After spending more than I should have to buy my tiny dog, admittedly I had second thoughts. Why did I get her? Why had I tied myself down?

My house isn’t nearly as attractive. My white floor-length drapes are looped up so Sophie can’t play with them, my pretty rugs (white long pile and hand-woven wool) have been rolled up and stored away so she won’t potty on them, and I keep several doors closed or blocked so her accidents are limited to the tile in the great room and kitchen.

But gradually she seems to be catching on. Most mornings her doggy droppings are on her puppy pads. She still has accidents but she’s beginning to understand what is expected. Eventually I hope I can put the rugs back and let the drapes go back to the floor.

We’re establishing a routine. When she gets up at about 8:00 she wants to play. I feed her and then she romps and runs around and around until she’s worn out. She then comes to me and begs to be lifted onto my lap where she curls up and sleeps for at least an hour. I don’t mind being tied down while she’s resting. We do the same thing late in the afternoon after dinner. She snoozes on my lap until it’s time for bed. Yup, I’m raising a lazy lap dog but that’s what I want.

What about my “Why did I get her?” question. No longer can I imagine my life without her. I’m so glad she’s mine. She showers me with love and affection. We’re a good pair and she’s excellent company.