As the saying goes, a dog is man's best friend. There is certainly a reason why that statement has become a standard saying. Dogs are very loyal and they can seem almost human in their reactions to us.
If you take the time to notice, a dog's eyes are very human-likem as they are very expressive. Also, dogs are always seeming to smile. It is the dog's reactions to our emotional state that gives the impression that a dog really cares when we are going through something difficult, or when we are happy.
Dogs are very astute and they really do know when we are distressed or overjoyed, and they react accordingly. We can sense that the dog is there to comfort us or to share in our joy.
Dogs love to have our approval, and they thrive on being together with their human as much as possible. They are very reluctant to leave our sides as they are extremely loyal companions.
Dogs are pack animals, and they look to their human partner as the leader of their pack. This engenders a true bonding where the dog will do just about anything for you, including dying if necessary to protect you. If you are sick or hurt, your dog will stay with you to be sure that you are all right. If you are emotionally distraught, your dog will sense the state of your emotions and offer solace because he understands what you are going through.
Benefits of dog ownership
Statistics have shown that elderly people actually live longer if they have a pet dog. For an elderly person who lives alone, their dog fills a gap with companionship that would otherwise not exist. There is nothing like seeing a wagging tail and boundless love coming from your dog in the morning when you awaken. The dog is ready to be with you at all times, no matter what.
Dogs are relentless in their affection and loyalty to their human. There is really nothing quite like it. Cats are pretty independent, and much of the time they can take you or leave you. Just feed them and let them alone, and they will mostly go their own way. On the other hand, dogs are totally focused on you and their devotion is entirely unswerving.
Dogs teach us about love in the respect that they love us no matter what happens. You can be in a bad mood and say something cross to your dog, and he or she will still be at your side come thick or thin. This is a remarkable relationship, but that is how your dog wants it to be.
Having a dog in the house is a very practical way to provide protection for yourself and your property. If an intruder learns that you have a dog, statistics tell us that he will most likely move on rather than encounter a dog. The intruder or burglar does not really know how big the dog is if he hears barking, and it is more trouble than it is worth to risk dealing with a dog, as opposed to finding somewhere else to ply his trade.
So, if you have not already, get yourself a dog, and you will not regret it.