Don't know what to say, just thought i would share this i thought it was well put for people thinking or getting a dog.

1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be very painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Allow me to place my trust in you, it is crucial for my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. You have work, your friends, and your entertainment. I have only you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'll never forget it.
7. Don't hit me. Remember that I have teeth but I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I've been in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.
9. Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old.
10. Stay with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch it," or "Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for me if you are there.

aww, thats lovely :)

My dog trainer gives a copy of this to every new owner beginning her classes....  I think it's lovely.

It is lovely ..just made me give Sophie a big hug! :)

Very moving indeed!!
We are new at this but we are proud to say that the above will never be a problem for us.
We will make a point of always loving our newest member of the family and therefore will give her the respect and understanding we already expect from eachother ;-).

That is lovely.  Made me want to cry :(

I have just made my daughter read this and she said:
"Ooohhh! This is so sweet but it is so sad and she just grabbed her puppy and gave her a big cuddle"

No. 10 is the sad one, bin there, done that, but feel better for being there at the end so they are not on their own. :-(

lovely, brought tears to my eyes and made me go and hug Jasper!

That brought tears to my eyes.  I do often think alot of those things.  I know its silly but often think about my boy and wonder if he could speak what he would say!  I could never be horrible to my dog, they didn't choose us, we chose them so it is up to us to look after them and love them.