Most of us dog lovers could go on for hours about the many benefits of owning a dog.  

But, if you’re a first timer and you need a little encouragement as to why you should adopt a dog, know that besides the most recognized benefits of:

• Unconditional love
• Endless entertainment
• Teaching children about responsibility and caring for a living being

There is another benefit that has been getting a lot of love from science lately: owning a dog makes you healthier, and can help you live longer. 

How Can There Be Health Benefits to Owning a Dog?

It may seem strange to non-dog owners, but just having a fur-baby in the home can help:

Lower Blood Pressure – Studies have shown that simply petting a dog (or cat) can calm us down and help lower blood pressure. When you pet an animal, your brain releases a relaxation hormone. These hormones help sooth your mind, calm you down, and can bring your blood pressure down. 

Allergy Relief – This one sounds too good to be true, especially since many believe that pet “Dander” is responsible for allergies. But, more studies are showing that having a dog can actually strengthen your immune system, and lower your response to allergies. These findings were strongest in children. A study by the University of Wisconsin showed that having a pet at home actually lowered a child’s likelihood of developing allergies by as much as 33%. 

Better Social Life – Dogs can be a great icebreaker in social situations. If you are having a hard time meeting someone special, a few trips around town with your pooch can encourage interaction with strangers that would never have happened sans-pup. 

Weight Loss and Improved Fitness – The stories of overweight, unhealthy adults who were encouraged by doctors to adopt a dog simply to help them stick to an exercise program is growing every year. 

Doctors, knowing that many of us would rather sit on the couch than take a half-hour walk every day, encourage some patients to adopt so that they’ll have to walk with the dog. 

This strategy works (and it’s great for keeping your pet’s weight in check) It’s helped many lost 30, 50, 100+ lbs. Many can come up with excuses for blowing off their workouts, but it’s much tougher to do when a set of very sad eyes is staring at you while sitting in front of the door. Dog encourage walking and play – both of which are required for fat loss and optimal fitness. 

Keep Your Dog Health and Happy

Share the health benefits with your pup. After all, they’re helping lower your blood pressure, lose weight, and feel great. So, keep them happy and healthy with monthly treat and toy gift boxes delivered right to your door.