We often refer to dogs as "man's best friend," and for good reason. Their loyalty, affection, and joyful nature make them some of the most beloved companions on the planet. But what if humans adopted more of the qualities that make dogs so special? Imagine a society where we all lived with the heart of a dog—extending love as instinctively as a wagging tail, protecting each other without hesitation, and finding joy in the little things.
Here are 25 dog-like attributes that could make humans better—and transform society as a whole for the better.
1. Unconditional Love
Imagine a world where people loved without conditions, judgment, or score keeping. This kind of love would create more compassionate families, friendships, and communities.
2. Loyalty
Being loyal builds trust and strengthens bonds. In both personal and professional spaces, loyalty leads to long-lasting, meaningful relationships.
3. Humility
Humility helps us admit mistakes, grow without ego, and listen with openness. A humble society is one that learns and improves together.
4. Forgiveness
Dogs forgive quickly. If humans let go of grudges as easily, we’d reduce conflict and increase emotional healing and peace.
5. Joy in Simple Things
Dogs find joy in a walk, a belly rub, or a sunny spot. If we valued life's simple pleasures, we’d be less stressed and more content.
That kind of joy is something we can tap into through everyday creative experiences, too. Take painting a portrait of a beloved pet, for instance. It’s not about perfection—it’s about being present, feeling the love, and enjoying the process. In a step-by-step painting video I created called Grids and Whiskers, I’ve seen people light up while recreating their pets—not for the art, but for the connection. It’s a playful, calming way to celebrate that simple, unconditional bond.
6. Living in the Moment
Dogs don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. Embracing the present could help us be more mindful, focused, and at peace.
7. Protectiveness Without Aggression
Caring fiercely without harming others would create safer, more nurturing communities.
8. Resilience
Dogs bounce back from setbacks quickly. Human resilience would reduce anxiety and depression, and inspire strength in others.
9. Nonjudgmental Attitude
Dogs don’t care how you look, dress, or vote. A more accepting human world would decrease discrimination and increase belonging.
10. Faithfulness
Being truly faithful—to people, causes, and commitments—would create deeper, more stable relationships and institutions.
11. Open Affection
Freely showing affection builds warmth, safety, and emotional intelligence in every kind of relationship.
12. Curiosity Without Judgment
Curiosity helps us learn and connect. When it’s not clouded by bias, it leads to discovery, empathy, and understanding.
13. Playfulness
Dogs play daily, regardless of age. Adults who embrace play reconnect with creativity, reduce stress, and foster joy.
14. Eagerness to Please (in Balance)
A healthy desire to contribute and help others would improve teamwork, relationships, and service without compromising self-worth.
15. Gratitude
A tail wag for every treat—dogs show thanks for even the smallest things. Gratitude in humans builds connection and contentment.
16. Empathy
Dogs sense our emotions deeply. If humans tuned in to each other’s emotional needs, we’d have more comfort, less loneliness.
17. Faith in Others
Dogs trust their people. More faith in humanity would reduce suspicion and allow for more positive, open interactions.
18. Simplicity
Dogs don’t need much to be happy. Simpler human lives would reduce consumerism, stress, and encourage more meaningful living.
19. Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Healthy structure in human life supports mental health, focus, and a sense of control.
20. Acceptance of Flaws
Dogs love us as we are. More human acceptance would create a safer space for vulnerability and authentic connection.
21. Lack of Prejudice
Dogs love across race, class, age, and ability. If we did the same, we could break down centuries of bias and division.
22. Quick to Comfort
Dogs often know when we’re down. If more people responded quickly to pain with empathy, fewer would suffer alone.
23. Alertness to Surroundings
Dogs notice what’s going on. Humans being more present and aware would increase safety, responsiveness, and connection.
24. Welcoming Spirit
Dogs greet us with enthusiasm, every single time. That kind of warmth could transform cold spaces into ones of kindness and care.
25. Devotion Without Expectation
Dogs don’t love to get something—they just love. Humans giving without expecting would create more genuine, lasting relationships.
*** If we embodied just a fraction of these dog-like qualities, society would be more connected, compassionate, and joyful. Our relationships would deepen, our communities would heal, and our everyday lives would be filled with more purpose and peace. Dogs don’t just make great pets—they might be the role models we never knew we needed.
AND MAYBE, JUST MAYBE - With Small Acts and Big Hearts We Can Create a More Dog-Like World!
With love and a wagging tail,
Holly Seon-Wilson