Unconditional love. Devoted communication. Constant entertainment. Most of us dog lovers know that life is better with a dog. But is this knowledge based on feeling or is there something else at work? There is: Science.
Spending time with canine companions does wonders for your well-being. Recent research shows that having a dog is beneficial both physically and emotionally. Dogs make us happier, healthier, and help us deal with crises—and can even help you get a date. Read on to learn about 10 science-backed benefits of owning a dog.
Dogs make us feel less lonely
Dogs can be there for you even when people can't. They offer unconditional love, emotional support and constant hugs that help prevent social isolation. A small Australian study found that owning a dog reduces feelings of loneliness.
A national survey of pet owners and non-pet owners conducted by the Human-Animal Bonding Research Institute found that 85 percent of respondents believe that interacting with pets reduces feelings of loneliness. Most agree that human-pet interaction can help alleviate social isolation.
Preserving and strengthening the bond between dog and person
When does the dog-human bond become strong? And what should be done in order to preserve and strengthen it? Such questions often arise among owners of four-legged pets.
A bond with a dog is formed from the first day it arrives in your home. Over time, this connection is constantly strengthened. But in order for you and your pet to look in the same direction, so that there is complete mutual understanding between you, you must constantly devote a lot of time and attention to your four-legged one.
The more you work with your dog, play, teach him various sports, and simply don’t leave him alone at home, but on every occasion, and for no reason, as they say, “drag” him with you, the more your little tail becomes attached to you. , feels your support and love, feels protected.
Regardless of breed, size and color, these wonderful animals have long served us faithfully. Sincerely, devotedly. So let us also sincerely love these beautiful animals that were sent to humanity by heaven itself.
Dogs are good for your heart
A dog will help you live longer. A comprehensive review of studies published between 1950 and 2022 found that dog owners have a lower risk of death. Research shows that dog owners have lower blood pressure levels and an improved response to stress.
© shutterstock
Even just living with a dog makes a difference—people who had experienced previous coronary events had an even higher rate of reduced risk of death. Research has shown that the bond between people and dogs reduces stress, which is a leading cause of cardiovascular problems.
Allergies and asthma
Photo from psychcentral.com
Surely you have heard about allergies to dander contained in the fur of cats and dogs.
But, surprisingly, having pets at home early in a child's life reduces the risk of developing allergies and asthma in later years.
To date, a huge amount of data has accumulated indicating that shifts in the microbiome (the genetic composition of all microorganisms inhabiting the human body) are associated with an increase in cases of autoimmune diseases in general and asthma in particular. This is confirmed by an American study published in 2016.
Scientists studied the composition of the intestinal microflora of 130 month-old infants, and then examined their health at the ages of two and four years. There was a clear connection between the composition of the microflora in children and the subsequent risk of asthma.
When the researchers looked at socioeconomic factors that influence the disease, they found that a child's risk of asthma was reduced if there was a dog in the home.
“Lifestyles have changed most dramatically in recent decades,” said Professor Susan Lynch, lead author of the study. “We have significantly reduced our exposure to environmental microbes. "The presence of a dog can bring the outside environment back into the home, and this is one way to expand a child's microbial profile early in life."
By the way, the dog is not unique in this regard. Here, for example, is an earlier study from the US National Institutes of Health, which suggests that for a child under one year old, being close to a cat also reduces the likelihood of developing various types of allergies.
Dogs help you stop being nervous
Your canine companion can provide comfort and ease your worries. Numerous studies show that dogs help reduce stress and anxiety.
Even just touching a familiar dog lowers blood pressure, lowers heart rate, slows breathing, and relieves muscle tension. Scientists at Washington State University have found that just 10 minutes of petting a dog can have a significant impact. Study participants experienced a significant decrease in cortisol levels, the main stress hormone.
Bones, tendons, muscles
But that's not all.
There is no doubt that for the owner of a cat, her purring is one of the sweetest melodies to the heart, bringing peace and tranquility. But if you “verify harmony with algebra,” then amazing things are discovered.
