Talking to dogs might sound funny to people who have never truly experienced the bond, but for those of us who live with them, it’s second nature. With Chooch, it became our daily ritual—those small conversations that meant everything. Whether it was me asking him how his day went, teasing him about sneaking food, or simply whispering “I love you, buddy,” Chooch always answered back in his own way—through tilts of the head, those big expressive eyes, or a happy wag of the tail. I miss those talks so much, because they weren’t just words; they were little threads of connection woven into everyday life.
Now with CiCi, I find myself doing the same thing without even realizing it. She may not understand the exact sentences, but she feels the love, the rhythm, and the attention behind every word. Dogs don’t need language in the same way we do—they just need to know they’re seen, heard, and loved. When I sit with CiCi and tell her about my day, she listens with that same patient gaze, like the whole world is wrapped up in that moment with us.
Some people might laugh and say, “Why talk to a dog? They don’t understand you.” But anyone who’s ever had these little talks knows that’s not true. Dogs understand the heart behind the words. They sense when you’re happy, when you’re sad, when you need comfort or company. Talking to them isn’t silly—it’s essential.
So yes, of course I’ll always miss my talks with Chooch, but CiCi deserves the same love and attention too. And if you’re not having those little talks with your own dog, you’re truly missing out on one of life’s simplest, purest joys.
