5 Ways Dogs Literally Make You Healthier

Many people consider dogs man’s best friend because they are great company to have. A lot of people view their furry friend as part of their family, and not just a pet. Aside from being man’s best friend and an absolute joy to have in the home, dogs do a lot more than you realize. There are five ways a dog can make you healthier.

1. Heart Health
Your furry family member promotes a healthy heart. This fact may sound strange, but it’s a fact. Dog owners exercise more than people who are not owners. By walking Fido, you will have lower blood pressure and a healthier, better functioning heart.

2. Stress Free
Dealing with various situations that occur in life on a daily basis can be beyond stressful. Sometimes you may find it difficult to relax or calm yourself. When you pet your dog, you may notice that your stress blows in the wind. Petting your dog feels awesome and is beneficial to you and your dog. As far as the owner is concerned, blood pressure is reduced, the body releases more of the relaxation hormone, and stress hormones decrease in number.

3. Social Ability
Who would have ever thought that owning a dog can help you interact with people? When you are walking your dog, more people feel comfortable coming up to you and socializing with you and your dog.

4. Mood Changes
Dog owners seem to be a lot happier than people who are not dog owners because they are less lonely, because they have a companion. People who are lonely are often unhappy and sad. Your dog gives you a sense of belonging and makes you feel wanted which makes most people happy.

5. Little Family Members
If you have a new addition to your family, such as a baby, many different studies reveal that babies who live in a home with a dog are less susceptible to asthma, allergies, and similar instances.