Rude awakening in total darkness

Bedsprings recoiling me into momentary levitation

Big surly beast of black and tan

Waiting for the moment when he sees my eyes open

Snorting breath hot in my face

Cold wet nose invading my space

My slowness to rise causing him great frustration

I get up and get dressed and find his leash on the floor

A hundred and twenty pounds of  canine waiting at my door

Can’t walk him in daylight, he’s just too damned mean

Leftover darkness from last night in the early morning

Not many folks up at this terrible hour

Those up to no good are the ones we generally see

On the streets of downtown in this huge bustling city

Cleats on my boots to prevent me from slipping and sliding

When he forgets I’m attached by the wrist and tries fighting

Snarling at people and marking everything on his way

Would be muggers cause me no dismay

Most cross the streets when they see us approaching

I don’t really worry about people encroaching

Just keeping a berth wide enough to keep him from biting

Back in my home he’s as sweet as can be

I’ve never experienced so much love and loyalty

He’s a real clown with a funny personality

Wonderful company with an abundance of affection

But I know he would kill if anyone threatened to harm me

I am sure if he had to he would take on an army

Complete confidence in his commitment to my protection

From ear to ear his head measures eleven inches wide

We’re something to see walking down the street side by side

His shoulder comes a few inches short of my hip

Feet much larger than the palm of my hand

His collar equals the size of my waistband

Many people wonder why I have him, but a few understand

He’s my friend and makes me feel safer than anything else can!