Let's be honest. (Almost) everyone loves dogs. From pointy ears to undeniably big personalities, they shape our lives and families. They are also infamous for their ability to make just about anyone laugh. And at the Naval Academy, there can be days when you really, really need something to stretch your smile just a little wider. Here are a few moments at the Academy, told through the beautiful medium of dog gifs.

1. Remembering that one super traumatic moment from Plebe Summer and not being sure what to do with yourself.

Even though your detailers have graduated (or are about to), the things you did and said in their company will stay with you forever.

2. Finding out a meal is rolling tray at the last minute.

No formation? No awkward waiting for bell? Could there be anything better in life? (The answer is yes, finally climbing Herndon is probably better. But hey, that's just a Plebe talking).

3. Being partnered with the really motivated kid in boxing or martial arts.

You know that you'll punched in the face if you don't watch yourself. Or keep your hands up. Or if your partner is grotesquely more skilled than you are.

4. When an upperclassmen has had a rough day and takes out their frustration on a Plebe.

There is no running away. There is only standing there and waiting to be destroyed.

5. Taking a Professional Knowledge Test as a Plebe and legitimately not knowing an answer.

You swear this was never even in the chapter. You make eye contact with that one other Plebe across the P-Way and know nothing can save you.

6. Being forced into the pool for swim class.

Especially if a) you are not a strong swimmer, or a) you're in the cold pool in Lejuene. If you experience both (like me), you're bound to have a sad time.

7. Saying goodbye to your room before leaving to go on break.

You know a more comfortable bed is awaiting you somewhere.

8. When your professor goes over very extensive review before a 6-week, 12-week or final exam.

Without which you might have failed beyond repair. But now you know what's up and you've never been more thankful.

Alternatively: when your MGSP leader finally answers the question you've been wrestling with you what seems like your entire existence.

9. When you take the weekend to treat yourself the right way.

Let's be honest: you deserve this. From a pedicure to a movie, you are give yourself the right treatment.

10. When there's a conflict with your roommates and you try to stay civil but things are escalating.

You love your people, but they can drive you up the walls. Especially when things get heated in the one place you're supposed to be able to use to get away from the chaos of the Academy.

11. Attending protocol briefs and feeling more ~cultured~.

Also probably being terrified of the protocol lady. And knowing you shouldn't throw condiments across the table in King Hall but feeling like every cell in your body is telling you to.

12. Knowing the one super small adult on the Yard who will SET YOU STRAIGHT.

Do not be fooled by their small size. They will DESTROY you.

13. When the haircut you were given is not exactly the one you were looking for.

'

As far as you can remember, you are not as Marine Corps motivated as your hair says you are.

14. And for the Plebes: constantly questioning whether or not you are going to be shot-gunned.

Maybe it's destiny. Maybe it's not happening. Maybe we'll never know.

There you have it: a collection of some of the Academy's moments expressed in the world's best animal: the dog. Even when the days are ruff, we can still carry on. (Sorry, I thought a dog pun would be necessary).

"The views expressed, [in this article] reflect personal opinions of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the United States Naval Academy, the United States Navy, any federal agency, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.”