Known as "man's best friend", dogs are great companions. Our family has had dogs for many years now. We started out with a pup named "Buddy" (he is now 17 years old) and three years ago we got another dog, Brandy. They truly are members of the family.

I've always loved animals and constantly had pets, but dogs, by far, are my favorite. My life has been greatly enriched by these four legged creatures that often act human. In many ways, my dogs act like children. And, I believe, they probably think they are our children. In any event, over the years I think my family and I have come to learn some important lessons from our canine companions. These are important lessons I have learned from my dogs:

Always welcome people, and they'll be friendly.

If you're friendly to others, they will likely be friendly towards you. There is too much arguing in the world, and perhaps if we take time to smile, (or in the case of a dog wag a tail) we will brighten another person's day. Be welcoming and be friendly; it's contagious!

Give lots of kisses every day.

Ever have a dog lick your face? This usually makes people smile because they know this is the way dogs show affection. Let the special people in your life know you love them each and every. Give your kids a hug, give your spouse a kiss. Dogs know kisses make people happy, that's why they do it. You should try this too!

Take time to take naps.

A rested person is a happy person. People who get proper rest get more tasks accomplished. People who get things accomplished feel less stress. Dogs are smart, they take time to take naps.

When someone is sad, give them a shoulder to cry on.

At times we all need comforting, and dogs instinctively know this. They sense when you are sad, and they come and cuddle up to you as if they are trying to share your grief with you, and they want you to feel better.

We should learn from our canine companions. Sometimes it is important to comfort others. Sharing both sorrow and joy connects us-- it helps the other person know you care, it also makes you feel whole.

Be loyal to the ones you love.

In order to be connected to others, you must be loyal. Dogs know this, and they need to be connected to us because we feed them; and instinctively they are loyal. A dog will stay with you until the end. A dog is always your friend. Perhaps we should all learn to be loyal to the ones we love.

No matter how far you roam, you can always go home.

Having a place you call home is important.You can travel around the world, but it always feels good to come home. Home is where you find family, comfort, and security. Home is where you find peace. It's ok to roam, but know you can always go home.

Run, jump and play everyday.

Watch a puppy chase it's tail and dog fetch a ball; they know to keep active is important. Even if one is unable to be physically active because of medical issues, a person needs to be mentally active. Run, jump and play physically if you can; otherwise, let your mind run and jump to drive your spirit to play and dream.

Don't take life too seriously, appreciate now.

Like a dog, we all need to take time to just look around and appreciate. Watch a hound as he looks around and sniffs the air. His ears prick up and he wags his tail. He loves to take in the sights, the smells, the sounds. He is aware and loves what is around him. Living in the moment and taking in all that is around you can be an extraordinary experience.

I have learned a lot from my canine friends; they understand the important things in life!