{"id":3348,"date":"2019-01-28T18:11:36","date_gmt":"2019-01-28T23:11:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fairmountpetservice.com\/Blog\/?p=3348"},"modified":"2020-08-18T10:40:25","modified_gmt":"2020-08-18T15:40:25","slug":"19-health-benefits-having-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fairmountpetservice.com\/Blog\/pet-services-blog\/dog-walking\/19-health-benefits-having-dog\/","title":{"rendered":"19 Health Benefits Of Having A Dog In Your Life"},"content":{"rendered":"

Both scientific studies and common sense shows that having a dog has many health benefits. Some of the benefits of having a dog are improved heart health and overall health in general.<\/p>\n

You can improve your social life and decrease negative life experiences such as loneliness, stress, and depression. Other benefits are exercise, security, and happiness.<\/p>\n

My favorite benefit is having a hiking and camping buddy who loves being with me. What is your favorite reason for\u00a0having a dog?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What Are The Main Health Benefits Of Having A Dog<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n

By having a dog in your life you\u00a0will\u00a0have a healthier heart and body. You will also be happier, have more\u00a0social\u00a0interactions with other people, and you feel safer in your home. Let\u2019s take a look at these benefits starting with heart health.<\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

5\u00a0Scientific Heart-Related Reasons to Get a Dog<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

There have been studies that show that heart health is improved when people own a dog. This includes\u00a01) lower blood pressure\u00a0and 2) heart rate, 3) reduced cholesterol & triglyceride levels, 4) fewer heart attacks and 5) better recovery after a heart attack.<\/p>\n

I did a quick read through the studies below and tried to make sense of the medical mumbo-jumbo.<\/p>\n

Cardiovascular effects of human-pet dog interactions<\/u><\/a>
\nThis first report is on how petting and talking to your pet can lower your blood pressure. Touching a dog leads to the greatest reduction in blood pressure\u00a0and with the lowest heart rate. Talking to a dog resulted in slightly higher pressure and heart rate. Both levels were highest when talking to people.<\/p>\n

Your dog will love hearing that because more belly rubs and butt scratches are coming his or her way.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Lower blood pressure\u00a0and heart rate<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dogs & Health\u2026<\/u><\/a>
\nThis study also showed a reduced blood pressure in dog owners versus non-owners. It also found that triglycerides and cholesterol levels were lowered. And it mentions improved survival rates following a heart attack for dog owners.<\/p>\n

They also\u00a0note that the physical activity involved with having a companion dog\u00a0\u201c\u2026may also influence health<\/em><\/span>.\u201d<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Lower blood pressure, lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels, improved heart attack survival rate<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Effect of Walking on Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease<\/u><\/a>
\nWow, a lot of numbers and measurements in this study but it\u2019s basically about the positive effects of walking on cardiovascular health. The results were that walking reduced blood pressure, weight,\u00a0and body mass index (BMI).<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Lower blood pressure, weight loss<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Truth about Cats and Dogs<\/u><\/a>
\nAnother abstract\u00a0of a study\u00a0by a number of doctors that mentions \u201c\u2026people with pets had significantly lower heart rate and blood pressure levels during a resting baseline<\/span><\/em><\/span>.\u201d<\/p>\n

I do not understand the remainder of the sentence or following sentences. But it sounds like because pets are perceived as important and supportive, cardiovascular and behavioral benefits are the result.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Lower heart rate\u00a0and blood pressure<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"Dog<\/p>\n

Exercise with Your Dog: <\/b><\/strong>Pet <\/b><\/strong>O<\/b><\/strong>wners <\/b><\/strong>G<\/b><\/strong>et <\/b><\/strong>M<\/b><\/strong>ore <\/b><\/strong>E<\/b><\/strong>xercise<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

This section covers 5 more physical benefits as well as 4 psychological benefits. I go into more detail about exercise at the end of this section. The psychological benefits are covered in greater detail in the following section.<\/p>\n

Influence of Companion Animals on the Physical and Psychological Health of Older People<\/u><\/a>
\nThis study states that elderly pet owners are slightly more physically active than non-owners. I think that is misleading because the elderly aren\u2019t known for massive activity levels.<\/p>\n

But the report goes on to say that \u201c\u2026pet ownership significantly modified the relationship between social support and the change in psychological well\u2010being<\/span><\/em>\u201d. My translation of that statement: Granny has more friends and is happier.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>:\u00a0Increase in physical activity,\u00a0increase in social activity<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Health Benefits \u2026Due to Pets<\/u><\/a>
\nThis article is a survey in Australia and not a scientific study. The results of the survey were that dog owners make fewer doctor visits and \u201c\u2026are less likely to be on medication for heart problems & sleeping difficulties<\/em><\/span>\u201d than people without dogs. And that saves you money.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>:\u00a0Fewer doctor visits,\u00a0less need for medication<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Potential Benefits of Pet Ownership\u2026<\/u><\/a>
\nYou can only see one paragraph except for this report.\u00a0The excerpt mentions that having a pet increases exercise while reducing\u00a0anxiety, loneliness, and depression.<\/p>\n

