I lost my best friend almost 6 years ago, He was a 12 year old Bouvier that I raised from a puppy and I still get choked up thinking about him. He was the best dog you could ever ask for, he was weary of strangers (scared the hell out of them mostly) and strange noises but was very affectionate to friends especially children. He would never leave the yard, nor your side when you walked him, almost gaurdian like.
He seemed to know just the right time play, and always made me smile. I used to dread the day he would leave me, but it happened when I was away on business, almost as if he knew I could not bare to think of putting him down myself.
Some people say to get another puppy right away and it will help the grieving, but for me there will not be another dog any time soon. I cannot bring myself to replace him, because there will never be another one like him.
Sorry, I think I turned this into my own story here. Time will make it easier -The pain will subside, and rather than dwell on the sadness you will start just to remember the good things that good pets bring.
Rest in peace
Mans best friend - My best friend