How does Stienbeck present Carlson as lonely or is he an exceptinon to the theme of loneliness?

Thre is not too much character development with Carlson. He represents the tough pragmatic ranch hand. We might surmise that he gets lonely too given that loneliness pervades this novel but Steinbeck needs Carlson to forward his narrative. Carlson hastens the death of Candy's dog. He is not mean rather he illustrates the practicality of the farm as opposed to the emotion of Candy's attachment to his dog.