Moreover, pets bring us joy and unconditional love. Dogs Teach us to Find the Joy in Each Day Here are some more just like it: Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Dog owners tend to have more daily physical activity than people who do not have a dog. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. As you engage in these exercises with your dog, your physical and mental health will be improved. I agree that feelings of loneliness can be debilitating, so it’s great that dogs can help with that. 2. They serve us in return for scraps. Cortisol, the stress hormone, is released by the body which can affect a good night’s sleep. There are A LOT of dog lovers in the world. The Mental Health Benefits of Owning a Pet. Taking care of your dog’s needs shows that you are capable of taking care of another life. Spending time with your dog isn’t quite as valuable as spending time with other people in this regard, but it is occasionally the only way to combat loneliness. The number one thing that a dog is going to help you with is making you more social. Fortunately, this list of the mental health benefits of owning a dog shows how much difference a furry friend can make in your life. Take 10% off with our link. Rain or shine, they will be there for you day-after-day. We are the focus of their love and faith and trust. They come in all shapes and sizes in over 195 different breeds. Having a dog creates structure in your day. This will only help if you heed your dog’s advice and breakaway from the conflict, but the gentle reminder provided by your dog is often enough to convince most people to take a break, calm down and revisit the issue later. Play is not only important for children; adults also benefit from regular recreation. You might visit the doctor less. 7. Unconditional love is enormously beneficial to your mental health. And don’t just take our word for it. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. There are many health benefits of owning a pet. That means their owners need to go with them. Maybe we’ll get her a dog so that she’ll have some way to feel loved and accepted here. You’ll find yourself talking with other dog owners and petting other people’s canines. While dogs aren’t a “cure-all” solution, the mental health benefits of dogs are undeniable. Pets, especially dogs and cats, can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/.../the-health-benefits-and-risks-of-pet-ownership The dog is the favorite pet animal. 3. 8 mental and physical health benefits of owning a dog. In his spare time, you can find him watching reruns of Star Trek: TNG with his dog. In fact, dogs not only improve our mental health, but they also boost our physical and social health too. A dog comes with unexpected mental health benefits. An Australian survey found that dog owners make fewer visits to the GP in a year and are less likely to be on ... 2. They’ll just sit there while trying to figure out how to love you best. Enjoyed reading this post? So, you must think carefully about becoming a dog owner and ensure that you are prepared to deal with the ups and downs of dog ownership. The study of science shows several psychological and health benefits of having a dog as a pet. Your feedback is important! Randy Withers, LCMHC is a Board-Certified and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor at a private practice in North Carolina where he specializes in co-occurring disorders. DISCLOSURE:This post contains affiliate links. If you deal with anxiety and/or depression, a pup might just be the best medicine. There are a lot of proven mental and physical health benefits of dog ownership, including reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and even a heightened immune system. When you own a dog, you are responsible for the life of another being. You might be surprised at how many ways dogs can improve mental health, helping you to feel better and enjoy a more positive outlook on life. Categories: Pet Care. Even those who aren’t compelled to add a dog to their family are usually unable to suppress a grin when they see a dog playing in the snow or acting guilty when caught investigating the trash. It’s a blog about mental health matters, addictions, relationships, and parenting. At the end of the day, they are the ones who show up for you. Studies reveal that playing with a dog can release oxytocin and dopamine, which promotes positive emotions. Take this free quiz to find out, then get matched with a licensed therapist with BetterHelp. Meaningful social interactions are terrific for your mental health. And although you should always seek professional help if you are frightened of a partner or family member, a loyal dog can help you feel a little safer while working through the issue. If you’re feeling lonely, they fill up the void with their cuteness and loving spirit. They also provide social and emotional support for – as one study calls them – “everyday people.” So even if you feel like you’ve got everything under control and wake up smiling every day, a dog may help you feel even better. You’ll also get more Vitamin D by going outside regularly, which will help keep your bones strong and your immune system operating at peak capacity. People come and go, personalities clash, and feelings get hurt. The act of caring about others, also known as altruism, encourages positive physiological changes in individuals. DISCLOSURE: Blunt Therapy relies on support from its readers. