For Daniel and Nikki, life has always included pets. Daniel grew up with German Shepherds and has always loved the breed, so it was only natural that Keeva, 7, and Murphy, 4, would become part of the family. Along with daughters Gracie, Sydney, and Ellie, the two dogs have embraced the family’s active lifestyle—perhaps sometimes more enthusiastically than they would prefer!

Walks, running, playing and swimming are all part of their routine, and Keeva and Murphy are always ready for the next adventure. They are especially passionate about their toys, with balls and frisbees ranking among their favorites. They’re also incredible catchers. Hide their toys somewhere in the yard, and their exceptional German Shepherd noses and intelligence will eventually lead them right to them.

Keeva’s name means “beautiful” in Irish (Gaelic), while Murphy’s name simply felt right.

The best thing about these two, though, is their companionship. They are truly part of the family and want to be wherever their people are. Daniel jokes that living with them is like an old comic strip about a German Shepherd who constantly asks, “Can I come?” Going to the kitchen? “Can I come?” Going back to the chair? “Can I come?” That pretty much sums up Keeva and Murphy.

They also love visiting their grandparents in Kent, where they know one very important thing is waiting: string cheese!

Murphy has one particularly hilarious habit. Whenever an emergency vehicle drives past the house, he stretches his head high into the air and lets out an impressive howl. Daniel sometimes wonders what a passerby might think if they happened to be walking by at that exact moment.

Although Keeva and Murphy may look intimidating, Daniel says they are truly all bark. They love being around people—especially Keeva—and their life is less about being spoiled and more about being very, very loved.