Sometimes, they are, sometimes they are not.
I’ve never loved and been as frustrated by something at the same time.
Yesterday, in an open dog field, met a new dog, all ok, happy in company of other dog. Then our friends dog comes in, happy go lucky lab, never had a problem with another dog. Nothing obviously changes, my dog jumps on the previously unknown new dog. She was muzzled as she can be a little unpredictable and has previously eaten 2 tennis balls, so no harm done, but the poor thing didn’t deserve it at all. Cue owner and dog leaving field rapidly with the impression that out dog is a dick (she’s not always but she really can be).
Every other dog we met on the walk was absolutely fine.
She eats poo (not dog but every other variety), rolls in poo, has no recall, is unpredictable around other dogs and occasionally people, guards her house fiercely, isn’t fussed about affection unless she wants a belly rub for a bit, so won’t snuggle up in any way. She’s long term ill so can’t be vaccinated, so we can’t travel with her, hard to put in any kind of residential kennels or holiday place.
Overall it’s been a real rollercoaster, cost me a fortune, nearly broken up our marriage and yet still she’s here and we both love her way more than we should. I’m still uncertain I’d ever get a dog again.