THE dog has often been called man's best friend. And two thirds of owners would rather have a heart to heart with their dog than their best friend.

A Churchill Pet Insurance spokesperson said: “We had no idea that so many people would rather confide in their dog.”

I’m not. The only surprise with this figure is that it’s only two thirds. I thought it would be more.

The dogs in my life – Sam, Jane and Lucky – were always better friends than any best friend. They were loyal and true, great listeners and never told secrets.

I have had many a long chat with them and only ever had a sympathetic response. A dog’s eyes are more soulful than Barry White. And, once unburdened, I have usually received a lick on the nose, a wag of the tail and an enquiring look, asking if I fancy a walk.

Common sense, you see?

Forget your troubles. Let’s get out in the fresh air and a walk to the pub.

What more could you need from a faithful companion than that? Unless it was a dog that will pick you up from the pub and drive you home.

It sounds daft, but they have been training dogs in New Zealand how to drive cars. They teach them how to steer, change gear and brake, which is already more than my wife Maria can do and she’s had a driving licence since 1967. Mind you, she hasn’t driven since 1968 when she was badly frightened by a Volvo.

But just think of the benefits if your pooch could drive.

A chap, in desperation, may phone the wife to pick him up, always knowing the consequences, loss of brownie points and the cold and frosty journey home that would result.

But what if your dog could drive?

You would be picked up by a furry chum with knowing eyes and sympathetic nature who would transport you without rancour or complaint. And so what if you were in the dog house when you got home? There are worse places to sleep than with man’s best friend.