Your Dog Is Basically Your Favorite Child—and Science Can Prove It

by Jon Scaccia April 28, 2025

Let’s be real—your dog is your ride-or-die. They’re there when you’re happy, sad, or just vibing on the couch with snacks and sweats. But what if we told you science just confirmed what you’ve always known in your heart?

A brand-new study shows that your bond with your dog is not only powerful—it might actually be more supportive and less stressful than your closest human relationships. Yup, even your BFF and maybe… your partner. 😬

The Doggy Download: What This Study Actually Looked At

Researchers surveyed over 700 dog owners, asking them to rate their relationships with their dog and key people in their lives—like their romantic partner, best friend, child, and closest relative. Using a super-detailed relationship questionnaire, they measured things like:

• Companionship (Do you enjoy spending time together?)
• Nurturance (Do you take care of them and feel needed?)
• Support & Affection
• Conflict or Negative Vibes
• Who Holds the Power (Spoiler: It’s You 🐾)

And the results? Honestly, pet parents, they’re kind of incredible.

Dogs > Humans? Here’s the Science Scoop

Let’s break it down:

🐶 Your Dog = The Ultimate Companion

Dogs scored higher than almost every human relationship when it came to companionship and nurturance. They’re always down to chill, they never cancel plans, and they never ghost you. Gold-star behavior.

💕 Less Drama, More Love

While your dog may occasionally chew your shoe or bark at the mailman, owners reported way less conflict with their dogs than with humans. Dogs had the lowest scores on negative interaction scales. Basically, they’re the least likely to start a fight over where to eat or forget your birthday.

👶 Dogs = A Little Bit Like Kids (But Cooler?)

The relationship with a dog most closely mirrored the bond between parent and child. They need you, they trust you, and they make you feel needed. But unlike toddlers, they don’t throw Legos at your face.

⚖️ Power Dynamics? You Rule

Dogs aren’t just adorable—they’re also not trying to dominate the Netflix queue. The study found that owners have more control in their dog relationships than in any human one. That means fewer power struggles, more harmony.

3 Ways to Show Your Pup the Love They Deserve

Feeling inspired? Here’s how to strengthen your dog-human bond, straight from the science:

1. Lean Into Quality Time

Dogs crave companionship just like you do. Take time for daily play, walks, or even just cozy couch snuggles. Think of it as emotional fuel—for both of you.

2. Make Mealtime Matter

Feeding isn’t just a chore—it’s a love language. Try incorporating slow feeders, healthy treats, or even letting them “help” you prep dinner (aka hover while you cook).

3. Talk to Them Like You Mean It

Research shows dogs understand way more than we think. So go ahead—chat with them, share your day, or just say “I love you” out loud. They get it.

Why This Matters (Beyond the Awws)

This study isn’t just cute—it points to something bigger. In a world where social media scrolls replace real connection and stress is sky-high, our pets are grounding us. They offer a sense of purpose, presence, and unconditional love that’s increasingly rare.

Whether you’re single, surrounded by family, or somewhere in between, your dog plays a unique role in your emotional support squad. And the science says that bond is more real—and more powerful—than we ever realized.

Share Your Pet’s Story ❤️

How has your dog changed your life? Do they feel more like a friend, a child, or something totally unique? Drop a comment below or tag us on social (@ThisWeekInPetHealth) with your story!

🐾 Bonus Qs for You:

• What’s one little thing you do daily to bond with your dog?
• Do you ever talk to your pup like they’re a therapist with paws?

TL;DR

• Science confirms your dog is probably your favorite “person.”
• They offer more support and less stress than most humans.
• Your bond is real, powerful, and totally worth investing in.

So yeah… go ahead and cancel your plans. Stay in. Cuddle your dog. 🐕💖

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