If you've ever visited the Shepherd home, chances are you've received the full Shaggy welcome. Thanks to his strong herding instincts, he'll circle around to make sure he knows exactly where everyone is and what they're doing. Once you're accounted for, you're officially part of the pack. At 65 pounds, he's a big dog with an even bigger love for his people.

Shaggy joined the family after what was almost a missed opportunity. While visiting their daughter at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Kathy Shepherd spotted an ad for a litter of doodles. At first, the breeder didn't want to separate the last two male puppies, but a few days later she called back and changed her mind. The Shepherds made the trip back to Statesboro, picked up their new family member on the very day he turned eight weeks old, and headed home to Alpharetta. Somewhere during that ride, "Shaggy" became the obvious choice.

The name fits perfectly. When his hair grows out, Shaggy can barely see through it. Add in the family's love of Scooby-Doo and the singer Shaggy, and the decision practically made itself.

When he's not keeping tabs on his humans, Shaggy can usually be found chasing toys, collecting treats, or spending time with his favorite four-legged friends. His best buddy is his cousin Captain, a Portuguese Water Dog who looks so much like him that they're often mistaken for twins. He also enjoys visiting his neighborhood girlfriends, Bonnie and Belle, two Weimaraners who can keep up with his endless energy.

His dream day? Running full speed down a beach, kicking up sand, and spending hours outdoors. Swimming isn't really his thing, but watching the action from the shoreline is perfectly fine. After all, every good supervisor knows when to let someone else do the work.