I've been a pet guy all of my life -- dogs, cats, fish and reptiles. I presently have 3 Sulcata Tortoises in my backyard.
My best dog ever was a Canaan Dog. So smart and personable with a variety of voices for real communication. My sons considered him the third brother.
My cats have all been very personable and wanted to be with me. Presently, I'm down to one cat. Since I work out of my home office, she sits in the chair beside me all day and vocally complains when I don't give her enough attention. When I get up to get a cup of coffee, she follows me around the house.
I use to be an advocate of outdoor cats. Keeps them in better shape and allows them to follow their hunting instincts. But I've changed my mind and now keep them inside. First, there are plenty of coyotes and bobcats in my neighborhood (I like having them around) and they do take cats. Second, cats are natural born killers and decimate bird populations. See here:
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/scien...ats-180960505/