Why is the dog man’s best friend?
An expression steeped in history
Loyal, faithful, affectionate and always ready to be by our side. There are many reasons why we call the dog ‘man’s best friend’. But have you ever wondered where this expression actually comes from and why dogs have come to occupy such a special place in our lives?
An expression with a history
The expression ‘man’s best friend’ did not come about by chance. It has its origins in a story that took place in the United States in the 19th century.
In 1869, a farmer named Charles Burden lost his dog, Old Drum, after it was shot dead. The case went to court and, during the trial held in 1870, the lawyer George Graham Vest defended the immense value that animal held for its owner, beyond any monetary value.
His famous closing speech put into words something that many people already felt: the loyalty, affection and companionship that a dog can offer throughout a lifetime.
The case went on to become a historic landmark, and Old Drum even had a statue erected in his honour.
But, more than 150 years later, the question remains an interesting one: what is it that has led dogs to occupy such a special place in our lives?
Much more than just a pet
The relationship between dogs and people goes far beyond simply sharing a home. Over time, dogs have become lifelong companions capable of forming very close bonds with their families.
They learn our routines, recognise our voices and gestures and, in their own way, respond to our emotions. They know when it’s time for a walk, when it’s time to play and, on many occasions, they even seem to sense when we need a bit of company.
This daily coexistence means that the dog eventually becomes part of the family and that its wellbeing also becomes one of our concerns.
A bond based on trust
For a healthy relationship between a person and their dog, trust is essential. The dog needs to feel safe, be familiar with its surroundings and have routines that help it understand the world around it. Going for walks together, playing, spending time together and respecting its needs are some of the simplest ways to strengthen that bond.
And there’s something important to bear in mind: loving our dog also means understanding that they have needs of their own. Not all dogs need the same things. Their age, size, temperament and state of health all influence their diet, exercise, rest and care.
Looking after them is also a way of showing them love
When we talk about our dog as our best friend, we shouldn’t focus solely on the emotional side of things. Responsibility is part of that relationship.
A proper diet, daily exercise, hygiene, training, parasite prevention and veterinary check-ups are essential to help them enjoy a good quality of life.
Furthermore, regular visits to the vet enable us to detect certain problems before any obvious symptoms appear and to support our pet through the different stages of its life: from puppyhood to old age.
After all, our dog cannot tell us that something is hurting or that it isn’t feeling well. Observing changes in its behaviour and keeping up with its routine care is one of the best ways to be there for it.
📌 If we share our lives with a dog, looking after it and ensuring its health is the best way to repay all the love it gives us. Because a friendship like this deserves to be cherished.