Some ways how owning a dog can improve your health
Owning dogs yield several health benefits, from sleeping better to decreased risk of allergies – and more.
According to a research presented in 2017 at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting, children of mothers who had daily contact with dogs during pregnancy have lower risk of developing eczema by age two. Furthermore, a Swedish study found that children who grow up with dogs have a 15% less risk of being asthmatic.
Dogs also motivate people to exercise. When it comes to exercising, most of us tend to put it off, but having a dog with you can be a motivation-booster. Many studies say that this is particularly true for seniors who need to get out of the house and keep on moving.
Owning dogs also promote better sleep, according to a study.
“Most people assume having pets in the bedroom is a disruption. We found that many people actually find comfort and a sense of security from sleeping with their pets,” said the study’s author Dr Lois Krahn.
Lastly, dogs can improve your mental health in the long-term. One study says that pet dogs help relieve children’s anxiety, while another study found that people who have a dog at home also have a lower level of anxiety than those who do not.
