Mom and I speak two completely different languages.

While mom speaks fluent human, I’m an absolute expert in dog bark communication.  Sure, I understand a few human words and phrases, but I would never be able to keep up with humans in a full conversation.

On the other hand, Mom can understand a few bark words here and there.  I know, because she sometimes responds with the right answer.  For instance, she always responds with a treat or a “great job Sugar” when I tell her I went “potty” in the right place.  However, she’d never be able to keep up with me and my bark pal during our nightly conversations.

It’s true that our words (or barks) have power.  But, what good are those words if no one hears them?  Until recently, I didn’t realize that it’s not just our words that have power.

It’s never totally about what someone says, but all about what was heard.  And, honestly that’s what people (and pups) want.

We all want to be heard.

Listening and paying attention will get you far.   Sometimes we can get so busy talking and proving our point that we miss the message.  Even more importantly, it can be hard to find someone that will actually listen.

And, I’m not referring to repeating those words verbatim.  But, hearing the meaning, the emotion, the feeling.  It’s listening for the heart and soul of those words.

Every creation, solution, and great idea came from someone (or some pup) who took the time to listen.  Language barriers or differences will never be a factor.  As long as you care and take the time to pay attention, you’ll find the answer to any issue.

Case in point.  Mom definitely knows when I want to play, go outside, try to protect her, or simply want time to myself by the tone of bark.  She even knows when I’m having a fun conversation with my pup friends or whether I’m protecting the house.  In return, I know when Mom’s is tired or excited by listening to her conversations.

It’s not because I suddenly became fluent in human or that Mom became an expert in dog bark communication.  It’s because she and I have taken the time to listen and pay attention to one another.  Therefore, I know what she needs from me and in turn she always knows what I need from her.  That’s why…

These Carob Strawberry Pupcake Squares are dedicated to the true power and art of listening and paying attention to one another.

And of course, we believe that every pupcake has a love story.  So, while your favorite pup is PUPPY LOVIN’ on these pupcakes, we’d love to hear from you.

Listening is a skill we can all improve upon.  What’s one thing you would like to do to become a better listener?

Please share your pupcake story in the box below.

And, after you’ve tried this recipe please share it with us @pupcakesugar on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or all three.  We’d love to see how they turned out for you.

Ingredients

Carob Strawberry Pupcake Squares

• ½ Cup Brown Rice Flour
• 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
• 2 Tablespoons Carob Powder
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• ⅓ Cup Plain Yogurt
• 3 Tablespoons Diced Strawberries
• 1 Egg
• Sliced Strawberries for Garnish (Optional)

Honey Glazed Icing (Optional)

• ¼ Cup Plain Yogurt
• 1 Tablespoon Pure Honey

Instructions

Yields: 3 – 4 Carob Strawberry Pupcake Squares (12 – 16 Small Pupcake Squares)

For Carob Strawberry Pupcake Squares

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. In small bowl mix together flour, baking powder and carob powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl add olive oil, yogurt, strawberries, and egg. Beat on medium speed until combined.
4. Add dry ingredients into the mixture and blend until mixed.
5. Fill each brownie pan with pupcake mixture. I used a 2.5-inch by 1.5-inch Wilton 12-Cavity Brownie Bar Pan.  Bake for 20 – 22 minutes.  Pupcakes are done when you can stick a toothpick into the cake and it comes out clean.  Remove from pan and cool on wire rack.
6. Cut each brownie square into 4 smaller pieces.
7. Pipe, drizzle, or spread honey glazed icing onto the pupcakes (optional).
8. Add extra sliced strawberries for garnish (optional).

For Honey Glazed Icing (Optional)

1. In small mixing bowl beat yogurt and honey together on medium speed.
2. Pipe, drizzle, or spread honey glazed icing onto the pupcakes.
3. Add extra sliced strawberries for garnish (optional).

Notes

• This recipe is for a fun treat ONLY. It should not replace your dog’s regular meals.  Please consult with your vet on the best plan for your dog’s diet.