Have you been toying with the idea of welcoming a four-legged companion with a wagging tail into your life? If you’re unsure, this list will persuade you in a second. It’s not for nothing that they’re dubbed man’s best friend – dogs truly make us happier people.
#1 Unconditional Love
One of the main arguments we hear from dog-people is that they give completely unconditional love – you need to do very little to win them over. It is this constant source of affection and companionship that can significantly boost our emotional well-being.
Who doesn’t love to be greeted by a wagging tail and with the excitement as if they haven’t seen you for year every time you come home?
#2 Stress Reduction
Petting and playing with dogs have been shown to lower stress levels, decrease blood pressure, and reduce cortisol, a stress-related hormone. Petting your dog also allows you to live in the moment and focus on one thing, sort of like meditation.
#3 Increased Physical Activity
When you own a dog, you are simply forced to exercise and get fresh air regularly. Although it might seem like a drag to get out of the house, both you and your doggo will be happier once it’s done.
Walking or playing fetch promotes a healthier lifestyle and can lead to weight loss and improved cardiovascular health.
#4 Social Connections
Dogs are great social lubricants, helping their owners meet new people and forge connections. These can take place everywhere and anywhere – at the dog park, on a walk, or simply as a topic of conversation with a co-worker.
And, if you remember the movie Marley and Me (of course you do) you’ll also know that especially puppies can be sneaky way to attract a date.
#5 Improved Mental Health
The companionship of a dog can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. By just being there our dogs provide emotional support that is both comforting and therapeutic.
#6 Purpose and Routine
Caring for a dog introduces structure and routine into daily life. The habit of walking and feeding your dog offers a sense of purpose and responsibility that can enhance overall life satisfaction.
#7 Enhanced Security
Dogs can provide a sense of security at home, alerting their owners to potential intruders. This doesn’t only apply to the traditional “guard dog breeds” – all you need is a bark and an intruder will hopefully not even take the chance of entering your home.
#8 Child Development
Having a furry sibling is an invaluable experience. Children raised with dogs often show improved empathy, higher self-esteem, and better social skills. This is thanks to the lessons in responsibility and compassion that come with pet ownership.
#9 Joy and Laughter
Again, simply by just being themselves dogs will bring so much joy into your life. There’s a reason why the internet is flooded with hilarious dog videos after all. So other than incredible companionship, our four-legged friends are also experts at entertaining us (even though it’s rarely on purpose.)
#10 Companionship in Later Life
Sadly, loneliness is a common problem among senior citizens. To remedy this a dog is the perfect solution! Not only is it a constant friend, it’s also a reason to keep up an active lifestyle which will add many years to your life.
#11 Empathy and Compassion
Taking care of a dog teaches empathy and compassion. These vital virtues are nothing we can learn from a book; we need to learn and practice it hands-on. By having to take your dog into account on a daily basis, you’ll inevitably become a more compassionate person.
#12 Improved Allergy Resistance
Exposure to dogs at an early age has been linked to a lower risk of developing allergies (not only towards dogs) and asthma. This is thanks to the immune system boost that comes from being around pets.
Why Dogs Make Us Happier: Wrapping Up
If you were looking for a sign to extend your family by means of a four-legged and tail-wagging member this is your sign! Getting a dog will undoubtedly not only make you happier and healthier, you will also become a better person.
Thank you for reading this list of reasons why dogs make us happier! For similar readings, take a look here:
- How to Deal with Separation Anxiety in Dogs
- Revolutionary Anti-Aging Pill for Dogs
- How Dogs Became Our Trusted Companions
For any feedback please message to Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com
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