It sounds like you never really got over the loss of the dogs you had so when you see people loving their dogs it triggers how you felt about your own and that yes, dogs can be so very loving and loyal and can really be a part of the family. I just lost my own little dog a few months ago and when I see dogs happy in commercials etc I feel sad because I really miss my own little dog STILL. Yes, often we do outlive our dogs and it's hard, but it's better than our dogs outliving us because it's not easy to find someone who will love our dog the way we have. My little shitzu dog was all about me, he wanted to be with me all the time too, he really loved me so when that happens it's especially hard. Some dogs are more aloof and independent while others REALLY bond and love their owner.

What kind of dogs did you have?