Growing up, there has never been a time in my life where I haven’t had at least one animal living in my house. I couldn’t even begin to fathom a world without pets, and being away at college has been a true testament to my ability to live on my own, and without my furry friends.

If there is one thing that I can attest to about dogs, it is their ability to be the most loyal companion a person could ask for. People come and go throughout life, and loyalty is a common question when it comes to humans. This is not the case, however, with dogs. With dogs, loyalty is never a question, and that alone makes them superior to humans. There are other things, however, that make us feel unconditional love for dogs, and here are just a few:

1. Dogs never judge you.

2. They’re hands down the best listeners.

3. They’re always excited to see you, regardless of how long you spent apart.

Even if it was just five minutes.

4. You can undoubtedly count on their loyalty.

5. A dog will never criticize you.

6. And they're seldom in a bad mood.

7. Dogs like your cooking even when it's not very good.

8. They know how to appreciate the simple things.

It’s flat out refreshing and adorable.

9. Dogs are always genuinely sorry when they do something wrong.

10. And they're always up for adventure.

11. Growing up with a dog is something special.

12. Dogs can make the coldest humans feel warmth.

“This [deceased] soldier, I realized, must have had friends at home and in his regiment; yet he lay there deserted by all except his dog. I looked on, unmoved, at battles which decided the future of nations. Tearless, I had given orders which brought death to thousands. Yet here I was stirred, profoundly stirred, stirred to tears. And by what? By the grief of one dog.”
– Napoleon Bonaparte

13. Dogs understand when you are sad or upset and they are always there for you.

14. Unlike some people, dogs can decrease your blood pressure.

15. Babies are cute, but nothing can beat puppy cuteness.

16. Your happiness makes them happy, and they expect nothing in return—and there's nothing better than that.

Dogs want nothing more in the world than for you to love them and they will do anything they must, to make sure you are okay.

If you have never had a dog, or if you feel like there is something missing in your life, then I suggest getting a dog. They are a friend like no other, and you will find yourself in a consistent state of positivity. And if you occasioanlyl don't want to be ariund other people, then a dog is the perfect option because, after all, they are better.