This past year, my family has had to deal with putting one of our family dogs to sleep because of old age, and another one soon to come. With all this loss, I got to thinking, why do we continue to bring this animals into our home when they leave us with tears? Then, I remembered, these animals are family, and they are our best friends!

1. Their happy tails and somewhat smiling faces!

I know happiness is only a few feet away when I am at my door, because on the other side is an overly excited dog jumping up and down and wagging their tails. No matter how you feel that day, it is hard to stay mad with such a greeting!

2. Cuddles, cuddles and more cuddles!

If you have a dog like mine, you're bound to get smothered in the morning and laid on, because how can you start a morning without some puppy love? Even at your worst moment, they know all you need is a paw to hold or their head on your lap. They are the perfect balance to your life.

3. Entertainment

I'm not sure how many times I have walked in on some interesting situations my dogs have gotten themselves into. One time it was being stuck underneath the porch and another was just simply helping herself on the table for a better view, like Kitty said on That 70's Show, he wanted to be tall! With all the laughs that these lovable creatures add to your life, your heart grows!

4. They know when your sick

It wasn't until we got our lab that we realized how well they can actually sense illness. Every time he sees your in the morning, he has to sniff you out to make sure you are okay. If he walks away, you are fine, however, if you gives you a small kiss, watch out!

5. Their love is pure

We are able to have these mostly innocent being in our lives. How we treat them is how they will develop. Sometimes we are given the most wonderful dogs to love. The fact that I can be heartbroken and crying on the couch and my dogs first reaction is to jump up and try to cheer me up is amazing.

They look at us like we are their world, because even though they might only be with us for about 10 years, we were there all of their 10 years. Dogs are such loyal and smart animals. My dogs are my family. They become sisters, brothers, sons, and daughters to some owners. And to me, that's the best thing about owning a dog, the love.