In 2013, my family adopted two black lab puppies that were brother and sister. I've had dogs before but none of them have ever truly been mine. They were always another family members. When we got Jack and Lola, they began to choose 'their person.' Jack chose me and Lola chose my dad. This may sound cliche but my life has truly changed. I may be a bit biased but everyone needs a black lab because they really are some of the best dogs you could ever own.

1. They're extremely cute as puppies

Look at that little chunky monkey! This was the first weekend we got the babies and Jack was about six or seven weeks old in this picture. I could NOT get over him!

2. They're very photogenic

Any picture I ever take of them always seems to come out perfect. It helps that they're beautiful dogs to begin with though.

3. They sleep all the time

Okay...maybe some pictures can come out bad... Labs literally sleep about 16-20 hours a day. They are very active but at the same time can start snoozing at the drop of a hat.

4. They can sleep ANYWHERE

Who knew a ninety-pound lab could curl up so tight in a seat? They can both sleep anywhere, anytime and will try to squeeze themselves into where they think they'll fit.

5. They excel at babysitting

Whether it's babies or even kittens, labs are great at nurturing. We recently adopted a stray family who had kittens in August of 2016 and Jack has always been great with the kittens. If I would want any dog around my future children, I'd probably consider a lab first.

6. They're great car riders

Mind you, they do tend to wiggle a little as they try to position themselves to sleep(refer back to #4). They are always excited for car rides. All you have to do if they're not coming back is just open up the car door and prepare to move out of the way of impact.

7. They have very basic needs

As long as I remember to bring a tennis ball, Jack will be completely occupied wherever I take him. He loves them and is very well behaved enough to have them. This saves money, though, because you won't have to spend a bunch of money on tons of toys.

8. They love other dogs

This picture always makes me smile. Sometimes I would take Jack with me to the nursing home while I worked because he was just so gentle. He and a co-worker's dog Kona always played together and I like to think of her as his little girlfriend.

9. They love bombing photos

Labs love to steal the spotlight at times so be warned. At least they make the pictures cuter!

10. They're gentle giants

Labs are a large breed but sometimes you don't even notice. I am never scared to bring Jack around anyone whether it be children, other adults, or the elderly. He'd never hurt a soul.

11. They become your best friend

Whether you're stressed, crying, angry, or sad, labs will be there the whole time to cheer you up. You may even find yourself talking to them about your day.

There are fabulous dogs in the world and this is just an example of one of those. I strongly believe that everybody needs a lab at some point in their lifetime. You'll never regret adopting your new cuddle buddy/best friend.