Man's Best Friend

It requires a considerable amount of time and patience to raise a dog. Let's face it; some dogs can be quite demanding. Some dogs love to chew on and destroy our belongings, bark incessantly day and night, jump on us, leave fur wherever they go, incur significant costs, and frankly, sometimes drive us crazy. Are our furry friends genuinely worth all the trouble? I emphatically answer with a resounding YES!

I personally grew up surrounded by dogs, loving them throughout my entire life, unable to envision my life without a dog. Our furry friends are more than just family; they are our best friends. The question arises: why do we love our dogs so much, and why are they considered "Man’s best friend?"

The origin of the saying "Man’s best friend" is debatable, but one thing is certain: dogs have been considered mankind's best friends for hundreds of years. We love our dogs for various reasons, and in this article, I will touch on some of the main reasons why our furry companions hold such a special place in our hearts.

A dog's loyalty is a central component. Dogs love us during our worst and best days, running or resting by our side, serving as constant companions.

Unconditional love is another reason why dogs are our besties. Dogs don't judge; they don't care about our appearance or occupation. They love us for who we are.

Dogs also serve as wonderful protectors. They have a unique way of making us feel safe. I recall living with a giant Bullmastiff named Winston during my college years. Despite his gentle nature, his imposing size deterred people from approaching us during walks, providing a sense of security.

Canines also contribute to our emotional well-being. Dogs possess an incredible ability to understand human emotions, offering companionship, excitement, or comfort depending on our emotional state.

Moreover, dogs provide a myriad of health benefits. Studies show that owning a dog contributes to longer life, reduced cardiovascular risks, and even a lower risk of asthma in children. The responsibility of being a good dog owner promotes our own health through regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Another delightful aspect of our relationship with man's best friend is the joy and laughter they bring into our homes. Witnessing the progress of our pups during training and observing their playful energy can brighten up any room. Who doesn't love to watch their dog do zoomies?

Ultimately, a dog is not just a pet; they are our loyal companions, protectors, therapists, helpers in hunting and herding, saviors, heroes, the warm welcome committee, and most importantly, our family. As Roger Caras once said "Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." 

Dogs are our best friends for so many wonderful reasons. In the end it all comes down to love. They love us because we love them. It's a perfect friendship.

Source: Macmillan, A. 2017,Nov 17th. It’s Official: Dog Owners Live Longer, Healthier Lives, Time. https://time.com/5028171/health-benefits-owning-dog/