If a college student throws out the idea of owning a dog, 9 times out of 10 their parents go insane. Well, so did mine; that's why I didn't tell them exactly that the black pit lab puppy appearing in my Snapchat was all mine...well until I asked if I could bring him home. Nike has been such a positive impact to my life these last couple months and here is why:

1. He has taught me what unconditional love truly is. It doesn't matter how angry I am at him, how much he gets yelled at, or how long I have been gone throughout the day. I can always count on that same face to say hello to and love whenever I walk into the door.

2. HELLO! Puppy kisses?? Plus something to cuddle with always that will almost always cuddle back. How is that not the best?

3. I'm never lonely! He is always doing something to keep me entertained and active so I never really have time to sit and dwell about how homesick I may be.

4. He wakes me up early. My days have been so much more productive because I have to wake up to take him out every morning. Instead of going back to bed I get up start my day and get done what I need to get done and do what I need to do to stay on top of things and feel accomplished.

5. See a cute boy? Let the dog off the leash to play! I guarantee it ends up in a conversation and even possibly a number (not like I would know or anything).

6. You meet a ton of new people because there are so many others that want to meet the puppy, it's such a good way to create new relationships.

7. Budgeting. Dogs are very very expensive and from having Nike I have learned to spend my money on more essential items. I know I can't be broke if I want to take care of him so even though it is totally awesome to go out four of the seven days a week sometimes that extra drink isn't necessary.

8. Dogs enhance moods! I have been so much happier having a dog than I was without one. From the puppy clumsiness to the kisses and attention he always demands it is impossible for me to ever not have a smile on my face when I am with him.

9. More exercise. Walking a dog for a while not only wears them out but you as well. Taking long walks are just as healthy for you as they are for the animals. You also can try out and find some cool new places with nice scenery all because you need to walk the pup.

10. There is always a greeting when you get home. Long day at work? Fight with a friend? Nike is always running right up to me no matter who he is with or what he may be doing when I walk through the doors of my house. It's nice to know that there is someone missing you just as much as you miss them as you're away.

11. All in all though, having Nike has given me such a healthy dose of responsibility. I really do enjoy having something to do and something to think about every day. There is never a dull moment and I am never bored. Having a puppy is really helpful in teaching to be selfless and reliable. Because to be honest a dog is like a child, they need a lot of attention. There's nothing wrong with being responsible for something other than yourself as long as you are 100% ready for it. I would recommend a four legged friend in college to keep you company, but only if you are mature enough to handle it.