The cat purrs at a frequency of 20-140 Hz, and vibrations in the range of 18-35 Hz help restore joint mobility after injury. If your knee bends poorly, there is every reason to apply a relaxed cat to it every day.
Some experts believe that these vibrations are generally beneficial for bones, muscles and tendons, and it is likely that scientific research will eventually be published that substantiates this effect.
Dogs make you more attractive - even virtually
If you're looking for a date, it might be time to get a dog. The presence of a dog can make people more likable and attractive.
In a series of studies, men were more likely to get a woman's phone number when they had a dog with them. In another study, researchers asked people to rate people in photographs and found that people looked happier and more relaxed when they appeared with a dog.
A study by Pet Wingman found that men and women are more likely to swipe right when they include a photo of their pup in their profile. Women benefited more than men from having dogs on their profiles. (And finding dog photos in your camera roll shouldn't be a problem—a study found that 65 percent of dog owners admit to taking more photos of their dog than their significant other).
Sleep quality
Photo from madinamerica.com
Don't be so quick to kick your four-legged friend out of the bedroom: Science says they can have a positive impact on the quality of your sleep. This is evidenced by several British studies and the 2015 work of the Center for Sleep Medicine at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, USA).
In British studies, cats contributed to good sleep; in American studies, dogs contributed to good sleep.
The American study included 40 people (average age 44 years), most of them women, which is not surprising, because it is women who tend to become passionately attached to their pets.
Scientists measured “sleep efficiency” with special motion sensors. They found that it was higher when the dog slept in the same room, but not in the same bed as the owner or mistress.
But in this study from the same Center, the following results were obtained: out of 150 participants, 20% reported that pets interfere with their sleep, and 41% are confident that their presence in the bedroom, on the contrary, improves its quality.
Dogs make us more sociable
Walking with a canine companion can make us more approachable and give people something to talk about. Think about how many times you've had conversations with other people, whether it's your neighbors or new friends at the dog park.
Researchers found that about 40 percent of dog owners found it easier to make friends. Dogs are an ideal way to meet strangers and form new friendships.
© shutterstock
A study conducted at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that people who have a strong attachment to a pet feel more connected in their human relationships and their communities.
The story of friendship between a dog and a man
It is believed that the ancestors of modern dogs were wolves. The first cases of domestication of these animals were not forced. Wolves began to follow people while hunting in order to get food. After all, as you know, wolves mainly feed on carrion. They gladly ate the remains of their prey, which were unsuitable for human consumption and which were simply thrown away.
So the wolves began to get closer and closer to people’s camps in anticipation of easy prey. And later, some of the wolves got used to it and remained to live side by side with people.
The history of friendship between dogs and humans has lasted for more than 33 thousand years. This is evidenced by the remains of an animal found in a cave where primitive people lived. But many scientists still doubt that this is a domesticated animal. Many are inclined to believe that it was just a wild wolf. After all, no other “dog-like” remains were found at the site of ancient people. But, despite this, it is still generally accepted that these found remains are the most ancient tamed half-wolf, half-dog.
The dog began to play a decisive role in human life 13-15 thousand years ago. During this period, the mass domestication of the wolf (dog) began. This is evidenced by the multiple remains of dogs found by archaeologists in the burials of ancient people.
Dogs help older adults with cognitive function and social interaction
Studies examining the effects of dogs on older adults have shown positive results. One study found that pet-assisted therapy improved cognitive function in long-term mental health patients. Another showed a significant reduction in agitated behavior in older adults with dementia and improved social interaction.
A four-legged best friend provides unconditional love and support, which is especially important during difficult times. While people may think we care about our canine companions, the feeling is mutual: dogs care about us, and science backs it up.
Heart diseases
Photo from madinamerica.com
The American Heart Association says that compared to the average citizen without a dog, the owner of man's best friend is 54% more likely to meet physical activity standards set by medical experts.
