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7 Surprising Health Benefits of Owning a Dog

A dog is more than a friend. He can help you handle everyday stress and make your life better. According to the latest studies, pet owners tend to be happier and healthier than the average person. Having a dog keeps you active, calms your mind, and adds years to your life. It may also help reduce your blood pressure, improve immune function, and boost your mood.

Still not convinced? Check out the surprising benefits of owning a dog:

It Relieves Stress

Studies indicate that it only takes 15 to 30 minutes with your dog to feel calm and relaxed. Dogs boost your mood and relieve stress. When you play with your furry friend, the levels of serotonin and dopamine in your brain increase. This helps reduce tension and anxiety, making you happy. Dog owners have a lower risk of depress than people without pets.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Owning a dog helps lower blood pressure and boost cardiovascular health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who have dogs are less likely to develop hypertension because of their low stress levels.

Prevents Allergies

Children who own a dog have a stronger immune system. Their risk of developing allergies is up to 33 percent lower compared to their peers. They are also less likely to have asthma, eczema, atopic dermatitis, and bacterial infections. Exposure to dogs in infancy has a positive impact on children’s immune development and reduces their allergy risk later in life.

Wards Off Diseases

Having a pet is good for your health and can even lower your risk of chronic diseases. Studies indicate that dog owners are sick less often and sleep better at night. They also have lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, fewer heart attacks, and a healthier body weight. A dog can change your life for the better by improving your emotional and physical health.

Keeps You Fit

Taking your dog to the park or on a walk at the seaside will keep you fit. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of exercise, stay physically active, and have fun. If you carry extra pounds, you’ll slim down and boost your fitness. Walking and running strengthens your bones, prevents back pain, and improves muscle tone.

Helps Prevent Cancer

Researchers have found that dogs have the ability to detect cancer cells in the human body. Their great sense of smell helps them sniff out cancer better than many lab tests. Currently, several hospitals and clinics are using dogs to detect tumors.

Improves Your Social Skills

Walking your dog helps you be more social and self-confident. A British study has shown that 40 percent of dog owners reported making friends easier after adopting a pet. Children who own a dog have better social skills and develop a positive self-image. Taking your dog out for a walk leads to more conversations with other people and helps you stay socially connected, which lowers your risk of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.

There are many other reasons to get a dog. Pet ownership will improve your health on every level. Dogs can make you a better person, boost your self-esteem, and help your kids grow stronger.