Top 5 Ways How Dogs Help You Live a Healthier Life

Dogs are not just the best friends of their owners, but they also contribute to their health and happiness in many other ways that are often overlooked or underestimated. That’s why many studies show that dog owners tend to be healthier and happier than those who don’t own dogs, especially when it comes to stress relief and overall mood improvement. Here are some ways how dogs can help you live a healthier life.

1) Dogs provide unconditional love

What does unconditional love do? Studies have shown that getting love from our pets can boost our immune systems, lower blood pressure and even help us live longer. In fact, some researchers believe having pets in general reduces stress levels; spending time with our furry friends lowers cortisol levels in both dogs and their owners. When those cortisol levels drop, we experience lower blood pressure and less anxiety. It also boosts feel-good hormones such as serotonin and dopamine.

2) They lower your stress levels

Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest pleasures. As creatures that need looking after, they help to ease our stress and anxiety. A scientific study revealed that talking to or playing with dogs actually lowered people’s stress levels by up to 68%. This effect is also likely to be related to having company, as dog owners tend to have far fewer people visit their homes on average than those who don’t own dogs. So not only do you benefit from their companionship, but others around you can benefit too.

3) Dogs keep you active

People who own dogs are more likely to get exercise. This is especially true if you walk your dog. And if you don’t live in an area with easy walking trails, your dog may even inspire you to take up running. Studies have shown dog owners take an average of two additional walks per week than non-dog owners, burning an extra 150 calories daily. Bonus: increased activity might also be linked to decreased risk of heart disease, dementia and depression.