'm right with her.