Faithful furry friends: Why dogs make the best pets

According to the New York Times, Americans spend more than $50 billion dollars on their pets every year and it’s easy to see why. Dogs are some of the most faithful and loving pets one could ever ask for, and when you look at their faces, you can’t help but melt into a pile of goo as they look up at you with those big, beautiful eyes. But there are many reasons why dogs make such great pets that go beyond being adorable and loving; here are just five reasons why dogs make the best pets possible!

Dogs love their owners unconditionally

Unlike cats, who love you only when they feel like it, and unlike goldfish, who don’t love anyone at all, a dog will love you no matter what. That unconditional affection is one of our favorite reasons why dogs are so wonderful to have as pets. We think they’re perfect just as they are—no tricks required!

Dogs are easy to care for

Dogs are often said to be a man’s best friend. It is not surprising then that they make great companions for humans and have been kept as pets for more than 12,000 years. Dogs are affectionate and loyal by nature, eager to please their human masters. They are easy to care for because they are naturally clean animals with few hygiene problems; they can survive in an apartment without much effort on your part other than regular exercise and feeding.

Dogs encourage exercise

A 2001 study published in The International Journal of Obesity found that people were more likely to exercise when their canine companions were present. Researchers believe dogs, unlike cats, keep us from slacking off because they are motivated by our movements and want to join in. This might be part of why dog owners are less likely to be obese than cat owners. For example, a 2013 British Journal of Health study reported dog walkers had a lower body mass index (BMI) than non-dog walkers.

Dogs keep you company at all times

A big reason why people decide to get a dog is because they want a companion. When you come home from work, your dog will greet you with his tail wagging and a smile on his face. A dog’s greatest desire is to please its owner and do what he can to keep him company—dogs don’t need to be left alone in order to entertain themselves. Your dog will always be by your side, ready for playtime or cuddles as soon as you return home.

Dogs are loyal and kind

Dogs love us unconditionally. No matter what mood we’re in, whether we’re good or bad, rich or poor, healthy or sick – they will always be there for us. They truly want to please us and are grateful for any affection we show them. If you’ve ever spent time with a dog, especially a puppy (and it doesn’t take long) you’ll start to notice how much love these animals have to give.

Adopting an adult dog saves lives

Not only does adopting an adult dog free up space in a shelter for other homeless animals, but it’s easier on your wallet as well. While buying a puppy might cost thousands of dollars, adopting an adult pet can often be accomplished for just a few hundred dollars or less. You’ll also have a better idea of what kind of pet you’re getting, because all of your new pup’s quirks will already be familiar to you. Plus, many shelters offer behavioral support if necessary.