Great Dane service puppy & buddy have a blast with their tether-ball

Bandit is a gorgeous Great Dane puppy who loves playing tether-ball with his buddy, Argus. Despite being the size of a small horse, Bandit is 10 months old at the time of this video, and far from being full grown. These two dogs are inseparable and they have an incredible time playing with their tether-ball game. As soon as the ball is released, they take turns biting at it, jumping for it and chasing it in circles as they run around the pole. Amazingly, they don't knock each other down.

Few things bring a smile to our faces as big or as quickly as happy dogs. To see animals playing and showing complete joy is a beautiful thing. An enormous puppy like Bandit is even more endearing.

But as playful as Bandit is, he also has a very serious job to do. Bandit is a service dog for a young lady named Danielle. She is autistic and faces several challenges, including serious anxiety. Bandit is specially trained to help her deal with this anxiety and distract her when she has trouble managing the symptoms. He recognizes her behaviors and uses his special skills to shower Danielle with love and affection at just the right times. Bandit brings her comfort when she needs it most, companionship throughout the day, and he helps her in many other ways. Bandit is a very well loved member of his family by the other dogs and by his people.

Great Danes are a highly intelligent breed and they are fiercely loyal. Known for their protectiveness, as well as their trustworthiness, most people who have the good fortune of having a Dane say they have fallen completely in love with the breed. Danes are adorably clumsy as they grow, majestic and graceful as they reach maturity, and dignified in their golden years. The only downside to having a Great Dane is that they, like other giant breeds, have a lifespan that is usually shorter than most dogs. Those who have them get to love them for a shorter period of time, but certainly no less so.

Bandit is a wonderful and gentle soul who shows us all what true happiness looks like.