[spunkets]

"Then, in my sweetest voice, told her, "Star, you are one of the ugliest dogs I have ever seen."

Dogs can pick up some words. Next time do a test, use "cabinet", "handsome", or some other word. Test his reaction just to the word ugly in a regular voice. Also try a nonsense string of words in the sweet voice to see if it's the voice that does it.

[yorkie]

Heck, Now, I'm scared to even tell her she's beautiful! (But, I'll try your advice - thank you!)