Your dog can help you live longer

Owning a dog protects us from heart disease too.

Just like our name says, we are all about helping dogs live healthier, happier lives for longer and they great news is, they naturally do the same for us. Studies suggest that dogs contribute to better heart health, lower stress levels, and a more active lifestyle, all of which are key factors in longevity. 

The science behind the benefits

The unique bond between humans and dogs is more than just emotional, it’s also biological. When you spend time with your dog, your body releases oxytocin, which strengthens your bond and reduces stress. This release of oxytocin may also contribute to the health benefits associated with dog ownership.

Additionally, research suggests that dogs have a calming effect on heart rate and blood pressure. Studies have found that petting a dog for just a few minutes can lower your heart rate and help you feel more relaxed. This effect is so powerful that therapy dogs are often brought into hospitals and care homes to help patients feel calmer and less anxious.

Here’s seven ways our dogs may be adding years to our lives.

1. Better heart health: One of the most well-documented benefits of owning a dog is its positive impact on cardiovascular health. According to a study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, dog ownership is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and overall mortality. Researchers found that people who own dogs had reduced blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels and a decreased risk of heart attacks.
   
   Dogs encourage us to stay active, which is a key part of maintaining a healthy heart. Taking our dogs for regular walks or playing with them improves cardiovascular fitness and reduces the risk of obesity, one of the biggest contributors to heart disease.
   
2. Encouraging an active lifestyle: Owning a dog practically guarantees more physical activity. A study published in Scientific Reports found that dog owners were four times more likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines than those without dogs. Walking your dog isn’t just good for your pup, it’s a great way to stay fit yourself. Even short, daily walks add up over time and can have a significant impact on your overall health.
   
   For people who might not otherwise prioritise exercise, a dog can be the perfect motivator. It’s hard to say no to those pleading eyes when they’re waiting by the door.
   
   
3. Reducing stress and improving mental health: The emotional bond we have with our dogs isn’t just joyous, it’s genuinely good for our health. Spending time with dogs has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Interacting with a dog increases the release of oxytocin, the "feel-good hormone," while reducing levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
   
   Less stress doesn’t just make us feel better, it has measurable health benefits. Chronic stress is linked to a range of health problems, from high blood pressure to a weakened immune system. By helping you feel calmer and more connected, your dog can lower your stress levels and, by extension, improve your overall health.
   
   
4. Boosting social connections: Having met at the local dog park Jess and Henry and their respective families know that Rufus and Louie aren’t just great companions, they’re also fantastic social icebreakers. Walking a dog at the park or joining a dog training class can lead to new friendships and social connections. This is important because loneliness and social isolation have been shown to increase the risk of premature death. In fact, some studies suggest that social isolation can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
   
   Having a dog encourages us to get out, meet new people, and feel more connected to our communities. This sense of social belonging can have a profound impact on mental health and longevity.
   
   
5. Strengthening your immune system: Dogs bring a little bit of the outdoors inside, exposing us to diverse microbes that can strengthen our immune systems. Studies have shown that children who grow up with dogs are less likely to develop allergies and asthma. While research on adults is less extensive, there’s evidence to suggest that the exposure to bacteria and microbes from dogs may help support a healthy immune system throughout life.
   
   
6. Providing a sense of purpose: Caring for a dog gives many people a greater sense of purpose. Knowing that your dog relies on you for food, exercise, and affection can be incredibly motivating, particularly for older adults. This sense of responsibility can encourage people to stay active and engaged with life, which is vital for physical and mental health.
   
   For those struggling with loneliness or depression, a dog’s unwavering love and companionship can make a world of difference. It’s hard to feel purposeless when you have a wagging tail greeting you every morning.
   
7. Helping with recovery and rehabilitation: Dogs are increasingly being used in therapeutic settings to help people recover from illness or injury. For example, cardiac rehabilitation programs often include pet therapy to reduce stress and encourage physical activity. Stroke patients have also been shown to benefit from interacting with therapy dogs, which can improve mood and motivation during recovery.

The next time you’re out walking your dog or cuddling on the couch, remember: your pup isn’t just your best friend, they’re also your wellness partner. It turns out that taking care of them is one of the best ways to take care of ourselves, too.