People find relationship with their dog more satisfying than with best friend, study shows

Research into 717 people exposes the many roles canines play in their lives, from fur babies' to steadfast companion

Dogs are not simply fur babies" or best friend but a blend of both, researchers have found in a study they say highlights the special status of pets.

The study suggests owners rate their relationship with their dogs as being as satisfying or more satisfying than their closest human relationships. However, the researchers did not find the owner-dog bond was stronger in people with weaker human relationships.