Anyone who has a dog knows how much fun and affection they bring into daily life. But dogs also come with some genuine health benefits — which may be part of why roughly 62% of U.S. households have one. Here are five reasons dogs are good for your health.
1. They get you moving
It's hard to be a couch potato with a dog in the house. Daily walks get you out of the house, keep you active, and simply help you feel better.
2. They connect you to a community
Dogs come with real social benefits. Walking your dog around the neighborhood, at the park, or even connecting with other dog owners online gives you more chances to feel connected to the people around you — and dogs make an easy conversation starter.
3. They lower stress and support your mood
Simply having a dog in the room has been shown to help reduce stress in high-pressure moments, and studies suggest petting a dog can lower stress hormones while raising serotonin and oxytocin — the hormones tied to feeling relaxed and at peace.
4. They're good for your heart
According to the CDC, owning a dog is associated with a greater chance of surviving a heart attack, and can help support healthier cholesterol levels overall.
5. They boost your mood
Beyond the physical benefits, dogs simply make people happy. The combination of companionship, activity, and the calming effect of their presence adds up to a real mood boost.
Staying active, with or without a dog
Whether or not a dog is part of your routine, staying consistently active is one of the best things you can do for your joints, your mood, and your overall health. If pain is getting in the way of walks, hikes, or keeping up with an energetic dog, the team at Empower Physical Therapy & Wellness can help you move comfortably again.
