Hey Albea - you niece's story reminds me of a story from my childhood. My family got our first dog when I was less than two. She was an adult German Shepherd mix that had "followed my cousin home." My parents were a little concerned about the dog and my relationship, I being pretty uncivilized at that age, but Sheba was a gem. Not only did she put up with my inadvertent torture, she became the protector of all three of us kids, and me in particular. Not long after we got her, my family was visiting that same Aunt. My mother put me on Aunt Dotty's bed to nap, and when Aunt Dotty tried to go in later to check on me, there was Sheba, lying across the doorway. As soon as Aunt Dotty got close she growled - and would not let her near me! My mother had to go with her, and tell Sheba it was okay! So much for my parents worries!