Can Dogs Really Be Our Friends?
Jul 29, 2025
Have you ever thought about friendship and why it feels so good? Have you ever wondered if our pets can be considered friends, and whether they have friends, too?
OK, yes – I do let my brain-train glide down some odd tracks now and then, and today’s article is going down one of those.
First, what is the scientific definition of friendship? According to the American Psychological Association, friendship is a “voluntary, reciprocal, and relatively enduring relationship between two or more individuals characterized by mutual affection, trust, and positive regard.”
Phew! “Friend” is so much easier to say, isn’t it?
Think about one of your friends – does that definition apply? Sure, it’s a clinical way of describing the warm bonds you have with each other, and it is also accurate.
Now think about a dog you either have now or have lived with in the past – does that definition apply? For most dog lovers, the answer would be yes. I’m interested to hear if you have other types of pets – do you feel a friendship for them, too? Is it the same kind of friendship you feel or have felt for a furry dog friend?
It turns out that humans and canines have very similar social needs, which is why they took up with us in the first place. Here are seven ways humans and dogs are alike in their need for companionship:
- Social bonding: both of us are social creatures that naturally seek companionship.
- Emotional support: both of us offer comfort when we see someone suffering.
- Play and fun: both of us build strong bonds through shared activities, especially fun ones.
- Loyalty and trust: both of us are known for our loyalty and desire to keep others safe.
- Conflict resolution and social dynamics: both of us have complex body- and vocal language, and use it to ease tension, resolve conflict, and negotiate compromise.
- Preferences and Compatibility: both of us have individual preferences and seek out those who have the same or similar preferences.
- Providing security and comfort: both of us find solace, strength, and safety when with our friends, especially in troubling times.
Since both species – human and canine – share so many social needs, it’s no surprise that dogs have been referred to as man’s best friend for hundreds or maybe thousands of years.
Woman’s, too. Pardon me while I go love on my dog-friends for a minute.
Wags,
Sandy Weaver
The Voice of Wagaliciousness
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