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Dogs provide unconditional love and a sense of emotional support, alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety, improve physical health, encourage playfulness and laughter, reduce blood pressure and muscle tension, along with many other positive effects. Amongst humans,... Two: Dogs Force you to Be More Sociable. Here are some of the science-backed ways that our dogs can help us cope with difficult circumstances and stay well. ”Whoever said you can’t buy happiness forgot little puppies.”, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”, “You will never know loneliness when you have a dog, when you lose that dog it will be loneliness like you’ve never known.”, Dogs have given us their absolute all. Social interaction lightens your mood, lowers your risk of dementia, strengthens your sense of belonging, and eases loneliness. Owning a pet may increase physical activity. They won’t argue with you or hurt your feelings. Share 0. The benefits of owning a dog include a boost in health, happiness and life purpose. Owning one can reduce feelings of isolation, feelings of loneliness and even depression. Experiencing this gives you the freedom to be yourself, and that is powerful. Dog ownership is a unique and amazing experience. ... Pets are wonderful conversation starters, whether you’re walking your dog in the park or posting a photo of your new cat online, a cute dog or cat can help humans connect over their mutual love of their pets and shared experiences of owning a pet. There are endless accounts of people who have experienced a boost in mood and overall mental health after taking in a pet. A new dog never replaces an old dog. Dogs change people’s lives. Recent scientific research validates the positive correlation between dog ownership and emotional well-being. "A therapist's blog about mental health matters.". Belgian Malinois Vs German Shepherd: How Are They Different. He has master’s degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University and Education from Florida State University, and is the managing editor of Blunt Therapy. There have been decades of studies about the physical and mental health benefits of spending time with dogs. This post contains affiliate links. Dogs have daily, unwavering needs that you’ll have to satisfy on a day-in, day-out basis. ... Are you aware that there are considerable health benefits from having a dog as a member of your home? Mental Health Benefits of Owning a Dog. But humans aren’t the only ones that can provide this type of unflinching support and affection – dogs can too. Many dog owners have better overall physical health thanks to the exercise they get with their pets. Physical activity and increased social supports (i.e., families and friends) have protective effects on mental health. They don’t judge a human’s social skills or athletic ability. But dogs aren’t merely entertaining – there are actually several benefits of dog ownership. You come home, they’re thrilled to see you. Animals help with depression, anxiety, and stress. The altruism that you experience as a dog owner promotes healthy habits and improves overall mental health and wellbeing. Keep scrolling to discover more great pet-related tips and advice on our blog. When it goes to the bathroom, you’re going to need to clean it up. We are the center of their universe. Oxytocin generally makes you feel great, and it is often colloquially called the “love hormone.” And the great thing about this aspect of dog-human relationships is that you don’t need to do anything special to enjoy the benefit – simply pull your dog up on to your lap and look deeply into his eyes while petting him gently. The Mental Health Benefits of Owning a Dog. The mental health benefits of dogs are clear. https://canineweekly.com/the-mental-health-benefits-of-dog-ownership They’re unwavering in their loyalty to human beings. They can … Most dog owners know about the joys which are a part of sharing life with dogs. Owning an active dog is an excellent motivator for daily exercise. You may even find other dog owners out on a walk with their own dogs. As new research demonstrates, the same process happens when you stare into your dog’s eyes, and it has many of the same benefits mothers and babies enjoy. Now offering professional life coaching services to select clients. Let me know if you liked this post. 7 Steps You Need To Take If You Want To Heal From Narcissistic Abuse, 58 Mental Health Blogs You’ve Never Heard Of That Totally Nail It in 2021, Facebook Depression: A Simple (But Complete) Guide, How To Get The Most Out Of Online Therapy, According To A Therapist, The 6 Best Breathing Exercises for Anxiety and Mental Health, How To Stay Productive While Working From Home During The Pandemic, What To Do If Your Teen is Using Drugs: 7 Tips For Parents. He writes about mental health, therapy, and addictions. Dogs provide their owners with much more than companionship alone, though. It is a basic psychological need. Check out the psychological benefits of owning a dog below. Please see our disclosure policy for more details. Licensed Therapist and Managing Editor of Blunt Therapy. Besides the general health benefits of owning a dog, they are natural mood boosters. Tweet 0. If something is bothering you or you’re not feeling great, it allows you to step back, calm down, and tackle things when you’re feeling more whole. However, you don’t have to limit your interactions to members of your own species – you can also spend time with your dog. Use a human name; anchor text will be deleted. Walking a dog regularly is an excellent way to keep active. It is true, and some of them can actually extend your life. The unconditional love provided by a child, parent or spouse is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world. Dogs love their owners without any condition or boundation. In fact, growing up with a dog can be greatly beneficial for a child’s development and overall mental health. Science has shown that dogs have an overwhelmingly positive effect on our mental health. Disclaimer: All content and media on Blunt Therapy is created and published online for informational purposes only. The content on this page was last updated on February 6, 2021 by Randy Withers, LCMHC. Leave your answer in the comments below! There are numerous mental health benefits of owning a dog, among which few are listed below: 1. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. This is part of the reason dogs are often used in therapy contexts for children on the autism spectrum, as well as seniors and those with PTSD. You could be less anxious. And because your dog will need to go outside at least three times each day, you’ll enjoy an improvement in your general mood several times a day. Pets also provide valuable companionship for older adults. On top of being cute, the mental health benefits of dogs are clear. Dogs – especially big dogs – require a lot of care and attention, and they’ll occasionally poop on the floor, chew up your shoes or knock over your trashcan while seeking out tasty treats. Dogs provide a great way to do this, as they’re always ready to play or sit in your lap for a while, allowing you to take a brief mental vacation. Unfortunately, few adults find the time to engage in play, but it can be hard to resist when a furry-four-footer is giving you eyes and dropping his ball at your feet. How can owning a dog help with mental health problems? Dogs are social creatures, and it doesn’t take them very long to make friends. In short, there are many health benefits of owning a dog. If you already own one, take a knee, scratch their ears, and thank them for it. They give you purpose, reduce stress and anxiety, improve your social life, provide endless love, and enhance your physical wellbeing. When you’re with your dog, you’re with a caring and loyal friend, and you’ll always feel the love. I need something that can get me to relax and unwind a bit more when I get home each night, and I think a puppy would be perfect. While this is true, having a canine in the home brings mental health benefits that make it worth it. 5 Reasons Your Kid Should Grow Up with a Large Dog, 10 Extra-Large Dog Breeds For Huge Dog Lovers, The 10 Most Affectionate Large Dog Breeds. A therapist's blog about mental health matters. In fact, the companionship provided by dogs can be especially valuable for those who have difficulty forming relationships with other people. In the short-term, exercise produces endorphins and enkephalins, also known as feel-good hormones. By Jacky. Dog ownership is suggested to improve mental well-being, although empirical evidence among community dog owners is limited. According to the data, 74% of world people love to have a dog as a pet. Some of the best stress-relieving activities simply take your mind off your worries for a while. While you may not relish your dog’s need for a 6AM bathroom break, the structure it provides to your life can help ward off depression and improve your sense of self-worth. Owning a dog can prompt you to be more physically active—have leash, will walk.This Special Health Report, Get Healthy, Get a Dog: The health benefits of canine companionship, shows how having a dog can also reduce feelings of … Dog owners know that their furry friends offer unparalleled companionship. Plus, get a FREE Therapy eBook when you subscribe! When you’re out-and-about walking your dog, you’re bound to find people who are going to want to pet your dog. Even if you are only taking a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood with him, you’ll get a bit of exercise in the process. Blunt Therapy is your source for tips, articles, and advice about the mental