Dogs are a man’s best friend (and a woman’s too!)

If the only thing I got from having my pet dog was friendship and a trustworthy companion, it would be enough for me. But there is so much more that this beautiful, loving animal brings into my life. He brings love (lots of it), true happiness whenever we’re together, and enjoyment that only a dog can give.

Most dogs provide valuable accompaniment to their owners. Some breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers are more “loners” and don’t require a lot of attention as do breeds like Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Beagles, Terriers or Sheepdogs.

Some dogs are sporty and enjoy running, walking and playing fetch with adults and children. These types of dogs are great for children who have no siblings to play with.

Many dogs have also proven themselves to be invaluable to their owners and have saved many lives by awakening a family when their house was on fire or by rescuing a child who was drowning in a pool.

Dogs are also very useful in giving medical assistance to those in need. They can detect seizures in a person before they occur, which enables epileptic people to live a normal life without fear of a sudden seizure while driving or operating machinery.

Dogs also help the blind to navigate their way around in the outside world as well as within the home.

Dogs provide security to their owners from home intruders and are especially useful outside at night when human visibility is marginal.

Specially trained police dogs can sniff through bags at airports to detect drugs and other illegal substances.

Purebred German Shepherds are used by police departments because they are known for their trainability and eagerness to work.

Dogs such as bloodhounds can track down suspects by the scent left behind.

Dogs have many personalities within the same breed and certain breeds are popular due to their inbred traits.

If you don’t already have a pet dog, perhaps today is the day to start looking for one of man’s best friends who will never let you down, and who just might save your life in the event of an emergency.