On average, a person with a dog spends 30 minutes more exercise per day than their non-dog companion.
Perhaps, as a result of increased physical activity of their owners, and perhaps through other mechanisms, pets contribute to the fact that their owners are less likely to suffer from arterial hypertension, high cholesterol and obesity, that is, they enjoy much better heart and vascular health, and through correct body weight – and other organs.
Here are the striking results of a large American study from 2009.
Having a cat in your home reduces the risk of various cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, by as much as 30%! A rare drug can boast such effectiveness as cats, which, unlike dogs, do not even need to be walked.
However, as is already clear from previous studies, a cat in the house improves the emotional state even in those who suffer from mental disorders, so this may be the mechanism behind the positive effect on heart health.
One way or another, the authors of the study in the “Conclusions” section seriously write that purchasing a cat can be considered an innovative strategy to combat cardiovascular diseases. They believe that doctors should recommend that all patients predisposed to these diseases get a four-legged friend.
The dog gives you self-confidence
0
A child suffering from self-doubt will be cured of this unpleasant trait thanks to a dog. The responsibility of caring for a living creature makes children confident in their own abilities, caring for another develops character - the child will become stronger, will feel his importance, because the life of the pet depends on him. It's a good idea to teach your child to read with your dog. Some children are embarrassed to read aloud for others to hear, but no one will refuse to read their favorite fairy tale to a dog!
×
Dog therapy method
Experts distinguish two types of canistherapy – directed and non-directed. Directed involves the deliberate use of dogs in the treatment of diseases according to a special course. Undirected - natural, unconscious contact with the animal.
In medical practice, the first type is mainly used. During treatment sessions, the doctor is assisted by a specially trained pet with a calm temperament. During the treatment process, the patient is involved in communication with the dog. Joint games and tactile interaction have a pronounced therapeutic effect. Combing, stroking and feeding the animal develops motor skills and promotes social adaptation.
There are specially designed programs for people with various diseases. Patients with psychosomatic disorders, motor and nervous diseases, as well as developmental disabilities begin to acquire everyday life skills, increase independence, and involvement in social communication with animals and people.
It is worth noting that dog therapy is used mainly as an additional method designed to provide the best effect from the main treatment. And it is rarely used as an independent type of therapy.
The best doctor's assistants in the treatment process are the following breeds:
- Labrador
- Siberian Husky
- Golden Retriever
- Alaskan Malamute
- Bernese Mountain Dog
Benefits of dogs in old age
The life of an elderly person may turn out in such a way that a dog will become his most reliable and loyal friend. For example, a pensioner has experienced the loss of loved ones, lives far from relatives alone outside the city, is recovering from severe depression - in all these cases it is difficult to imagine a better assistant than a dog. Dogs have a love for people, they easily get along together, study well, know how to cheer up and help their owners. Some older people perceive pets as grandchildren who are always nearby. And if the dog does not require complex care and has a good character, then he is an ideal companion for a pensioner.
Benefits of a dog for an elderly person:
• Helps cope with mental problems and feelings of loneliness; • Relieves physical pain; • Adds vitality to the owner and awakens the desire to live; • Gives and receives love, is always nearby - these are true true friends; • Helps to lead an active lifestyle: you need to take care of the dog, communicate with it, walk; • Provides household assistance (guide, healer, security guard and defender).
Children who live with dogs get sick less
0
See all photos in the gallery
Staying in the same house with a dog increases the immunity of children of any age, including infants. According to research, children who are in the company of a dog are much less likely to suffer from respiratory and other infectious diseases. Many people try to protect their children from unnecessary germs from childhood by isolating them from the outside world and placing them in sterile conditions. This harms the immune system and weakens it, while the microbes living on the dog work a miracle - they stimulate the child’s body’s defenses.
