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.