Why do you own a dog?

I own a dog because I felt sorry for the poor dog. The roomie has a dog because she had one that got lost and wanted a replacement. Now THAT dog is a good watch dog - well, she's a good deterrent for people getting in the yard, she's gone after people who have jumped the fence. The other roommate has a dog because her daughter brought the animal home. She took in her daughter's other dog, a pit mix that I finally had to have her find a place for him to go, because he went after me once, and tossed a couple of cats out of the bathroom. I couldn't have a dog in the house who might hurt the cats.

I have my dogs for companionship, and protection. I have 4, 2 collies and 2 collie mixes. They follow me everywhere, I can hardly turn around with out them being right behind me to see what I am up to. They are great watchdogs and let you know if someone steps foot on the porch or in the yard. Sometimes even when they walk down the street and you really could care less. :-)