Flowers give insects and birds food, and in return, they spread the flowers’ pollen. Clownfish protect anemones from butterfly fish, and the anemones protect clownfish from its predators. Bullhorn acacia plants shelter ants, and the ants eat the plants’ predatory pests. Nature is full of positive mutualistic relationships between different species, and that includes the relationship between humans and dogs.

Dogs are one of the most beloved animals. In the United States, 42.5 million households own at least one dog. Dogs are frequently anthropomorphized (given human qualities) in our media. Goofy and Snoopy are perfect examples. Why do we love dogs so much?

Anthropologists estimate that dogs were domesticated around 18,000 to 32,000 years ago. Selective breeding over the years has given dogs the qualities of loyalty and intelligence. Dogs were the first animals to be domesticated, and they were likely used to assist in hunting. Other domesticated animals such as cattle were used to transport goods or serve as raw material for fur and food, but dogs were different. Dogs were held in high regard compared to the other domesticated animals. Ancient burial sites have shown that dogs were sometimes buried alongside humans, signifying their beloved status.

Dogs did more than just hunting. We humans need food to survive, but we also need companionship and emotional support to function properly. The fierce loyalty and friendliness of domesticated dogs provided company to early humans in times of stress and anguish. Those dogs have been succeeded by modern therapy and service dogs. As civilization flourished and humans specialized to different jobs, so have dogs. German Shepherds assist police in searching for contraband. Larger terrier breeds serve as guards to protect families. Farmers often use collies to herd livestock.

Symbiotic relationships in nature develop overtime through evolution. Domestic dogs and people have helped each other survive through nature’s harsh tests. Through human history, dogs have been with us on land, water, and even outer space. Dogs really are our best friend.