How Dogs Contribute to Our Happiness and Health?

While most pet parents are familiar with the obvious benefits of having pets (feeling loved, of course), they wouldn’t link better physical, let alone mental health, to their canine buddies.

However, recent studies have shown that regular interaction with pets can have long-term benefits such as quicker recovery after illness or accidents, reduced stress levels, and increased confidence levels.

Clearly, there are many ways dogs contribute to your happiness.

Ready to learn more? Let’s get started!

Companionship

Dogs are called man’s best friends for a reason. Or, in this case, for many reasons. Known for their loyalty, a dog will never leave your side (especially when it’s mealtime!).

They also provide a sense of security (beyond protection from threats!) Dogs make you feel secure in their love for you. According to some studies, animals may be more reliable to humans than other humans.

Wondering how? It’s simple. Dogs love unconditionally and without judgment. You will never feel lonely and unloved when you have your faithful companion around.

Improve Immunity

It is common knowledge that pet dander is a cause for sniffles in some people. For years, dogs have been blamed for allergies in children and adults alike. However, several studies reveal that having a dog at home could actually benefit our health.

For instance, research suggests that exposure to dogs from a young age could actually boost our immune system.

So if you have children and live with a dog, they may be less likely to develop asthma and allergies.

Add Routine to Your Day

Still wondering how dogs help us in everyday life? They do so by giving us a routine.

Yes, dogs provide structure and stability to our lives.

Dogs have routines that, in turn, become our routines. Some of the benefits of having a routine include less stress, better sleep, and better health overall.

Ease Depression

Depression is a complex problem that does not appear to have a simple solution. That said, you may wonder how can pets make you happy and improve your life, especially if you are depressed.

Dogs are empathetic creatures who can sense when you are upset. Many dog owners have had the experience of being comforted by their dogs when they are crying or upset. Though depression is a lot more complicated than just being sad, your dog could provide you momentary relief by comforting you.

Petting a dog and just being with a dog could provide some solace to a person with depression.

Low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain may cause depression. Some studies suggest that owning a dog may help boost serotonin levels. There is evidence that the act of stroking your dog could actually lower your cortisol levels and boost your serotonin levels.

Depression can be an isolating disease. You may feel alone even when you are with loved ones. But the great thing about dogs is that they make you feel less isolated. A dog’s loving presence and friendly touch of their paw is a reassuring feeling. It is undeniable that dogs can cheer us up with their antics. They can make us laugh and comfort us when we cry.

This ability of dogs to comfort people has made them the most popular therapy animals. This is why it is not uncommon for nursing homes and children’s hospitals to have canine visitors.

Keep You Fit and Active

Whether we welcome it or not, dogs love to be active. Their penchant for activity is sure to rub off on even the most sedentary owners. This is probably why dog owners are usually more active than their canine-free counterparts.

Research also shows that owning a dog may lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels and keep your heart healthy. Exercise scientist Cindy Lentino, in her study, found that people who walked their dogs regularly had one-third the risk of getting diabetes when compared with people who did not have dogs.

So, owning a dog will not only keep you fit and active but may also help you prevent chronic diseases.

ALSO READ: Best Foods To Eat For A Healthy Heart Over 50

Improve Social Life

This list of ways dogs contribute to your happiness would be incomplete without mentioning their influence on our social lives.

Don’t believe us? Think back to the last time you walked down the street with your dog and weren’t hailed or greeted. It’s never happened, has it? And it’s not just people. Even dogs will stop to greet you and your canine friend.

Dogs, like humans, need to socialize. Setting doggy dates will not only help your dog make friends, but they will help you as well. Dog people are a league of their own. Just mentioning you own a dog will break the ice with other dog lovers. Your canine will help you make more friends than you ever would walking alone with headphones on.

Help in Weight Loss

If you are looking to lose weight, look no further than your dog for motivation. These fun-loving animals can make the process of losing weight less tedious. A hike up a hill with your dog or a game of Frisbee on the beach are exciting ways to mix up your exercise routine. Even a daily walk with your dog can help you lose weight.

If you already take your dog for a walk every day, then you’re both on the right track. Walking is one of the easiest and best ways to lose weight. You could go for longer, more frequent walks or pick a challenging terrain if you would like to see faster results.

ALSO READ: Tips to Help You to Lose Weight Effectively

Reduce Anxiety and Stress

Humans often find themselves overwhelmed by the speed at which the modern world moves. This on-the-go lifestyle can cause undue stress and anxiety. Can a dog change your life? They sure can.

Research has shown that even the act of petting a dog can lower cortisol (stress hormone levels). This is probably why it feels good to come home to your dog after a long day at work.

Their ability to calm us makes dogs the perfect therapy animals for people who suffer from anxiety and stress. Quite a few workplaces have started allowing their employees to bring their dogs to work to lower their stress levels.

Be it your physical, mental, or emotional health, your dog is the only therapy you need.

Increase Bone Density

If you’re still wondering why we need dogs in your life, this last reason will lead to no bone of contention. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends that we walk every day, for five days a week, to improve our muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and joints.

As a pet owner, you are duty-bound to take your dog for a walk at least twice a day. This will result in you preventing bone diseases such as osteoporosis and increase your bone density in the long run (or walk).

How Should I Care for My Dog?

It is clear that our dogs go above and beyond for us. How do we, as pet parents, return the favor? You can do the following to make sure that your canine is well taken care of:

Provide Your Dog a Nutritious Diet

Dogs, like humans, require a good diet to thrive. But what constitutes a good diet? While a contentious topic, we recommend you research what options are available, weigh the pros and cons, and don’t forget to get your vet’s opinion before determining what works for you and your dog.

Always Keep Fresh Water Available

Like humans, dogs require a constant water supply to stay hydrated and active. Ensure that a bowl with fresh water is always kept where your dog prefers.

Take Your Dog to the Vet for Regular Checkups

Having your dog checked by a vet at least annually will ensure that you are updated with their health requirements. Following a regular vaccination and deworming schedule will also prevent your dog from getting preventable viruses and infections.

Give Them Plenty of Exercises

Dogs need exercise just as much as we do. So switch off that TV and take your dog for a walk. Play games like fetch and toss a Frisbee outdoors to give them fresh air and a good workout.

Toys Are A Must

Enrich your dog’s environment with toys to keep them from getting bored. Playing with toys also helps dogs alleviate stress. Toys also mentally challenge your pets, keeping them from becoming destructive.

Spend Time with Them

Dogs are pack animals, and they need your companionship just as much as you need theirs. There is nothing a dog would appreciate more than spending time with you. This will do wonders for both you and your dog.

Still wondering, What do dogs bring to your life? From improving your heart’s health to warming your heart, your canine has got you covered. When you take care of a dog, you will realize that your dog takes care of you too.