Do you feel better when you’re around your dog? Research shows that your furry friend is great for your mental and physical health. Here are 10 proven ways dogs can help you live a healthier and more productive life!
Dogs offer unconditional love and acceptance and are always there for you. The companionship and bond with them significantly improve mental well-being, plus you get extra exercise during playtime. While cleaning up after your pet can sometimes be annoying, the benefits of having a pet are numerous.
Grooming or petting your dog can be soothing for both of you. Focusing on their soft fur, warmth, and calmness can release oxytocin, the hormone that reduces anxiety and stress. This contributes to lowering your blood pressure and cortisol levels.
Kids who grow up with dogs are less likely to develop common allergies to things like grass, pet dander, and dust, and they have a lower risk of asthma. Allergies can cause apathy, lethargy, and insomnia, making one more susceptible to mental health issues such as depression.
Playing and walking your dog provides a natural energy boost, strengthens muscles, and improves physical fitness. Research indicates that pet owners generally have lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides due to a more active lifestyle. With a dog, you’re less likely to experience major cardiac issues and more likely to have better blood circulation and a stronger body.
Taking care of a dog keeps you active and alert. Engaging with your dog helps take your mind off worries and allows you to live in the moment. You can even capture their cute antics on video or photos to share with friends.
Dogs are great companions if you don’t like being lonely. They are intuitive and seek you out when you’re feeling down. Pets are a long-term commitment and can provide much care and love through good and bad times.
Having a dog can make you more social and approachable. Taking them to pet stores, events, or dog parks is good for you and your pet. When your dog does something cute, like putting a paw on your arm, it can make you smile and trigger neurotransmitters that boost dopamine and serotonin levels, which are linked to happiness and calmness.
Fresh air and sunlight while walking your dog can elevate your mood and provide vitamin D, which fights mental conditions, cancer, depression, heart attacks, and obesity. Engaging with nature by feeling the wind, listening to rustling trees, and soaking up the sunshine can be very calming.
Children who grow up with pets tend to have fewer allergies and eczema and take fewer sick days as they grow. When you’re feeling alone due to anger, stress, or frustration, your dog is there to listen. You can talk to them about your day, dreams, or even practice a speech. A dog can be a perfect listener for venting without any repercussions.
If you don’t have a pet, consider volunteering at a shelter. Many dogs can benefit from your love, and you’ll feel the benefits too!
