Does the word "mascota" carry a negative connotation?
The word "mascota" is part of our everyday language. We use it without much thought to refer to our dogs, we hear it in advertising, and it appears on product labels. However, if we stop to analyze its origin, we find that it comes from the French word mascotte, meaning "amulet." According to the RAE, an amulet is a small object believed to ward off evil or bring good fortune. This suggests that, historically, dogs were seen more as functional beings than as individuals with emotions and needs of their own.
Throughout history, humans have domesticated dogs out of necessity. Since the beginning of our shared story, they’ve been allies in hunting, home guardians, and herding guides. But over time, this relationship has changed. Today, most dogs no longer have a “functional” role in our survival—they are members of our families. They accompany us in daily life, offer us affection, and teach us to live with greater empathy.
This bond has evolved over time, and today, dogs are not just companions—they teach us values like loyalty, empathy, and unconditional love. Our responsibility goes beyond their physical well-being: it involves recognizing their emotions and needs so they can live fulfilling lives.
Sometimes, changing the way we refer to them is just the first step in giving them the best. And since you’ve made it this far, we want to thank you with a little surprise: try using the coupon code "lifepartner" and see how words can bring more than one surprise to your checkout.
A shift in how we refer to them
Although the word "mascota" is still commonly used, more and more people prefer to call their dogs "life companions" or "family members." It’s important to note that this positive impact only occurs when humans see their companions as beings with needs and emotions—not just as "mascotas." The key is understanding that their presence in our lives goes far beyond a name imposed by history.
Beyond words: how we treat them
What truly matters is not just what we call them, but how we treat them. Giving them love, attention, companionship, and care is what really defines our relationship with them. A dog is not an accessory or a complement to our routine—they are beings with emotions and needs.