We all enjoy waking up to a wet nose and warm nuzzle… and of course cuddling on the couch with a furry body under a soft blanket. But… could there be more benefits to pet parenting than meet the eye? Science has something to say on that topic!
Physical Health
Most dog owners probably agree that their dog has a huge affect on their heart. And it turns out this impact is more than a metaphorical. In fact, owning a dog has been found to lower a person’s blood pressure and lower resting heart rate (as compared to non-pet owners). Even when faced with a stressful event, pet owners’ heart rates and blood pressure both increased less and recovered quicker than non-pet owners’.
Dog’s aren’t just good for your heart, they’re actually good for your whole body. Dog owners are significantly more likely to report walking for recreation and are 4x more likely to meet physical activity guidelines. In fact, a meta-analysis of 3 million participants found that long-term dog ownership is associated with a 24% risk reduction for death compared with non-ownership.
Mental Health
The saying goes “a dog is a (wo)man’s best friend”. Well, there may be some scientific backing to the old saying.
Dogs also serve as a source of social support. They also provide positive psychological benefits for owners (including greater self-esteem and greater conscientiousness). New dog owners have reported a decrease in loneliness within the first 3 months of getting their dog. That said, these emotional benefits aren’t just for new dog owners. Multiple studies found that interacting with dogs raises oxytocin levels (a hormone which plays a role in social bonding). In addition, a dog helps you connect with new friends. Dogs act as the ice breaker (that you never knew you needed) to meet new people.
The mental health benefits of dog ownership go beyond your home. In fact, bringing a dog to work lowers perceived stress levels too. Compared to non-pet owners, people with pets at home, and those same owners on days that they left their dogs home.
Children’s Health
If you grew up with a dog, you probably have fond memories of snuggling up with your pup. Or maybe playing fetch with Fido in the yard, or finally being old enough to hold the leash on walks. Turns out that your childhood dog probably helped your health too.
A study of over one million children found that homes with a dog during the first year of life reduced the risk of asthma in kids. Even exposure to pets during pregnancy correlates with an increase in good gut bacteria associated with a reduction in risk of childhood obesity & allergic disease.
Often, kids’ mental health benefits from living with dogs. Kids who reported strong attachment to their pets were found to have reduced aggression. As well as a better well-being, quality of life and more positive attitude towards animals.
The Bottom Line
According to the research, dogs benefit your heart, body, mind, and kids. In essence, science confirmed what people have known for generations: dogs truly are our best friends. 😍🐶🥰
Get to Know the Author
Patricia is the owner of The Case for Training, provides training and behavior support for pet owners in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area. She is the proud parent to two little boys, two rescue cats and a sweetest rescue mutt.
