Top 4 Health Benefits Of Having A Dog

I think everyone knows how much I LOVE dogs — especially my two, Ace and Junior! Dogs can bring so much joy to our lives and I’m sure most dog owners will agree that they are more than just pets. Dogs can be our companions, our best friends, our fitness buddies and a source of unconditional love.

My dogs certainly aren’t perfect — they chew things, they spill their water everywhere, they try to jump on me with muddy paws! But they are amazing creatures with good hearts! 

Because dogs give us so much, I want to take the opportunity to celebrate canines of all shapes and sizes. 

These are a few benefits of having a dog!

What are some of the reasons I love my dogs so much? 

1. Dogs make you more active

One of the best things about having a dog is that it influences you to get outside more often. To be a responsible pet owner, dogs need to be walked regularly — especially if they are a bigger breed. Knowing your pet depends on you for its health makes it a lot harder to give in to excuses and stay inside!

Walking your dog is just one way to be more active — there are so many opportunities to exercise with your dog. Here in Australia, it gets really hot in summer so sometimes I will get up early while it’s still cool and play with my dogs or take them for a walk. Then I will usually do my own training later in the day.

2. Dogs can improve overall health

Studies have shown that owning a dog can make it less likely for you to need to visit the doctor, compared to people who don’t have pets. Having a pet dog has also shown to contribute to better cardiovascular health.

3. Dogs help you to be more mindful

When you’ve got two big dogs like I do, you can’t help but be present when they’re around. I’ve mentioned this before on Instagram but I don’t actually count my dog walking as LISS cardio training. Why? Because my dogs don’t just walk on a leash! Instead, they explore, relieve themselves on trees, smell everything and stop every two seconds. That makes it impossible to keep to a consistent walking pace!

I wouldn’t have it any other way though. I love that they do this because it teaches me to be present in the moment, to switch off and take in my surroundings, just like they do.

4. Dogs can enhance social connections

If you’re a dog owner who takes their dog out in public, you know what I’m talking about! Dogs can be great conversation starters and can make it easy to connect with other people. 

Dogs can be such a wonderful member of the family, for all the reasons above. If you are thinking of getting a dog as a pet, my advice is to make sure you are ready for the responsibility.

Owning a pet is a big commitment and it does require a lot of your time. I’m sure most dog owners will agree that they’re worth it though!

Do you have a puppy or a dog that you adore? I would love to hear about your furry friends — why are you grateful for your dog? Share your stories below!

Love, Kayla xx