5 ways owning a dog can help you live longer

Dogs are beautiful creatures that help mankind by showering them with abundant love and staying faithful and loyal. A 2019 study from Sweden noted that dog owners benefit by increased physical activity and social support which can lower the risk of death.

The American Heart Association says being a dog parent can be good for your heart health.

Lowers risk of death

Dog owners may enjoy a longer life, courtesy the physical and mental health benefits they reap from raising a pooch. They are also less likely to be lonely than those staying by themselves. A study published in the American Heart Association journal, found that dog owners have 24% lower risk of death.

Improves heart health

Dog owners are said to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels as petting a dog can lower the blood pressure and heat rate, which helps in slow breathing and relaxing the muscles. According to a study published in journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, the researchers found that heart attack survivors who stayed alone had a 33 percent lower death risk in the year after their heart attack if they had a dog, compared with non-dog owners.

Reduced stress

Raising a dog can be a joyful experience and owners experience release of happy hormones like oxytocin, serotonin, dopamine which help them feel better and lower the cortisol level and stress hormones. The American Heart Association Survey of 2022 found that 95% of pet parents rely on their pets for stress relief.

Increased exercise

Dog owners tend to take their pets for walks and in turn they get more exercise for the body. A British study found that dog owners get 150 more minutes of physical activity in a week than non-dog owners which helps in weight management, blood sugar control, and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Increased social interaction

Living with a dog helps you feel less lonely and isolated and gives you more time and space to interact with the pet. Dogs can also give humans a sense of purpose and make them feel loved, which increases the ability to cope with anxiety and depression.