Sak658 I am so sorry you lost your pet. I have had mine for 7 years also and things are going fine.
He is smart and most of the time he listens unless he spots a squirrel. He loves to sit on the chair with my DH and have him rub him. He is a good watch dog. Lets you know when someone or thing is around. Just got a new GS and he is happy to see the baby, dropping his squeeky tool by the babies feet.