2. They chose you as much as you choose them
A concept I was first introduced to by a breeder when picking my very first pup, when it comes to picking their person, it’s as much up to the dog as it is to the human. Much like in the first Red Dog movie, where John was reluctantly dragged into dog ownership by the persistent kelpie, many families find their dog will naturally gravitate to one person of their own choosing, regardless of who you’ve decided they belong to!
Read more: Why pets are good for your health
3. They’ll be there for you
While they may not all be up for running thousands of miles to find you when you’re gone, any dog owner can tell you when it comes to man’s best friend, they’ll loyally give you their all. Sad, troubled, in need of a good cheer up? Dog owners are blessed with the ultimate cheer up machine – your loyal mate will be there for a hug and a non-judgemental ear anytime you need them. For Mick, Blue saved him at a time he was living in a new and strange town, away from his Mum, for me, it was a little Jack Russell that would howl along with me when I was sad as a teenager. Whatever the problem, if you have a dog, you’ll never have to deal with it alone.
4. Have dog, will travel
If you’ve got a dog in your life, you’ll have to get out there to keep them well exercised – for Mick in Red Dog: True Blue, it was long motorbike runs with Blue bolting along at his side. For most of us it’s a daily walk around the neighbourhood. Either way, having a dog means you will get out and about, which is also great for your state of mind.
5. They teach you responsibility – and make you laugh while driving you to despair!
In an early scene from Red Dog: True Blue, after Blue steals the neighbour’s undies and Mick’s left standing at the washing line looking awkward as he tries to stealthily replace them (covered in dirt and slobber), Mick realises he needs to teach his new pooch a few manners. While his initial attempt is more funny than educational for the viewer, becoming a key caregiver to a dog helps children learn responsibility.
WIN tickets on Facebook: To celebrate the release of Red Dog: True Blue we have 10 family passes to giveaway thanks to Roadshow Films! Post a photo of your dog in the comments on Facebook and tell us why your pup is "true blue". Comp closes 11.59am 19.12.16. T&Cs apply. Red Dog: True Blue hits cinemas nationally on Boxing Day 2016.