Health Benefits of Dog Ownership

Dogs undoubtedly bring joy and companionship, but their benefits extend far beyond mere enjoyment. Numerous studies have demonstrated that incorporating a dog into your household can significantly enhance your overall well-being. In fact, it has been suggested that in the future, it may be feasible to "prescribe" a dog for individuals such as active children, troubled teenagers, or patients with cardiovascular issues, with a reasonable expectation of positive health outcomes. How Dog-ownership is associated with health-benefits? 1. Reduced Blood Pressure: The American Kennel Club reports that a thorough review of studies conducted from 1950 to 2019 indicates that dog owners experience a lower risk of mortality. Research suggests that these individuals tend to have lower blood pressure and better stress responses. Merely petting a dog has been shown to contribute to lower blood pressure levels. 2. Enhanced Mental Well-Being: Dogs play a significant role in promoting mental health. Research has indicated that they can alleviate stress and anxiety. Psychologist Harold Herzog notes, "Studies have consistently shown that people's mood improves and negative feelings diminish in the presence of pets, highlighting both immediate physiological and psychological benefits from interacting with them." 3. Increased Physical Activity: One of the many advantages of having a dog is the encouragement they provide for physical exercise. Dog owners frequently engage in walking and playing with their pets. According to the AKC, a 2019 study from Britain revealed that dog owners are nearly four times more likely to meet daily physical activity recommendations compared to those without dogs. On average, dog owners spend approximately 300 minutes each week walking their dogs, which is 200 minutes more than non-dog owners. 4. Elevated Oxytocin Levels: The presence of a dog can enhance happiness, as supported by research. A 2009 study conducted in Japan found that gazing into a dog's eyes can increase oxytocin levels, often referred to as the "love hormone." 5. Improved Cognitive Function: Dogs have been found to cause positive effects on the senior citizens. It works as long-term care for mental therapy. 6. Lower risk of Heart disease: 24% reduction is reported in dying early from any cause. ‘Owning Dogs’ has been found beneficial for the persons who had suffered a heart attack or stroke. 31% less chances are likely to be the reason for cardiovascular disease.” 7. Healthy Cholesterol levels: ‘Dog owners’ have been found with lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels as compared to non-owners of dogs, as confirmed by a large study on this subject. 8. Social support: People with strong attachment to a pet often feel more connected in their human relationships and their communities. 9. Lower risk of Diabetes: People who walk their dogs regularly face one-third the risk of Diabetes of those who don’t own a dog.”