It goes on to say \u201cThe benefits of pet ownership are consistent with health promotion and disease prevention goals\u2026\u00a0(which) include (a) increasing physical activity and fitness and (b) improving mental health and preventing mental disorders<\/em><\/span>\u201d<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Increase in physical activity, reduced anxiety, loneliness, and depression<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Benefit of Increased Exercise and Activity<\/b><\/strong><\/h4>\n

So this was touched on in some of the benefits above, but dog owners tend to have higher activity levels. I would think mostly from walking their dog.<\/p>\n

They have to because their dogs need exercise and to relieve themselves. Take a look at my article on How Much Exercise Does A Dog Need <\/u><\/a>for more information.<\/p>\n

Many people do not get enough weekly exercise. Taking your dog outside gets you a mile or two of walking\u00a0each day. I average under an 18-minute\u00a0mile\u00a0when I go hiking.<\/p>\n

The amount of time to walk a mile is\u00a0much slower with a dog that stops to sniff, but you should still be able to walk a mile in 30 minutes. That equates to at least two miles of walking each day with three 20-minute dog walks.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s important for the elderly as it helps with mobility. And though walking is not a major calorie burner, it can help to reduce your weight.<\/p>\n

Walking your dog is great when the weather is beautiful. The trick is getting motivated when the weather stinks. You have to stick with it and give your furry friend some exercise.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Increase in physical activity, mobility and life expectancy<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"Reduction<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dogs Help Reduce Allergies & Can Detect Cancer<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Here are two more physical benefits but with some caveats.<\/p>\n

Cats and Dogs and Allergies<\/u><\/a>
\nAtopy is the genetic tendency to develop allergies. It is often stated that owning a pet helps reduce the development of allergies, but this seems to only be true if you have atopy in your family.<\/p>\n

The focus of this study is only on children with atopy in their family history.\u00a0It looks like you are very likely NOT to develop allergies if you had a dog and <\/i><\/b><\/em><\/strong>a cat as a child.<\/p>\n

Growing up with only a cat or a dog did not show to reduce developing allergies, though having both later in life seems to help.<\/p>\n

Does early exposure to cat or dog protect against later allergy development?<\/u><\/a>
\nThis study shows that children exposed to pets in the first year of life \u201c\u2026had a lower frequency of allergic rhinitis at 7-9 years of age and of asthma at 12-13 years<\/em><\/span>.\u201d<\/p>\n

So this seems to contradict the study above, but that may be given the introduction of an animal before the child turns one.<\/p>\n

Their conclusion: \u201cPet exposure during the first year of life and an increasing number of siblings were both associated with a lower prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma in school children<\/em><\/span>.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Detection of Prostate Cancer by Dogs<\/u><\/a>
\nThat dogs can detect if you have cancer\u00a0is an amazing talent. However, the majority of the studies mention that the dogs have to sniff your urine for prostate cancer detection.<\/p>\n

Well, they like sniffing butts, so why not sniff your pee. Though there is a requirement to this benefit – they have to be trained to smell cancer in urine. So this doesn\u2019t seem like an immediate benefit.<\/p>\n

They can also sniff out lung and breast cancer from your breath. But once again they need to be trained.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Less likely to develop allergies, possible cancer detection<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Improve<\/b><\/strong>d<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0Social Life and Mental Health Benefits<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"Better<\/p>\n

You are more likely to meet and talk to other dog owners or people asking about your dog. People will strike up a conversation while you are walking your dog when normally they probably would not.<\/p>\n

I walk my dog in the wintertime with a red & blue striped sweater. He looks like Charlie Brown in the sweater and it always gets comments like \u201cLove the sweater!\u201d<\/p>\n

There are some people who are extremely shy or just bad with interacting with people. In this case, a dog may be the closest relationship they will ever have. Dogs rule!<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Improved social life, reduces loneliness<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Fight Depression, Loneliness & Stress<\/b><\/strong><\/h4>\n

\"Companion<\/p>\n

The Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Loneliness in the Elderly<\/u><\/a>
\nThe title says it all. But it\u2019s not just the elderly that have a reduction in loneliness as a result of owning a dog. It\u2019s everyone who owns a dog. No more studies. Here are the final benefits of owning a dog.<\/p>\n

Therapy dogs \u201cease\u201d depression in many different demographics of people. Spending time with dogs can lower anxiety. Petting makes you feel good, makes you relax and reduces stress.<\/p>\n

So it was interesting to find out that getting vitamin D from the sun. It has been proven that vitamin D fights depression. If you are feeling down, get your dog outside.<\/p>\n

Your dog is always there for you – a constant companion. The \u201cman\u2019s best friend\u201d phrase isn\u2019t just a saying (a woman\u2019s best friend too).<\/p>\n

Some of the final mental health benefits of owning a dog revolve around anxiety. Dogs really help people with PTSD, ADHD or high anxiety. There are a lot of studies on those benefits. You should look into that subject further if you know someone who could benefit from a dog.<\/p>\n

