Dogs are known as man's best friend for many reasons so here are a few of them!
1. They are always there for you.
To you, dogs are a best friend, a constant, and even a source of comfort. To them, you are their entire world. Whenever you need cheering up, you know your furry friend will be there by your side.
2. They are always happy to see you.
You know that when you walk in the door after a long day at work that they will be the first one to greet you, tail wagging. You know they will always be overjoyed that you are home.
3. Dogs are a legitimate form of stress relief.
Studies have shown that dogs can help increase the production of oxytocin (your stress reduction hormone) and decrease the amount of cortisol (your stress hormone). So the next time you feel anxious about a test, meeting, or life situation, find a dog to pet and play with.
4. They can do really cool tricks!
With a little patience and training, just about any dog can not only be well behaved, but they can do awesome things like riding a skateboard or playing dead! If you want to see what I mean, check out these videos.
5. They can be a hunting companion.
Along the line of training, dogs can be taught to hunt with you. Whether it's chasing down birds, seeking them out, or tracking deer, they can do just about anything to aid your hunt.
6. They can help all kinds of people.
Guide dogs and therapy dogs help people medically. Those who have PTSD often find solace in a furry companion. Cancer patients can be cheered up by visits, and guide dogs help keep those who can't see safe.
7. They can save people's lives.
Saint bernards are known for saving people in avalanches; you know, the dog with the barrel around their neck?
Yeah, that one. Labs have been known to pull drowning people out of the water, and hounds are used to track missing people. It is amazing the things dogs can do for us.
8. They can teach kids responsibility.
Dogs have to be fed twice a day, walked, played with, bathed, brushed, and more. When kids help out with these tasks, it teaches them to be responsible for someone other than themselves, which is an essential life skill.
9. Dogs can reduce the risk of heart disease.
According to the American Heart Association, owning a dog can actually reduce or even prevent heart disease. Just look at that face! How could that not cheer you up?!
10. Most importantly, they will love you unconditionally.
No matter what color your skin is, your dog will love you. No matter if you have a clean bill of health or not, your dog will love you. If you've done jail time or you go to church religiously, your dog will love you. No matter your political affiliation, your dog will love you. Because dogs only see what really matters in a person: their heart.
