What Sort of Dog Would I Be?

I admit, I have a love-hate relationship with AI.

I love how much better the results for my Google and other internet searches are with AI providing initial answers and links supporting them. And, it’s instantaneous.

I hate how AI is already forever changing the writing landscape. No longer can one assume, upon receiving anything in writing, whether a letter, an application, a notice, a review, that it wasn’t  written by AI. And books? It’s frightening how many AI-generated books are now being sold. Or, even if written by an actual human, the synopsis of the book’s Amazon reviews, generated by AI, sits at the top of the book’s page, likely keeping many from diving deeper into the actual reviews. Buyer beware.

Some time ago I created a free ChatGPT account so I could see what all the fuss of that particular AI platform was about. I liked that ChatGPT was created and is owned by OpenAI, a non-profit that appears to try to navigate this new reality (pun intended) with the best social intentions. I played with it a bit initially, but now, rarely use it.

Until today. A friend recently wrote on her blog about asking her favorite AI program what sort of dog she would be, based on a photo of her.

Like a dog after a stick tossed into a lake, I leaped in.

Here are my results, using old photos and ChatGPT.

[Me] Based on this photo, what sort of dog would I be?

[ChatGPT] Okay, this is a wholesome photo—you’re out in nature, gently cradling a fluffy little lamb, clearly enjoying the moment. Based on your vibe in this picture, if you were a dog, you’d totally be something like a Golden Retriever–Border Collie mix:

    Golden Retriever for your warmth, calm demeanor, and nurturing energy.

    Border Collie for the rural, farm-y setting and your practical, hands-on care—someone who gets stuff done with love and intelligence.

This mix says: loyal, intelligent, good with animals, happiest in open spaces, and always up for a little adventure with a side of kindness.

[This writer’s aside: Bonus points for ChatGPT’s proper uses em and en dashes.]

[Me] Based on this photo, what sort of dog would I be?

[ChatGPT] Okay, this pic changes the whole energy—in the best way. You’re in motion, out on a rugged trail, smiling big, pointing out wildlife, and clearly loving every second of this adventure. Based on this vibe, you’d totally be a Blue Heeler (Australian Cattle Dog):

    Super energetic and athletic – you clearly thrive on the move.

    Observant and sharp – you noticed that wild goat (or bighorn sheep?) and had to share the moment.

    Independent but loyal – like a good trail buddy, always ready to explore but still tuned into your people.

    Resilient – tough terrain? No problem. That sparkle says “bring it on.”

So far, you’re giving major “outdoorsy, grounded, compassionate explorer” energy. Wanna keep going? I could do one if you had a city moment or even a chill-at-home photo.

[Me] Okay, here I am chilling-at-home. As a young girl. What sort of dog now?

[ChatGPT} Aww, this one is pure magic. You’ve got that relaxed, sweet-as-summer vibe—lounging in a webbed lawn chair with your pup (Rusty, I’m guessing?), just soaking in life with that soft smile. Based on this nostalgic moment, little-you would totally be a Cocker Spaniel:

    Gentle and affectionate – that peaceful coziness with the dog says you’re someone who forms deep bonds.

    Sensitive soul – there’s a quiet emotional depth in this photo, like you’re tuned into the moment without needing to say a word.

    Curious and warm – the kind of kid who might’ve wandered the backyard naming bugs, chatting with birds, and bringing home “rescued” critters.

    And let’s be honest: the bangs and chair combo are giving strong “classic Americana pup” energy. Like a dog in a kids’ book who’s always tagging along on backyard adventures.

So far you’ve been:

    Golden Retriever–Border Collie mix (nurturer)

    Blue Heeler (adventurer)

    Cocker Spaniel (cozy heart)

Wanna know what kind of dog your whole lifelong personality arc adds up to?

[Me] Yes, please!

[Chat GPT] Yes! Okay, let’s piece this together like a trail of paw prints through time 🐾

From the pics you’ve shared, here’s what shines through:

🐑 The nurturer (pic with the lamb):

You’re warm, grounded, gentle with creatures big and small—someone who makes others feel safe and seen. You’re at peace in open fields, with a soul that leans into care.

🧗‍♀️ The adventurer (hiking in the canyon):

You’ve got that spark of grit and wonder. The kind of person who’s as comfortable scaling a rocky trail as they are laughing through a surprise encounter with a mountain goat. Energetic, curious, and ready for anything.

🐶 The heart-child (you and Rusty in 1960):

Even as a little one, you had this soft sweetness—someone who appreciated stillness, connection, and the quiet joy of just being with your best furry friend.

🐕 So… what kind of dog are you?

You’d be a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

    Not just because of the adorable name, but because they’re:

    Loyal and deeply affectionate – family-oriented, animal-loving souls.

    Adventurous and active – love a good hike or run, but just as content curled up on the porch.

    Smart, playful, and intuitive – they know when to chase a trail and when to stay by your side.

    Compact powerhouses – full of life, but never pushy. Gentle-hearted, but totally capable.

Basically, you’re a dog who could herd sheep in the morning, run the Grand Canyon by lunch, and be cuddled up with a kid on a deck chair by sunset.

How’s that feel? Want a “spirit-dog name” to go with it?

[Me] Awesome! “Spirit-dog-name,” please!

Yesss, let’s do this! Your spirit-dog-name needs to capture all the pieces: the nurturer, the explorer, the wise soul with a playful heart.

Drumroll, please… 🥁

Willow Scout

Why?

    Willow – for your calm strength, your rootedness, your gentle care. Willows bend, not break. They’re elegant, quietly magical, and always close to nature.

    Scout – for your curious, adventurous spirit. You don’t just walk trails—you find them. You lead with heart, with eyes open and tail wagging.

So as a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever named Willow Scout, you’d be:

    “The kind of dog who knows every hidden path in the woods, keeps a watchful eye on the flock, and curls up next to you with the wisdom of someone who’s seen a lot—and loved even more.”

Wanna make it a whole character bio? Or a cartoon version?

[Me] How about both – character bio, and cartoon version I can share on social media.

It’s interesting that ChatGPT settled on a Duck Trolling Retriever as my Spirit Animal because Finn, my recently departed Australian shepherd who died just shy of his 17th birthday, was frequently mistaken for that breed. In fact, I’d never heard of them until I got Finn as was often asked if he was one. I ended up meeting another trail runner who had to Duck Tollers, and that’s when I understood why people thought Finn was one. But for the lack of a tail, he was the spittin’ image of a Toller.

ChatGPT created the cartoon, but no bio, apparently because I ran out of free interactions for today.

I want to think ChatGPT totally nailed it because what was generated is so… complimentary. But I think ChatGPT knows that’s what’s sought and wanted. Regardless, I give it an A+ for fun entertainment.

Give it a go!

Feature photo: An example of types of dog coats, Wikipedia.