Dogs Are Good For Your Health!

There are few things that can compare to the unconditional love of a dog, but there are more reasons to love your dog than you probably thought. You might have noticed that you feel better around your dog. That’s because owning a dog can have a positive impact on both your mood and health. They are more than just a cute face and a cuddle buddy; dogs can have positive health benefits for you. Here are just 5 of the health reasons you should own a dog:

1. Playing with a dog lowers your blood pressure.

While your dog is not a substitute for a balanced diet or exercise, there are studies that show that dogs can lower your blood pressure. One reason for this is that dogs tend to force us into adopting a healthier lifestyle. They also help manage our stress levels, which can help decrease your blood pressure.

2. Having a dog helps manage your stress.

Playing with your dog can be a great form of stress management. Being around your dog lowers your body’s production of cortisol, which is the primary stress hormone. It also increases the production of serotonin, which affects your mood and social behavior. The combination of the two contributes to less stress, better overall health, and a greater sense of well-being.

3. Playing with a dog can improve bone strength.

Not only does going outside and playing with your dog increase bone strength because of your increased activity, but it is also is a source of vitamin D. Vitamin D, which comes from the sun, helps your bones stay strong. Going outside is also a good way to get some fresh air.

4. Having a dog is good for your heart.

Obviously, walking and playing with your dog is a good form of exercise. Exercise is known to increase your cardiovascular function, but more than just making your heart stronger, there is also evidence that owning a dog can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Heart attack survivors and people with abnormal heart rhythms who own dogs live longer than those who don’t have dogs. This is probably linked to the increased physical activity and the better psychological state of dog owners.

5. Playing with a dog can decrease your anxiety.

When your dog comes up to you and wants to cuddle, or demands your attention, they are helping you cope with anxiety. That is because they are a distraction, and they refocus your attention away from your anxiety. This is why dogs are a great treatment option for those who suffer from anxiety. In addition to refocusing your attention, the loyalty and love from a dog has been shown to make owners feel better about themselves and make them feel more confident, lowering their anxiety.

Ron Burg writes for Buckhead Paws. Buckhead Paws are the professionals when it comes to pet sitting. Operating for Atlanta and the surrounding area, Buckhead Paws offer quality pet care, as they are Pet-Tech certified. Leaving out of town can be stressful, especially if you have no one to look after your pets while you’re away. Buckhead Paws can help relieve the stress. Visit Buckhead Paws online at buckheadpaws.com.