I have not yet had the fortune of living with a dog, but I have been around enough of them to know that they are the most kindhearted, friendly, cheerful, and loyal of all the sentient life forms to currently live on our planet. In fact, the potential of one day having a dog companion is one of my primary motivators for getting through college and starting my career; I want to provide for my future dogs. (I already know that they are going to be really spoiled.) Sure, people are okay too, but our furry friends are truly the best. Here are 11 reasons why:

1. They approach life with a contagiously enthusiastic attitude.

Even if you went to bed in a bad mood, your dog's excitement -- and wake-up kisses -- will help you start your day off on the right foot.

2. They motivate you to lead a more active life.

You may want to stay in and watch Netflix all day, but your dog needs to be walked. When you walk your dog, your dog will walk you as well.

3. They love you unconditionally.

Some may call a cynic, but at this point in my life, I do not believe that unconditional love is possible -- at least not between humans. However, your dog's happiness depends on you, and if you love and care for your dog, your dog will love you back. Unconditionally. Your dog doesn't care about your appearance, the mistakes you've made, your strange quirks, or anything else that humans would typically judge you for. Your dog loves you for you.

4. They value the time you spend with them.

They will never get tired of you; you are your dog's best friend.

5. They genuinely miss your presence they are not with you.

They actually value your existence and recognize your worth (unlike that guy who is ghosting on you).

6. They can't speak -- at least not in a language that you can generally understand.

Let's be real for a second; a lot of people have a lot of BS to say, and you do not need that in your life. If your dog ever utters something that echoes human language, it will most likely be something really sweet, like "I love you."

7. They do not judge you.

You can tell your dog your most embarrassing secret, and no matter what it is, they will still want to be your best friend.

8. They are the best cuddle buddies.

Who wouldn't enjoy hanging out with a living, breathing furball?

9. They love to follow you--everywhere.

Can you think of anyone else would want to be right by your side when you are pooping?

10. Some of them look like teddy bears.

Yes, this is a real dog. His name is Dougie, and he is a Shih Tzu. You can follow him on Instagram; he has 521k followers to date (which, on a side note, is 521k more than I have). #dogsarecoolerthanpeople

11. Some of them look like snowballs.

This is also a real dog, believe it or not.