Barney came home as a roly-poly, clumsy bundle in the spring of 2011 and never really stopped being one. Thirteen years of muddy paws, stolen socks and a wagging tail that could clear a coffee table. He loved the water, loved his people even more, and was happiest with a soggy tennis ball and somewhere warm to flop. He was, without question, the best boy.

Favourite food

Anything he wasn't supposed to have. Cheese, mostly.

Favourite toy

A battered tennis ball, long past its best.

Favourite place

The lake, up to his chest in the water.

Favourite thing to do

Swimming, then shaking it all over you.

His party trick

Bringing you a shoe every time the doorbell rang.

Naughtiest habit

Stealing socks and burying them in the garden.