How to choose a dog for a pensioner
In order for your pet to be a joy and not add additional hassle and headaches, you need to choose it correctly. Character, temperament and characteristics depend on the breed. When choosing, you need to consider the following points:
• Good health . There are breeds that are more prone to various diseases: joint problems, allergies, cardiovascular pathologies, gastrointestinal disorders, etc. Such dogs require careful care and regular visits to the veterinarian, and in case of illness, proper treatment. • Easy to care for . Some breeds are more demanding in care, others less so. The more effort a dog requires, the more tiring it is for an elderly owner. The content should be simple and cheap. In this sense, smooth-haired dogs, wire-haired dogs and those with medium-length fur coats are good. Long hair will require regular care and grooming costs - and this is an additional hassle. • Suitable size and activity. Small to medium sized dogs are recommended. Small dogs are easier for older people to handle, but keeping a large dog on a leash will be difficult. In addition to size, you need to consider the dog's activity. For example, there are small but very nimble breeds: if they slip through the door, a pensioner will not be able to keep up with the dog, but at home they are constantly underfoot. It is worth choosing small and calm breeds, but not small ones. And vice versa, a large dog, but calm and phlegmatic, is a very good option. It is very comfortable to walk with her, but it is more difficult to care for: you need to regularly comb her coat and bathe her. • Character . The best dogs are calm, kind, cheerful, unobtrusive and balanced. The dog should not be aggressive and have a tendency to dominate. The kindness of the animal is especially important if children and grandchildren come to the pensioner and want to tinker with the dog. It is worth choosing “domestic” breeds; service and hunting breeds are not suitable. • Floor. Girls are recommended: they are calmer, more accommodating, softer, get used to people better, and are not prone to dominance, aggression and power struggles. • Location. Small, calm dogs are good for an apartment, but large dogs that can guard and guard private territory are suitable for a country house. • Puppy or adult. Puppies are like children: they require a lot of care and attention, they can often get sick, they need to be raised, trained and accustomed to living with a person, and it will take a long time to get used to each other. On the one hand, having lived with the owner since childhood, the dog will love him with all his soul, and he and the person will forever become faithful companions. On the other hand, raising a puppy is a tiring task for an elderly person. If you are attracted by the small size and appearance of a small pet, you can choose a small breed. Calm and trained adult dogs are easier for a pensioner - you just need to get used to each other. • A suitable pet for your liking, not your status. Convenience and friendship are important to a pensioner, so he will choose a dog with which he feels good. Older people do not pursue the status and elitism of the breed. In addition, such pets are intended for exhibitions and breeding, and an elderly person will not do this. If you are interested in purebred dogs for their beauty and character, ask breeders about the availability of a suitable dog. If the breed doesn't matter, you can find a good dog at an animal shelter. • Aggressiveness. An important point in purchasing a pet. Attacks of aggression are common in dogs of many breeds, regardless of whether they are domestic or stray. An aggressive dog can attack a person, including an elderly person or a child. Aggression manifests itself during times of pain, fear, competition, and hunger. Atypical aggression develops as a result of poor quality education and care, and violation of maintenance rules. Aggression is more typical for young males who are developing and need training. With age and the right approach, the dog grows into a self-sufficient dog, smart and understanding. To get rid of an animal's aggression, it needs to be raised correctly. Seek help from a professional dog trainer and follow training recommendations. There are breeds with innate aggression - this helps dogs hunt. Aggression is in their blood, it is difficult to fight. Aggressive dogs are contraindicated for the elderly and children; elderly people should not own such dogs.
Young-looking and energetic pensioners will like moderately active pets with whom they can often walk, while calm old people will like small, calm dogs. Dog handlers recommend friendly, gentle, and docile small-sized dogs with good health and an average level of activity for retirees. Such qualities are most suitable for older people.
If you like a certain breed or dog, collect as much information as possible about it. Read articles on the Internet, ask the breeder about all the nuances. You need to have a good idea of all the characteristics of your future pet, its features and possible difficulties. After carefully studying the dog, decide whether it is worth adopting for an elderly person or looking for a more suitable option.
