5 Ways Dogs Improve Mental Health

Dogs are our everyday heroes: not only do they bravely work together with humans in life-saving scenarios, such as the police or missing person searches, but they offer us unconditional love and companionship. They truly are our best friends, but more than that, our family! They will be right on our side through our rollercoaster of life.

They Get Us Out Of The House

Dogs are excellent at encouraging people to get up and exercise in the fresh air, which can benefit those suffering from depression. If you feel you need to get in shape, get a dog, and it will be required for you to go, and you shouldn’t just back out of it. Taking your Whoodle on a long walk or run will also lead to socializing with other dog owners. You can talk to others about your Whoodle, and after seeing how well-mannered and obedient yours is, they might just have to sell their current dog and buy one of yours.

Companionship

This one may seem pretty obvious, but dogs provide us with companionship; they are a true friend to us. They always listen to us when we need to talk, they lay with us when we get sad, and they will get excited when you are excited. There have been studies that show people feel less lonely or isolated when they own a pet. Having a pet helps support feelings of your self-worth and self-esteem.

Humans are naturally pretty social, and while a dog alone may provide some level of companionship, they can also be a source for human-to-human interactions. People adore dogs, so it’s not a surprise that when walking with a dog, you may encounter people and stop to have a conversation about your dog. Dog owners generally connect when they bring their dogs to the dog park.

Sensory Stress Relief

Petting a dog has been shown to lower your blood pressure and increase your hormone levels, which trigger feelings of calmness and happiness. In addition, playing with any dog has been proven to improve your mood and reduce stress. We often underestimate the power of touch, and the enormity of its effects on mental well-being is clearly displayed through being around dogs. If you are prone to allergies, have no fear, there are breeds that are considered hypoallergenic such as Bernedoodles. Don’t just search Bernedoodle puppies for sale though. You’ll want to ensure the breeder you purchase from is reputable. 

They Build A Routine

Dogs help us improve mental well-being through a routine. Every dog owner has got their own schedule for walks, feeding times, pee breaks, and playtime with their dogs. It may seem minor or insignificant, but routines are highly beneficial for our mental health. A daily routine can minimize stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and improve your self-esteem and mood.

Purpose

Last but not least, dogs may provide us with a sense of purpose and self-worth. By providing for our pets, we establish the feeling that we are needed, and this, in turn, nourishes our need to nurture. This is especially important for the elderly population, with the walking, feeding, grooming, and taking care of a dog will provide a new sense of purpose.

The tie between dog ownership and mental health is clear, and it’s no wonder dogs indeed are a man’s, woman’s, and everybody’s best friend.

Conclusion

It is no secret that pets contribute to your happiness. Studies show that dogs reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, improve your overall health, and encourage exercise. For example, people with a dog tend to have low blood pressure and are also less likely to develop heart disease. Playing with a dog has been proven to raise the feel-good brain chemicals oxytocin and dopamine levels, creating positive feelings and bonding for the person and their adorable pet.