GPR:  How would you describe the relationship between your pooches?

CD: Imagine your most enthusiastic friend following you around 24/7, convinced you're their favorite person in the world. That's Sylas. Now imagine being the friend who occasionally thinks, "Please give me five minutes of peace." That's Nala. From the moment they met, Sylas was completely obsessed with Nala. Even as a tiny puppy, he thought she was the most exciting thing on the planet. Fast-forward a year and a half, and absolutely nothing has changed. Sylas is still head-over-paws in admiration.

GPR: What's their favorite thing to do together?

CD: Chase each other! Ever since he was a puppy, Sylas has loved chasing Nala around the property. The two of them run lap after lap, racing through every corner of their outdoor playground.

To Sylas's credit, he's gotten much faster over the years. To Nala's credit, she's still faster.

Despite a year and a half of dedicated pursuit, we're not entirely convinced Sylas has ever actually caught her. Nala is incredibly quick, agile, and zippy, always staying just one step ahead of her biggest fan.

GPR: Do they play other games?

CD: Absolutely.

When they're not running races, they love playing tug-of-war and engaging in dramatic play-fights. From an outside perspective, it often looks like a full-contact sporting event, but it's all part of their routine. Sylas approaches every game with maximum enthusiasm. Nala participates on her own terms.

GPR: Does Nala enjoy all the attention?

CD: Sometimes. The challenge is that Sylas doesn't really come with an "off" button when it comes to Nala. While she enjoys playing, there inevitably comes a point when she's had enough and would very much like some personal space. Unfortunately, Sylas is not particularly skilled at interpreting subtle social cues. Or obvious ones. Or really any hints at all.

GPR: Can you summarize their entire relationship in one image?

CD: Picture the two of them sitting in front of a row of flower planters. Nala is looking away with an expression that says, "I've endured enough of this nonsense for one day." Meanwhile, Sylas is staring happily into the distance, tongue hanging out, looking like he's just won the lottery because he gets to sit next to Nala. It's the perfect snapshot of their dynamic:

Nala: "Please stop following me."

Sylas: "Best day ever! We're hanging out!"

And somehow, despite their very different perspectives, they've been keeping this hilarious routine going ever since they met.