The only friend you need right now

Stuck in self-isolation with only your dog for company? Consider yourself one of the lucky humans. In these trying times, every dog is a therapy dog. So have a snuggle, teach Bella a new trick or watch a doggy flick (we recommend Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs, Iditarod-inspired Snow Dogs, or Disney’s classic Lady and the Tramp). Read on for more ways our pets make our lives better.

Tree Hugger. Fluffers love nature, and we could all use a little more communing with Mother Earth and less time scrolling social media. Nothing makes our pets happier than their daily walk, even better if it’s in a forest, along a beach or through a marsh. Make your dog happy, make yourself happy.

Shotgun! To the corner store, to the park or on an epic road trip, Dub’s your guy. Head out the window, nostrils flared, wind in his ears, your dog is your road companion. No arguments about which route to take or what tunes to crank, “life is a journey, not a destination.”

Easy peasy. Dogs aren’t complicated. They don’t care how much money you make or whether or not you can afford to buy them a designer collar. Keep it basic, keep it fun and you’ll have one happy pooch. Give Luna a kiddie pool on a hot summer’s day and watch her happiness bubble over.

B.F.F. If you love it, they’ll love it, too. Woofers share your passion. If you’re a beach glass collector, they’ll spend hours helping you look. If you’re an amateur canine-cross competitor, they’ll run their butts off. If you’re a puzzle enthusiast, they’ll sit quietly by your side. Just remember to match your breed to your lifestyle.

All-weather friend. No one’s got time for fair-weather friends, frenemies or haters. That’s why Buddy is man’s best friend. Dogs were domesticated 32,000 years ago. That’s an ancient connection that has endured the test of time. Even though humans may sometimes get you down, you can always count on your faithful hound to stand by your side. Good boy!

Nap time! Turns out, catching 40 winks with Doris and Boris is actually a good thing. According to a Mayo Clinic study, snuggling up with your pups won’t get in the way of a good night’s sleep. In fact, the comforting presence of your pet can actually be very relaxing and conducive to sleep. So as long as they don’t hog all the covers, go ahead and dream a little doggy dream.

Partners in crime. You know those times when you hatch a great idea but nobody gets onboard? No loss! Rex thinks all your ideas are brilliant. Whether it’s driving to the next state to get the latest craft beer or making rainbow play dough from scratch, our doggos are our greatest cheerleaders. 

Hugs, kisses and a whole lot of love. Whether you’ve been out all day or just left the room, your dog is always thrilled to see you again. Living with a floof means a life overflowing. Nothing compares to the non-judgmental adulation our four-legged friends shower upon us. It’s a luxury to be understood and Pickles gets you. Wagging tails, wet face licks and the warm comfort of their presence.

Helping paws. More than man’s best friend, some truly remarkable canines excel in the service of their owners. Assistance dogs elevate the quality of life of people living with physical disabilities, autism, mental health issues like PTSD, and chronic illness such as diabetes and seizures. Some are rescues, others are bred for their desired qualities, but all are champions.