Do you always feel better when you’re around your dog? Research shows that your furry friend is beneficial for both your mental and physical health. Here are 10 proven ways dogs can make you healthier and help you live a more productive life:
Dogs provide unconditional love and acceptance and are always there for you. The companionship and bond you share with your dog can greatly improve your mental well-being, not to mention the extra exercise you get during playtime. Even though cleaning up after your dog can be a hassle, having a pet offers numerous benefits.
Discover the surprising ways your dog can enhance your health.
Grooming or petting your dog can be soothing for both of you. Pay attention to the texture of their fur, the warmth they give off, their deep breaths, and their calm nature. When you connect with your dog, oxytocin, the hormone related to anxiety and stress, is released. This helps lower your blood pressure and cortisol levels.
Kids who grow up with dogs at home are less likely to develop common allergies such as those to grass, ragweed, pets, and dust. They are also at a lower risk of asthma. Allergies can make someone apathetic, lethargic, and prone to insomnia, which can lead to mental health issues like depression.
Walking or playing with your dog, like tossing a Frisbee, gives you a natural energy boost and helps you release stress. It also strengthens your muscles and improves your physical fitness. Research shows that pet owners have lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides, thanks to an active lifestyle.
Having a dog reduces the chances of experiencing major cardiac issues. You’ll have better blood circulation, a stronger body, and be less vulnerable to mental health problems. Plus, taking care of your dog, such as letting them in and out of the house and feeding them, keeps you active and alert.
Being present with your dog can take your mind off troubling thoughts and help you live in the moment. Shooting a video or photo of your dog’s cute antics can also be a fun way to engage with your pet and share with friends.
If you don’t like being lonely, dogs make excellent companions. They are very intuitive and will seek you out when you feel down. However, don’t use dogs to fill a temporary void and then push them aside. Pets are a long-term commitment, and though it’s not always easy, they offer much care and love through both good and bad times.
Have you ever thought of using your dog as a wingman? Studies show that having a dog makes you more social and approachable. Activities like going to pet stores, special events, or dog parks are great for both you and your furry friend.
When your dog does something cute, like putting a paw on your arm or rolling on their back, it can make you smile. These funny, cute moments trigger neurotransmitters that raise your dopamine and serotonin levels, which are associated with happiness and calmness.
Fresh air improves your mood, and sunlight provides vitamin D, which helps fight mental conditions, cancer, depression, heart attacks, and obesity. When you go out with your dog, engage positively with nature by feeling the wind, listening to rustling leaves, and absorbing the sun. These natural experiences can be incredibly calming.
Children who grow up with pets at home have a lower risk of allergies and eczema. Kids with a dog also take fewer sick days as they grow up. Have you ever found yourself alone due to anger, stress, or frustration? Your dog is always there to listen. You can share your day, dreams, hopes, practice a speech, lament a breakup, or even share hidden truths. A dog can be the perfect “person” to vent to without any judgment.
Go have fun with your furry friend! You’ll both enjoy the time together. If you don’t have a pet, consider volunteering at a shelter. Many dogs would benefit from your love, and you’ll feel the positive effects too!