I cared for several dogs over the last 28 years. I have treated them as one of the family. They were smart animals and we could communicate with each other. For example, when there is a need to go out. Dogs are fun and they will take all the affection you want to give them. They make me feel better when they are around. I have had brown and black labradors. They fit well with the yard we had. It was five acres and Willy could roam the yard. He was also very protective of our family. When I moved to a condo, I had an English cocker spanial. He grew to 25 pounds. Just the right for an inside dog. I had to take him for three times a day.