They’re always happy to see you, they (generally!) have plenty of energy, and they love getting outside to exercise. If these aren’t enough reasons alone, here are 5 more reasons why you should make your dog your workout buddy. If you can’t own a dog for whatever reason, consider borrowing a friend’s or neighbour’s dog and share the workouts/love!
They can help reduce sickness
Dogs have a lot of germs. While normally you’d think this would be a bad thing, our immune systems can actually be weakened when our bodies aren’t exposed to enough bacteria. Having exposure to more germs can help build up immunity to bugs, so it’s thought that dog owners are less likely to get sick less frequently and with less severity than those without dogs.
Dog owners are happier
Your furry friend can have an amazing effect on your happiness and general wellbeing. Researchers from the University of Otago have found you can have a lot to gain from the feeling of companionship you experience when walking your dog and from interacting with other dog owners while you’re out and about. Also, pets can help reduce depression as they have a calming effect and will listen to you talk for as long as you need them to. Even just the act of patting them can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
You’re more likely to get more exercise
Walking your dog regularly doesn’t just keep your canine companion healthy and fit, it also keeps you healthy and fit at the same time. Having the responsibility of owning a dog means you need to ensure they have enough food and water, are kept clean, and that they get exercised often. That responsibility can help motivate you to get off the couch and out the door.
Taking your dog for a 30 minute walk every day will ensure you meet the minimum requirements for healthy physical activity.
Dogs are good for your heart health
Studies have shown that owning pets may help keep your blood pressure in check and may help you maintain a lower heart rate when at rest. Give your dog plenty of pats to get the most benefit (they’ll love you for it!).
Children may have fewer allergies
Provided your kids aren’t allergic to dog hair, growing up with furry pets may actually help reduce their likelihood of developing allergies later in life.
Image / FreeDigitalPhotos.net – Tina Phillips