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The Life-Changing Benefits of Having a Dog

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Dogs have accompanied humans throughout history, so it’s not surprising that the bond between humans and canines has withstood the test of time. Photo by Artem Beliaikin from Pexels

There’s no other mammal on the planet that has so flexibly evolved and adapted to humans’ lifestyles as dogs have.

At any point in history, through different affairs and adventures, dogs have constantly provided the kind of companionship that humans needed. In the modern-day, they are needed more than ever.

Although humans no longer take dogs to hunt for food (primarily), the dogs of today provide a kind of companionship that’s still crucial to human survival. From looking after your physical safety to serving to appease certain mental troubles, there are so many reasons man’s best friends remain eternally precious.

Dogs Help Relieve Stress

Bad days happen, but when they do, it’s good to know that you can come home to peace and some cuddles.

According to some studies, simply playing with your pet increases the release oxytocin in your brain and decreases stress hormones, leaving you feeling happy and relaxed.

A natural mood booster is more than some people need when the blues plague the days.Five Dog Care Tips for Busy People

Having Dogs Give You a Sense of Purpose

For some people, getting up in the morning is extra hard when you’ve lost your sense of purpose. Existential dread can creep into many aspects of an individual’s life and can hinder the ability to function in many personal and social settings.

Having a dog somehow keeps the existential dread at bay by forcing you to take responsibility for your life. Because your pooch’s life solely depends on you, you’re compelled to get your act together and string together pieces of yourself to make this pooch’s every day the absolute best.

Not that you’re forced to do it. Many people are inspired to do so, and it’s the sweetest kind of mutual salvation.

Dogs Keep You Physically Active

Dogs, regardless of the breed, require a certain amount of exercise to remain healthy, and that does not include playing. Every dog deserves to be exercised for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours daily.

As a dog owner, you may gain the motivation you need to achieve your own fitness goals when you have the responsibility to keep your dog fit. Walking and even running is extra fun with a little companion to keep you focused.

And why limit yourself there? There are plenty of other physical activities and sports you can engage in with your dog. Just make sure you’re not stretching your pooch too much.

Dogs Bring a Sense of Security

Dogs indeed bring a sense of security to our lives. Their natural instinct to protect their loved ones and their territorial nature can provide a comforting feeling of safety and security. Whether it’s their ability to alert us to potential dangers, their presence serving as a deterrent to intruders, or simply the reassurance of having a loyal and vigilant companion by our side, dogs can help create a secure environment in our homes and communities. 
 
Their keen senses, such as acute hearing and an exceptional sense of smell, can act as an early warning system, alerting us to any unusual sounds or scents that may indicate a potential threat. Many breeds like Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds are known for their protective instincts and can become dedicated guardians of their families and properties. 
 
Furthermore, the mere presence of a dog can serve as a deterrent to potential intruders. Even the smallest or friendliest-looking dog can make burglars think twice before targeting a home, as they can be noisy and draw attention to their presence. Navigate to this site to find different dog breeds that are renowned for their protective instincts and are commonly used as security dogs: protectiondog.com. 

Dogs Help You Socialize

Walking your dog to the nearest dog park or simply trying to find the right dog-food brand for your pooch forces you out of a potato-couch lifestyle. Finding the right fresh dog food and other accessories for them can be a fun task to do. More than that, though, it helps you practice your social skills.

Talking about dogs to other dog parents is a no-brainer icebreaker. Topics about animals are also easy conversation starters in real life as many people find it easy to talk about their pets. Online, there are different groups and communities you can join where it’s easy to talk to and interact with other members.

Dogs Help Keep Depression at Bay

Anxiety, constant stress, and a missing sense of purpose are all symptoms that often trigger depressive episodes. Having a companion who accepts you for who you are without judgment and provides a limitless feeling of comfort and unconditional friendship may just be what you need in these times of great need.

Engaging in activities that include your pooch becomes a welcome distraction to get out of your own head and pay attention to things that matter.

Having a Dog Teaches You Lessons about Choice

“Should I feed my dog raw food or choose commercially available food?” “Where can I find natural dog treats that are ethically sourced?” “Which veterinarian should I choose from the ones near my location?”

These are questions that every dog owner struggles with much thought.

Being in charge of someone’s life compels you to be decisive and cautious with your choices. From choosing the perfect brand of treats to finding a local community that understands your sentiments as a dog parent, everything requires a level of fastidiousness that, when practiced, can become a habit.

Most importantly, having a dog teaches you the art of taking care of someone and how to extend that love to yourself.

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RAKI WRIGHT
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