My dog is the greatest thing that has happened to me in the last three years. I love him for more anything and I would not trade him for the world.

Responsibility:

I know that he is a priority over everything else and I have to be there for him. I have to let him out to use the bathroom and cannot leave him out for more than so many hours a day. It has taught me to be responsible for someone more than myself.

Emotional security:

Having a dog in college has let me have a sense of security about coming home to something that can comfort me. My puppy is always there to comfort me in any time of need. He is always there to cuddle with me when I am feeling down on myself.

How to wake up at a decent hour:

I know to let him out at a decent time of the day instead of staying out all night and waking up at one A.M the next day. My dog has taught me how to care for something other than myself in college, which is an important quality to have later on in life.

How to manage my money:

Since I now have another being to be responsible for, I have to pay for his food and vet bills, which is more than you think it would be. I now know that I have to budget out enough money to take care of another living thing besides myself.

Dogs are loyal:

Dogs know nothing but their owner. They are obedient to you and you only (for the most part). They listen to you and know when you are being serious, playful or disciplining them.

Dogs keep you healthy:

I go to the dog park with my dog every day, which keeps me in shape. I have to play with my puppy every day to keep him entertained and worn out enough to not annoy the crap out of me.

Overall, owning a dog has been the greatest experience of my college career. I do not know what I would do without my little bundle of fluff. He is the light of my life and the greatest thing to come out of my college career. I love my puppy dog.