So, you don't like my dog. That has become abundantly clear to me. You might not be a dog person or maybe you don't appreciate the way his tail wags because he is just so gosh darn happy to see you. Whatever it may be, there are a few things we need to go over. These "things" are called manners.

Maybe the breed of my dog is not your favorite. Well, that's fine and dandy. Some people have their favorite breeds and their least favorite breed. But if my dog happens to fall into the category of least favorite: do not say it. It's rude not only to me but to my dog (because, yes, he has feelings). I understand that you might not be a fan of the behaviors of a certain breed of dog or the look of them but kindly keep that to yourself if my dog is that breed. I don't want to hear your negative comments about my pet.

Maybe you don't think my dog is cute. Just don't say it. Don't even try to. In my eyes, my dog is adorable and the cutest in the world so do not "speak your mind" in front of me because there is a good chance that I will go Mama Bear on you and it will not be pretty. I think my dog is handsome and looks wonderful so I do not need your opinion. You want to voice it when I'm gone? That's fine. I just don't want to hear it.

Maybe you don't like how my dog tried to say hello. How dare he, right? How dare my dog want to waggle up to you and attempt to make your day a little bit brighter. I cannot believe he has the audacity to wag his tail or to attempt to offer a kiss of his tongue as a little "hello" to you. I just assumed he was trying to be friendly. But if you don't like how he tried to lick you or jump at you, tell me. Don't look angry or glare at me.

Maybe you like to judge my dog because he's an ESA. That's Emotional Support Animal. Sure, he might not wear a vest or listen all the time but he is right there and willing to comfort me or sit in my lap if he can tell I'm having a rough day. You might see a dog who is totally untrained and can't do anything but, to me, I see a comforting friend.

Maybe you just don't like dogs. Then tell me. Let me know so I can keep my dog away from you but do not stand there and glare or make rude comments. I cannot read your mind and see that you don't like dogs. I assume most people do because (as an animal lover) I can't imagine anyone not. But I do understand some people don't and they want to keep their distance. Just let me know and I will be happy to keep him as far from you as possible.

Whatever the reason, that's great. But have the manners to either tell me or not say anything at all. My feelings won't be hurt to hear that you don't like dogs and my feelings definitely won't be hurt if you decide to keep your opinion to yourself. But remember one thing: I care far more about my dog than your opinion of him.