Your next dog could be a robot as scientists work to strengthen bond between humans and machine pets
DOGS are commonly referred to as man's best friend but some scientists think robots could work as alternative companions.
Researchers from the University of Glasgow in Scotland are trying to work out how humans could bond with robots better and dogs may provide some of the answers.
According to Science Daily via Yahoo, the "researchers are exploring the possibility of developing dog-inspired robots that can form similar bonds with humans.”
The scientists investigated relationships between 153 dogs and their owners.
They found seven factors that helped to form a bond between them and their fluffy friends.
These were: shared activities, staying close, good communication, physical touch, consistency, positivity, consistency and having a routine.
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The researchers said: "Using a qualitative approach enabled us to gain a deep and nuanced understanding of the things people find so endearing about our canine companions.
"While it won't be easy to model most of these behaviors on robots, this work offers new and exciting insights for those working to develop pet-like technologies."
The team plans to use this information to build robots that can bond with humans.
They think robot dogs could be useful to remedy problems like loneliness and isolation that many humans face.
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They're not the only ones hoping to make robot companions.
Elon Musk previously revealed big plans for his humanoid robots and that could even include unique personalities and companionship for humans.
Musk previously told the Lex Fridman podcast that his Tesla Bots could one day be companions as well as workers.
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He said: "It could develop a personality over time that is unique. It’s not like all the robots are the same.
"That personality could evolve to match the owner, or whatever you want to call it."