The Dog's Dog In Training

It takes years of intense training and experience to become a true Road Dog Dog. The lineage is rich with history and strength. The latest aspirant to the title is progressing at a good pace. She's met the basics (vehicle adaptability and assumed ownership of space, including high scores in window awareness and scourge to anyone who takes her seat). She also scores high in beer ingestion (only the last few drops, mind you - but god forbid you forget to give it to her). Moderation in all such things is key to Road Dogdom.
She is well on her way to developing the intangible attitude that goes with the position of Dog's Dog. She's developed the ability to intimidate beings several times her size with a wiry dexterity and loud growl when necessary. She's developed the patience to allow small beings to play, cuddle, poke and prod to a point. She then growls to let them know it's time to move on. These are key developments. A Road Dog, and a Road Dog's Dog's Patience should never be mistaken for weakness by large or small. The true Road Dog knows when to convey the message. This one knows how to place teeth in appropriate places without pain. Good sign.
On yesterday's sunny afternoon, she reached the next level in the 'tude category. After adjourning to the front porch for a cold one, she took her lap position to survey the 'hood and the watch the activities. After a minute of that, Dog boredom set in and it was nap time. This gave opportunity for the "hat test"; one of the most challenging to be completed. Road Dogs must be comfortable and secure enough in their surroundings to nap with hat over their eyes. This does not mean Dogs are oblivious to their surroundings, just that they are secure in their being. Pain awaits the being who doesn't understand the difference.
Previous tests were met with the hat being shaken off immediately. This time the hat went on and she went on to sleep. She met all of the time and noise requirements. She zoned in the zen of porchdom, and stirred only when a group of passers by, with dogs, came upon the scene. She went on alert, greeted the visitors with a watchful eye, and then resumed her zendom.
She was given an immediate promotion to Road Dog Apprentice.