I sometimes get asked to add a link to my Links page but I rarely oblige. But I agreed when someone from Recovery Village <\/u><\/a>asked for a link. They help with dog adoption for people recovering from substance addiction. That\u2019s a worthwhile link.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: Reduces loneliness & stress, fights depression<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dogs Make you Happy<\/b><\/strong><\/h4>\n

This one doesn\u2019t need a scientific study to prove. Dogs make you feel good, smile more and generally feel happier. If you don\u2019t own a dog, then you have to take my word for it. Every other loving dog owner will agree with me.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: They make you \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Safety from Fire, Intruders<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

There have been multiple accounts of dogs waking up family members when there was a fire in the house. How many ways can a dog save our lives?<\/p>\n

And although the barking can be annoying, it is nice to know that they will alert you when there is someone approaching your house.<\/p>\n

Benefits<\/b><\/strong>: You sleep better<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Disadvantages of Having a Dog<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Many people are injured from falling due to their pets, most by dogs. This one can be serious, especially for the elderly. Some people avoid stepping on their dog’s paw and fall as a result. Try putting a bell on their collar.<\/p>\n

There is also time commitment, cost, coverage when you travel, and training involved. Newly adopted dogs have also been known to chew shoes and make a mess.\u00a0And let\u2019s throw in barking and an occasional \u201caccident\u201d.<\/p>\n

If you can handle those issues, then I believe the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Conclusion <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Hopefully, these benefits to having a dog convince you to adopt a dog. I believe you will not regret it. And I think that is 19 benefits, but I lost count. Maybe it\u2019s 20 with the weight loss benefit.<\/p>\n

If you already own a dog,. what benefits would you add to the list? I definitely get out of the house more often, especially during great weather. It is great camping and hiking with my dog, and he often makes me smile.<\/p>\n

Share your thoughts and experiences below.\u00a0(I know there are more benefits.)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

There are many health benefits of having a dog in your life. Some of the benefits have been proven with scientific studies while others are common sense but not common knowledge. These benefits include improved heart health and overall physical and mental health. Other benefits are that you become more social, happier and less depressed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3388,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ocean_post_layout":"","ocean_both_sidebars_style":"","ocean_both_sidebars_content_width":0,"ocean_both_sidebars_sidebars_width":0,"ocean_sidebar":"0","ocean_second_sidebar":"0","ocean_disable_margins":"enable","ocean_add_body_class":"","ocean_shortcode_before_top_bar":"","ocean_shortcode_after_top_bar":"","ocean_shortcode_before_header":"","ocean_shortcode_after_header":"","ocean_has_shortcode":"","ocean_shortcode_after_title":"","ocean_shortcode_before_footer_widgets":"","ocean_shortcode_after_footer_widgets":"","ocean_shortcode_before_footer_bottom":"","ocean_shortcode_after_footer_bottom":"","ocean_display_top_bar":"default","ocean_display_header":"default","ocean_header_style":"","ocean_center_header_left_menu":"0","ocean_custom_header_template":"0","ocean_custom_logo":0,"ocean_custom_retina_logo":0,"ocean_custom_logo_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_tablet_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_mobile_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_max_height":0,"ocean_custom_logo_tablet_max_height":0,"ocean_custom_logo_mobile_max_height":0,"ocean_header_custom_menu":"0","ocean_menu_typo_font_family":"0","ocean_menu_typo_font_subset":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_size":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_unit":"px","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight_tablet":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight_mobile":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform_tablet":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform_mobile":"","ocean_menu_typo_line_height":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_unit":"","ocean_menu_typo_spacing":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_unit":"","ocean_menu_link_color":"","ocean_menu_link_color_hover":"","ocean_menu_link_color_active":"","ocean_menu_link_background":"","ocean_menu_link_hover_background":"","ocean_menu_link_active_background":"","ocean_menu_social_links_bg":"","ocean_menu_social_hover_links_bg":"","ocean_menu_social_links_color":"","ocean_menu_social_hover_links_color":"","ocean_disable_title":"default","ocean_disable_heading":"on","ocean_post_title":"","ocean_post_subheading":"","ocean_post_title_style":"","ocean_post_title_background_color":"","ocean_post_title_background":0,"ocean_post_title_bg_image_position":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_attachment":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_repeat":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_size":"","ocean_post_title_height":0,"ocean_post_title_bg_overlay":0.5,"ocean_post_title_bg_overlay_color":"","ocean_disable_breadcrumbs":"on","ocean_breadcrumbs_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_separator_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_links_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_links_hover_color":"","ocean_display_footer_widgets":"default","ocean_display_footer_bottom":"default","ocean_custom_footer_template":"0","ocean_post_oembed":"","ocean_post_self_hosted_media":"","ocean_post_video_embed":"","ocean_link_format":"","ocean_link_format_target":"self","ocean_quote_format":"","ocean_quote_format_link":"post","ocean_gallery_link_images":"off","ocean_gallery_id":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[52],"class_list":["post-3348","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dog-walking","tag-dog-adoption","entry","has-media"],"yoast_head":"\n19 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