The health benefits of owning a dog

Dog lovers will be the first to tell you about all the health benefits of owning a dog, but it’s not just opinion based, the benefits of owning a dog are actually proven by science. From physical health to mental and emotional well-being, dogs have got you covered, so let’s dive into the facts to find out more. 

What are the health benefits of owning a dog? 

Statistically speaking, dog owners lead more active lifestyles than non-dog owners, reducing the risk of life-threatening diseases and helping to boost the immune system. Owning a dog also has a number of mental health benefits, including increased social interaction and a decrease in depression. So aside from being greeted with a wagging tail every time you enter the room, let’s take a look at the benefits of having a dog in more detail. 

Physical health benefits of owning a dog

Increased physical activity and cardiovascular health

Walking the dog come rain or shine is a non-negotiable part of being a pet parent, and it’s one of the many health benefits of owning a dog. According to a UK report studying the relationship between dog ownership and physical activity, puppy parents are four times more likely to meet daily exercise goals than your average non-dog-owning Joe. But it’s not just about a walk in the park, it’s also the training, games of fetch, and chasing after Fido while he’s on the trail of something. These pet parent pastimes are often undertaken in addition to other physical activities, leading to better overall fitness and cardiovascular health. Yes, not only has your furry friend captured your heart, but they’re also having a real-life impact on the health of your heart. Studies have shown that owning a dog can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and can even cause pet parents to live longer, as the saying goes “a cuddle with a dog a day keeps the doctor away”, or something like that. 

Lower blood pressure levels, reduced stress, and boosted immune system

To put it simply, owning a dog is associated with lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels which reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact, petting a dog for just ten minutes (whether it’s your own fur baby or not) has been proven to significantly reduce levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), helping to calm people down. Welcoming a four-legged friend into your home can also give your immune system a boost, introducing your microbiome to a whole new world of bacteria whether you like it or not. A weak immune system can leave you susceptible to picking up illnesses, but it can also cause allergies and asthma to worsen. To prove the point, a Japanese study demonstrated that children exposed to dogs from a young age could be less likely to develop certain food allergies, adding to our list of reasons to get a dog!

Enhanced weight management and reduced risk of obesity

Physical activity not only improves cardiovascular health, but it’s also a crucial way of staying in shape. Although studies attempting to form a link between dog ownership and reduced risk of obesity have been relatively inconclusive, whether dog owners have weight loss goals or want to maintain their physical fitness, having a pooch pal can certainly help cheer them on.

Mental health benefits of owning a dog

Decreased risk of depression, anxiety, and loneliness

Sharing your home with a four-pawed pal is good for your mental health too - it can help decrease the risk of depression, particularly in households that have suffered a loss. In fact, just one look at your furry best friend can be enough to cause a spike in oxytocin levels (the love hormone) for both of you! A furry ball of joy can also act as a non-judgmental sounding board, not only providing companionship for people who are lonely but also helping to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. 

Increased social interaction and improved mood

Whether it’s a quick hello to your neighbor, a chat with your friendly dog sitter, or a meet-up with a group of pet owners, pups are the ideal way to break the ice. Your furry family member can be a great conversation starter, and walking a dog presents extra opportunities for social interaction outside of the home. If you’re looking for love, according to researchers from the University of Jaen in Spain, dating app users have more success if they include pictures of pups on their profiles! Who’d have thought…

Enhanced sense of purpose and emotional support

Whether you’ve got kids that have flown the nest or a furry-shaped hole in your heart, owning a dog can give pet parents a sense of purpose. There’s nothing much more life-affirming than knowing you’re needed (and it’s something to remember as you reach down to pick up your pup’s poop), and making sure your pooch pal’s well looked after is a pet parent’s most important job.

Emotional benefits of owning a dog

Increased emotional bonding and attachment

If you weren’t already sold on the benefits of having dogs, don’t worry, there’s more! Dogs are experts at forming emotional bonds with their pet parents, and a fur baby’s unconditional love is good for the soul. Owning a dog makes pet parents more open and friendly, and it can even help you get a date! 

Enhanced empathy, self-esteem, and emotional regulation

Pooch pals have the amazing ability to teach you all about compassion and empathy, and pet parents in turn will learn how to be more patient and understanding of others. Puppy parents are granted a sense of purpose that can do wonders for their self-esteem and enables them to have a better understanding of the emotions of others. 

Reduced feelings of loneliness and improved stress coping skills

Along with reducing feelings of loneliness, owning a dog can help pet parents rationalize and think more clearly in stressful situations. Pups can help pet parents get a handle on feelings of stress and anxiety and learn to react better in a moment of crisis. 

Ok, after learning about all the health benefits of having a dog, we don’t think we need to go into much detail about why dogs are the best pets. But puppy parenthood isn’t for everyone, and it’s important to think about whether you have space for a furry friend in your life. Some of the health benefits we’ve discussed can be enjoyed by cuddling a dog you love, it doesn’t have to be your own. Another option is to consider dog sitting, where you get to enjoy the companionship of a variety of furry friends while their pet parents are away. Find out more about how to join our community of pet people here.