Dogs are known as human best friends for a reason.
Owning a dog has many benefits and rewards.
From providing unconditional love and increasing physical activity to protecting your home.
This article will list the top 14 best benefits of having a dog and show why they make such great companions.
Whether you’re an experienced dog parent or considering owning a pup for the first time, this video outlines some of the best advantages of having a furry friend in your life.
Dogs Give Us Purpose
Caring for a living creature can help focus energy away from our own troubles or problems.
Having something to care for brings structure and balance to our lives, giving us purpose.
Along with providing humans with a sense of worth and responsibility, dogs even have therapeutic potential.
According to psychological research, being around a dog can release serotonin and dopamine in the brain.
These two hormones are associated with boosting positive emotions.
Even though having a pet requires investment in terms of time spent walking them or taking them to the vet, the rewards are boundless when it comes to what we gain from having a pet like a dog in our lives.
They Learn Us (And Our Children) Responsibility
Having a dog provides our children and us with the perfect opportunity to learn how to take on responsibility.
Dog ownership requires individuals to look after their pup’s wellbeing and ensure they receive regular exercise and proper nutrition.
Doing so teaches valuable lessons in care, loyalty, consistency, and accountability that last far beyond the pet’s life.
In a way, having a dog can provide us with experience caring for another living creature which helps our kids (and even ourselves) learn valuable lessons about being responsible for another.
They Are Good For Our Heart
Studies have shown that those who own a dog or even walk a dog have much better heart health than those who don’t.
The physical activity of taking a dog for a walk helps to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as strengthen muscles and bones.
Not only does this keep you active, but it also lowers your risk of developing heart disease as it improves circulation in your body.
On top of this, having a dog may reduce the amount of stress in our lives – something that is known to be directly linked to heart health risks.
Dogs Make Us More Attractive To Prospective Partners
Studies have shown that people view others with pets more favorably than those without.
Dogs particularly evoke feelings of warmth and playfulness, which can indicate to prospective partners that you are fun-loving, gentle, and reliable.
The presence of your pet also can act to break the ice and provide conversation topics for building relationships.
Dogs are social creatures and enjoy interacting with people.
Thus, any potential mate would see this natural enthusiasm as an invitation to get to know you better.
Dogs Make Us Happier
From coming home to an excited pup to having someone to share the happy moments with, owning a canine can improve your overall mood and make you happier.
Research has found that dogs can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Not only do they give owners more purpose in life, but they also provide us with feelings of companionship and unconditional love.
This can help enhance our wellbeing and benefit our mental health.
One study even found that adults who lived with dogs present were less likely to suffer from clinical depression than those without them.
So if you’re looking for the perfect emotional and physical companion, then a loyal pup may be just what you need!
Dogs Help Us Cope With Crisis
They are known to help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression.
Studies have found that when faced with a difficult situation, interacting with our canine friends can create a calming effect.
During a crisis, dogs may also provide us with the physical contact we need for comfort, often lending much-needed support at a difficult time.
Not only this, but dogs also help bring about life’s small joys throughout difficult times.
From morning cuddles to long walks bonding with your four-legged best friend.
With their incredible ability to help ease our minds and bring joy into hard times, it is clear to see why owning a dog is so beneficial.
They Make Us More Social
Walking a dog in the neighborhood might lead to conversations and enduring connections.
Studies show that having a dog boosts your likability: when meeting someone new, chatting about your pooch or having them “meet” by sniffing each other is a great way to start a conversation and make connections.
The deep link between people and their canine partners makes canines ideal ice-breakers.
Dogs Help Keep Us Safe
Having a loyal dog by your side can help you feel safer and more secure.
Dogs have been bred for generations to function as protectors and guardians of their family and property.
So having one close by can help to deter would-be thieves or aggressors.
Not only do dogs act as an early warning system when triggered by the presence of a strange person or noise, but their barking can also alert other people to the situation.
Some guard dogs are trained to respond fast in defensive situations.
A dog’s loyal presence can therefore be an invaluable asset in helping keep you safe from harm.
Dogs Support Us With Aging
As humans age, people often end up feeling isolated and lonely.
Loneliness can lead to a number of mental health issues and physical illnesses, as well.
But by having a dog, you can combat this issue as dogs provide quality companionship.
Not only are they loving and loyal friends, but studies have even shown that petting or playing with your dog can help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Additionally, keeping a watchful eye while out walking may even reduce the risk of falling due to their intuition in helping those that may need help quickly.
So if social isolation is an age-related concern, consider investing in a furry companion as they truly are man’s best friend!
Help You Stop Stressing Out
They also have calming effects that help reduce anxiety and improve moods.
Petting and engaging with a dog releases oxytocin, which lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels.
Dogs need frequent exercise, such as walking or playing fetch, which is good for physical and mental health.
Dogs bring comfort and emotional support to their owners through difficult times.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, acquiring a dog may be the remedy you’re looking for.
Encourage You To Move
Spending just 30 minutes of playtime with your pup every day can drastically increase your cardiovascular health.
What’s even better is that our furry friends enjoy playing too!
Playing fetch or tug-of-war with your dog is more fun than a treadmill workout.
By having a four-legged friend, you can ensure that part of your daily routine will involve some form of exercise.
Dogs Make Us Feel Less Alone
One often overlooked benefit is that having a dog around helps us feel less alone.
Having a companion animal helps lessen loneliness and isolation, even if you’re just cuddling, playing fetch, or being together.
Dogs need regular exercise, cuddles, and socialization for their mental health, so caring for one gives us drive and a purpose to be social.
Having a trustworthy human or animal friend can develop strong ties and emotional support.
Dogs Help Seniors With Cognitive Function And Social Interaction
Having a dog as your companion can be a great boost for seniors!
Cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and problem-solving are very important in maintaining one’s quality of life.
Research has found that playing with pets can help reduce the decline of these skills in seniors.
Additionally, owning a pet introduces structured activities such as walking or playing fetch into the lives of senior citizens.
Socializing is an essential element to feeling connected and supported by others.
It is leading to better physical and mental health outcomes.
Everyone benefits when seniors have healthy connections!
Dogs Can Help Us Get Dates
Having a furry best friend can be an unexpected help when it comes to finding love.
Not only do dogs make for adorable and snuggly companions, but their mere presence can also help break the ice on a date and make you more attractive to potential mates.
Dog owners have been found to have higher levels of self-esteem and attachment security.
Those are important qualities that many look for in potential partners.
Plus, going out with your pup can double as a fun activity on your first-day outing together.
Dog-friendly parks, cafes, and activities are plentiful!
Having a dog companion doesn’t guarantee you’ll get a date, but it doesn’t hurt to increase your dating credentials.
So consider getting a pup if you really want to step up your game.
Before You Go…
Now you know the benefits of having a dog.
If you want to learn more, read the following articles too!
