My dog
is a sonofabitch.

In his mind
I am dog
separated
from my mother
as a puppy
when we tug
a white sock.

It’s a dog
eat dog world
but not in my house.

I don’t want
to put whines
in his mouth

but in his eyes
I see myself
reflected –

a muttonheaded-
birdbrained-dingbat-
turkey-jackass

for keeping him
out of the kitchen
when I’m cooking.

No begging!
Go outside
& dig up a bone!

Still, he comes
when I call
or when he wants
me to pet him.

Who’s a good boy?