I have always had animal companions from being a child. For a number of (early) years as there weren't so many children my age around, my pet poodle was my best friend. For many people their dogs or cats mean so much to them - granted some do go cringingly over the top in how they look after them. Having said that - companion dogs never judge, never compete, they are generally affectionate and loyal - easy to see why many would choose a dog over a person I guess.