It’s not your imagination… Your dog really does want to comfort you when you’re down. In fact, scientists say that the instinct to comfort and nuzzle when you’re sick or sad may be hardwired into their doggie DNA.

The tendency to nurture may actually have come from your dog’s wolf ancestors – who were highly social and cooperative. And the instinct may have evolved even further over time as dogs became more domesticated… In order to help them live in harmony with their human companions. Just one more reason your dog really is your best friend.