The Bossy Pants & You
Bold by nature, the Bossy Pants is confident and directive. But underneath that is a dog who feels most secure when there is clarity, structure, and a sense of shared direction.
How to Use This Guide
All dog parents carry an understanding of their dog that goes beyond words.
It lives in the everyday moments—in what you notice, what you anticipate, and what you feel without needing to explain it.
This guide is a recognition of that understanding. It brings their personality into focus and invites you to stay with what you’ve observed, so it becomes clearer, more defined, and easier to trust.
The reflection prompts invite you to sit with that knowledge of your dog — their behaviors, instincts, and the quiet ways they move through the world with you.
This is not a training guide. It is not a behavior manual. It is a recognition — of your dog, of what they bring to your life, and of the unmistakable personality that makes them entirely and uniquely themselves.
Welcome to The Honored Dog.
Your dog’s story lives here.
A condensed version of this interactive guide is available as a downloadable PDF.
A few of the research sources that informed this work can be found at HonoredDog.com/Research-Foundation.
Here’s what you’ll learn
Introduction: The Bossy Pants
The Bossy Pants is bold by nature — confident, vocal, directive. They don’t follow. They lead. And if the pack isn’t keeping up, they will let you know.
Engagement: How Your Dog Engages in the World
Understanding the Bossy Pants starts with a single reframe: this dog is not misbehaving. They are communicating.
Thriving: What Your Dog Needs to Love Life
Bossy Pants aren’t complicated. They’re specific. Once you understand what your dog needs, and offer it consistently, everything between you becomes more connected, and simpler.
Meet Kimberly Jo
Kimberly Jo DeVault is the creator of The Honored Dog, where she helps people better understand and connect with their dogs through personality-based insights. With more than 20 years of corporate experience, she has an extensive background in coaching, training, and human behavior. She is also experienced in animal welfare, having developed and facilitated curricula in humane education for several years. Kimberly Jo brings a thoughtful, observant approach to the relationships we share with our dogs—offering language and perspective that make those bonds even more meaningful.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended for insight and reflection, and is for entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional training or behavioral advice. If you have concerns about your dog’s behavior or well-being, please consult a qualified professional.