So sorry for your loss John.
Had a golden retriever that might have went the way Lola did. Was playing ball with no signs of distress, laid down and died with me holding her.
Sounds like you had a great one. Not many people take the time to condition a pet to the point they can be around other dogs and people without being a nuisance.
Saddie is 8 now, so we're on the short side of being together. She's my constant shadow. We live in the country, she only wears a collar when out in public. Rides on the snowmobile, atv, boat, canoe, sidecar of the bike, tractor, pretty much anything that moves. Only barks to let me know there's a squirrel in the yard.
Hope you find another companion.
Greg