I've had dogs all of my life; it's part of who I am to be a dog lover / owner. I lived in Newtown, CT for 9 years before I moved here, and had a dog-sitting business. I've learned over the years that while it's nice to "spoil" your pup, or treat him like a human, sometimes that's not always in the best interest of the dog. Those are the things that make us feel good. Dogs (of all sizes) need to be socialized, feel secure, have boundaries and given lots of love and exercise! Being out in nature with a dog is one of the best feelings for me, hiking, swimming, trekking through the snow, gives me a sense of peace like no other.