Ways Owning a Dog Will Improve Your Health

Have you thought about owning a dog, but have been on the fence? You may be surprised to learn that dog ownership can provide many health benefits.

Dog owners tend to exercise more than those who don't own dogs. Dogs love to walk and run, so they'll get you out of the house and in your running shoes. Your dog's unbridled enthusiasm may help you get more positive about exercising each day. A dog will help you exercise on days when you might have put it off, because the responsibility to your pet will motivate you. You can try other forms of exercise with your dog, too. Find out if your dog likes to swim, or teach him how to play fetch. All of these outside activities with your dog will get you moving, and that's the key to healthy living.

Owning a dog will help your blood pressure. When doctors studied pet ownership and health benefits, they discovered petting your dog lowers your blood pressure. The next time your dog wants a scratch behind the ears, settle in for a long rub down, realizing you are benefitting from the experience as much as he is.

Owning a dog attracts attention from other dog lovers, which can result in meaningful social connections. Even in big cities like New York City, where people don’t talk to each other much, people find dogs to be a good ice breaker. If you visit doggie parks and pet stores, you'll find plenty of people who love to talk to you about your pet. It's important to have positive interactions with other people, and your dog can bring those interactions to you.

It's been determined that dog ownership helps with emotional strength and resilience. Studies reveal that a dog's unconditional love and zest for life actually helps people recover from disappointment and handle stress better. Dog owners live longer than those who don’t own pets at all. If you find yourself struggling with negative emotions, a dog may be the answer.

Want to live your healthiest life possible? Maybe it’s time to take a trip to the Humane Society and see if your new best friend is waiting for you.