Library / Aesop’s Fables

The Dog and the Cook

A fable attributed to Aesop

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The Dog and the Cook

A rich man gave a grand feast, inviting many friends and acquaintances. His dog, taking advantage of the occasion, decided to invite a stranger dog, a friend of his. He said, "My master is hosting a feast, and there is always plenty of food left over. Come and dine with me tonight."

The invited dog arrived at the appointed hour. Upon seeing the elaborate preparations for such a splendid event, he exclaimed joyfully, "How glad I am that I came! I don’t often have the chance to enjoy a meal like this. I will make sure to eat enough to last me both today and tomorrow."

As he congratulated himself and wagged his tail in delight, the cook noticed him wandering among the dishes. Without a moment’s hesitation, the cook seized him by his fore and hind paws and unceremoniously tossed him out the window. He landed with a thud on the ground and limped away, howling in pain.

His loud cries soon attracted other street dogs, who approached him to inquire about his dinner experience. He replied, "To tell you the truth, I drank so much wine that I remember nothing. I don’t even know how I ended up outside!"

The moral
Excessive indulgence can lead to unforeseen consequences and misfortune.

Discussion questions

  1. What do you think the dog could have done differently to avoid the outcome?
  2. How does the cook's action reflect on the concept of rules and consequences?
  3. In what ways can this story be related to our everyday choices regarding indulgence?

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Good night.

Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane