We’ve all heard the old adage that dogs are a man’s best friend, and they often live up to that stereotype, providing companionship and joy to owners. Our furry friends can do more than just keep us company, however. Did you know that dog ownership can also help your mental health? Dog therapy research has shown that dog owners are often happier and report lower levels of stress, depression and anxiety.
According to a study conducted by the Human and Animal Bond Research Institute, nearly 90 percent of pet owners report improved mental health as a result of caring for an animal. So, what is it about dogs, and pets in general, that can help our mental health and improve our overall well-being?
Dogs Encourage Physical Activity
If you have ever owned a dog, you know that many breeds require physical exercise to keep them healthy and happy. While dogs can run around in a backyard and even get a little exercise inside, they often require us to take them on walks for the best physical outlet.
Dog owners often find that they are more physically active because of their canine friends. That physical activity can result in improved physical health that in turn improves mental health. Many people find stress relief by getting outside and walking, so having the responsibility of a dog waiting on you to take them for a walk can encourage you to do so, even when you don’t really want to.
Dogs Offer Companionship
One of the greatest benefits of owning a dog is the canine companionship that it offers. Those who deal with chronic loneliness can also struggle with negative mental health impacts. Animal-human interaction can reduce loneliness and help pet owners feel needed, wanted and appreciated, which can in turn help with anxiety reduction as well as decrease feelings of depression or worthlessness.
Dogs Promote Social Interaction
In addition to companionship from your pet, you can also get increased social interaction from other humans thanks to your dog. Many dog owners find connections with fellow dog owners when out and about with their pets. It’s not uncommon for that simple commonality to spark a conversation. In addition, simply going out on walks around the neighborhood increases the likelihood that you’ll bump into a neighbor that you might not usually see. Those who feel isolated and would like a way to interact socially may benefit from the pet therapy that comes from owning a dog.
Dogs Add Structure and Routine
A life without structure can lead to a decrease in mental wellness. Dog ownership comes with a lot of responsibility as well as structure. Dogs require regular care, through feeding, grooming and other general pet care tasks. Pets thrive on structure, and dogs, especially do well being fed, bathed and put to bed on a schedule. Those dealing with mental health concerns may find that having the added structure and routine that comes with caring for a dog can help reduce their symptoms and provide something to look forward to on a daily basis.
Dogs Offer Sensory Stress Relief
According to HelpGuide.org, petting your dog can provide quick, stress-lowering relief. Those who rely on sensory input to deal with negative feelings or stress may find that their blood pressure decreases and they are able to relax more quickly. You can turn your pet into your very own therapy dog when you sit down for a cuddle and pet session.
Potential Issues Associated With Dog Ownership
It’s important to remember that some types of therapy are needed above and beyond the support and companionship that a pet or emotional support animal can provide. Severe mental illness often requires more intensive therapy and medication. While dogs and other pets can certainly provide a measure of assistance in such cases, working with a medical professional is likely to have better results.
In addition, those who are allergic to dogs will probably not benefit from dog ownership. Being healthy and avoiding potentially dangerous allergic reactions is much more important than the benefits that dog owners may enjoy.
Animal-assisted therapy can provide relief for many mental health conditions. Living with a dog can increase happiness, reduce loneliness and improve overall mental and physical well-being.
