The health factor being a dog parent contributes to a healthier appearance. Plus, can anyone resist the charming allure of a happy pup? In 2017, researchers from the Upsala University in Sweden made an incredible discovery about the long-term effects of having a dog.
They analyzed data from over 3.4 million individuals aged 40 to 80 years old. And guess what they found? That dog owners lead longer, healthier, and happier lives than other people. And the benefits don’t stop there. Recent studies have uncovered something even more incredible that dogs do for us. So, in this video, we’ll uncover 10 ways our pups secretly work their magic on our hearts and minds. Let’s dive in.
Number 1: Keeping us off the couch.
Dog parents walk an average of 22 minutes more per day compared to non-dog parents. That’s according to a study published in the journal BMC Public Health, showing just how much unintentional exercise we get without even thinking about it. Whether it’s running errands for our furry friends, strolling through the neighborhood, or engaging in playtime.
And it’s not just about burning calories. These activities trigger the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, which are known to elevate mood and reduce stress levels. In Japan, there’s an intriguing trend known as “wan-ero” aerobics. Dog parents gather in parks to participate in exercise routines alongside their canine companions. It’s a fun way to bond with your dog while staying fit.
Number 2: Distress warning system.
Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell. Some estimates suggest they can detect changes in our body chemistry even before we’re aware of them ourselves. This heightened olfactory sense allows them to pick up on subtle cues indicating when something isn’t quite right. And when they sense distress, dogs offer their unique brand of comfort.
They might become extra protective, cuddle up close to you for warmth, or even bring you their toys in an attempt to cheer you up. On another note, research published in the journal Animal Cognition revealed that our canine companions are adept at distinguishing between happy and sad facial expressions in humans. This ability speaks volumes about their keen perception of our emotions and their heartwarming support.
Number 3: Chasing away depression and loneliness.
Our furry friends are like therapists on four legs. Spending time with them can zap away our anxiety and help us de-stress after a long day. A survey conducted by the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute found that 74% of pet parents reported improvements in their mental health after getting a pet. Their companionship and unconditional love can really lift our spirits and make us feel better every single day.
Number 4: Preventing heart trouble.
According to research, dogs reduce triglycerides, a type of fat found in blood that can increase the risk of heart disease if its levels are too high. Our pals also lower our blood pressure and cholesterol levels, all of which play a crucial role in decreasing the risk of heart disease.
So what’s the exact overall effect? In 2019, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine researched almost 4 million people across the US. Guess what they found? Dog parents have a 24% lower chance of mortality compared to other humans.
Number 5: Boosting our immune system.
University of California researchers set out to uncover if having a dog endangers our kids’ health in any way. Turns out, children who were exposed to dogs early in life were less likely to develop asthma and allergies later on.
But where do these effects come from? Well, dogs bring lots of different microorganisms into our homes, which can actually help our bodies get stronger by giving our immune system a workout. Plus, just hanging out with our dogs and playing around with them keeps us moving, which bolsters the body’s defenses against pathogens.
Number 6: A reason to get up.
According to the Journal of Affective Disorders, dog parents are less likely to experience symptoms of depression compared to non-dog parents. For those battling depression or feelings of apathy, having a furry companion can serve as a motivating force to rise and face the day. They become your trigger, prompting you to push yourself out of bed. After all, a simple task from your side like feeding your dog has a huge impact and basically makes their day.
And of course, dogs love being outside. Whether it’s for a walk, a jog, or just chilling at the beach, their excitement for outdoor adventures can rub off on you, giving you a reason to step out, breathe in some fresh air, and stretch those legs. So the next time you’re tempted to hit the snooze button, remember the wagging tail and eager eyes waiting for you. They just might be the motivation you need to start your day off just right.
Number 7: The ultimate friend.
Dogs make awesome companions, especially if you’re not keen on walking solo. They’ve got this natural instinct to stick by your side, thanks to their pack mentality. So even if your pup isn’t the most social, they’ll still want to be close to you. And hey, you can confide your thoughts without worrying about judgment or rejection.
They’re great listeners and won’t spill your secrets to anyone else. A survey by the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute found that 74% of pet parents felt better overall because of their furry friends, and an incredible 75% said their pets helped them handle the ups and downs of daily life.
Number 8: Keeping us organized.
Having a dog really shakes up your daily routine. You end up adding structure and order to your day without even realizing it. Think about it. You’ve got set times for feeding, regular walks, grooming sessions, and vet checkups. Your pup becomes the clock that keeps your day ticking along smoothly.
This predictability can actually be pretty comforting. Knowing what to expect each day can help reduce stress levels. In fact, a survey by the American Pet Products Association found that 62% of dog parents credit their pets with helping them stick to a daily routine.
Number 9: The socialization catalyst.
Dogs are like social magnets. They make you talk and interact, whether it’s just asking them to sit or chatting with fellow dog parents. They’re fantastic attention grabbers and conversation starters, helping break the ice in social situations. Even if you’re not naturally outgoing, your dog can be the perfect wingman, drawing people to you on your daily strolls.
Number 10: Living in the moment.
It’s tough to dwell on worries or plans when your furry friend is right there, looking at you with those adoring eyes or eagerly asking for playtime. They offer a delightful distraction that shifts your focus to the here and now. Ever heard of the Rule of Three Senses principle? It’s a mindfulness technique that suggests engaging three of your senses to fully immerse yourself in the present moment.
For instance, you might pay attention to what you see, hear, and feel around you. Well, dogs naturally encourage this kind of mindfulness in their parents. Next time you’re out for a walk with your pooch, try following their lead.
Take in the scents and colors of the world around you, just like they do. By tuning into your senses, you’ll find yourself fully experiencing the moment and appreciating the beauty of the world right where you are.
Would it surprise you that, according to the University of Portsmouth, dogs show us more facial expressions than we show them? It means our pups are super in tune with their feelings. But the downside is it’s extremely easy to hurt them.
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