15 Proven Benefits of Owning a Dog

Getting a dog can seem like a huge undertaking. Between kids, work, and a whole host of other responsibilities, the last thing you probably want is to add a puppy to the picture.

However, before you turn down the possibility, it’s important to consider the many benefits of owning a dog. According to scientific research, dogs can bring about a variety of perks for kids, adults, and seniors. Keep reading to learn all about them!

Benefits for Kids

Your kids might be pressing for a pooch, but they’re probably not leading with the most persuasive evidence. Check out these science-backed ways in which dogs can help kids:

1. Exposure to dogs can reduce the risk of colds and ear infections among babies.
2. Children who grow up with a dog have a lower chance of developing asthma.
3. Owning a dog can lead to fewer absences from school.
4. Kids with dogs often show stronger levels of empathy than those without canines.
5. Among children with developmental conditions like autism, having a pet can boost playfulness and social interaction.

Benefits for Adults

Even though your kids might be the ones begging you for a dog, succumbing to the pressure might just make your life better too. Here are some benefits of owning a dog for adults:

6. People who go to bed with dogs in their rooms are more likely to sleep better.
7. Pet owners tend to feel less lonely than people without pets.
8. People with pups have an easier time bonding with those in their neighborhood.
9. Due to daily dog walks, canine owners are more likely to meet recommended exercise guidelines.
10. When compared to people without pets, dog owners tend to maintain a healthier diet.

Benefits for Seniors

The benefits of dog ownership only expand with age. These are just a handful of perks for older pooch owners:

11. Daily dog walks help seniors reduce their body mass index and hospital visits.
12. Among older adults living in nursing facilities, those with dogs tend to have more social interaction.
13. Dogs are sometimes able to reduce stress among seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
14. Dog therapy can boost cognitive functions for seniors.
15. Seniors, especially those in long-term care facilities, tend to experience less loneliness if they regularly spend time with a dog.

Although having a dog comes with responsibility, pooches can benefit people of all ages. Owning your own pup comes with perks that’ll last a lifetime. Check out the infographic below from Honest Paws to discover even more benefits!