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Dogs are more than a man’s best friend. This friendship may feel one-sided when you get an outrageous veterinarian bill or share of responsibilities. However, pet ownership offers a variety of Health benefits. Scientific studies have proven that Dog owners are generally healthier than the average person. Aside from the unconditional love and companionship, dogs contribute to the physical, mental and social well-being of its owner. Check out these surprising benefits of having a dog.

Increased Exercise Opportunities

Dogs are highly likely to beg for a walk or a game of fetch compared to other house pets. This is not surprising to Dog Owners who walk their dogs regularly. A mere 30-minute walk every day can greatly improve your health. Over time, your body gets additional exercise through these short walks. It is a great alternative when you don’t hit the gym often. The exercise is not aggressive on your leg muscles and avoids injuries from hard exercise. This effect extends to both adult and children dog owners. Studies show that making a commitment to walking your dog helps cut some weight.

Early Disease Detection

Some dogs use their amazing sense of smell to detect cancer. There have been many reports of dogs sniffing a cancerous lump on their owner’s body. Early detection of cancer can save lives. Dogs also have the ability to sense when their owner’s blood sugar drops through behavioral changes. Training your dog to relay this information is therefore important. They already come with these great gifts, you just need to help them relay this information to you.

Promote Social Interaction

Socializing and interacting can be a challenge. Your dog is an automatic conversation starter when walking your dog or when playing in the park. Common comments and questions from dog lovers include “He/she is so cute!” and “What breed are they?” These simple interactions prompt an instant social connection. If you are shy, your dog can increase your confidence. There are a variety of social media networks for pet lovers. They help fans post selfies and share ideas with an interested pet community.

Pets for Mental Health

Do puppies help with anxiety? Research validates that dogs not only help with anxiety but also depression. There is an undeniable positive correlation between pets and mental health. They bring us joy and love. Animal-assisted therapy programs have also helped combat these mental issues. Owning an emotional support dog increases our self-esteem. There are also therapy dogs that help patients struggling with loneliness or grief. Dogs help patients cope with these issues and feel a lot better about themselves and life. These are but a few reasons why having a dog is good.

Boost Immunity

According to a recent study, children who are brought up around pets are more resistant to allergies. Dogs expose their owners to a lot of diseases causing germs. This helps in building a human’s immunity. The owner’s immunity system is kept on constant alert. This over time makes them develop a stronger immune system as compared to the average person.

Relieve Stress

The bond between humans and animals is powerful. Pets increase your oxytocin and lower your cortisol, the stress hormone. The simple act of stroking your dog causes a calming effect on your body. Dogs can also act as an excellent distraction. Their playful and carefree nature teaches us to live in the moment. Veterans suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience less stress in the presence of a pet. This calming effect reduces the frequency of triggers they experience. They are an example of deeply traumatized people who benefit from having a dog around.

Promote Happiness

Are people our only source of happiness? The answer is NO. Owning a pet can improve your sense of happiness. They help maintain a positive and optimistic mindset towards life. Past research found that people facing health challenges fare better with pets. Furthermore, dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression. Pet attachment plays an important role in regulating emotions.

Boosts Heart Health

Petting a dog reduces your heart rate. The risk of a heart attack is low on dog owners compared to non-dog owners. Pet owners are reported to have low cholesterol and lower blood pressure. These health benefits should lead to a longer and enjoyable life.

Having a dog around has its benefits. They may cost you a few pennies for their upkeep but, the cost will always be worthwhile. Their good natured personalities and loyalty are just a few of the benefits you will enjoy. If you are looking for a long-term friend who’ll always be therefore you getting a dog could be one way to fill this gap.

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Author Bio: Riya is an inspired writer writing in several areas of expertise. With spending her years working marketing communication, Riya is delighted to work with aspiring small business owners. Connect with Riya on Twitter, @sanderriya.