Ask me why I love dogs so much and you’ll get a two-word answer – unconditional love. And then, those two words will most likely be followed by a long rant about dogs. I’ve loved dogs long before I had one of my own. I suspect that I’ve loved them since I learned what one was. I spent every birthday wish, shooting star, and letter to Santa wishing for a puppy.

Eventually, my dream came true in the form of a little Goldendoodle puppy. Since she joined my family, life has been a little different. Anyone who’s ever owned a dog can relate to that. My daily routine now includes feeding and walking my dog, as well as the occasional trip to the park or game of fetch in the backyard. I wake up each morning from a loud bark and a wet nose in my face. It’s impossible for me to leave the house without at least one piece of dog hair on my clothing. My life has also changed because of everything that my dog has taught me.

The day we brought my puppy home was the day I made a new friend. After all, I believe that dogs are woman’s best friend. I didn’t just gain a pet, but a confident that takes care of me just as much as I take care of her. She has taught me to enjoy life and has reduced my stress more times than I can count. Most importantly, though, was the lesson about unconditional love. She taught me to be selfless and put others’ needs before my own. I learned this one quickly, as I slept outside her cage and woke up with the sun for the first few nights after bringing her home. She taught me to forgive and forget the times she’s chewed up my shoes, dug holes in the yard, had an accident in the house, etc.

You see, we all need love in our lives. It makes the world go round and it makes life worthwhile. Some people spend forever trying to find it, while others are lucky enough to have an abundance surrounding them. I was one of those lucky individuals. Not only do I have the love of family, friends, and God, but I have the love of a dog. It’s the kind of love that can’t really be described in words. It has to be felt in order to be understood.

At the end of the day, dogs will always be there for you. They will wag their entire butt and shower you with kisses when you come home. They will snuggle with you even if you scolded them five minutes ago for stealing socks from the laundry. They will stand by your side, occasionally looking up at you to make sure you’re okay. They will come to your rescue when they hear you crying, not even flinching when another dog starts barking. They will forgive your mistakes and overlook the bad in you. They will love you forever. Unconditionally.