My favorite chore growing up was walking my Labrador, Alex, every morning before school. Alex and I formed a sweet owner/pet relationship during these walks, and they were very impactful during my upbringing. My husband and I now care for our dog Ollie, a 10 pound Morkiepoo. We used to have Frayser as well, a 75-pound Labador/Retriever mix. Having these two very different breeds allowed us to learn different maintenance and care for both. One doesn't shed at all, the other constantly left a trail of dog hair behind him. One slept all day, the other one requires constant play breaks and walks. We now feel very equipped to care for other dogs, whether they be big or small, young or old, playful or lazy, and so on!