14 Ways Your Dog Is Actually The Best Friend You Could Have

There’s something truly unique about the bond between dog and dog owner. Whether you’re relaxing on the couch scratching your dog’s stomach, running together, or playing fetch in the park, a dog is loyal to the core, always his or her drooling, panting, authentic self. We’ve partnered with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, which advocates for rescue dogs and neglected animals, to celebrate the special relationships that can only be forged between dog people and their trusty canine friends.

1. Your dog is genuinely enthusiastic about everything you two do together. Whether it’s taking long walks in the park, enjoying quick drives around town, playing fetch, or even just lounging around the house watching Netflix, your dog is always happy just spending time with you.

2. You never have to worry about canceling or negotiating plans with your dog. They’re always at the ready to do anything you have in mind, whenever you’re ready to do it.

3. Your dog makes mundane everyday activities that you usually do alone—like working out or running errands—something to actually look forward to. Because you get to bring them!

4. And your dog keeps you mentally and physically healthy—you may be walking your dog, but your dog is walking you too.

5. Nothing beats coming home and seeing your dog go bonkers over how excited they are to see you. And it doesn’t matter how long you’ve been gone—you could walk out the door, remember you forgot something, and come back inside mere seconds later—your dog will still act like it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to them.

6. And your dog doesn’t care how you look, what time of day it is, or how you’re feeling—their excitement to see you and be with you is always present.

7. And that enthusiasm is a two-way street. You’re just as giddy to see them, as they are to see you. And that mutual happiness never falters.

8. Your dog protects you—not just because they’ll bark if anyone tries to break into your apartment—but in an emotional sense too. It’s been proven that your dog can actually smell how you’re feeling and accurately read your facial features, which explains why they always seem to be able to sense when you need a hug the most. No other pet or human could be so unconditionally devoted to you and make you feel so good all the time.

9. They’re the best source of comfort to you during your lowest moments. From their warm, soft body curled up in your lap, to them surprising you with kisses all over your face, your dog is an infallible remedy for any bad mood or tough day.

10. And unlike any other human friend, you always know that you can trust your dog to intently listen to you vent—without worrying about feeling judged or guilty afterwards. Your dog is always prepared to absorb all your angst and stress, and then provide you with some serious cuddles afterwards.

11. While your dog is there for you during the bad times, nothing compares to how fun and fulfilling it is to have them there during the good times too. Your dog is always willing to celebrate even the smallest achievements with you.

12. Walking your dog constantly provides you with opportunities to interact with different people and experience new things. Everyone wants to meet your best friend.

13. Sleeping next to your dog is the epitome of a perfect slumber party to you. Your dog keeps the bed a perfect temperature of coziness and warmth, and nothing beats going to sleep feeling all of their faithful love for you.

14. Each dog has a personality of its own, and your dog is definitely one-of-a-kind. Which is why it’s so confusing to call them just your “pet.” Your dog means so much more to you than that.

This Post Was Produced In Partnership With Tito’s Handmade Vodka