The Incredible Ways Dogs Promote Our Health and Happiness

Dogs are extraordinary animals that offer more than just unconditional love and companionship. They have the remarkable ability to positively influence our health and happiness. Extensive research has demonstrated the wide array of physical, emotional, and mental advantages that dogs can provide to their owners. Join us as we will explore the extraordinary ways in which dogs contribute to enhancing our overall well-being.

What are the incredible ways dogs add value to our health and happiness?

Companionship:

Dogs are known to be loyal and affectionate companions. Having a furry friend by our side can help combat loneliness and feelings of isolation, especially for those living alone.

Stress and Anxiety:

Studies have shown that petting a dog helps reduce stress by releasing feel-good hormones, such as serotonin and oxytocin, which lower blood pressure and heart rate. Owning a dog also helps reduce anxiety and boost our mood.

Physical Activity:

Dog owners are more likely to engage in physical activity, as dogs require daily walks and exercise. This increase in physical activity leads to better cardiovascular health, lower levels of obesity, and a decrease in chronic diseases.

Sense of Purpose:

Dogs provide us with a daily motivation and contribute to the organization and purpose in our lives. Their reliance on us for care and affection necessitates that we dedicate time to nourish, groom, exercise, and shower them with affection.

Positive Influence on Children:

Children who learn to care for their family dog often establish a sense of responsibility and commitment to another living thing. This process helps them develop the essential traits and life skills required to grow into fully functioning and healthy adults.

Social Life:

Dogs play a crucial role as social facilitators, helping their owners connect with new individuals. They serve as fantastic icebreakers, fostering conversations and interactions. These social engagements not only expand our social network but also contribute to our overall positive mental health.

Security and Protection:

Dogs instinctively want to protect their homes and loved ones. They serve to alert us to unusual occurrences in and around the home and against impending intruders. Highly trained watchdogs can serve as an ideal “home security system” against imminent danger.

Assistance in Therapy: 

Dogs have become increasingly popular in therapy. They help patients feel more relaxed and at ease, and their presence can make therapy sessions more effective. Dogs have been particularly helpful for patients with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Unconditional Love and Affection:

Lastly, owning a dog provides us with unconditional love and affection that can’t be replicated. They offer a listening ear, a warm embrace, and a wagging tail that brightens even our darkest days.

According to the American Kennel Club, the best dog owners…

• Believe caring for a dog for 15 years does not seem like a lifetime.
• Look forward to big, wet kisses when they come home each day.
• Like sharing their house with someone who sheds, tracks dirt, and possibly drools.
• Want to take care of someone every day.
• Love a playmate who likes to chase balls and drag off shoes.
• Don’t mind a playmate who likes to slobber on balls and toys.
• Would like to spend their extra money on pet food, toys, veterinary care, chew bones and more chew bones.
• Can’t imagine leaving their devoted pet behind when they move.
• Want to keep an ID tag on their pets, so they can always get back to them no matter what.
• Enjoy unconditional love and constant companionship.

*Source: American Kennel Club

Is owning a dog the right choice for you?

Not everyone is suitable for dog ownership. There may be various reasons why it may not be the right time for you or why a dog might not be the ideal pet for you. However, if you decide to get a dog, it is important to make a wise choice, love them wholeheartedly, and provide them with proper training. By doing so, your dog will bring immense happiness, love, security, and well-being into your life.