You see a dog in your neighborhood shelter and you think you’re in love with it. However, you’re just not certain whether your life could use a pet or not. Well, these 8 reasons might just convince you to brave it out and get one.
Dog owners can manage stress better.
Tired from a long day at work? Studies have shown that just 15 to 30 minutes of playing with your dog can help you manage your stress levels better. It’s close to having a baby by your side and experiencing peace with just their company. The only difference is babies will wake you up in the middle of the night. Dogs (unless you’re getting newborn puppies) are not as needy.
Dog owners get enough exercise.
In this largely sedentary world, we live in, it’s difficult to remember to exercise. Those who own dogs, however, are forced by sheer responsibility to walk their pooch. This and walking your dog is just more enjoyable than spending the hour training on a treadmill. The regular exercise, aside from keeping dog owners fit, also help keep stress at bay.
Dog owners are less likely to get sick.
Probably because having a pet in the house somehow builds up your immunity, you are less likely to suffer from minor cold viruses when you have a dog. We can take it up a notch by saying that some dogs are naturally inclined to smell cancer and other illnesses in your body. If there’s something wrong with you, your pet pooch can warn you about it.
Kids who grew up with dogs are less likely to have asthma.
If having a kid is your reason for not having a pet, think again. You might be missing out. Kids who grew up with dogs develop stronger immunity. They are less likely to suffer from asthma and skin allergies. Those who grew up in hyper-clean surrounding will most likely suffer from these conditions. Have a baby? A dog is a really good companion.
Dog owners, including children, develop better social skills.
We are not quite sure if it’s because dog owners are pulled out of their houses and brought straight to the park to interact with other dog owners, or it’s simply the company of the furry pets that make them better adjusted to society. Whatever it is, if you are a dog owner, you are most probably more sociable too. At least compared to someone who only has gadgets for company.
Dog owners are less likely to suffer from anxiety and depression.
Dogs are warm creatures by nature. They are extremely loyal. Their owners enjoy these traits and are less likely to be depressed or socially anxious simply because they are there. Remember the old saying that a dog is a man’s best friend? If you want someone who will listen to your woes and keep you company when you’re feeling sad, a dog might prove to be a worthier companion compared to most humans.
Dogs make good service animals.
For some reason, a dog is just a better companion overall compared to a cat, especially if you are sick or disabled. With the right training, they can even become excellent service- or therapy animals. Those who are recovering from injuries, or are permanently disabled, might find that a dog is a valuable friend to have. When you take good care of them, they do more than just pay you back the favor. They give you unconditional love and could help you lead a normal life again.
You have not really experienced loyalty until you’ve had a dog.
Not even human companions can compare to the kind of love and loyalty a dog can give you. If you have watched Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009), you’ll know the bond between a dog and its owner is incomparable. Now, if that’s not enough to make you want to have a dog, nothing will. Watch the film.