I’ve had four dogs since my mid-20s — three cocker spaniels and one Jack Russell terrier — and I’ve come to believe that canines are unmatched as companions, providing faithful, unconditional love. They’re even great listeners. (My current cocker, Binx, often “cocks” his head from side to side when I’m talking with him.) If there were no other reason to live with a dog than that, it would be enough.