6 Health Benefits To Owning A Dog

I love my dog -- probably more like obsessed -- and I was starting to hear a lot of jokes from my friends. So when I came across a video that proves owning a dog is actually a healthy addition, I knew it was more than necessary that I share it with you all.

Dogs Can Prevent Allergies

Owning a dog can reduce the chances of a child developing allergies by 33%. Plus, the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology published research that indicates that children who are exposed to dogs early on can develop stronger immune systems.

Dogs Can Improve Heart Health.

Owning a dog actually makes your heart stronger by lowering blood pressure and improving overall cardiovascular health. Dog owners even have fewer heart attacks and those who do have a better survival and recovery rates.

Dogs Can Help You Lose Weight

Atticus and Carolina keeping me company while I was sick...seriously we don't deserve dogs!

Studies show that owners get more exercise from walking their pup, even more than someone who has a gym membership. On average, people spend 6 hours a week walking their dogs. Those without only spend an average of 1 hour and 20 minutes exercising per week and 47% of non dog owners admit that they don't exercise at all.

Dogs Can Detect Cancer

A study published in the US National Library of Medicine say that dogs have been able to sniff out bladder, lung, breast, ovarian, and colon cancer. They can smell the cancer based on the scent that the cancerous cells release.

Dogs Prevent Allergic Reactions

After being trained, dogs can detect traces of things their owners are allergic to. For example, a dog can be trained to detect even the smallest amounts of peanuts and can warn their owner.

Reduce Stress And Anxiety.

Dogs help to fight the feeling of loneliness which is a major factor of depression. Those who prefer limited social interaction can also benefit from a dog to provide companionship and a sense of purpose.