This is why we love pets, according to science

By: Djenane Beaulieu, Buzz60

The idiom "man's best friend" is as old as time, but is there science behind the compatibility between man and dog?

What creates that magic puppy spell that leads us to spend exorbitant amounts of time and money caring for our furry friends?

Related: Adorable pups

Ancient history shows that dogs and wolves were very useful when it came to hunting for food.

Over the centuries our pets have become more than just our hunting companions. They've become part of the family. There are many theories surrounding why this may be.

For example, the belief that having pets improves our mental and physical health.

However, a 2009 study showed that more people who own pets suffer mentally than non-pet owners. A 2015 survey of more than 60 countries followed and showed that dogs were considered companions in less than half the countries.

Scientists conclude that a possible explanation for how we feel about pets could have a lot to do with other humans. It's human nature to seek companionship and relationships. Clearly, this extends to our pets.

Not to mention the societal aspects that program us to seek a pet relationship, from social media to movies like Marley and Me.

According to research, there's many reasons we're so drawn to our pets, but one of the most obvious is, of course, the cuteness factor!