The dog has long been known as man/woman’s best friend. Little did we know that having this furry friend could lead to so many positive things, including how they impact your happiness. From the moment you bring them home, the bond begins. Soon, you wonder how you lived without them.
There are numerous positive health impacts that are associated with owning a dog, so let’s discuss how man/woman’s best friend can improve your overall health, while also offering entertainment and companionship.
There have been studies that have linked owning a dog to having a stronger heart by lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, and reducing the risk of heart attack. People that own a dog are more likely to be more active than non-canine owners. Owners of dogs often walk them frequently and take them to the park, which leads to a more active lifestyle overall.
One of the best known benefits is increased exercise. Whether it is walking the dog, going down the stairs to let them out, or even throwing a ball, dogs keep you active and moving. In addition to getting your pup a little exercise during a walk or jog, there is a likelihood that this could also aid in one’s own weight loss.
Research has shown that dog owners tend to be more social because they talk to other dog owners and swap stories about their best friend. Owning a dog has also been linked to lower stress levels due to lowering anxiety and raising dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which are human’s happy hormones. Therefore, dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than their counterparts that do not own a dog.
Also, dogs can keep you from getting sick as often. The bacteria on a dog’s coat builds up a tolerance and helps strengthen the immune system.
Children that grew up with a dog in the house are less likely to develop allergies over the course of their lifetime. Dogs also help influence our mood, which puts dog owners in a more tranquil state. That’s why dogs are used in schools for their calming effect on children. It only takes 15 minutes a day for humans to feel this effect! As a result, dogs are also used for treatment of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.
If you are not already a dog owner, I hope you’re wondering, “Should I get a dog?” Dogs bring a sense of purpose to one’s life. There are so many dogs that need good homes. Whether you choose to get a puppy from a breeder or decide to rescue a dog from a shelter or dedicated rescue home, you are doing your overall health a favor and gaining a best friend for many years to come.
As always, if you have any questions about exercise or health in general, just give us a call. We would be happy to help you!
