Animals are the best judges of character, period. I've been fortunate enough to have had and do have many in my life, either personally or through friends and have seen and learned a lot. I remember, when I was little our family took in a close friend's Chihuahua, Mitzy, and my love for dogs has continued ever since. I currently sit with my friends Airedale, pretty girl Casey (2 yrs old now,I've known her since she was a pup) whenever he goes out of town. I myself was the proud owner of a German Shepard, Podin (Pixie and Odin were his parents), who I would joking describe as a Shepard Yeti mix. He was a big boy and thought he was a lap dog. After he grew to his full size and his companion moved away (a roommates dog) I made the heartbreaking but right decision to find a more suitable arrangement for him. This came in the form of a friend who grew up in Scotland on a sheep ranch and could take Podin with him wherever he went, even to work! No downgrading for my guy! He's traveled more than I have and lived the good life. I've sat for a working police dog Spencer (endless energy) and his older "sister" Gretel, who was 17 years old and had problems getting up and with her hearing. I would help her onto her cushion and make sure Spenc wouldn't harass her too much. I've watched my sisters' past dog, Shasta, who had special needs as well. Not to mention the many neighbors dogs who befriended me; Toby, a Golden Doodle rescue, Rama, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, who would come over to nap with me, and Buddy, a Collie who thinks that I'm his gal and can say "I love you Lulu" to name a few When I'm with my canine pals I walk and talk to them, brush, cuddle, and teach them all with patience and pleasure. The delight would be mine to be able to this with your loved one no matter what size, age or nature. PLUS, dogs dig me.