Good Men Don't Keep Cats, Good Women Don't Keep Dogs: T

It's an ageold saying that often surfaces in conversations with older generations: "A good man doesn't keep a cat, and a good woman doesn't keep a dog." This phrase, rooted in the era of our ancestors, reflects the cultural norms and lifestyles of their time.

Looking back to ancient times, life was far more monotonous and the pace of life much slower compared to today's vibrant and fastpaced lifestyle. Men, for instance, were either scholars studying day and night or merchants venturing out to trade, as they bore the heavy responsibility of supporting their families. Thus, if a man were to spend his days pampering a cat, he might be criticized for not being serious about his duties, and some might even label him as "effeminate" or lacking in "manliness." Conversely, dogs were traditionally seen as guardians of homes, making it a symbol of strength for a man to keep one.

Women, on the other hand, were expected to be demure and stay within the confines of their homes. Keeping a cat was seen as a sign of gentleness, while a woman who owned a dog might be perceived as having a fiery temperament, akin to the playful nickname "shetiger." Such perceptions were not conducive to marriage, further reinforcing the adage.

These biases, however, are a reflection of the traditional roles of men and women in the household and the societal moral aesthetics of the time.

What about the ancient dogs? The term "dog official" is not what we are familiar with today, but rather a genuine position held by dogs themselves. During the Zhou Dynasty, "dog officials" were a royal appointment, as documented in "The Rites of Zhou." These officials, known as "canine attendants" or "dog handlers," were responsible for tasks such as selecting, leading, and sacrificing dogs in rituals.

Initially, keeping pet dogs was a privilege of the nobility, and these dogs were cherished and wellcared for. The text "Guanzi" states, "The raising of six domestic animals is a sign of a country's wealth; if they are not raised, the country becomes poor and resources are insufficient." The term "dog official" also originates from "The Salt and Iron Discourse," where dogs were used as a metaphor for corrupt officials.

It's truly enlightening to learn about these historical facts. However, it's important to note that whether a man or a woman, as long as they can care for their pets well, they are good men and women. As society evolves, we must keep up with the times and embrace change.