As kids, all we ever wanted was for our parents to trust us with the responsibility of owning a pet, and (to be honest) there is no better pet to own than a dog. I've had the pleasure of owning quite a few dogs, but only a few stuck around. There's Pooka, my lazy, sweet and only-a-fan-of-humans Maltese mixed Poodle. Then there's Tyson, my fun-loving Boxer whom I miss every day, and Rocky, who took the place of Tyson and filled our hearts with love and our faces with slobber. And lastly, Paco, my Chihuahua who thinks he's a baby and drives me insane. I'm more than confident that my list won't end there because owning a dog is quite a unique experience and of course, has its perks.

1. You've gained a best friend

I always used to think that viewing your dog as a best friend was kind of strange, but they are probably the best kind of best friend you could ever have. You look forward to seeing them at the end of a long day just to unwind. If you ever have a problem, you can vent to them and they just listen. No backlash or judgment, just a bark or two.

2. Cuddles

They may or may not smell a little, but cuddling up next to your dog at night is one of the sweetest things. Of course, they expect to be pet the whole night and this may be a little annoying. All I'm saying is, when are we going to get a little love? A massage may be nice.

3. You're active

When you own a dog there is absolutely no excuse for you to not be a little active. You should take your dog for a walk every day whether it be around the block or to a dog park to throw a ball around. The plus is that you aren't only helping your dog stay fit and active, you're helping yourself, too!

4. Protection

Your dog is your own personal bodyguard. So, there's no need to be worried that someone will hurt you because if it came down to it...your dog isn't all bark.

5. Family

At the end of the day, your dog becomes a part of your family. You nurture and care for them just like any member of your family. It truly is one of the greatest feelings to come home and see your dog wag its tail from excitement to see you. The immense love you have for your dog is indescribable. It is a bond that no one can break. And let me tell you, when you lose your dog, it really hurts and cuts deep, just like any death in the family would.