After 3 Years

 ...and a whole bunch of mistakes, maybe this first time dog parent is getting it right.

From what I've read, a big hound is absolutely not the dog for a first time dog owner.  And to tell the truth, occasionally I'd happily trade 70 lbs of young hound for a chihuahua.  Which is not the same as giving up Copper - aka Knucklehead, Bozo, Bubby, and NoNoNoLeaveIt!  

I understand that when dogs sleep on their backs it indicates that they are happy and feel safe.  But I have to confess that I'm thinking "That's...undignified." And "I wish he'd stop snoring." And "Oh gawd he's farting!"