13 Ways Dogs
Just Get Us
By Assistance Dogs Australia
Advertorial
When you have a dog in your life, your lives become intertwined in the most wonderful way.
The bond between dog and human is one of unconditional, unspoken love. We feed and care for our dogs. Dogs repay us tenfold in love and help us improve our mental health and general wellbeing.
Here are 13 ways that dogs make us feel better:
1. Dogs make stress disappear
Playing with your dog (or cat, or any other pet) can increase your levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax you. Dogs lower your cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. When you are stressed or anxious, your dog won’t fail to put a smile on your face.
2. Instant happiness — for both of you
It doesn’t take much to make them happy, and their joy is infectious.
3. Soft snuggles
How lovely is running your hands through their soft, clean fur? Dogs and other pets fulfill the basic human need for touch.
4. Healthy dog, healthy you
Taking your dog for a walk means that you get some exercise too. Being active helps you stay mentally and physically healthy. Adults should be active most days, if not every day.
5. Your greatest friend
You are unquestionably your dog’s number one friend, and you are rewarded with the most loyal friendship. They are there for you, in good times and bad.
6. Someone to come home to
Your dog will be waiting for you when you get home, and have their own way of showing you that they missed you.
7. Dogs are a people magnet
You can meet other people just by taking your dog for a walk. If your dog stops to say hi to someone, they might say hi to you, too!
8. Canines can counsel you
You can tell your dog all your problems. They don’t judge and they don’t tell. They can take your mind off your problems. Dogs are the best listeners.
9. You’re never lonely with a dog
During the pandemic, many of us have spent a lot more time at home, unable to see loved ones. Your dog is happy to spend 24/7 with you, and you feel needed and wanted.
10. Dogs only care about the present
Dogs don’t ruminate on the past or worry about the future. They want you to stay with them in the here and now.
11. Mind-reading powers
Your dog might not understand all the words you say (except for the good ones, like treat or walkies), but you understand each other. Only the closest loved ones can read you without you saying a word.
12. A never-ending source of love
Dogs are always happy to see you. Just being with your dog causes your brain to produce oxytocin, a hormone often referred to as the “love chemical.” Oxytocin makes you feel warm and fuzzy, while reducing stress and anxiety.
13. Dogs are wise
Our four-legged friends teach us patience, generosity, and kindness. These all help us to be better humans in our personal and professional lives.
The human bond with dogs bypasses your rational side, and goes straight to the heart. A dog’s love nurtures us in ways that nothing else can.
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Assistance Dogs Australia is a charity that provides fully trained Assistance Dogs to people with mobility needs, autism or post-traumatic stress. To donate towards puppy training, please click here. Donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.