One of the best ways to be healthier is to have a dog as a pet. In fact, you can reduce depression, loneliness, and anxiety, and even boost cardiovascular health. Besides this, children who grow up caring for a pet are generally more active and secure. Consider a few ways dogs can improve your health.

1- Lower Stress Levels

Whether you’re just getting home after a demanding day at work or you just need to wind down, having a dog can lower your stress levels. According to research, socializing with your pet decreases the stress hormone cortisol and increases oxytocin, the feel-good hormone. With this in mind, all you have to do is pet him in order to gain peace of mind. Other than this, pets can comfort you when you’re feeling anxious. This can be particularly nice when you feel alone in the world and need a loving companion. So when life is cruel or you’d rather not talk to people, pet your pooch.

2- Promote Exercise

Bonding with man’s best friend means you’ll have to move around a lot. Of course, you’ll be getting extra exercise and be a lot healthier for it. Some activities you can do together are playing frisbee, walking, swimming, jogging, and hiking, among others. Further, you and your dog can even participate in doggy yoga together, otherwise known as Doga. Although this may be a challenge, especially since dogs don’t usually know how to do yoga, it can be a great way to bond. Some benefits of Doga for Rover include improved flexibility, increased muscle, arthritis prevention, pain relief from injuries, and more. Several benefits of yoga for people are weight loss, increased muscle strength and flexibility, and improved circulatory and cardio health. Indeed, you can search for Doga classes near you.

3- Increase Outdoor Time

Going outside has plenty of health benefits. For instance, you can get Vitamin D, lessen anxiety, enhance sleep, increase self-esteem, improve focus, and others. Moreover, your pet’s health can benefit significantly from going for a regular walk outside. For one thing, he’ll be less restless and have additional energy. This can make him happier which he’ll likely express by wagging his tail and being as playful as can be. You’ll be able to enjoy spending time with him since he’ll have a positive outlook on life.

4- Socialize More Often

While dogs are one of the most worthwhile companions you’ll ever have, they can also give you opportunities to socialize with other people regularly. For example, taking her for a walk in your neighborhood means you’ll be able to meet new people or talk to the neighbors you already know. Furthermore, you can take her to other dog-friendly places such as baseball stadiums, restaurants, bookstores, and others. Be sure to contact the place beforehand if you don’t know whether or not they accept dogs. And maybe you’ll meet someone else who’s walking their pet and strike up a friendly conversation.

Not only can a dog improve your health, but your furry friend can become your best buddy. You can do almost everything with him or her. Alternatively, you might want to relax on the sofa underneath a throw blanket with Fido by your side. No matter what, you’ll always have a sweet animal to talk to and spend meaningful time with.