[Verse 1]
When I was a lad
And old Shep was a pup
Over hills and meadows we'd stray
Just a boy and his dog
We were both full of fun
We grew up together that way

[Verse 2]
I remember the time
At the old swimmin' hole
When I would have drowned beyond doubt
But old Shep was right there
To the rescue he came
He jumped in and helped pull me out

[Verse 3]
As the years fast did roll
Old Shep, he grew old
His eyes were fast growing dim
And one day the doctor
Looked at me and said
"I can do no more for him, Jim"

[Verse 4]
With hands that were trembling
I picked up my gun
And aimed it at Shep's faithful head
I just couldn't do it
I wanted to run
I wish they would shoot me instead
[Verse 5]
He came to my side
And he looked up at me
And laid his old head on my knee
I had struck the best friend
That a man ever had
I cried so I scarcely could see

[Verse 6]
Old Shep, he has gone
Where the good doggies go
And no more with old Shep will I roam
But if dogs have a heaven
There's one thing I know
Old Shep has a wonderful home