26 My goofy Newfie and I walked home in companionable silence. The dog had stretched his head out and took the handles of the heaviest plastic bag, which contained a bag of dry dog food, between his teeth. He pranced along at my side as if he were the smartest animal in the world. I couldn’t help but smile at the silly canine. It was obvious that he was enjoying his important job. After climbing the steps of the front porch of my duplex, I struggled to get the door unlocked and open while holding the remaining bags of our purchases from the pet supply store. As if sensing my troubles, the dog used his wide behind to hold the screen door open and keep it from slamming into my rear. I couldn’t help but wonder if all dogs were this intuitive, or if mine was especially smart and helpful. A

