Dear Miss Fifi: 

What is my dog's obsession with feet? Jack is a three year old Boston Terrier/Miniature Pinscher mix that has always had a thing for feet. As a puppy he would bark and become agitated just when we put on socks, but these days he has relaxed and only gets upset with new shoes. Strangely, he doesn't seem to care much when I get new shoes ... but if my husband gets new shoes without Jack thoroughly smell them before putting them on, it's another story. Jack will bark and act afraid of the shoes, not even willing to get near them for a treat. I have also seen this to a lesser degree when certain friends come over with new shoes. 

Jack's other foot obsessions aren't quite as amusing. When people come to visit he will jump all over and lick our guest's feet unless we keep him leashed or crated. Even after Jack calms down he will constantly try to find a way to sneak in some licking. Jack also loves licking my husband's feet. I won't let him lick mine because it is gross and slimy, but my husband doesn't seem to mind. Jack will lay down and just zone out while he licks and licks, going until someone stops him. You would think he was licking the best tasting thing in the world. 

- Robyn 

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 Dear Robyn: 

Um ... Miss Fifi doesn't quite know what to say. I'm with you on the slimy bit, but I worry about your husband and his letting Jack lick his feet. Eww! 

I wonder if Jack has some sort of vitamin deficiency or something. Or maybe there's some chemical in starch or sizing of new shoes that draws him like flies to honey. Whatever the source issue, his behavior isn't working with your family. Have you spoken to his vet yet? There may be some type of chewy or toy you could get for him that would dissuade him from your feet and shoes. I mean, Miss Fifi is all for a good Ferragamo snack, but dignity and decorum are tantamount to mischief. You could, of course, always consult a Pet Behavior Specialist. 

Good luck. Woof!