health topics that matter to you, from a licensed therapist who’s been there. Dogs will love you no matter what. Caring for an animal can help children grow up more secure and active. They’re a natural ice breaker and a great conversation topic. A Guide to the Mental Health Benefits of Owning a Dog. They also fulfill humans’ fundamental need for touch. But I think we both understand that we don’t always need science to tell us what we already know to be true. Readers of Blunt Therapy enjoy 10% off their subscription. Dogs stave off loneliness It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made.”, “The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog.”, “Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, and filling an emptiness we didn’t ever know we had.”, “Dogs come into our lives to teach us about love, they depart to teach us about loss. There’s just something about dogs that makes people smile and the mental health benefits of dog ownership can’t be understated. Start by checking out our popular articles on Canine Weekly and learning everything you can about your soon-to-be-pet before signing adoption paperwork or making a purchase. A dog’s relationship with humans is none of these things. Just make sure you choose the right one for your family so that all members, including the newest edition, are happy with the arrangement. According to several measures, mental health in the United States is facing a steep decline, and there is no indication that this trend will reverse itself. And don’t worry: You can even derive these benefits on cloudy days, as many of the sun’s rays will penetrate the clouds. They also understand that owning a pet can be expensive and is a huge responsibility. On top of that, exercising with your dog will redirect your focus and take your mind off other things. Benefits include increased self-esteem, a greater sense of purpose, and an optimistic disposition. We carried out a study with Cats Protection in 2011 which involved over 600 cat- and non-cat-owning respondents, with half of them describing themselves as currently having a mental health problem. Unconditional love is non-judgmental, pure, and profound. This includes not only meals and regular bathroom trips but affection, attention and the opportunity to exercise. Your dog may even come to your defense if he feels that you are being attacked. You could have lower risk of cardiovascular disease. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. The stability that comes from unconditional love can significantly improve your life. © 2018-2021 Randy Withers, LCMHC. Pets can help your body as well as your mind. They’re good for the ego.”. are 60% more likely than non-pet owners to meet new neighbors, elevated blood pressure or develop heart disease, found that owning pets improved their patients’ outlook and mood, According to University of South Australia researchers, Pets can help their humans create friendships, find social support – Harvard Health Blog, Oxytocin and Cortisol Levels in Dog Owners and Their Dogs Are Associated with Behavioral Patterns: An Exploratory Study, Dog ownership and the risk of cardiovascular disease and death – a nationwide cohort study, Paws for Thought: A Controlled Study Investigating the Benefits of Interacting with a House-Trained Dog on University Students Mood and Anxiety, Shareable Infographic: Top 5 Mental Health Benefits Of Pets | HABRI, Pets, touch, and COVID-19: health benefits from non-human touch through times of stress, Psychosocial and Psychophysiological Effects of Human-Animal Interactions: The Possible Role of Oxytocin. In short, dogs are wonderful for your mental health. This could include anything from swimming to agility trials to just wrestling on the living room floor. Petting a dog can stop threat and stress responses in our brains, lower your blood pressure and heart rate, and increase serotonin and dopamine. If you click and buy we may make a commission, at no additional charge to you. Responsibility promotes healthy mental wellbeing. It is possible that animals, particularly the family dog, might also be a source of social support and provide a potential buffer of stress and consequently lower levels of depression incidence in … We’ll help you get smart about mental health! Anytime you go outside and enjoy some fresh air and – most importantly – sunshine, your brain will release endorphins, which will elevate your mood. Support Social Connection Reviewed for accuracy by Randy Withers, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS. Connect with him on, 5 Mental Health Benefits of Dogs, According To Science, Three: Dogs Help Reduce Depression and Anxiety, Four: Dogs will help you increase your daily physical activity, Bonus: Quotes That Prove The Mental Health Benefits of Dogs, Dogs And Mental Health : The “paw”-tom line, How To Stop Cutting: 7 Self-Harm Reduction Techniques That Actually Work, How To Use Nature To Reduce Your Anxiety Starting Today. Enjoy the following quotes that illustrate the mental health benefits of dogs all on their