Dogs are arguably the best animals on the planet. They do the funniest things, they're always there for you, and they can always put a smile on your face. Below are 10 reasons why every home should have a dog:

1. They're always happy.

Dogs are never in a bad mood. Their constant tail wagging will improve your mood and decrease your stress, ultimately leading to a healthier lifestyle. Dogs are nothing but positive, and who doesn't want more positivity in their life?

2. They keep you in shape.

Everybody knows that dogs need exercise, especially high-energy dogs. To keep them happy and healthy you'll have to keep them active, and that means being active with them by taking them on walks or playing with them. Even when you don't feel motivated to go on an evening walk after a long and tiring day, you'll have to. That's a good thing.

3. They teach responsibility.

Owning a dog is a HUGE responsibility. It's like having a kid without the diapers. You have to look after it, teach it new tricks, teach it discipline, play with it, feed it, and so much more. It's not something to take lightly. It's a fun experience and you can learn a lot from owning a dog; nothing teaches you responsibility like caring for a living thing.

4. They love to cuddle.

Cuddling has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and lower your heart rate. It also helps calm anxiety. A dog is the best cuddle buddy you'll ever have. They love to curl up near you (or on you) and just relax. Dogs make you feel calm and relaxed. There's nothing I love more than curling up on the couch with my dogs after a long day at school.

5. They're great listeners.

Dogs will always listen. Other people might ignore you or just pretend to care about what you're saying, but dogs will always give you their full attention. Even though they don't understand, just having someone to get your thoughts or feelings out to is comforting. Sometimes they even cock their ears or tilt their heads, showing you that they're listening, and that they care.

6. They teach you about unconditional love.

As I mentioned before, dogs are the only thing that love you more than they love themselves. That's such a rare and important relationship to have. When you own a dog they form a special bond with you, and to them nothing is more important than you. The love that comes from them never wavers and never ends.

7. They force you to be social.

Since you have to make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise, you have to go on walks. This could lead you to plenty of places with other people, like the dog park. Dogs also like to go places just for fun. My dog Maggie likes to go hiking and out to dinner with us to dog-friendly restaurants. They put you in social settings and lead you to meet new people.

8. They're beyond excited every time you come home.

No one else gets as excited when I walk through the door as my dogs. Some days when I come home my brother doesn't even look up from his phone screen, but my dogs are always waiting at the door and they're the first thing I see. Nothing makes me happier then seeing them waiting for me to come home.

9. They protect you.

When you have a dog, you have a protector. Dogs are so loyal to their owners; they protect you from everything, whether it be a squirrel running across your fence or the neighbor walking her dog down the street. You'll feel safe and sound.

10. They're your best friend.

At the end of the day, your dog will be your best friend. They require a lot of work, time, and attention, but they're worth it. It will be the best experience of your life - full of love, memories, and fun times.