A psychological or behavioral state in which a domesticated animal, such as a
pet, perceives itself to hold a
superior or dominant position relative to its human caretaker, often manifesting in behaviors that reflect an assumed hierarchy or independence from human
authority.
Zo- (from zoon, Greek for "animal" or "living being")
Phyxis (from the Greek phýxis, meaning "standing" or "position," often in terms of hierarchy or stature)
"After learning to open the
treat cabinet, Moemoe developed a real sense of zophyxis, disobeying her owner and trying to control their owner's movement"
"Cupcake’s zophyxis was
clear, he walked around the
house as if his owners were there to serve him."