Gretta

There are three apartments per floor in our building.

At least one dog lives on each floor, and for the last three years our dogs have been the only ones on the fifth.

Two weeks ago, though, our neighbors—who have been rather aloof up until now—acquired a miniscule miniature pincher named Gretta. She is about the size of jumbo hot dog.

Now, our neighbors are friendly and seek dog-rearing advice from us. It's amazing, because I was convinced they were unfriendly because of how noisey our dogs are.

I think this building has more soundproof barriers than I've ever given it credit for.

My neighbors directly underneath us always smile and say how much patience it must take to live with our three dogs. I agree, and never dare to ask if they hear them playing. I don't actually want to know the truth.

Porter and Sadie met Gretta for the first time yesterday. Gretta barked at them. Sadie ignored her and Porter sniffed her interest.

Gretta is smaller than his head.