As any fan of the CBS hit drama NCIS knows, there are key rules to live by. The show’s main character Gibbs (Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs) has compiled these many rules throughout his life, mottos that he strives to always keep in mind. Just two important ones are:

“Never mess with a Marine’s coffee… if you want to live.” (Rule 23)

“Sometimes, you’re wrong.” (Rule 51)

But there are so many more, and NCIS viewers have gotten a glimpse at some of those through the many years of the show.

Following in those footsteps, it’s fitting that any doggo named Gibbs should have similar rules. Since that’s my name, I definitely concur.

Below, I’ve crafted my first 10 rules that any journalism-minded canine and human friends should have in mind.

Here are Gibbs’ Rules (from a dog’s POV):

  1. Facts Matter. Truth isn’t negotiable.
  2. BLUF (bottom line up front)
  3. Never believe what you’re told. Always double (or triple) check.
  4. Cats can have good ideas, too.
  5. Don’t pee on the floor.
  6. Sometimes you’re wrong. Admit it.
  7. Always look and sniff, because there may be buried treats and truth to find.
  8. You’re signing your name to everything you do in life.
  9. If you don’t want a snack, don’t eat it.
  10. Remember those who came before you.

Why are these important, readers may ask? Well, as we learn from NCIS, the rules serve a purpose:

“These rules are meant to help prevent problems, screwups, messes, mistakes. But they’re also there to protect us. Because no matter how many we break, no matter how much we screw up, there will be someone to save us.“

– Timothy McGee, NCIS 12.10 “House Rules”

With that, Doggo Gibbs out.

As always, remember: Love your pets. Read a newspaper. Appreciate all you have in life. And even when scared or stressed in new situations, try to smile and find a little happiness for your heart every day.

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