Benefits of Having a Dog: 8 Ways Dogs Make Life Better

Benefits of Having a Dog: 8 Ways Dogs Make Life Better

The biggest benefits of having a dog are more daily walking, steady companionship, and a possible boost to your heart and brain health. The bond between people and their pets is linked to lower blood pressure, less loneliness, and more chances to exercise and socialize, according to the CDC.¹ In one large Australian study, people with dogs had about 23% lower odds of dying over four years than people without pets.²

Key Takeaways

Benefits of Having a Dog at a Glance

Most research on dogs and health is observational. It shows a link between dog ownership and better health, not proof that dogs cause it. Here's what recent studies have found:

What Are the Benefits of Having a Dog?

1. You'll walk more

Dogs need daily walks, and that gets you moving, too. In an Australian study that followed adults for up to nine years, people with dogs walked more than people without dogs, about 17 extra minutes a week for women and 20 for men.⁵ The catch? People who had dogs but didn't walk them were no more active than people without dogs. The benefit comes from the walks.

2. Your heart may thank you

The CDC notes that regular walking or playing with pets can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.¹ Those daily walks add up, and so does time spent relaxing with your dog.

3. You may live longer

In an Australian study of more than 15,000 adults, people with dogs had lower odds of dying over four years than people without pets, even after accounting for other health and lifestyle factors. Owning cats, birds, or fish showed no clear link.² Researchers think the extra physical activity from having a dog may explain part of the difference.

4. You'll feel less lonely

Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by providing companionship, according to the CDC. A dog greets you at the door, sticks by your side, and gives your day a steady rhythm. A dog isn't a replacement for mental health care, but that daily companionship matters.

5. Your brain may stay sharper as you age

A Japanese study of more than 11,000 older adults found that those who currently had a dog had about 40% lower odds of developing disabling dementia over four years.³ Those who exercised regularly and weren't socially isolated saw the strongest link. If you're thinking about a dog later in life, check out these best dogs for seniors.

6. Kids may have fewer food allergies

Growing up with a dog may help some children's immune systems. A Japanese study of more than 97,000 mothers and children found that dog exposure during pregnancy or early infancy was linked to a lower risk of egg, milk, and nut allergies up to age 3.⁴

7. Kids learn responsibility

Feeding, walking, and caring for a dog teaches kids that another living thing depends on them. "Taking care of an animal is a great way to learn about responsibility and caring for others," according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.⁶

8. You'll meet more people

Dog walks and dog parks are natural conversation starters. The CDC lists more opportunities to socialize among the benefits linked to the bond with a pet. A friendly dog can make it easier to start a conversation with neighbors.

What Are the Downsides of Having a Dog?

Dogs bring a lot of joy, but they're also a big commitment. Before you get one, think about:

How Can You Get the Most Out of Having a Dog?

To enjoy the benefits, make the healthy habits part of your routine:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is having a dog good for your mental health?

It can help. The CDC says pets can help manage loneliness and depression by providing companionship,¹ and many people find that a dog adds structure and joy to their days. Still, a dog isn't a treatment for depression or anxiety. If you're struggling, talk with a health care professional, and think of a dog as one part of a healthy routine.

What are the benefits of having a dog for kids?

Kids who grow up with dogs get a playmate, a reason to get moving, and a chance to learn responsibility. Research also links early dog exposure to fewer egg, milk, and nut allergies in young children.⁴ Just make sure an adult supervises young kids around dogs, and teach your children how to approach and pet a dog gently.

Is it better to have a dog or a cat?

It depends on your lifestyle. Dogs need more time, exercise, and attention, while cats are usually more independent. Some health benefits seem stronger for dogs, likely because dogs get people walking. In one study, owning a dog was linked to lower odds of dying over four years, while owning a cat showed no clear link.² Both can be wonderful companions.

What age should a child be before getting a dog?

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests it may be safest to wait until your child is older than 4, since many dog bite injuries happen to young children.⁶ Older kids can take on more of the pet care. Whatever their age, supervise young children with dogs and teach them how to treat a dog kindly.

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