What Are the Benefits of Getting a Dog?

What Are the Benefits of Getting a Dog?

Nearly 40 percent of US households own a dog. It’s no wonder why; people who love dogs will regale you with the myriad benefits their furry friend has brought into their life. Whether health, happiness, or peace of mind, having a mutt about the house can do something for everyone.

But what are the specific benefits of getting a dog?

Join us as we take a brief look at the scientifically proven benefits of owning a dog. From your heart to your head, it turns out a canine companion can really do wonders for your health.

Taking Care of a Dog Helps Your Heart

Harvard studies have shown a link between dog ownership and lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels. The reduction in heart-based unpleasantness among people who love dogs leads to longer life spans, better physical fitness, and improvements in physical health in general.

That’s not all, though! Even those unlucky few dog owners who do suffer from heart attacks tend to have better odds of survival than people without dogs.

Why do dog owners experience these hearty boons? Well, it isn’t attributed to any one thing in particular, but no doubt the increase in exercise from dog-walking has something to do with it. Also, filling owners’ hearts with love leaves no room for cholesterol, QED.

Owning a Dog Helps You Chill Out

The best pet owners are the most relaxed people in the world. That’s because having a dog around you is proven to help reduce your levels of anxiety and stress.

This one’s not hard to figure out. A rough day at work melts away when your favorite furball comes and rests its head on your lap. Even spending a few minutes with a dog is enough to cause a noticeable drop in stress hormone levels in the human body.

This is true even in extreme cases. People suffering extreme trauma are often paired with emotional support dogs for the sole purpose of helping them cope with traumatic stress. No wonder so many people are getting dog portraits these days!

Meet New People (and Their Dogs)

Last, but not least, owning a dog is a great way to put some zest in your social life. Dogs are great conversation starters, and when two pups take an interest in one another at the park, the owners are pretty much legally obliged to make conversation.

Who knows how many marriages got their start when two pairs of canine eyes met across a crowded dog park?

The Benefits of Getting a Dog Are Too Numerous to Count

So there you have it, just a few of the innumerable benefits of getting a dog. If you already have one, you’ve no doubt been nodding along at every word so far. If not, well, you’re probably looking up local rescue shelters.

We don’t blame you. Getting a dog is one of the best decisions you can make!

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