Nearly 63 million families in the United States owned a dog in 2019-2020. According to the US American Pet Products Association, dogs have become America’s favorite animal companion in the last three years. This is thanks to the many health benefits of having a dog!
The Covid-19 pandemic has seen the effects of isolation on mental health. It heightened our need for warmth and affection, feelings we had very little of due to the restrictions of the pandemic in 2020. Over the internet, people would talk about how they wanted to have dogs or cats to keep them company in moments of isolation.
Getting a dog is easier said than done. A lot has to be considered when planning to take in a new family member. Fortunately, you can talk to experts about that. If you’re still on the fence about getting a dog, though, you can consider the following reasons why it’s the best idea ever.
1. Fights depression and anxiety
Over 40 million people in the US have been diagnosed with depression. Dogs can play an integral part in a person’s emotional well-being due to the psychological benefits of having a dog. Studies show that people who have dogs are less likely to be depressed or anxious. They can even help regulate blood pressure and prevent heart diseases.
2. Dogs are amazing companions
Life becomes easier to deal with when you have a furry friend that keeps you entertained. You will never feel one bit alone when you have a dog. Dogs can make challenging situations a lot easier to manage. Even while sitting down next to each other, you may feel alone but never lonely.
3. Socialization and self-confidence
Taking care of a dog can make you lose your inhibitions. You can become comfortable expressing your feelings, knowing your dogs won’t judge. Dogs are good listeners because they don’t argue with you. This also helps you develop confidence in expressing your feelings.
4. Provides structure and a semblance of normalcy
Having a dog means having something to do every day, something to look forward to. Something to make you feel more put together. When you build a routine with your dog, you become focused and committed to it. It’s easier to go about your day when you know exactly what to do first and what to do last, which is one of the benefits of having a dog at home.
5. Dogs help you in staying active
Playing with dogs or taking them for a walk not just benefits the dog but also the one walking them. Imagine walking daily and how much good it will do to your body. With a dog in tow, you know that you won’t be sitting down all day. As a dog owner, you can go out and meet other dog owners and build more connections with like-minded people. This is especially true if our dog is well-trained
While it’s true that taking in a dog is a huge responsibility, the benefits still far outweigh the cost. If you think you cannot afford a dog right now, you may still enjoy their companionship by becoming a dog sitter or going to shelters to volunteer.
6. They make you laugh
It’s been clinically proven that laughter can have immense immunity-boosting effects by improving blood circulation, releasing stress-relieving brain chemicals, and even muscle stimulation. So, when you see your dog’s silly antics that really get you rolling on the floor laughing, you’re actively getting health benefits as a result.
7. They speed up your recovery after surgery
A big part of speeding up post-surgical recovery has to do with emotional and mental wellness on top of physical care. Dogs have an incredible effect on patients by making them calmer, more relaxed, and happier. As a result, there is also less stress that could slow down your recovery if you just came out of surgery.
8. They help children to grow up safer and smarter
Children need to learn responsibility at an early age in order to grow up in a healthy, balanced, and intelligent manner. Letting your child take care of a dog is an excellent way to do this safely and effectively since it’s just the right amount of responsibility.
Dogs are also known for being quite protective of family members, so your kids will be safe with your dog. This is one of the major benefits of having a dog for a child.
9. Dogs are loyal and loving members of the family
10. They make your life meaningful
Having a dog is like having a companion that you can always count on for as long as they live. When you come home after a stressful day from work or when you feel sad, dogs have a knack for making you feel instantly better. They can make your day brighter, give you a reason to smile, and help you see the bright side of life.
Want To Make Owning a Dog Even More Beneficial?
Having a dog can already be a rewarding experience, but you can always make it better for you and your dog. With reliable training from expert dog trainers, you can have a much happier, more fulfilling, and healthier life with your dog. Click here to learn more!
