I've come up with my own theory over the years that dogs assess their circumstances and choose a career.
These links are about Bear Dog, an 18-year-old lab mix living in New Castle, Washington. Bear Dog, over the years, has not only kept watch over his owner, Don Caulfield, but the town of New Castle as well.
From hanging out at the local ball field to walking kids home from the bus stop, Bear Dog is so beloved by the community that he is the exception to every "no dogs allowed" rule in the town.
Bear Dog has a friend, Tommy (a lab/dacshund mix), who often accompanies him.
"'How he got so popular, I don’t know," Caulfield told the paper. "He done that himself.'"
Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend. Albert Camus
Read more about Bear Dog:
Huffington Post: Bear Dog, Coolest Dog in Castle Rock...
The Daily News: Legendary 18-year-old Dog Fetches Loads of Love in Castle Rock
Follow Up: The Daily News: Friends, fans rally in support of Castle Rock's beloved Bear Dog
Video: Bear Dog, Don, and Tommy
Photo credit: Bill Wagner.The Daily News