Health Benefits of Dog Ownership

When we bring dogs into our homes and families, we often think we’re the ones doing the dog a favor, but studies show we might have it backwards.

Physical

Dogs require exercise, so it makes sense owners have accountability in keeping active. Between daily walks, ups and down for potty breaks and general care, keeping dogs around encourages more movement in your lifestyle and thus improved heart health, weight loss, and longer lifespan. Between activity and early exposure to common allergens, dogs also help strengthen people’s immune systems. Some breeds such as Chihuahuas have even been said to aid in curing common respiratory conditions like asthma.

But dogs are not only wonderful at helping us improve current health concerns. They are valuable in taking preventative measures. The amazing canine sense of smell has been a literal lifesaver for humans. Dogs can sense internal threats like cancer, blood sugar fluctuations, and oncoming seizures. Strides in training dogs to alert for certain illnesses are being made around the world. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see dogs as regular members of medical staff!

Mental/Emotional

A healthy body is best served by a healthy mind. Simply having a dog can improve human cognition. Harvard Medical School studies found dog owners show improved focus and mindfulness compared to people without dogs in their homes. People with dogs, much like parents with children, attune themselves to their dogs’ habits, needs, and quirks. It draws their attention outside of themselves and thus helps develop empathy, observation, and problem-solving skills. Studies also reveal that, for similar reasons, dog owners are overall happier people than individuals without canine companionship.

Companionship is the most common reason cited for getting a dog. They are naturally therapeutic creatures with their honest, non-judgmental dispositions. Many owners say their dogs sense when they're feeling sad, stressed, or frightened, and will try making them feel better. People suffering trauma find comfort in the service of certified therapy dogs, and people struggling with depression benefit from dogs’ loyalty and de-stressing presence. Though their antics can sometimes drive us a little crazy, dogs just may be the key to keeping sanity.

Social

Dogs are highly social animals with pack mentality. The bonds they form with their owners are strong, but they’re also curious and love to explore. This means owners often get dragged along for the ride. This drive to get out into the world encourages interaction with others. And let’s be honest: cute dogs are people magnets. For Isolated individuals such as the elderly, dogs can provide a lifeline. Having a four-legged friend means you’re more likely to make human friends too.

Children especially benefit from dog care as it helps teach not only responsibility, but communication and other social skills. Connecting with a dog practices kids in empathy which they can then translate into other relationships. Children struggling with social and communication difficulties often find talking to dogs easier than to people. Having a pet or therapy dog available decreases behavioral issues and helps these children learn to communicate more confidently with adults.

Spiritual

Anyone who has loved and lost a dog knows they’re more than just animals. They get into your heart and help you learn about yourself – your priorities, what you believe about life and death, your patience level, your instincts, how you see the world around you. Watching the purity of a dog’s experience offers a glimpse into life’s bigger picture. Living alongside dogs can open us up to deeper understanding of what life is all about.

How have your dogs made your life better? Tell us about your fur babies below!

Find more information on Harvard Medical School's study on the benefits of dog ownership here.