If the look of a dog makes your heart skip a beat or if their pretty face lights up your day then you are in the right place. A dog can bring about a smile to a person or its playful nature can instantly brighten up your day. If you are among the many who wants to keep these happy bundles of joy and research on the benefits of owning a dog then, then keep reading.
If you are thinking to get a puppy you might be wondering will it be any good? What are the benefits of owning a dog? Are there any benefits of owning a dog for a child? All these questions come to your mind.
Well, dogs are among the cutest creations of God. They will be your best friend till the time they are alive. A pat on their head, a kind word of appreciation, or a piece of treat is all they require to drool over you. They are loyal and they love you unconditionally. But they come with a lot of responsibilities.
So here’s a list of why you should own a dog and how dogs are beneficial for you.
1. Dogs make you happy and keep stress away
People who have dogs as their pets are less likely to be suffering from depression. This is because having dogs releases an increased level of serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters responsible for feeling good, pleasure, and emotional stability. Just a few minutes of pet time reduces a lot of stress both from your office front as well as your home. There are lots of mental health benefits of owning a dog. Some of these benefits include-
- Lowers Stress hormones and normalizes heart rate and blood pressure
- Protects against anxiety
- Makes you feel needed
- Increases your self-esteem and well-being.
- Teaches you to ‘live in the moment
This study published in BMC Psychiatry concluded that in the management of people with long-term mental health problems pets should be considered main rather than primary support.
2. Dogs make you fit and active
Dogs like to play outside and when you take them out for a stroll, it not only boosts their life but also yours. It has been shown in studies that having a dog reduces blood pressure, cholesterol, and decreased triglyceride levels. Walking your dog not only improves its health but think of all the calories you are burning while walking with him too. It’s a win-win situation. So overall having a dog is a good sign for your heart health too.
3. Dogs improve your social life
There are some social benefits of owning a dog. Having a dog requires some time outside. While all of us are very busy, taking your dog out for a walk helps you connect with the world. Friendly dogs help their owners connect better with others as they are great conversation starters. A better social life reflects better overall wellbeing.
It leads to:
- Better self-esteem
- More optimistic outlook
- More empathy and trust towards others
4. Dogs provide companionship and teach responsibility
Having a dog does not mean having a pet at home but rather you have a friend at the same time. There are studies that show that having dogs reduces the chances of loneliness, depression, self-esteem, etc. In today’s busy world nobody has time for anyone. But a dog will always be there for you, giving you his unconditional love and attention.
Once you return home after a busy day from the office, your dog will be there waiting for you, excitedly, wagging its tail. He will shower you with all his affection. If you are a housewife or a stay-at-home mom then you definitely need a dog. Remember the time when your husband goes to the office or your kids to the school and you are at home lonely, well your dog will give you ample company and will not let you get lonely or bored.
Your pooch will also make you take additional responsibility for the dog chores. You are responsible for him, for providing him with food, taking him to the potty, bathing him, and grooming him. Keeping a dog is like having a kid. Though these responsibilities may sometimes feel like shackles, these are an integral part of the bond you share. These responsibilities form part of your fulfilling relationship with your furry buddy.
5. Dogs are good for kids
Keeping a dog makes children empathetic towards them. Children who grow up with dogs or pets in general, share a deep bond of friendship, compassion, and a feeling of respect. You must have heard about people being allergic to dogs and worrying about the same for their kids. But if your kid is exposed to dogs early on, it makes him/her more resilient towards allergies. There is scientific evidence to suggest that as your baby gets exposed to its fur and doggy dander, the later-life risk of allergies and asthma in children drops off considerably.
So in conclusion here is a famous quote by Bruce Cameron about having pets, “When we adopt a dog or any pet, we know it is going to end with us saying goodbye, but we still do it. And we do it for a very good reason: They bring so much joy and optimism and happiness. They attack every moment of every day with that attitude”. Ask anyone who has a dog as a pet and they will all vouch when I say that they are companions for life.
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