Amber-Eyed

You sit there
loyal
with trusting eyes -
big, amber trusting eyes -
and muzzle those who come near.
Your warm breath,
which smells subtley of fish,
tickles my hand.
Your fur is cowlicked
and as rough as the
bristles
of a brush
but so sleek.
I lead and you follow.
I smile and you wag.
I frown and your grin falters
and your tail crumples between your legs.
You look to me for guidance
and so we walk,
I am the master and you are my loyal
best friend.