How Dogs Make People Healthy And Happy

Owning a dog comes with a lot of responsibility, but did you know that it can also increase your quality of life? Studies show that pet owners can reap some unique benefits, a major one being that canines can make you a happier and healthier person. It’s no surprise since our dogs are often our best pals: Their soft fur, comforting presence, and silly quirks can keep you smiling and laughing all day. Keep reading to learn how dogs can make you healthy and content.   

Canines Provide Company and Comfort

No matter what mood you’re in or what time you come home, your pet is always there for you. A dog can be your cuddle companion after a bad day, a playmate for fun games such as frisbee, or a binge buddy for a movie marathon. It provides unconditional love, allowing pet owners to freely be themselves. When a canine greets you at the door or snuggles with you on the couch, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face. Moreover, your four-legged friend makes you feel needed, and its companionship can ease loneliness.

Furry Friends Keep You Active

Active pets can have a lot of energy. A good way to burn that energy is by exercising your pet, which usually involves staying active alongside it. Examples include going outside in the fresh air and sunshine to toss a ball in the park or going on daily walks. Dog ownership means saying goodbye to the couch potato life!

Dogs Are a Constant Source of Entertainment

Canines are inquisitive creatures by nature. There are always so many exciting smells, sights, and sounds for them to explore. This means you’ll never get bored watching them and their funny antics. They’ll likely give you a good laugh time and again. It’s a good idea to keep a camera on hand because you’ll never know what they’ll do next. 

Pooches Connect You to a Community 

Pets help you socialize and often make great conversation starters, especially with like-minded animal lovers. You can meet people by simply walking your dog in your neighborhood. Additionally, you can connect with online communities where owners share their pictures and stories of pets.  

Interacting With a Dog Can Help Relieve Stress

We all can experience a bit of stress. Fortunately, owning a dog can help you cope with any stress you may endure. They’re there for you through the good times and the bad. Plus, they’re great listeners and won’t judge you. Overall, owning a dog can keep you in a healthier mental state, as it can keep you calm, stress-free, and relaxed.

Moreover, human-animal interactions boost oxytocin and dopamine levels in the brain, which are known to trigger happiness and pleasure. Petting your canine can even help lower one’s blood pressure. 

Dogs Add Structure to Your Day

Canines are creatures of habit and enjoy routine. Following a proper routine can ensure that your pet lives a healthy, stable life. However, it can also help to give your life more structure, as well as help you build better habits.

Caring for a Canine May Help Make You a Better Person

Being a pet owner requires a sense of accountability and responsibility. Your furry friend is a living creature that needs food, shelter, baths, safety, and love. This can teach pet owners vital skills such as empathy, patience, and understanding, which could transfer into their human relationships. In these ways, you become a better person.

Pet ownership can be a fulfilling experience, one that can instantly bring you a sense of joy and calm. At the end of the day, nothing beats coming home to your loyal and loving companion. 

Author bio: Alec Hutchins is Chief Marketing Officer of Recherche Kennels – Bernes, a professional breeding and training facility. Recherche Kennels has over 10 years of experience breeding with top parent bloodlines and training puppies to be the perfect family pet.