It is not a secret that owning a pet can have many benefits for our mental health and physical well-being. Animals can help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression, lower your blood pressure and improve your immune system.

Pets have a significant role in a child’s development. Having a pet can teach kids essential skills such as responsibility, emotional control, and empathy. Pets can improve a child’s self-esteem, boost stress management, and teach kids how to express emotions.

However, some animals are naturally friendliest than others. Here are some of the most affectionate animals to have as pets.

1. Dogs: Dogs are known as “man’s best friend” because of their loyalty, affection, and soothing effects their presence has on humans. Like people, dogs have strong needs for socialization and love, so they want to bond and accept.Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Border Collie, and Irish Seter are considered the friendliest dog breeds.
2. Cats: Although some people consider cats cold and reserved, this is actually far from the truth. Cats are actually quite friendly, but they show affection much differently than dogs. They will show affection by snuggling or rubbing up against you, purring, sitting on your lap, or following you around.
3. Rabbits: Rabbits are fun and friendly pets that can be as loyal as dogs or cats. However, these bouncy pets are specific about how they like to be handled. For instance, they prefer to be cuddled while on your lap or on the ground instead of being picked up.
4. Horses: While you obviously cannot keep a horse in the house, they make great pets if you have the resources to keep them as pets. Horses are very affectionate animals who enjoy humans’ company, making great emotional support animals to their owners. Horses are known for their ability to sense humans’ emotions, so they can help you relax, cope with stress, and ease anxiety and depression.