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Just say "thank you" and move on. You are overthinking it. The dog doesn't mind if you take the compliment for him and the person who gives the compliment is in superficial mode, wanting a little attention for themself and not really caring much about you or the dog or who they intend the compliment for.
Believe it or not oregonwoodsmoke, some people like myself are honestly and seriously charmed by seeing various dogs being walked past us.
Our hearts are tickled. Our thoughts become happy. We look carefully to see how the pups are put together since many are unique “hybrids” we would never have thought of. Others quintessentially demonstrate their breed, which is awesome.
It’s not a rouse to get attention. We are truly thrilled to see them.
Believe it or not oregonwoodsmoke, some people like myself are honestly and seriously charmed by seeing various dogs being walked past us.
Our hearts are tickled. Our thoughts become happy. We look carefully to see how the pups are put together since many are unique “hybrids” we would never have thought of. Others quintessentially demonstrate their breed, which is awesome.
It’s not a rouse to get attention. We are truly thrilled to see them.
And are you insulted and dissatisfied if the dog owner says "thank you" in response to your admiration? And perhaps keeps walking and doesn't want to stop and have a conversation with you? I would be surprised if you or anyone else takes offense by it. It's perfectly OK for the OP to say thank you and keep moving.
And are you insulted and dissatisfied if the dog owner says "thank you" in response to your admiration? And perhaps keeps walking and doesn't want to stop and have a conversation with you? I would be surprised if you or anyone else takes offense by it. It's perfectly OK for the OP to say thank you and keep moving.
Oh I totally agree. And if you had ever been a dog owner/walker yourself, you would be able to think of many reasons the pair wouldn’t want to stop. Some dogs are too anxious around unknown people. Others are actually frightened and might nip but the owner is walking them to get them comfortable with this. Or, the walker doesn’t have any spare time that day since he needs to meet someone soon, get to an appointment, avoid another dog on the path, whatever.
And to be fair, oregonwoodsmoke, it appears you are a dog-enjoyer too.
........And to be fair, oregonwoodsmoke, it appears you are a dog-enjoyer too.
Yes, I love to see them. But I do not expect the dog owner to give me any of their time. I might throw out a compliment as I pass by without stopping: lovely dog, so well behaved, that sort of thing, but I do not expect any interaction with the owner. Mostly I get a smile and a thank you as I sail on past.
The only time I might stop is when it is very obvious that the owner is out there socializing and then I might stop, say a few words to the dog and pet them if the owner requests it. I don't see that happening very often.
When we're out walking, people will say "She's beautiful", "what a cute dog" etc. etc. I never know what to say in reply and usually end up saying "thank you" which sounds idiotic since it's the dog they're complimenting and not me!
How do I reply without sounding dorky?
I say "Thank you! We think so too!". Or something to that effect. It's OK to be proud of a family member. When you add that you "think so too", you are agreeing with the complementor's observation and good taste. That's fine! You are not being boastful; you are simply affirming their opinion!
I have a really good-looking cattle dog. Compliments are usually 'what a good looking dog, what breed is he? I respond by saying 'thank you, he's a cattle dog, and we think so, too' (that he's handsome).
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I did.
