By Indiana Lee on April 17, 2023
Everyone loves cuddling their canine companion on the couch after a hard day at work. But your dog doesn’t just make you happier: your dog can also make you healthier.
Studies show that dog owners are less likely to develop cardiovascular disease and have a lower risk of premature death. Even after accounting for differences such as smoking status and socioeconomic background, the researchers found that dog owners were healthier than their peers who didn’t own a pet.
But why, exactly, are dogs so good for us? Is it due to regular walking or something else at work?
Physical health
Owning an animal is good for your health. THE benefits of owning a pet include:
- More time spent exercising;
- Access to social opportunities;
- Lower blood pressure;
- Improved stress management.
This list should come as no surprise if you already own a dog. Most dogs need a lot of walking each day, which means you need to get up and start racking up the miles first thing in the morning. You will also meet many other dog lovers on walks and puppy training classes.
The time you spend exercising and training your dog can also lower your blood pressure. Not only does exercise itself help lower blood pressure, but some of the natural mental health benefits of dog ownership also benefit your blood pressure.
Mental Health
When you work with your dog, you can’t worry about the stresses and strains of life: you need to focus on the present moment. This can help you manage your stress more effectively and mentally reset when life feels overwhelming.
Your doctor may even prescribe pet therapy if you are living with a mental health problem like depression or anxiety. A well-trained dog will be able to intercept thought spirals and give you purpose when you’re feeling down. This company can help you turn the corner and see the good sides of life.
Life without a loyal dog by your side can also trigger loneliness or isolation, two factors that can contribute to anxiety or depression.
For many, owning a dog is the perfect solution to social isolation and loneliness. If you work remotely, a canine friend can help you regain your sense of purpose and help you meet new people. Likewise, people with social anxiety can meet other dog owners and bond over a shared love of dogs.
Dogs are also perfect companions in difficult times. Owning a dog has been shown to improve the health and well-being of students, as dogs are the perfect stress relief during a difficult semester. A quick cuddle on the couch can be the perfect way to decompress after class and get your focus back on the homework ahead.
Lifestyle changes
However, owning a dog isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Since you own another living being, this brings additional responsibilities. Owning a dog means your entire daily schedule has to change. You must walk your dog when he needs it and you are responsible for his feeding and grooming. Your pooch will keep you alert 24/7 and will become the focal point of your daily life.
Although it may seem tedious, this added responsibility can initiate your own healthy lifestyle changes. If you want to give your puppy the care he deserves, you need to take care of your own health. Taking preventative health care seriously will ensure that you can care for your dog and improve your long-term health.
Consider signing up for a preventative care visit every time you take your dog for a vet check-up. Just like your dog, you should have yourself examined by experts once or twice a year. This will ensure that you are both healthy and can enjoy long walks and runs together for many years to come.
Overcoming Allergies
Between 10 and 20% of the world’s population is allergic to dog or cat hair. Untreated, allergies can worsen respiratory illnesses and make your daily life much more difficult.
If you live with a condition like asthma, you need to take steps to alleviate allergy symptoms. Try to spend time with the breed you are considering adopting before bringing it into your home and think about how its hair will affect you.
Don’t completely turn your back on dogs if you are allergic. Treatment options exist to help allergy sufferers live happily with a canine companion. Your doctor may prescribe nasal sprays and eye drops to relieve your symptoms. They may also offer leukotriene modifiers that reduce your body’s reaction to allergies.
Conclusion
Dogs can do wonders for your mental and physical health. Owning a dog will require you to become physically active, as most breeds require at least 30 minutes of walking per day. On your walks, you’re bound to meet other dog owners and quickly create a community of dog lovers. Talk to your doctor if you notice any downsides to dog ownership, such as worsening allergies. Your doctor can prescribe treatments and help you manage your symptoms.