Me: I wondered if we could talk about labrador begging.
Nell: Begging! We don’t beg.
Me: Oh come on, Nell. Look at your face in that photo.
Nell: You mean my reassuring face.
Me: It’s a begging face.
Nell: It is not. You know we like to show appreciation?
Me: Yes.
Nell: Well, we also like to reassure you.
Me: About what?
Nell: We like you to know we are always there for you.
Me: Only when I’m eating.
Nell: You are at your most vulnerable then.
Me: I am not.
Nell: Notice my head on Kev’s knee and my loving eyes.
Me: I definitely notice David’s head on my knee.
Nell: David is learning fast. He has a kind heart and his reassurance skills are really quite excellent for a young dog.
Me: You are begging for food.
Nell: If you decide to share your food we are, indeed, happy for you to do so.
Me: I know.
Nell: A meal shared is a meal enjoyed. We all know that. Would you prefer to eat alone?
Me: No.
Nell: To silently scoff your food away from everyone.
Me: That’s a bit harsh.
Nell: Isn’t food shared with friends and family much more enjoyable?
Me: Yes.
Nell: I rest my case, now no more of this begging nonsense.
Me: Sorry.
