My puppy neckwarmer thinks she's helping me write

A few months ago, I wrote about the sad passing of our miniature American Eskimo dog, Royale. We had her for 13 years; she was a great dog and not too demanding. R.I.P. Royale. We miss you.

We have a new puppy now. Chai-Chan is a Pomeranian, almost 6 months old. Almost from day one, she has found her special spot--right under my chin--to lay. The first few weeks I'd get up with her early in the morning and lie down on the couch. She'd lay across my neck, just like a scarf or neckwarmer.

In the evenings we have our "cuddle time" on my bed. Chai usually curls up next to my face or against my back. She loves contact, that's for sure.

Shortly after we got her and after we started allowing her on the bed, she'd come into our room and bark. Once. I'd say, "Up?" and she'd bark once more.

Within a few days I noticed her bark's tone started to change. It now actually sounds like she's saying "up!" She barks "Up!" and waits for me to pick her up and put her on the bed. She has other barks for other things, but this one is consistent and distinct.

Lately, Chai's gotten into the habit of wanting cuddle time while I'm writing. She'll jump at my legs while I'm sitting at my desk. Most times I give her a chewie. Occasionally I'll pick her up.

Today, after her first bath and after she was dry, she came into my office and barked "up!" She was obviously feeling a bit out of sorts after her bath (which she was very good for). So up she went. And now she's draped across my neck.

She thinks she's helping me write, but I won't tell her about all the typos I've had to fix or how awkward it is trying to type while balancing a dog across your neck.

She's now climbed up to my shoulder for a more secure spot. Apparently my typing is annoying her. And my face needs washing...and I smell like wet dog. Gotta love her though! :)

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif