More: Max was our son Nicks dog. But... Max spent most of his time with our grandson Avery while Nick worked. Those two were inseparable . Max passed away just before his 9th birthday due to an esophagus issue. (collapse) My grandson still mourns his best friend. He was a true gentle giant of a pooch. His nick name was Max eee Puddle ( he never mastered drinking from his bowl) He always made a mess with his water. He is missed dearly. My son Nick can still see him from time to time if he closes his eyes.. we all miss him, he's been gone 2 years now.