My dog Tobi has been the biggest constant in my life. He came to me when I was a teenager, and we have been inseparable ever since. He went through college with me. He moved countries with me. We have lived together in more than five apartments! He knows me better than anybody else, and we are best friends.

Whenever I feel overwhelmed, frustrated, sad, or scared, I ask myself, what does Tobi think of the situation? Is he annoyed I dropped his kibble on the floor, or excited he’ll get to pick up the pieces? Is he sad our plans got canceled, or is he happy we’ll get to cuddle at home all night?

This shift in perspective helps me come back to myself and see life for what matters.

People you love, moments to rest, living life to the fullest.

Our dogs have a lot to teach us. We just have to pay attention.

I watch my dog every day, dozing, gazing, dreaming. I often wonder, what is he thinking?

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From Dog Affirmations: An Illustrated Journey Through Your Dog’s Thoughts by Andrea Cáceres. Copyright © 2025. Available from Bloomsbury Publishing.

Andrea Cáceres

Andrea Cáceres

Andrea Cáceres is an illustrator and the creator of the viral Instagram series Dog Affirmations. She is the author of children’s picture books Hello, Tobi! and My Dog Just Speaks Spanish. She lives with her dog, Tobi, in New York City. Instagram: @andrecaceresg | TikTok: @petartbyandrea