You’ve been thinking about getting a dog. You love looking at cute puppy pictures and you daydream about taking your dog for a walk. Now there is another compelling reason to follow through on your dreams – dogs are good for you! There are many health benefits of owning a dog.

Improve Your Blood Pressure

Having a well-loved pet dog lowers your blood pressure. High blood pressure increases your risk of stroke, heart attack, dementia, kidney damage, heart disease, and can lead to an earlier death. Research shows that simply petting and talking to a dog lowers your blood pressure. Having a dog in your home that you regularly play with will let you have that positive effect every day!

Consistent Exercise

Owners of dogs take more steps every day, almost three thousand more. Walking with your dog daily means that you get all the benefits of that extra exercise – improved cardiovascular health, lower risk of obesity and heart disease, improved physical fitness, and improved mental health. When you have an adorable furry companion that needs to get out and about, you are more likely to be consistent in your exercise. You also will enjoy it more thanks to the great company.

Decrease Allergies

There is a lot of current research that indicates children who grow up with pets are less likely to develop allergies, asthma, and eczema. Being around pets and playing with them may help your kids build up stronger immune systems. Most of the research so far has focused on children, but it is reasonable to believe that adults gain some immune system benefits as well.

Improved Mental Health

Dog owners have far lower risks depression and anxiety. Persons in emotional distress often find motivation in caring for their pets, and the love and support of their dog helps them get through the difficulties of life. Spending time with a dog leads to lower stress levels, even if you have a high-stress job or life situation.

When you have a companion dog, you are happier and healthier. You exercise more and make better social connections. When you consider the health benefits of owning a dog, deciding to add a furry family member becomes an easy decision.