" People like to say that what they love best about dogs is their loyalty, but the opposite is true. We love dogs’ self-centeredness, and their impression that our lives revolve around them. And it’s undeniable that, no matter what people struggle with day-to-day, there is great solace and pleasure in being able to arrange a dog’s life for maximum happiness.

A well-cared-for dog, a contented dog, convinced that he or she is the center of the universe, is a great sign that you’re doing something right. "

― Melissa Fay Greene , The Underdogs