That’s a big part of why we have dogs in the first place: they accept us unconditionally and offer a never-ending supply of love whenever we’re ready to receive it.

On a typical day, you probably utter your dog's name at least 10 or 20 times, maybe more.

Have you seen those new talking communication gadgets where a dog pushes a button and the device says a word, like “play” or “outside?” I’ve been trying to figure out why these contraptions just don’t sit right with me.

My dog Orion and I have been a team for almost 12 years and, though he can’t speak, he can definitely communicate.

When out on walks, sometimes shutting your mouth is the best way to speak so they will listen.