Why The Dog You Owned As A Teen Will Always Be Special

We’ve seen those sweet social media appreciation posts for animals — especially dogs. We may have adopted a dog in our early 20s, when we finished college and first experienced true “adulting.” At the same time, we bought or rented houses, moved past horrendous breakups, and found new relationships.

What do all of these events have in common? Our dogs.

We also may have dogs from our teenage years too, and with new dogs to love, they may feel like the “underdogs” sometimes. But the dogs we owned in our teenage years helped us through all of the difficulties of high school.

I still have my “teenage dog.” She’s a “Morkie” named Bella, and she weighs about seven pounds.

Originally, Bella was a Christmas gift I received when I moved to my dad’s place. Every time I come home, I make sure to have quality time with my dog — and she’s excited to see me too.

Bella is now a “senior citizen.”

Over the years, she lost some of her vision, and she no longer has all of her teeth. However, she still enthusiastically yaps at dinnertime, and whenever my dad and I walk through the door, she happily greets us.

If I could’ve taken Bella to college with me or to my place after I graduated, I would’ve. But my dog likes routine, and and she stays with my dad because he’s home more often than I am. Even though I don’t see my “teenage dog” every day, I’m still just as grateful for her presence as I was when I was in school.

I found high school especially difficult, but my dog helped me through.

Throughout my four years of high school, I faced toxicity, struggles, and heartache. I felt alone sometimes, but Bella, my ever-reliable companion, stayed loyal to me and remained by my side through it all.

Thank you, Bella, for being the constant in my life for so many years. Thank you for always letting me know when you needed attention. And thank you for the countless nose-lickings, the snuggles in bed, the little pouts when I dress you in warm “doggie clothes” during the winter, and the patience you have for me when I bathe you.

Above all, Bella, thank you for being you.

You’re truly one of the greatest dogs I’ve ever had. I can still remember when you were a puppy, and I love that so many others get to have so many memories with their “teenage dogs,” just like I have with you.

Even though I don’t live with you anymore, I hope you know how much I love and appreciate you. Bella, you’re special, and I want you to always feel loved.

Do you still have your childhood or teenage dog or pet? In the comments below, let us know what makes them special!

Featured Photo by Olivia Hutcherson on Unsplash.