I guess I saw her relating to dogs as a positive step towards dealing with people. I wouldn't have thought she'd be so charmed by the animals...so maybe she has grown. But you're right, her continued cluelessness does get a bit annoying, but Booth is right there, nudging her along. I think a good example of that was getting her to say something at Ripley's grave. Just a few seasons ago at her mother's grave, she couldn't do it. But this time, she could.
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