So why do you own a dog?

[alan]

What is the reason you have a dog? If you chose a dog as a pet, why a dog instead of a cat or hamster or anything else?

[rexandbaby]

I grew up with animals. Dogs, horses, cats, but no rodents, that was against Mother's rules.
Dogs, are for me, calming. Yes, even when they are hyper!

[DogGoneGood]

Like rexandbaby I've also grown up surrounded by animals (although including rodents ). We had horses, cats, dogs, gerbils, mice, fish, frogs, birds, snakes, and turtles! But ever since I was a very small kid (like 4 or 5) I was drawn to dogs, I'm not even sure why. I know that NOW I like them best because no matter what they're your best friend. I have no doubt many pets return love for their humans (although maybe excluding fish and rodents ), but I've never had a pet love and stand by me like a dog does. The cats are a close second, but they tend to only love me when they want something in return ;D

[rexandbaby]

I have a refrigerator magnet that says,"You own a dog, you just feed a cat!"
Yes, cats give affection, but more on their terms.

[nattiej1976]

In our household we are not owned by our cats and dog, more rather they own us

In all seriousness though, I have always been a feline fancier, I grew up with cats my whole entire life, hubby grew up with dogs his whole life, so it was compromise (although not very hard to negotiate really) that we have feline friends AND canine companions in our home. Just wouldnt be right without our little furry family.