My first dog after I got married was an Old English Sheepdog. not too bright but as sweet as they come. Then a poodle cocker mix that lived until he died of old age at 23! he went everywhere with us - even rode the trolleys in San Francisco. Charlie (my avatar) was the love of my life. half border collie and half golden. he was so smart and a handsome guy. He died at 12 of pancreatic cancer this past January. That was so devastating on our family I'm not sure we have the strength to get another dog although I miss not having one. Been married for 40 years and have never been without a dog.