As responsible pet owners, there’s a long list of things that we do to keep our dogs happy, healthy and engaged. But, did you know there are many things your canine friend does for you every day?
In this video, we will talk about 15 things that your dog does for you and explain the benefits of having a dog.
They comfort you when you are sad
Dogs can understand when their owners are sad or anxious through visual observations, auditory clues, and changes in our scent. Studies have shown that dogs not only feel distress when they see that their owners are sad, but will also try to do something to help. When you are feeling blue, many dogs will offer comfort by cuddling next to or licking you. Some dogs will put a toy in your lap, or nudge you to cheer you up.
They greet you when you come home
Researchers have observed that some wild dog species will lick other members of the pack to welcome them when they return home. When your dog licks you when you come home, it is their way of greeting you … like they are saying ‘Welcome back!'.
Licking can also be a way for dogs to bond with family members. For example, mother dogs will often lick their puppies to groom them and offer comfort.
If your dog licks you frequently, it’s not always because you have the residues of yummy food on your skin. They do it because they want to groom you to show that they care about your well-being and strengthen their bond with you.
They make you more attractive
Studies have shown women are more attracted to men with dogs than men without dogs. People with dogs are perceived as being nicer and more caring individuals.
They keep your heart healthy
Cuddling and petting your dog produces a calm, relaxed feeling which is caused by the release of oxytocin in the brain. This feel-good chemical makes your body feel more peaceful and even helps to lower blood pressure.
This also translates to a decreased risk of heart disease. One study found that dog owners are 31% less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke than non-dog owners.
They protect you when you sleep
Have you ever wondered why your dog sleeps near you at night?
Many dogs are well aware that they, and their humans, are vulnerable when sleeping.
Sleeping close-by is one way to stay safe and protect you, and themselves, should a predator launch a nighttime attack.
Another reason that dogs like to sleep next to you is to share warmth.
When your dog snuggles with you, they are seeking warmth and helping your stay warm. Of course, dogs also sleep with you to show you affection and love!
They care for you when you are sick
Dogs have an acute sense of smell, and so have the ability to sniff out a chemical change in a human body caused by a disease. Most dogs respond to a sick individual by becoming empathetic and more attentive. They lie beside you or cuddle you.
They help you live longer
There is scientific research that suggests dog owners live longer than those without pets. This is mainly because pets alleviate tension and help us relax. They keep loneliness at bay. They even help lower our blood pressure.
Their puppy-dog eyes make you happier
Just looking at a dog can lift your spirits. A 2009 study in Japan found that staring into your dog’s eyes raises your level of oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone.”. So looking at your dog isn’t just pleasant, it’s physiologically beneficial to you
They boost your immune system
A study in the scientific journal Pediatrics has found that children who live with pets have a lower predisposition for general illness. Additionally, those who do end up becoming sick, recover more quickly. This is because having a pet stimulates and strengthens a child’s immune system and helps better protect against bacteria and viruses.
They keep you safe
A dogs’ natural instinct is to protect their family.
Whether you’re taking your canine friend out for a walk or getting all snuggled up in bed, just having Fido around can help put your mind at ease.
They encourage you to move
Those long treks along sidewalks, trails, and fetch games add up. A 2019 British study discovered that dog owners are nearly four times more likely than non-dog owners to meet daily physical activity guidelines.
They make you feel less alone.
Dogs can be there for you even when people can’t. They offer unconditional love, emotional support, and constant cuddles that help stave off social isolation.
They protect your baby
Dogs know your little one is a member of their pack, and that they are the most vulnerable. Because dogs have a strong instinct to guard their pack and family members, they can be very protective of your baby.
They prevent allergies for you and your loved ones
Sharing a home with a furred animal exposes you to pet dander which stimulates your immune system to help reduce the risks of allergies and asthma.
They help lower stress levels
Multiple studies have shown that dogs help alleviate stress and anxiety.