Dog Poem by Barry Middleton

'I am called a dog because
I fawn on those who give me anything,
I yelp at those who refuse,
and I set my teeth in rascals.'
Diogenes

there is much to admire in a dog
if they like something, they lick it
if they are scared, they growl
if they are threatened they bite
if pleased, they wag their tails

dogs are famous for their loyalty
they will fight enemies to the death
to defend their master from danger
and they ask very little in return
but appreciate any care or affection

dogs have only a few laws
eat when you are hungry
sleep when you are tired
don't worry about how you smell
don't bite the hand that feeds you