When we think about adoption, there is a lot of talk about the advantages of having a dog for the pet and for the animal cause. By doing this, you help reduce the number of abandoned animals and provide a better quality of life and longevity for the adopted dog.
When it comes to the benefits of having a dog for humans, their companionship is one of the most remembered arguments. But there are also countless other advantages of having a dog at home. And the cool thing is that many of them have even been proven by science!
Below, check out the benefits of having a dog and seven advantages of having a companion for our health and well-being.
1. Dog owners are less sedentary
Responsible dog ownership involves providing essential activities for your dog, such as walks and games. These activities are important not only for burning energy, which helps maintain weight, but also for psychological well-being. After all, several of your dog’s senses and instincts are stimulated during a walk.
In the rush of the week, some people prefer to outsource and hire a professional to take them for walks. However, when you plan to walk your pet according to your schedule, the advantage is that you will also do more physical activities. This, in turn, helps to burn calories and reduces the incidence of diseases such as diabetes.
2. Dogs help reduce blood pressure
Speaking of diseases, several studies indicate that having a dog at home is good for blood pressure. As published by Harvard Health Publishing, from Harvard Medical School, comparative studies have shown that people who live with dogs also tend to have lower levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.
Although the reasons for this are still unclear to scientists, many believe that, in addition to encouraging physical activity, the benefits of having a dog include improving the way humans deal with stress. A great advantage, right?
3. They reduce the incidence of depression in the elderly
Anyone who has a dog knows how much joy they bring to our daily lives. However, there is still no evidence that having a dog helps with depression or reduces the occurrence of the disease in the general public.
In the case of elderly people and men diagnosed with AIDS, studies show that they improve the quality of life of their owners and reduce the chance of developing the condition. In the case of elderly people, however, caution is needed, as dogs are also associated with an increased risk of falls.
4. Living with a dog from an early age improves the immune system
In the past, it was believed that it was dangerous to allow small children or babies to live with dogs . More recent studies, however, have found that not only is this a myth, but early life with a dog can have the opposite effect: it helps to strengthen the immune system and reduces the occurrence of allergies.
For scientists, it is precisely early contact with microorganisms that helps the child’s body deal with these agents. Remembering, of course, that it is important to follow some hygiene precautions, such as washing your hands after playing with the dog.
5. Dogs teach children valuable lessons
Still regarding children, those who live with dogs tend to be more supportive and less selfish. This is because living with these companion dogs leads children to respect the needs of other living beings.
For example, they need to recognize and understand when the dog is sleepy or wants to play. In addition, dogs show unconditional love and gratitude. All of this contributes to the development of children.
6. They improve our social life
A survey conducted in the United Kingdom revealed that 40% of dog owners say they make friends more easily because of their pet. Especially among older people, it is common for them to take advantage of the time spent out for a walk to meet and talk to other people. After all, anyone who has a dog knows that they attract a lot of people!
The exchange of information between owners is another factor that contributes to a more active social life. Many owners feel more comfortable and are more open when it comes to their pets.
7. Dogs are a guarantee of good laughs
You’ve probably seen a lot of funny dog videos. But you should know that these are not isolated cases! Because of the unusual behaviors of pets, living with dogs is full of funny moments. That’s even when they get up to mischief!
So, when adopting a dog, be prepared to have a lot of fun with it. Since laughter is the best medicine, this is another advantage of having a dog at home. And for you, what is the main advantage of having a dog?