The benefits of owning a dog range from lifting moods to lowering disease risks. The Harvard Medical School report, “Get Healthy, Get a Dog,” shares evidence that dogs aren’t just loyal companions, they’re also good for your health.
Compared to non-owners, dog owners have lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels, and a lower risk of heart disease. Mental health benefits of owning a dog include being less likely to feel lonely, anxious, or depressed.
Other experts, including the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Kennel Club (AKC), also cite the science-based health benefits of having a dog. Dogs help keep you active, healthy, social and engaged in life. They balance contagious enthusiasm with deep empathy and a desire to love and serve others unconditionally.
Dogs nudge you – sometimes literally – to get up and move. They want to tag along to pet-friendly places. They urge you to go outside to walk, run, or play. They motivate you to meet and greet others you might otherwise overlook. Pet-friendly “dog moms” and other fans know that dogs earn their frequent “Good dog!” praise.