Want to Feel Better? Your Pooch May Help!

There are many ways that dogs improve your life. Here are 5 big ones.

If you already have a furry friend living at home, you likely understand the benefits of having a dog. Many dog owners will say that there’s nothing like having a dog and truly believe that dogs are man’s (or woman’s) best friend. Not only does having a loyal companion by your side make you happy, but it can actually improve your physical and mental health in many ways.

Here are 5 ways that dogs make you feel better:

  1. They get you moving. If you need to walk your dog multiple times a day, no doubt having a dog will make you more physically active. But even if Fido doesn’t rely on a trip around the block to do his business and you have a fenced-in yard, research has shown that dog owners are more active than non-dog owners. Aside from taking the dog for a walk, activities like feeding, grooming and playing with your dog will get you off the couch and help you get some health-boosting activity each day.
  2. They encourage you to be more social. Dog owners tend to engage with others when they are out with their dogs and having a dog by your side may just make you feel more comfortable connecting with other people. Even if you don’t take your dog out or run into other people during your travels, many dog owners say that they feel less lonely and tend to experience less depression.
  3. They improve mental health challenges. Many people find that spending time with dogs or other pets helps them reduce stress and manage anxiety. That’s why many hospitals and nursing homes bring in dogs to interact with patients and residents. College campuses often have puppy petting sessions to alleviate stress during finals week. Dogs have also been shown to be a valuable addition to physical therapy, occupational therapy and cardiac rehabilitation programs.

    “A pet dog could provide a sense of comfort, calm and connection that may otherwise be lacking in someone’s life,” says Jasmine Singh, DO, Psychologist with Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center. “At this time, we are facing unprecedented rates of loneliness, which can directly lead to an increase in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Having a dog can provide an unconditional connection that could decrease loneliness and can lead to someone feeling that they matter and are needed; these positive feelings are a natural way to improve your mood and overall mental health.”   

  4. They help you stay physically healthier. Not only do dogs get you to move more, but this extra activity helps you better manage your weight. This in turn may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which lowers your risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Physical activity and weight management are also important steps in preventing or managing diabetes. Exercising regularly, as well as being more socially connected and less lonely, may also lower your risk of cognitive decline.
  5. They provide more meaning to life. Having a dog often puts a positive spin on people’s lives. It makes their lives more meaningful, improves mood and makes people feel unconditionally loved. It also gives them a reason to care for something other than themselves. This can be especially important for people who live alone or have difficulty making social connections.

For more information on St. Joseph’s Medical Center, please visit here. And for more information on St. Joseph’s Behavioral Health Center, please click here.

Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: June 20, 2024

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.