A dog can be a wonderful addition to our families. They make us laugh, are happy to see us, give us plenty of cuddles, and encourage us to play. In addition to everything that makes dogs great, they also make us healthier and enrich our lives. Here are a few ways dogs can improve our health:

1. Less Stress and Boosted Mood

There’s a reason dogs make great service, support, and therapy animals. Dogs help you stress less and boost your mood. The simple act of being in the same room as your dog can calm you down. And, petting your dog can lower your blood pressure and help you relax. Petting and cuddling your dog often soothes your dog and also soothes you too.

Plus, dogs boost your mood. Our pets bring us joy, make us happy, and love us unconditionally. Whether making you laugh with their comedic antics or making you have fun with some playtime, spending time with your dog makes you feel better. They’re also always willing to listen to you and offer you plenty of cuddles.

2. Improved Overall Health

Dogs require activity and exercise, which often means more exercise for you too. On top of regular exercise, your dog also helps you have a healthier heart. Due to walking more and stressing less, you’re less likely to develop heart disease when you have a dog and it can even help keep your cholesterol in check. Even if you’ve already had heart problems, having a dog around to keep you company and keep you active helps you heal and live a longer life.

3. Better Social Life

Dogs can also help you gain a better social life. At the very least, you have to leave the house to take them on walks. Dogs, especially those that are open and friendly to strangers, attract people and can help you connect with them. In addition to making contact out on walks, you also have opportunities to socialize with other dog owners by going to classes, dog parks, or dog-related events.

4. Sense of Security

We take care of our dogs and they take care of us too. Several people who live alone worry about intruders or burglars. Dogs, even if that’s not why you got them, often help ease this worry. Intruders and burglars are less likely to break into a house with a barking dog.

They’re looking for an easy target and a barking dog makes things more complicated. Aside from providing a sense of security for your home, snuggling with your dog can be like a security blanket for your soul. Just spending time with them can make you feel less lonely.

Dogs can improve our health in many ways and certainly improve our lives simply by being in them. All of these and more are also how dogs help the elderly and help us all. Be sure to give your dog some extra love and care to return the favor.