Can Dogs Have Best Friends?

Today Riley got dropped off after another great day of daycare, and his trainer told me that he was extra energetic and loved playing with a doodle named Hazel. He tends to go through periods of being super social with other dogs and then wanting to do his own thing and hang with humans. He’s even had a few favorite puppy pals in both DC and Chapel Hill.

While I was excited to hear that Riley had made a new buddy, it made me wonder: Can dogs have best friends? Here’s what I learned.

How Can You Tell If Your Dog Wants to Be Friends with Another
Dog?

It turns out that dogs communicate their preference for another dog in much the same way as humans. Whether at the park, daycare, or on a walk, pups show their interest in a friend through body language. Their ears are often forward, eyes are soft, face has a relaxed expression, and their stance and tail show excitement. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for dogs and their potential best friend to mimic each other’s behavior. They may also seek out friends that have a similar play style.

@minidoodlebentley and @with.love.kaden.and.adalynn

How Can Dogs Benefit from Having a Best Friend?

Dogs are pack animals, and studies show that having a dog best friend can help decrease stress and increase feelings of safety and comfort. And who are we kidding, having a best friend is a lot of fun! Everything from wrestling, playing chase, and snuggling side by side.

@cooperdoodle2015 and @bowserkoopaha 

Signs that Your Dog Has a BFF or Preferred Playmate

If you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered: Can dogs have best friends? Here are several signs that your pup has definitely found a bestie in another dog. To start, dog best friends often stay in close proximity to one another and may be uninterested in other dogs. Pups that are BFFs are also more willing to share their toys, bed, water bowl, treats, and food.

With that being said, it’s also possible for a pup to choose a non-dog best friend, such as a cat,
rabbit, or guinea pig. Some pups even pick a human as their bestie. Aww!

 @whatslincolnthinkin and coco

Who’s Your Dog’s Best Friend?