Why Should People Have Dogs!

Reason #1: Dogs teach responsibilty

Dogs teach responsibility. The family dog can also teach children about responsibility. The daily feeding, exercising, grooming, and affection that all dogs require (and deserve) can teach children and adults the importance of obligation and consistency, as well as an appreciation for the rewards that accompany responsible pet ownership. This helps teach responsibilty and character.

Reason #2: Dogs are the best companions

Dogs love to travel, they love to be outside, they really love going anywhere, except the vet. LOL! They love being outdoors and most dogs love to play. They will go many places with you, and they are very playful animals. Dogs have been shown to improve their humans' cardiovascular and mental health by reducing blood pressure, increasing exercise, and decreasing stress and anxiety levels. They have also been shown to help in the treatment of depression and grief.

#3: Dogs help you stop stressing out

Your canine companion can offer comfort and ease your worries. Multiple studies show that dogs and therapy dogs help alleviate stress and anxiety. Even just petting a familiar dog lowers blood pressure, heart rate, slows breathing, and relaxes muscle tension. Scientists at Washington State University discovered that just 10 minutes petting a dog can have a significant impact. Study participants had a significant reduction in cortisol, a major stress hormone.

#4: Dogs make you feel less alone

Dogs can be there for you even when people can’t. They offer unconditional love, emotional support, and constant cuddles that help stave off social isolation. A small Australian study discovered that dog ownership reduces loneliness. A national survey of pet owners and non-pet owners by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute found that 85 percent of respondents believe that interaction with pets reduces loneliness. Most agree that human-pet interactions can help address social isolation.

#5: Dogs encourage you to move

Those long treks along sidewalks, trails, and paths add up. Acoording to "The American Kennel Club" 2019 British study discovered that dog owners are nearly four times more likely than non-dog owners to meet daily physical activity guidelines. Dog owners spend nearly 300 minutes every week walking with their dogs. That’s 200 more minutes walking than people without a pup of their own.

#6: Dogs make you more social

Walking with a canine companion can make us more approachable and give people a conversation starter. Think about how many times you’ve talked with other people, whether they’re your neighbors or new friends at the dog park. According to the "American Kennel Club", researchers have found that about 40 percent of dog owners had an easier time making friends. Dogs are the perfect way to get to know strangers and form new friendships. A study at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University concluded that people who have a strong attachment to a pet feel more connected in their human relationships and their communities.