As a kid I always wanted a dog. I did have two cats but for some reason I just wanted a dog. That wish came true when I was in fifth grade. After I had given up on asking (more like begging) my parents for a dog, chance introduced us to the miniature schnauzer who is now known as Otis.

1. Stress relief

Nothing is better than coming home after a long day to an excited dog. Studies have proven that dogs can lower blood pressure, stress hormones like cortisol which are related to anxiety and depression, and elevating hormones that create feelings of happiness like oxytocin.

2. Always have someone to watch a movie with

Dogs never ask to pick the movie. They never tell you to stop crying at the end of The Notebook and that it's just a movie. They don't talk during the important scenes or ask questions.

3. Loyalty

There is a ton of videos on YouTube of dogs being reunited with their owners after weeks, months, or even years. No matter how long you have been apart, your dog is always excited to see you when you get home. They greet you with a wagging tail at the door if you've been gone for 5 minutes or 5 months.

4. The little quirks each dog has

No two dogs are ever the same. Each one has unique "personality" traits that separate them from others. The way they tilt their head when they hear certian sounds or the way their determination to catch their own tail makes each dog different.

5. A reason to go outside

Even on the nicest days us humans can feel tempted to just stay in the house all day. Sometimes it is too hot or you're just feeling to lazy to get up and move but dogs are the perfect motivation to spend even a few minutes outside.

6. Someone to cuddle with

Sometimes all you need is to just lay down with your dog. Science has proven it is good for our health and it is a nice excuse to take a nap.