For Charles and Nikki Wisniewski, their first baby didn’t wear diapers or need a crib. He had four paws, a wagging tail, and the biggest heart. Arnold James, also known as Arnie, AJ, or Moose, is their five-and-a-half-year-old chocolate lab. He is the sweetest furry companion and the best big brother to his little siblings, Brady and Brooke. 

The story of how Arnold joined the family is one that changed their lives forever. Back in September of 2020, during the height of Covid, Charles was living in Boston and decided it was the perfect time to get a dog. Having grown up with labs, he knew they were the perfect breed. So, in a move that still surprises them, his roommate — who never leaves Boston — made the drive all the way to Amish country in Ohio to look at puppies. They both ended up bringing chocolate labs from the same litter back home to Boston. Arnold was named after Arnold Schwarzenegger, while his roommate fittingly named his dog Gretzky after Wayne Gretzky.

Arnold has a very special personality that makes his family love him even more. One of his favorite things to do is swim under water like a fish. He also thinks he’s a lap dog, despite his size, and will gladly climb onto any open spot. His most impressive talent, though, is knowing how to count. When Charles starts counting to three, Arnold knows that means business and immediately heads to his bed before getting in trouble.

Arnold truly is one of the sweetest dogs you could meet. He is loving, gives the best kisses, is always happy, and so kind. He has embraced his role as big brother with patience and love. Even when Brady and Brooke are trying to take his food while he eats or splash around in his water bowl, he remains gentle and calm. Arnold has also learned to share his space. Brooke and Brady love to go into his crate with him, or by themselves, and play in there. As Brooke crawls her way inside, Brady follows close behind with an armful of toys, ready to shut the gate and play the day away.

Another favorite activity of Arnold’s is keeping a lookout when Charles is golfing. When the family is outside playing in the backyard and Charles comes around the bend to the green, Arnold loves to greet him and the fellow golfers. He loves to socialize and say a quick hello, but happily returns to his favorite people.

While he used to be extremely spoiled — think endless car rides, belly rubs, walks, pup cups from Starbucks, toys and treats galore — these days he graciously shares the spotlight with the kids. Even so, he still gets plenty of love and attention.

Arnold truly was their first baby. He has been there for every milestone, every big moment, and every new chapter. The Wisniewskis simply can’t imagine their family without him.