<P> In Homer 's Odyssey , Argos ( / ˈɑːrɡɒs , - ɡəs / ; Greek : Ἄργος ) is Odysseus ' faithful dog . After ten years fighting in Troy , followed by ten more years struggling to get home to Ithaca , Odysseus finally arrives at his homeland . In his absence , reckless suitors have taken over his house in hopes of marrying his wife Penelope . In order to secretly re-enter his house to ultimately spring a surprise attack on the suitors , Odysseus disguises himself as a beggar , and only his son Telemachos is told of his true identity . As Odysseus approaches his home , he finds Argos lying neglected on a pile of cow manure , infested with fleas , old and very tired . This is a sharp contrast to the dog Odysseus left behind ; Argos used to be known for his speed and strength and his superior tracking skills . Unlike everyone else , including Eumaios , a lifelong friend , Argos recognizes Odysseus at once and he has just enough strength to drop his ears and wag his tail but can not get up to greet his master . Unable to greet his beloved dog , as this would betray who he really was , Odysseus passes by ( but not without shedding a tear ) and enters his hall , and Argos dies . The simplicity of the relationship between Argos and Odysseus allows their reunion to be immediate and sincere . </P>
<P> In Homer 's Odyssey , Argos ( / ˈɑːrɡɒs , - ɡəs / ; Greek : Ἄργος ) is Odysseus ' faithful dog . After ten years fighting in Troy , followed by ten more years struggling to get home to Ithaca , Odysseus finally arrives at his homeland . In his absence , reckless suitors have taken over his house in hopes of marrying his wife Penelope . In order to secretly re-enter his house to ultimately spring a surprise attack on the suitors , Odysseus disguises himself as a beggar , and only his son Telemachos is told of his true identity . As Odysseus approaches his home , he finds Argos lying neglected on a pile of cow manure , infested with fleas , old and very tired . This is a sharp contrast to the dog Odysseus left behind ; Argos used to be known for his speed and strength and his superior tracking skills . Unlike everyone else , including Eumaios , a lifelong friend , Argos recognizes Odysseus at once and he has just enough strength to drop his ears and wag his tail but can not get up to greet his master . Unable to greet his beloved dog , as this would betray who he really was , Odysseus passes by ( but not without shedding a tear ) and enters his hall , and Argos dies . The simplicity of the relationship between Argos and Odysseus allows their reunion to be immediate and sincere . </P>
where was the dog lying when odysseus found him
where was the dog lying when odysseus found him
on a pile of cow manure
on a pile of cow manure