I have grown up with dogs and many other animals in an extremely active environment. My dog back in California is a large 90 lb German Shepard that is quite crazy and a large responsibility to walk and take care of. He can be very protective and I have learned how to judge and avoid bad situations where one must have to deal with misbehaving dogs and people. I am extremely athletic and love being outdoors, its always nice having a dog to tire me out. A dog is a perfect running/ hiking companion and I always miss having one here across the country from my dog at home! I hope I can give your dog all the running, petting, and love it needs while you can't be with him/her.