There is an old expression that means "living a dog's life".

According to Urbandictionary.com, its history can be traced back to the 16th century, and it refers to living a miserable and unfortunate life.

Although this sentence may have been true a long time ago, things have clearly changed. Nowadays, most dogs lead the fascinating life that most of us would like to have! 

When I grew up in the early 1980s, we had a little white dog named Barton. 

No matter what my children think, this is already after the 16th century. By then, the dog's condition was much better, but compared to today, it is gone!

We like Buttons and treat her very well. She lives a good life and rarely complains. But then again, she doesn't know how things will improve in the next 30 years.

Buttons have no clothes. No sweaters, no boots, and no raincoats to keep her dry. Her only accessory is the white plastic flea collar she wears in summer.

Today, your dog’s favorite team includes holiday sweaters, quilted vests and fan clothing. 

Button ate the dog food we bought at the grocery store. There are two options: Dog Chow and Puppy Chow. 

Today, there are hundreds of brands and series of dog food, made from fish, chicken, beef, and tofu, you can choose from! There are breeds of stomach sensitivity, itchy skin, elderly dogs, overweight dogs, large dogs, and small dogs.

You will find these endless options in grocery stores, as well as large stores specializing in cats and dogs. There you will find snacks for picky eaters, games for super pets, bones for aggressive chewers, and beds for dogs with poor backs. You will find ointments, special shampoos and conditioners, and even meaty toothpaste.

We never worry that Buttons will get bored or need to improve her social skills. She stayed alone when no one was at home. We have never hired a dog sitter or dog walker.

When we were out of town, she lived in our veterinarian's office. There are no puppy daycares, no dog camps or pet hotels.  

Of course there is no Puppy Kindergarten, Dog School or K-9 Academy. Buttons don't have a diploma, but it doesn't matter.

We used to let Buttons tidy up, usually at Christmas time, plus any time she rolled on goose droppings or a burr.

These days, there are salons and even spas for dogs. Dog washing and grooming have been renamed. Now you can add special shampoo or blow up. How about manicure and files? I believe you can request the color at an extra charge. 

How about a massage for your stressed or overworked dog, or a facial treatment for those eye bags?

When it comes to dogs and work, there is another way of expressing "work like a dog". This means you have been working hard. Of course, some dogs do work very hard. We like treatment dogs, guide dogs, service dogs, police and military dogs. 

However, my two dogs were happily unemployed. They did eat up all the food and crumbs we fell on the floor. Who needs Roomba? 

But when I prepare any food, they will also gather at my feet. I accidentally kicked, tripped and stepped on them, but they were still waiting for anything to fall in my every move.

In addition, our dog sleeps on the sofa or in the sun almost all day. When we are outside, they occasionally chase a squirrel or dig a hole, but usually through the flowers.

In terms of a good work/life balance, my dog ​​has found it.

Over the years, the dog's condition has definitely gotten better. The old saying "This is the life of a dog" does not apply unless you imply that someone lives a royal life. 

Speaking of the royal family, the Queen of England recently launched her own collection of dog accessories, including carved leather collars and leashes, jeweled food bowls and checkered hunting jackets. Now every dog ​​can live like a royal family. Come to think of it, I guess they have already done so.  

52-year-old Andra Gillham lives in Upper Arlington.