When someone mentions “man’s best friend,” we instantly know they’re talking about dogs. That phrase is more than a nickname it’s a reflection of how deeply connected we are to our furry companions. But in today’s world, our bond with dogs goes way beyond friendship. It turns out, many of us think of our dogs as part of the family.
According to a recent survey, 94% of dog owners consider their pets family members. That’s not just a casual statement it's backed by actions and emotions. People aren’t just asking whether their dog is obedient or well-trained. They’re Googling heartfelt questions like, “Does my dog love me?” (which gets nearly 3,000 searches every month). Clearly, our emotional connection with dogs runs deep.
How Dogs Fit Into Our Social Circles
Humans have many kinds of relationships parents, siblings, friends, partners but where exactly do dogs fit in this social mix?
Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, led by Borbála Turcsán, looked into this idea. They used a well-known psychology tool called the Network of Relationships Inventory, which usually measures how people relate to each other. But this time, they adapted it to include dogs.
More than 700 dog owners, mostly women between the ages of 25 and 45, participated in the study. They were asked to rate their relationships with their dogs alongside human relationships.
What Makes the Dog-Human Bond So Unique?
The results were eye-opening: Most people rated their relationship with their dog as equal to or even better than their human relationships.
So, what makes the dog-human connection so strong? A study found that three main things explain why we feel so close to our dogs:
- Friendship: Dogs stick with us no matter what.
- Caring: Looking after a dog brings out our caring side.
- Peace: Dogs don’t argue or hold things against us.
In many ways, our relationship with dogs is a mix of having a child and a best friend. Like kids, dogs depend on us and offer unconditional love. Like best friends, they bring joy, loyalty, and emotional support without the drama.
Dogs Don't Do Power Struggles
Another reason we get along so well with dogs? They don’t fight for control.
In human relationships, power dynamics often lead to conflict who controls the TV, who washes the dishes, who makes the big decisions. But with dogs, it’s different. Owners have most of the control, and dogs generally don’t challenge it. This reduces tension and makes for a smoother, more peaceful relationship.
Are Dogs Just a Replacement for People?
Some believe that people get dogs because they’re missing something in their human relationships maybe they don’t have kids, a partner, or close friends. But the study found the opposite.
People who had strong, healthy relationships with other humans were also the ones who had the strongest bonds with their dogs. That means dogs don’t replace people they enhance our lives and give us even more emotional connection and joy.
So, Are Dogs Family or Friends?
Honestly, they’re both.
Your dog may not share your DNA, but they offer love, loyalty, and emotional support that rival any human connection. According to science, your dog is part best friend, part child, and 100% family.
So next time you’re cuddling with your pup or talking to them like they understand every word you’re not being silly. You’re just treating them like what they really are: a beloved part of your inner circle.