Scientists are starting to understand what dog owners have known for years — dogs make humans happy. From lowering blood pressure to easing mental illness symptoms, studies have shown that dog ownership can even reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. There’s a reason why dogs have lived alongside humans for 11,000 years! If you are thinking about getting a canine companion, read up on why it's scientifically proven that you should.
Dog owners exercise more
If the willpower to exercise does not come naturally for you, a nudge from a puppy nose might get you out the door. Dogs have lots of energy, so it makes sense that dog owners get four times as much exercise as non dog owners. Exercise releases happy chemicals in your brain which improves mood. So when that puppy has the zoomies and is tearing across the living room, a walk will do you both good.
Dogs bring people together
There’s a whole community of people out there who love, love, love dogs — and you could be one of them. Dogs help break the ice with people that you might not normally talk to, especially if you feel more comfortable around animals than you do people. And who knows, maybe your dog leash will become entangled with another dog leash and before you know it you're married and expecting 100 dalmations.
Dogs can lower stress in humans
Exercising with your dog can lower stress, but even looking into your dog's eyes releases oxytocin, the same brain chemical that is released when mothers look into their baby’s eyes. Oxytocin is known to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and increase pain tolerance. Petting, snuggling and smiling at your dog are all ways to bond and give yourself a little love high.
Dogs can soothe depression
For people who suffer from mental illness, owning a dog is a lifesaver. Dogs don’t judge humans for having difficult feelings. Their unconditional love and affection eases loneliness and emotional pain. Caring for an animal gives their owners a sense of purpose. And of course, a schedule of exercise, feeding and grooming may help a depressed person beat the cycle of depression.
Dogs are loyal companions
Pets are there for you when your human companions can’t be. Dogs have a lot of unconditional love to give and they aren’t stingy, unlike some people. Those slobbery kisses and nose nuzzles are sincere and uncomplicated. Not everybody will wag their tail when they see you walk in the door, but your four-legged friend will.
Dogs are fun to watch
Oh the joy of watching a dog being a dog. They do all sorts of amazing things like rolling around on their backs, fetching, snoring, refusing to sleep anywhere but the bathtub, bringing “presents” like a shoe or a hairbrush, hiding things under the couch and “singing” along with fire engine sirens. Humans never stood a chance.
Dogs are good for kids
Dogs make great teachers. Your kids will get the 101 on how to care for a living thing, responsibility and respect for animals. For kids who are less social, dogs offer acceptance and affection. There is also evidence that exposure to dogs in infancy may reduce asthma and allergies in older children.
Pets are happiest when their owners are responsible. A pet is a commitment — the average lifespan for a dog is 10-13 years. Before finding a dog on KSL Classifieds, assess whether you can give a dog everything it needs: food, exercise, space, medical care, companionship and love.
Look for your next canine comrade on KSL Classifieds under the Pets category. You’ll find puppies ready for training and older dogs looking to be rehomed. Give a dog a forever home and get a loyal buddy to live out your (happier) days with.
