"You want a friend in Washington? Get a dog"

This quote by Harry S. Truman is an amusing method of expressing the concept that it is hard to find true good friends in politics. It suggests that the political environment in Washington is so competitive and fierce that it is difficult to find genuine pals. The quote suggests that it is much easier to discover a loyal companion in a pet dog than in a political leader. It is a suggestion that in politics, it is very important to be careful of those who may be using you for their own gain. It also acts as a cautioning to not trust too quickly in the political arena. Ultimately, the quote is a suggestion that in politics, it is very important to be mindful who you trust and to be aware of the potential for manipulation.