Discussions

He uses the living room as a porta-potty but you love your dog anyway. She chews on your sneakers and you think, “Aw, that’s kinda cute.”  
 
Well, the experts say we should extend the same tolerance to our significant others.  
 
Clinical psychologist Dr. Suzanne B. Phillips says we love our pets in a way that minimizes their flaws and demands, and any animal behaviorist says that when you shower your pet with positivity, you get unconditional love in return. Dr. Phillips says if you want a more loving relationship with your spouse, there are things you can learn from your relationship with your pet.  
 
For instance, lighten up. No matter what mood you’re in when you come home, your dog greets you at the door with enthusiasm and you greet him the same way – with affection and kind words, maybe even a treat. Dr. Phillips says you shouldn’t do any less for your spouse. Don’t pet the dog and then grumble at your spouse.  
 
Also, when your dog does something wrong – you don’t think he did it to spite you: he chewed the newspaper because he’s a dog. So when your spouse does something you don’t like – like puts the empty milk carton back in the fridge – don’t automatically assume he had bad intentions, and don’t hold a grudge. If the dog chews the newspaper, 10 minutes later you’ve forgiven him. Extend the same forgiveness to your spouse.  
 
And look at your spouse with loving eyes. You don’t think your dog will damage your reputation if he barks at the neighbor – but you cringe when your husband starts in with the corny jokes at a party. Why not just smile and enjoy him instead of worrying that he makes you look bad. What makes you look bad is not loving your spouse for who he really is.