Dogs are social animals that tend to form strong relationships and group social hierarchies.
Social creatures
Studies of dog-dog bonds shows evidence that dogs display social preference for familiar dogs that suggests friendship.
Bond research
Dogs regularly engage in lively social play which allows them to bond, develop trust and potential best friendships
Play bonding
Dogs cohabiting in kennels often form very tight bonds and exclusive friendships despite having many options.
Kennel friendships
When dog friends who have lived together are separated, dogs often display grieving behaviors indicating the loss of a friend.
Grieve for friends
Research finds stable dog friendships results in dogs helping dog friends, including sharing food or solving problems.
Dog friends help
While dogs form close bonds with other dogs, research confirms dogs prioritize strong bonds with human caregivers.
Sub TitleHumans still important