If you are a dog owner, you probably don’t need convincing that your dog offers various health benefits to you. But, on the other hand, if you are trying to convince yourself or someone that having a dog provides more benefits than just fluffy hugs and fur everywhere, then this is the article for you. We have packed it with scientifically proven benefits that no one will be able to refute.
Let’s start with a bang: Dogs can help reduce the risk of heart attack and heart disease.
Statistics show that dog ownership can help lengthen your life. Experts found that for over 3.8 million study participants, owning a dog offered a 24% risk reduction in cardiovascular mortality compared to non-dog owners. Those who had previous cardiovascular issues experienced even more significant benefits.
The American Heart Association concluded a study in 2013 that explored if living alone with a dog made any difference compared to living alone without a pet. It turns out that individuals have a 33% better chance of surviving a cardiac event at home after hospitalization if they own a dog.
In conclusion, a comprehensive review of studies published between 1950 and 2019 found that dog owners had a lower risk of death. Studies suggest that dog owners have lower blood pressure levels and improved responses to stress, as discussed in the following paragraph.
Dogs can help lower blood pressure levels naturally
Doctors have noticed that individuals who own dogs tend to exhibit lower blood pressure levels naturally. Many believe it’s related to the calming effect dogs can have—after all, there’s nothing better than snuggling up with your four-legged best friend.
Scientists at Washington State University discovered that just 10 minutes of petting a dog could have a significant impact on your blood pressure. Study participants had a significant reduction in cortisol, a major stress hormone.
Dogs help you stay active, duh!
A study in Western Canada found that men and women who took their canine companions out regularly engaged in roughly 300 minutes of walking per week compared to non-dog owners who only exercised half as much. So you better go shopping for good walking shoes if you haven’t already!
Dogs can help fight loneliness
One British study found that 4 out of 5 dog owners speak with others while outside with their four-legged family members.
A study at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University concluded that people with a solid attachment to a pet feel more connected in their human relationships and communities.
Another group noted that pet owners were 36% less likely to report feelings of loneliness among older adults than their counterparts with no animals at home.
Service dogs can save lives and help people live more independently*
According to Assistance Dogs International, 48% of service dogs were trained for people with mobility impairment, 19% for veterans with PTSD, and 23% for people with autism. The other 9% of service dogs were trained for people with diabetes, seizures, psychiatric support, and medical alert services.
Recently, service dogs have also been trained to support Alzheimer’s patients through companionship, search and rescue tracking if their owner gets lost, and tethering, which helps keep their owner close by in public spaces and crowded environments.
So… are you convinced now that your current (or future) furry best friend is the secret to your longevity?
*PSST – Did you know that Dog Performance Gear‘s harnesses are used for service dogs? They are ergonomically designed to allow for a full range of motion in all joints and do not restrict the dog’s movements. Instead, they adapt to your dog’s body shape without creating pressure points.
Sources:
https://www.singlecare.com/blog/blog-health-benefits-dogs/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/10-science-based-benefits-dog/
Thumbnail Credit: Freepik
Hello reader, I’m Abhishek Shankhwar, a mental health & wellness enthusiast and a digital marketing specialist by profession. As a passionate health and wellness writer, I feel obligated to inform, inspire, and reach out to so many people. In the meantime, you’ll always find me reading books, writing inspiring content, and cooking delicious food. Connect with me on LinkedIn.
It’s fascinating how a dog could provide companionship and deter thoughts of anxiety along with loneliness. My friend wants to help his uncle who wants to try living by himself this year. I believe this information can help them with this someday!