Many of us have known for as long as we've had a dog that they just make us feel better whenever we need it. There is just something about seeing them, playing them or snuggling with them that makes us feel so wonderful. It turns out that is a reason why. When you realize the four awesome ways your pooch is really making you happier and healthier it might leave you stunned!
Four Amazing Ways Your Dogs Make You Happy And Healthy Include:
They reduce your stress level
A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine showed that when people had to do a stressful task, they experienced the lowest stress response and the quickest recovery when they did it with their pet, as compared to alone, with their spouse, or a friend. Why? Research believes it's because pups are a nonjudgmental companion.
They reduce heart disease risk
It's not all warm and fuzzies, though — dogs can potentially help extend your life. Researchers from Melbourne, Australia, found that pet owners have lower levels of blood pressure and cholesterol than non-pet owners, regardless of their smoking habits, diet, or body mass index. Dog ownership in particular may help reduce cardiovascular risk because of all the physical activity that comes along with walks and games of fetch.
They lift your mood
Researchers from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that petting your dog releases feel-good hormones; the study revealed that serotonin, the chemical that maintains mood balance, increases when a human interacts with their dog. It only takes a few minutes of petting to release those hormones, so start snuggling now.
They keep you in shape
A study conducted by University of Missouri researchers found that dog walkers improved their fitness more than humans who walked with other people. Perhaps that's why dog owners are 34 percent more likely than nonowners to reach their fitness goals, according to another study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health.
Now there are even more reasons to think your dog is the best. They help you reduce your stress because they don't make us feel judged when we have to do something we don't want to do.
They help us stay in shape and may even reduce our risk of heart disease, because of all the times they want us to walk or play with them.
Finally, just petting our dogs can release hormones that help make us happier. So, the next time you are feeling low, just spend some quality time with your dog.
For even more ways a dog can help with your happiness and health, you can go to PopSugar.
