When I open my bathroom doors after the shower, Bud, Zinnia, and Fate are waiting patiently in line. When Bud sees me, he gives what could be interpreted as a joyous bark of greeting.

I think that’s not the case. He is making his demand in a vibrant, tail-wiggling burst of noises – barks. He is telling me he and his cronies want some treats right now.

He is the Little King.

And he gets them. He is the new spokesdog, the smallest dog with the biggest mouth.