[Verse 1]
I met a nice old man today, oh, yes, oh
And he sure had a lot to say, a good long time ago
"I've led a soldier's occupation, oh, yes, oh
In every part of this big nation, a good long time ago
I've seen the world and roamed its spaces, oh, yes, oh
I guess I've been in a million places, a good long time ago"

[Chorus 1]
"But there are times when soldiering gets lonely
You long for friendly company
So when you find an unfamiliar city
Here's advice that always worked for me"

[Verse 2]
"When your train gets into town, oh, yes, oh
Just make a bee line for the pound, a good long time ago
Don't just wander helter-skelter, oh, yes, oh
Seek the nearest animal shelter, a good long time ago"

[Chorus 2]
"You soon will find the truest of companions
A little dog can melt a heart of stone
Just when you think you're up a dreary canyon
A puppy's love can bring you close to home"
[Verse 3]
"Find a store and buy some twine, oh, yes, oh
Now, tie the doggie to the line, a good long time ago
Thus prepared for any weather, oh, yes, oh
Dog and man will stand together, a good long time ago"

[Chorus 3]
"For mothers warn their daughters of the dangers
Of soldiers in their quest for girls
Never, never speak to strangers
Unless their from the canine world"

[Verse 4]
A sweet young maid in passing by, oh, yes, oh
Saw my smile but made no reply, a good long time ago
The puppy fixed his gaze upon her, oh, yes, oh
Two steps more and she was a goner, a good long time ago

[Chorus 4]
The sands of time have swept away the heartaches
The tears, the parting, and the pain
The little pup I gave her for a keepsake
Will always remind me of what's her name (what's her name?)