own. Then, get matched with a licensed therapist via video, phone, or text. If you get a dog, get ready for endless love. According to a survey by HABRI, 87% of physicians found that owning pets improved their patients’ outlook and mood. Chances are, they’ll let you. According to University of South Australia researchers, 90% of respondents said touching their pets was soothing and comforting. However, while it is clear that dogs can help to improve the lives of their owners (and most other people they encounter), it doesn’t mean that everyone should add a dog to their family. When you’re more playful you’re actually exercising different parts of … In fact, this unconditional love may be part of the reason that pets appear to reduce stress more than spouses or friends do, in some circumstances. Dogs enjoy playing in a variety of different ways, so it is always a good idea to introduce your dog to games and activities that you enjoy too. May 24, 2018. The Mental Health Benefits of Owning a Dog. Plans start at $60/week. As an affiliate of programs including Amazon and BetterHelp, we make commissions from qualifying sales. By Nicole Abrego. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve your mood and fight off depression, but it is also good for your cardiovascular health and it helps to prevent obesity and diabetes, among other ailments. In the United States, more than 50 million people suffer from depression and anxiety. Those with AIDS are less likely to suffer from depression if they own a pet, according to a 2017 study. 1. Just looking at a puppy — or even better, petting and playing with one — can lift your spirits instantly. Oxytocin is the chemical released by the brain when a mother stares into the eyes of her newborn baby. It is their unconditional love that makes and keeps people happy. These handsome boys (and girls) are there to celebrate all your good days and are rays of sunshine on your dark days. Can you relate to these gems? That’s a good point that it’s hard to resist a cute dog that wants to play, even if you think you don’t have time! The simple and repetitive act of petting a dog helps to reduce stress, which is part of the rationale behind the use of dogs in some therapy contexts. When researchers tracked the recovery of patients who’d suffered from heart attacks, they found that patients with dogs recovered more quickly. Many are unaware of the powerful mental health benefits that accompany cuddling up or adventuring with their furry friend. My daughter feels very alone right now, and since she keeps shutting me out, I’m not sure what to do next. Most dogs require regular exercise, so you’ll need to take Fido for regular walks, allow him to accompany you on your daily jog or take him to the park to toss around the frisbee. A pet dog can improve your mental and physical health. We may receive compensation from BetterHelp, TalkSpace, Online-Therapy, or other sources if you purchase products or services through the links provided throughout this website. Other than just putting a smile on your face each and every day, other pros of owning a pet include mindfulness, a greater sense of purpose, and undying support into your heart and home. We simply cannot thrive without it. 8 physical and mental health benefits of owning a dog. Physical activity reduces your risk for obesity, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and premature death, which can all affect your mental health. But the emotional benefits of a canine companion are easy to see and feel. These benefits probably relate to a dog’s ability to lower your cortisol levels, but the actual mechanism at work isn’t yet clear. Just petting an animal for a short period can boost your mood and sense of well-being! Some people go the extra mile (literally) and go hiking, biking, or jogging with their furry companion. Dog mental health benefits: “In lockdown, my dog taught me the importance of slowing down” ... but having my own dog has taken my love to a whole other level. It merely expands the heart.”, “I’m a lot less cranky when it’s just me and my dog.”, “When an 85 pound mammal licks your tears away, and then tries to sit on your lap, it’s hard to feel sad.”, “You know, a dog can snap you out of any kind of bad mood that you’re in faster than you can think of.”, “Does not the gratitude of the dog put to shame any man who is ungrateful to his benefactors?”, “There’s just something about dogs that makes you feel good. Dogs love unconditionally, making their humans feel valued. Here Are My Top Tips for Dealing with Anxiety? Dogs are typically very in tune with their family’s emotions, and they’ll often try to step in and stop conflicts in the interest of familial harmony. In fact, petting a dog (it doesn’t even have to be your dog) helps to reduce stress in two ways: As when you gaze into a dog’s eyes, petting a dog triggers your brain to release oxytocin, and it also reduces the amount of cortisol (one of the primary hormones involved in the human stress response) released too.
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