From the puppy eyes to cosying up on the sofa after a long day at work, the cuteness overload can be overwhelming.
But cuteness aside, dog owners do need to stay vigilant as a case of Alabama rot has been reported near Glasgow.
According to the RSPCA, Alabama rot, otherwise known as Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV), is a "disease affecting dogs by causing damage to the skin and kidney's blood vessels.
"This can cause small blood clots to form resulting in blockages that can lead to damage of the affected tissue. This damage causes visible ulceration in the skin, but when the kidney is affected it can lead to severe organ dysfunction and ultimately kidney failure."
The condition was first detected in the 1980s, when a group of greyhounds came down with it in Alabama - hence the name.
Unfortunately the cause is unknown and there's no known way to prevent your dog from contracting it. However the majority of reports have come from pet owners who walk their dogs in the countryside where it's muddy.
Additionally most cases are reported during winter and spring with cases becoming rarer during the summer months compared to the colder months.
In Glasgow, there is currently one confirmed cases within a 20 mile radius.
But if you're concerned, you can check any cases near you by entering your location into this map.
What are the signs?
It's crucial you know what the signs are as if it's not spotted early, it can lead to sudden and potentially fatal kidney failure.
It's suspected that the disease spreads from muddy and wooded areas. So if you take your dog for a walk in these areas, it is advised to wash off any mud as soon as possible.
According to the Vets4Pets website, these are what you should look out for.
- Skin lesions - appearing as a distinct swelling, a patch of red skin, or open and ulcer like.
- Sore skin - these are not caused by any known injuries and are commonly found below the knee or elbow.
- Kidney Failure - this occurs within 2-7 days. Outward signs of kidney failure include vomiting, reduced hunger and unusual tiredness.
What should I do if I think my dog has it?
If it doubt, always check with your vet.
Despite one case close to the city, the threat is very low.
Owners have no need to panic and can visit specialist vets Anderson Moore for more information and if they wish can contribute to furthering research at The Alabama rot Research Fund (ARRF).
