Hey, dear reader! Don’t worry today I will not talk much, but I bring you an interesting topic. At least, many of you will think that. Some friends told me that pets help them to reduce stress, and I also read about it on the net. So today’s the question is: do dogs relieve stress?
Firstly, I will tell you a short story about a dog that I once knew.
I don’t know what kind of dog he was, but he was a remarkable being. Sadly, I didn’t have a chance to get to know him better, because he was very old and I was a too young. He was old but was full of energy, fun, and lightness. Pongo was running around freely and, yes, he was very friendly. I think I write this article for a remembrance of him and all our other loved and lost animal family members.
Secondly, I love all animals, and maybe because of that, I am a vegetarian. But I don’t feel like it’s good to have a dog or cat in my house because I think that all animals need to be free. I am somehow sure that many of you will not agree with me, but this is my opinion so before we start discussing this topic I wanted you to know. Let’s begin, if you are ready, my friend! Are you?
Do Dogs Relieve Stress?
6 Ways How Your Dog Can Help Reduce Stress
Studies show that interacting with a pet helps reduce stress and it’s good for your well-being.
1. Decreases your blood pressure.
Did you know that high blood pressure is one physical measure of stress? If you are being around dogs or other pets, your blood pressure lowers.
2. Dogs decrease your reaction to stressful situations.
One study revealed that people showed smaller increases in heart rate and blood pressure when they were asked to do a mental arithmetic task in front of their pets than people who did this task in front of their spouses. People with pets were less stressful.
3. Get more exercise.
I am sure many of you know that walking is good for stress relief. If you have a dog, you are forced to go outside and take a walk with your pet.
4. Dogs help you to be in the moment.
If you want to deal with stress more effectively, you need to keep your attention on the present, because that can help you reduce stress. Dogs can help you do it, because going for a walk or playing game of fetch keeps your focus on the now.
5. Dogs can help you to become more resilient in dealing with stress.
One study showed that pet owners had better self-esteem and are less fearful and depressed. These are important qualities that are correlated with less perceived stress, and they help with stress management.
6. They make you laugh and have fun. Who doesn’t know, that laughing is a medicine? There are a lot of funny animal videos on YouTube, and they are very popular. People love to watch them and laugh. Do you know what laughter does? It helps you to reduce stress and feel much, much better.
Conclusion
Dogs relieve stress for sure, and if you are willing and want to become a pet owner, you should. You will see many benefits, and a dog will help you to reduce stress and become a better person.
But I believe that this not for everyone. Of course, it’s great for stress relief, but it doesn’t mean that we all need to keep a dog. As other stress relief and management tips, many works for you, but some aren’t useful.
What do you think about this article? Let me know below!
I would love to hear from you, so please leave me a comment below to let me know if this article helped you.
Find ways to reduce stress naturally by subscribing to this blog, and you will receive notifications of my upcoming articles.
If you enjoyed this article, let your friends know by sharing it on social media.
Cheers, my friend! Until next time!
Linda Mo
Founder of How To Reduce Stress Naturally
Hello!
Wow, you truly make a remarkable argument for having a dog! My friends and family that do have pets are incredibly attached and see the pet as a family member. They are also ready to play and run with the pets. Which means everyone is getting exercise!
And what a fabulous way to learn how to be completely present in the moment. I did really like that point! To me the greatest gift we can give each other is being present.
Great article! And so much fun to read! Thank you!
Hi, Ariel!
Yes, I know. While I was writing it, I almost start to think that maybe having a dog isn’t such a bad idea. Lol. 😀
I agree that being present in the moment is very important and will make us happy.
Thank you! 🙂 Thank you for your comment, Ariel!
Wow, it sure is interesting to know that dogs can help slow down your heart rate and alleviate stress! My daughter has been working day and night to launch her freelance writing career. I know she is under a lot of pressure and stress, so I will be sure to advise her to consider adopting a puppy to help her with her stress levels.
Hi, Kit! I am glad you liked this post.
Stress can impact all us in many terrible ways so it is important to know how to properly manage your stress. There are many ways, but not all of them work for everyone.
I hope your daughter will feel better if she will adopt a puppy. What is she writing?