Are Dogs Good for Mental Health?

Everyone has a hard day from time to time, but there are those among us whose bad days seem unending. A study from 2022 showed that 37.1% of women and 29.9% of men reported high levels of anxiety in the UK, and that 1 in 6 adults is affected by depression, making them some of the most prevalent mental health disorders in the UK.

However, did you also know that other studies have shown the positive impact that pets can have on your mental health as well? Here, we will walk you through how owning a dog can improve your mental health and what to do if you can’t have one.

The Benefits of Dogs on Mental Health

It should come as no surprise that spending time with animals can help improve your mood, but there’s also a chemical component that’s important to note. Interactions between humans and animals have been shown to increase oxytocin levels in the brain, giving us a sense of calm and comfort. And here are some more ways being around dogs can help your mental health.

Routine

Having a routine is an important step towards improving your mental health. It can give you a sense of stability and structure, allowing you to focus on the things you need to do while also allowing you to set aside time every day to relax and unwind.

Having a dog is a great way to implement these routines because, as their owner, you must see to their needs. This means having set feeding times, walking times and even play times, which can make it far easier for you to tend to your needs.

Companionship

One of the leading causes of depression and anxiety is loneliness, especially for those who live alone. By having a dog, you get a sense of companionship from their company, and you’re also likely to be smothered in unconditional love from your furry friend.

Dogs are naturally very loving, and many of them form a strong bond with their owners, which is one of the key reasons why dogs are a popular choice for an Emotional Support Animal.

Physical Exercise

The most common advice given to those who struggle with their mental health is to increase the amount of exercise they do. This doesn’t mean someone is expected to hit the gym, but a 30-minute dog walk can do wonders and has been linked to lessening stress and anxiety and improving overall well-being.

Plus, taking your dog out for a walk also helps break up cycles of isolation and can even prompt you to meet new people, reducing feelings of loneliness.

Reduced Stress

Studies have shown that being around a dog can significantly benefit your physical and mental health, which is why dogs have been so frequently used in the care sector for the past 40 years. Having a tail-wagging companion has been shown to have a positive effect on a person’s stress levels as well as a boost in confidence, which in turn can lessen anxiety.

It’s important to note that when it comes to improving your mental health and well-being, there is no quick fix, and bringing a new pet into your home is a big responsibility that you need to be sure you’re ready for. That said, if you bring a dog into your life, there’s a chance you’ll begin to see a positive impact on your mental health as you two grow and bond.

Are you looking to offer your dog a little extra support as well? Then check out our fantastic range of dog supplements so you can continue to love them well for less.

This post is an opinion and should only be used as a guide. You should discuss any change to your pet’s care or lifestyle thoroughly with your vet before starting any program or treatment.

Written by a human named Hannah Clark.