My family rescued our first dog when I was in my teens and we loved her for 15 years! My first dog as an adult was my sidekick for 6 years by the time my first child was born. She was the ONLY one who got up with me for night feedings. 😆 We shared 17 years and I still miss her. Not long after she died, a coworker told us she knew some people who had a farm dog that had a litter of puppies and was looking for good families to raise them . I had never had a male dog or a big dog but as soon as I saw him I was a goner! My Cooper is almost 80 lb with a beautiful coat and such a wonderful personality. He keeps me very active and has turned out to be the best family dog we could ask for. I regularly petsit for friends and neighbors with dogs of all ages. I'm a strong proponent of walking dogs to ease their anxiety and gain their respect...and get my steps in.