Having a dog is often thought of as a great way to enhance family life, providing companionship and unconditional love. But it’s not just the emotional benefit that many people consider when deciding to adopt a pet, as having a dog in the family can also contribute to physical health and wellbeing. In this blog post, we explore the evidence-based benefits associated with the canine-human bond and if keeping a four-legged friend is really as good for us as everyone claims.
For centuries, dogs have been man’s best friend and it is clear to see why. Not only do they provide us with loyal companionship and unconditional love, but there is also mounting evidence that suggests that having a dog can have real health benefits. From physical activity to improved mental health, in this blog post, we explore the science-backed advantages associated with owning a dog.
They Teach SelflessnessWith a pooch in the house, kids learn to accept the fact that the world doesn’t revolve around them. Dogs need care and attention, and they foster a sense of selflessness and responsibility for another creature.
A 2015 study from the Centers for Disease Control compared kids living with dogs to those in non-pet homes. The researchers found that children with pet dogs at home had significantly lower levels of anxiety than kids without a furry friend.
Dogs can help reduce risk of heart attack and heart disease
The American Heart Association concluded a study in 2013 that explored the relationship between cardiovascular disease and those who owned a furry friend. A group of 182,000 heart attack survivors were interviewed—only 6% of them owned a dog. The study also explored if living alone with a dog made any difference compared to living alone without a pet. It turns out that individuals have a 33% better chance at surviving a cardiac event at home after hospitalization if they own a dog.
Longer LifeA nationwide cohort study in Sweden revealed that dog owners, particularly if they live alone, were less likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease or premature death than those without a furry friend.
This has a direct connection to how dogs make us happy. Our oxytocin levels are raised when we interact with dogs, which makes us feel emotionally well. A dog can also boost spirits and give older people a feeling of worth.
Just consider the joy these well-known dogs brought into your life. You got all the benefits, without owning one of them.
FAQ
Is it worth having a dog?
You may find great joy in having a dog friend share your home. There is no denying that dogs can offer unwavering acceptance and loyalty, constantly offer company, and even aid in stress relief after a long or busy day.
Why is it important to have a dog?
Dogs are wonderful companions and sources of comfort for people who live alone because they give us a sense of emotional wellbeing through their unconditional love. Having a dog can aid people in their recovery from traumatic experiences, such as losing a loved one.
Does having a dog make you healthier?
Reduced blood pressure, cholesterol, triglyceride levels, loneliness, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms, according to studies, are just a few of the health advantages of having a pet.
What are 3 benefits of having a dog?
- Dogs make us feel less alone. …
- Dogs are good for your heart. …
- Dogs help you stop stressing out. …
- Dogs help us cope with crisis. …
- Dogs encourage you to move. …
- Dogs make you more attractive—even virtually. …
- Dogs make us more social. …
- Dogs are so adorable they make us love them.