It’s estimated that around 33% of the pets in the world are dogs. These animals have always been hugely popular companions, with people throughout history keeping dogs for an array of different tasks. Nowadays, most people have creatures like this simply as a way to make themselves happy. Of course, though, your dog could be providing far more benefits than you might expect, and your health is at the very center of this. This article is going to be exploring the health benefits that can come with a dog, giving you the chance to take full advantage of them.
Physical Health & Fitness
Dogs are very good at storing up and using huge amounts of energy in short bursts. They love to run, swim and generally have fun, and it’s very difficult for owners to avoid being sucked into this. At the very least, you will be taking your dog out for a couple of walks each day, and this will give your physical fitness a huge boost. If you want to push this further, you could start running with your dog, though it’s worth keeping in mind that you’ll probably struggle to keep up with the pooch.
While it isn’t a definite science, there is also evidence that dogs can help with more serious health issues. Some dogs will react when their owner is on the verge of having a seizure, while others can help people to recover from conditions like strokes. Service dogs are able to help people to get over physical issues like disabilities, enabling them to live independently without relying on other people. Companies like www.chocolatelabradorretriever.ca have dedicated themselves to training dogs like this, making them a great place to start when you’re doing your research.
Mental Health
Your mental health is just as critical as your physical health, and this is something that you need to keep in mind when you’re thinking about your dog. An animal like this can provide companionship, emotional support, and a range of other benefits that are sure to improve your mental health. Having a happy companion with you all the time is a great way to make yourself feel better.
Some people find that their dog is an excellent anchor when they’re feeling overwhelmed by conditions like PTSD. Depression, anxiety, and a huge range of other mental conditions can be helped with the joy of dog ownership. Of course, though, it’s worth keeping in mind that you also have to think about the dog’s mental health, as they will also have their own strict needs that have to be met to keep the animal healthy.
With all of this in mind, you should have a good understanding of the health benefits that are offered by a dog. Of course, though, most dog owners won’t need to read this to be convinced that their animal has a place in their home, and will love them no matter what they’re able to do. Most dogs will give back the love they receive tenfold.