Dogs are friendly, loyal animals that make our lives better.
They offer us companionship, love, and utter friendship. But, did you know that owning a dog actually had real health benefits? And not just physical ones. They’re also great for our mental health, and all in all, just make the quality of our life better. They bring happiness to the loneliest lives, and we have to thank them for this gift.
But, don’t take me for my word. If you don’t believe what I’m saying, take a look at at this list that summarizes most of the health benefits of adopting and caring for a dog.
Dogs are a great way to stay active
You might not know it, but dogs are a great motivation to stay active. As you know, dogs always need exercise. You need to walk them daily, play with them, and, if you have a hyperactive breed such as the German Shepherd Husky mix, they might need daily runs as well. Exercise if great for our bodies, but also for our mental health, as it releases endorphins, which makes us feel happier, and more relaxed. It’s also great for our physical health, so, really, it’s a two-in-one solution.
They can help you heal your depression
Well, not technically heal it, but adopting a dog (or any other pet, really) is a great way to feel happier. Dogs provide companionship, which makes you feel lonelier, and thus, less depressed. Of course, it’s not as easy as that. You still need to help yourself with therapy, medication, and a healthy lifestyle, but dogs are a great add to your life.
Research has shown that caring for a dog can actually be a great mood booster. It keeps you motivated and gives you a reason to wake up every morning, get out of bed, and do something with your life.
Dogs keep your heart healthy
Believe it or not, dogs are actually great for your heart. Studies has shown that petting your dog actually reduces your blood pressure! When you are petting or playing with your dog, your body releases a relaxation hormone which drops your blood pressure and makes your heart and vessels healthier.
They are a great way to battle anxiety and stress
Adopting a dog doesn’t mean your anxiety issues are going to suddenly disappear, just like magic. But, it still means that you are going to feel better and less stressed.
Dogs are loyal animals, and they will provide you with unconditional love you no matter what. They are affectionate, friendly animals who would do anything for their owner and best friend. If they love you, they will love you to the moon and back, and nothing you will do will be able to change this. For this reason, a lot of therapists and doctors suggest that people with depression get a dog. They make their lives less lonely, offer them companionship, and give them a reason to be motivated.
They make children healthier
Children who grow up with a dog are less likely to develop allergies. It might sound counterintuitive, but it actually makes sense. Since those kids are exposed to dogs, and all the bacteria they bring into the house, they develop a sort of immunity to viruses and become stronger than children who grew up without a pet in the house.
Dogs make it easier to connect with other people
If you are walking your dog or going to the dog park, you are definitely more likely to talk to strangers than someone who is just taking a stroll outside on their own. Dogs are the perfect conversation starter and make it easier for people to talk to you without feeling weird about it.
Dogs help you take contact with people, and as we are social animals, we need human contact to survive and feel part of society, and dogs make that easier for us!
Finally, dogs just offer your love
Love, companionship, friendship, and loyalty, this is all dogs have to offer, and it is honestly all we need to be happy. All you need to do is feed him great dog food and take care of him. If you have a bad day at work, you can always go back home, sit on the sofa, and cuddle with your best friend. And, as we know, that’s the best feeling in the world. So, what are you waiting for? Go to your nearest shelter and adopt a companion for life.
