5 New Experiences Owning a Dog Will Bring You
Owning a dog is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Sure, they require a lot of hard work, attention, and love, but the unconditional love, companionship, and loyalty you will receive from your dog makes it all worth it. In addition to that, there are many more benefits dog ownership will bring to your life.
Here are the top 5 new experiences you will enjoy when you share your life with a dog:
- Your Physical Health Will Improve
Motivating yourself to exercise is hard – until you get a canine coach to help you! Dogs should be getting at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, more if they are a high-energy breed. You will find yourself taking lots more walks to keep your dog happy and healthy, which will improve your health as well!
Dogs aren’t picky when it comes to exercise, either. If walking becomes mundane, you can run, bike, rollerblade, or swim with your pup if they like the water. This allows your dog to get their energy out and gives you a fun way to get your exercise as well.
In addition to the added exercise, dogs are also scientifically proven to be good for your heart health! Studies have shown that petting and snuggling your dog lowers your heart rate and stress levels, which helps keep your heart in check. Some researchers even believe that dog owners are more likely to survive a heart attack than others who don’t have a dog.
- Your Mental Health Will Improve
As if owning a dog wasn’t healthy enough, our fur babies are also good for our mental health. According to one study, 74% of owners reported a marked improvement in their mental health after getting their pets. Those who own dogs are less likely to be depressed, and those already diagnosed with clinical depression show improved symptoms when a dog is added to the picture.
Remember how petting your dog can lower your heart rate? That same principle relieves symptoms of anxiety and extreme stress. Veterans and others who suffer from PTSD seek out therapy dogs to help them manage their mental health for that very reason. They act as a buffer against adverse feelings, helping us manage feelings of anxiety, stress, overwhelm, and anger.
Dogs are also a cure for loneliness, whether someone lives alone by choice or is older and no longer lives with a spouse or family. A dog offers a sense of security and companionship – they really are man’s best friend!
- You Will Meet New People
Besides meeting others on walks, owning a dog will open you up to new friend groups as well. Bringing your dog obedience classes is another great way to meet other dog owners. It will also help you to make friends with more experienced dog owners who may be able to share tips and tricks to get you through the initial stages of owning a furry friend!
Dog-friendly hotels and accommodations are more and more common these days, and more people are choosing to bring their dogs on vacation with them. Having a dog by your side is a great conversation starter, and chances are you’ll meet other pet owners and make some new friends– all thanks to your adorable dog!
- You Will Meet New Pooches
Socializing is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Our pups need to interact with other four-legged friends to learn how to behave and communicate well with members of their species.
To get your feet (and paws) wet, take a little trip to your local dog park. Having some off-leash time is excellent for your dog’s development as they learn how to interact and play, and it also gives you a chance to gauge their obedience skills. Be sure to follow proper dog etiquette when approaching other dogs and their owners.
Maybe you’d like a little more structure in your dog’s socializing strategy. Agility clubs are a fantastic way to let your pup meet other dogs in a more controlled environment – and get a ton of energy out, too!
You can also search on TikTok and Instagram for general dog influencer accounts as well as influencer accounts specifically for your dog’s breed, such as English Bulldogs, or Pugs. There is so much adorable and informational content out there for dogs and their owners!
- You Will Discover New Favorite Events
Right now, your favorite events may be sports games, arts festivals, or concerts. While you may still enjoy those things after getting a dog, you’ll also be filling your calendar with events of a different breed!
Dog-centric events and festivals are held all over the country, all year round. Many cities and towns host all sorts of events ranging from pet supply expos, 5K walks, adoption events, dog show competitions, and many more fun events. Just search on Google or Facebook for “dog friendly events” near you, and chances are, you will find some fun upcoming events for you and your pup nearby.
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