In the United States, about 70 million dogs have owners. 70 million fur babies have been given shelter, food, water, playmates and beautiful lives. But how often do we consider what they do for us? We provide for them and make them part of our family while they make us a part of their heart. Sometimes it’s hard for me to believe that we, as humans, with our troubled nature, deserve companions such as these loving, genuine creatures. We really don’t deserve dogs.

1. They’re more loyal than any human could ever imagine being.

While we may think we could never betray our friends or our family, it isn’t even in a dog’s thought capacity to betray their owner. You won’t find your dog leaving you anytime soon.

2. Their definition of unconditional love is literally unconditional love.

No matter how long you’ve been a puppy parent, your dog has probably shown you it’s endless love since day one. The moment you caught their eye at the adoption center, you knew it was meant to be. They’re always ready to see you to the door when you leave and greet you as soon as you get home.

3. They trust you more than anything.

They trust that you will come home, that you will feed them, play with them and love them. And you better.

4. Dogs are always apologetic, even if they didn’t do anything wrong.

Whether you own one or six dogs, they’ve all made mistakes. But even if the torn apart basketball was the neighbor dog’s fault, your pup will look at you with somber eyes and a lowered head awaiting punishment or forgiveness.

5. Puppy, adult, or Old Yeller, dogs of all ages will keep up with you just to stay by your side.

Whether you’re making coffee in the morning and your pup is lying at your feet or you’ve decided to take a jog and they’re sticking with your pace, dogs are always there to be good company or extra protection.

6. Dogs may be shy, but as soon as they warm up to you they’re an automatic best friend.

Their ability to adapt to new people and new situations so quickly is something we as humans overlook. Most of us aren’t able to simply jump into a new environment and act comfortable. But dogs expect that you will love them and they love you as soon as you let them.

7. They are always ready to defend you, no matter what it takes.

It doesn't matter when everyone is home and it was just the mailman ringing the doorbell, a dog will pounce at the opportunity to warn you of danger and protect you from any harm.

Dogs are some of the most selfless creatures no matter their upbringing. To us, dogs are a piece of our world, a piece of our family and a piece of our hearts. To dogs, we are the whole world, we are their family and we are the reasons their hearts don’t stop beating.