Why you should get a dog

by Rucsandra Curtis, Year 10

Dogs are the most popular pet in the world. Over 470 million dogs are kept as pets around the world. With their large eyes, soft fur, and loving personalities, dogs are just plain adorable and irresistible. In this article, I will be showing you the reasons why you should get a dog.

Dogs reduce stress

Your canine companion can offer comfort and ease your worries. Multiple studies have revealed dogs help people cope with stress and anxiety. Even just petting a dog lowers blood pressure, slowing the heart rate, relaxing breathing and muscle tension. Scientists at Washington State University have discovered that just 10 minutes of petting a dog can have a significant impact on your general state of health.

Dogs are good for your heart

Owning a dog can help you live longer. Multiple studies published between 1950 and 2019 found that dog owners had a lower risk of death due to heart diseases related illnesses. Studies suggest that dog owners have lower blood pressure levels and improved responses to stress.

Dogs help you to feel less alone

Dogs can be there for you even when people can’t. They offer unconditional love, emotional support, and constant cuddles. An Australian Study discovered that dog ownership reduces loneliness.

Dogs encourage you to get more exercise

A 2019 British Study discovered that dog owners are nearly four times more likely than non-dog owners to meet their daily physical activity goals. It is recommended that you should walk your dog 3 – 4 times per day for at least 15 minutes. 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.

Dogs make us more social

Walking with a canine companion can make us more approachable and offer people a conversation starter. Think about how many times you’ve talked with other people about pets, whether they’re your neighbours or new friends at the dog park. Researchers have found that about 40% of dog owners had an easier time making friends than people that don’t own dogs: these adorable animals are a very efficient way to make new friends. A study at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University has also indicated that people who have a strong relationship with their pets feel more connected in their human relationships and their communities.

Dogs make us happier

Just looking at a dog can lift your spirits: a 2009 study in Japan found that staring into your dog’s eyes raises your level of oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone.” Along with the many health benefits of owning a dog, they are natural mood boosters.

As you can see, there are lots of health and emotional wellbeing benefits that come with owning a dog, which is why you should consider adopting one, as they will change your life for the better. The Bruno Shelter has a lot of dogs in need of a home, so you could consider going there to adopt one. Even if you don’t plan on getting a dog, you can still visit and help out with the dogs.