Pete's never been shy about going into the room and curling up on the bed during the day. But at night, he won't set foot in the bedroom unless I go first.

What's with this behavior? I'm starting to think Pete's scared of the dark!

Hank
Germantown, MD

Dear Hank,

What you're witnessing is classic pack behavior.

When Pete joined your household, you and the rest of your family became his pack. As the Alpha dog, your job is to provide food and shelter. (When you and Pete go on road trips, you also take responsibility for gas and tolls, though Pete will no doubt be willing to help out with the driving.)

For his part, Pete defends the members of his pack and their dwelling against all threats. Whether it's a burglar, a fire, or little Timmy falling down the well, Pete will demonstrate his loyalty to the pack by trying his best to protect its members.

There's more to it though. Pete's pack loyalty will also manifest itself as respect for his pack leader (that's you, the alpha dog). The reason Pete won't go into the bedroom is that he recognizes it as your "den" and yields to you the first choice of comfy sleeping spots.

As a bonus for Pete, if it turns out there are scary monsters in there, he can get away while they're devouring you.

WOOF!
Wylie