Why Are Dogs Called Man's Best Friend?

Throughout the ages, people have claimed that dogs are one of their closest and best companions. Of all domesticated animals, dogs play the broadest role: protector, helper, lifeguard, and companion. Dogs are incredible friends to people, and they have been companions for centuries. The relationship between dogs and people is deep and ancient.

mutually beneficial relationship

Dogs and humans began living together 15,000 years ago when dogs migrated with humans throughout East Asia. This connection is natural because humans and dogs are social animals. Neither thrives in solitude, and both derive spiritual (and often physical) benefits from strong social bonds.

Although domestic dogs share 99 percent of their DNA with wolves, dogs radiate warmth toward other dogs and humans, in stark contrast to wolves' suspicious and defensive responses to others. Dogs are pack animals, and they thrive on attention and affection, making them prime candidates for a person's best friend.

Since dogs have been domesticated to the point where they need us to survive, and we tend to find that we need them almost as well, humans and dogs have developed a symbiotic relationship. Most dog owners will tell you their dog is a family member. Having a faithful dog at home gives us a listening ear, a warm paw to hold, and even strong legs to run alongside.

Where did the phrase "man's best friend" come from?

In fact, the term "man's best friend" originated in the U.S. Supreme Court in 1870, when a brilliant lawyer named George Graham Vest made a case for a man who loved him dearly. The man defending the old drum of the coonhound. Vest argued that when a neighbor killed Lao Drum for trespassing, the neighbor not only took the life of a pet — he also killed an important family member.

West famously said, “The one absolute, selfless friend a man can have in this selfish world—a friend who will never be ungrateful or treacherous—is his dog.”

more than pets

Dogs have proven time and time again to be loyal, kind, empathetic and indomitable. After probably the worst day of our lives, they greeted us cheerfully and made us feel better with tail wagging and mischievous smiles.

Whether it's herding sheep, hunting, supporting people with disabilities, or simply serving as a companion with a difference, dogs help humans with everyday tasks, many of which might not be possible without them. Dogs have been service assistants for the blind dating back to the 16th century, and by the 1970s, dog trainers developed the technology for dogs to help people with disabilities.

As if those duties weren't enough, dogs also help prevent possible crime and save lives, such as drug-sniffing and bomb-sniffing dogs. The German Shepherd is a 200-year-old breed that is most often seen as a police dog around the world.

Want to live a healthier life? Maybe you should get a dog.

The health benefits of living with a dog as a companion have been well documented in many scientific studies. As reported in a recent Time magazine article, the health benefits of living with a dog include:

1. Link to a longer life

2. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease

3. Reduce the adverse health effects of living alone

4. May Reduce Allergies and Asthma in Children

5. Increase opportunities for healthy socialization

The study's authors stress that these health benefits only apply if the dog is well exercised and cared for. Even if dogs provide no immediate health benefits, the unconditional love and companionship they provide is priceless. They are there for us when we are sick, sad and lonely. They love us even when we are grumpy, rude or downright rascal. Dogs seem to understand us to a certain extent, even if we can't.

The truth is: we call dogs our best friends because in most important ways, they are. Dogs have developed a deep bond with humans over thousands of years, and dogs have become part of our family. We are proud of our dogs and sometimes show them off to others as we are our children. We play with them, hold them close, and rely on them to provide the services they have grown to provide and enjoy.

Often, dogs really deserve their status as man's best friend.