I've had my own dogs for years; I've volunteered at shelters; I just plain love dogs. My friends and family often joke that I like dogs more than people. I presently own five dogs (three bassets and two boxers). I didn't intend to own five dogs, it's pretty crazy. I had three bassets, and I recently married a woman who owned two boxers. We found a house with enough space and enough yard to accomodate them, and we've made it work. They range in age from 11 to 3, so we have the whole spectrum of dog abilities and dog issues and dog personalities. It gets pretty trying sometimes, but we are both dog lovers, so it works out. Lots of food, and lots of poop.