In a heartwarming revelation, new research from Rover.com has shown that nearly half of dog owners—49% to be exact—report a significant boost in their mental health since welcoming a four-legged friend into their lives.
What's more, the same percentage of Brits have intentionally brought home a dog to help manage their mental wellbeing.
From keeping their owners active (62%) to providing a sense of purpose (40%), combating loneliness (33%), and delivering those much-needed daily smiles (44%), it’s clear that dogs are more than just pets—they are cherished emotional allies for the nation. A remarkable 50% of dog parents consider their beloved pooch an integral part of their mental health strategy.
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The research highlights that the mere presence of dogs brings joy, with a whopping 62% of respondents stating that simply walking past a dog can brighten their day. And the laughter doesn’t stop there—half of all pet owners (50%) confess their furry companions manage to crack a smile almost every day, underscoring the delightful impact our canine pals have on our lives.
But it’s not just dog owners who are reaping the benefits. Nearly half of the respondents (49%) admit that spending time around dogs, even if they don’t belong to them, enhances their mood. In fact, 12% have taken the initiative to borrow pets from friends and family to get their feel-good fix! Going even further, 13% have contemplated joining dog-walking or pet-sitting services just to indulge in more canine companionship.
When it comes to self-care, our furry friends truly shine. Half of the participants (50%) state their dogs motivate them to step outside and enjoy fresh air regularly, with 39% claiming their pup gives them that crucial push to get out of bed in the morning. They also help keep routines intact; nearly a quarter (24%) of owners say their dogs wake them up early, ready to seize the day.
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The emotional connections run deep; one in four dog owners (26%) consider their pet their biggest supporter, even more so than family and friends. A staggering 55% admit they would feel utterly lost without their loyal companion.
Top 10 mental health benefits of dog ownership:
- Increased physical activity (68%)
- Improved mental health (60%)
- Companionship (50%)
- Sense of purpose (44%)
- Reduced loneliness (42%)
- Reduced stress (39%)
- Sense of routine (38%)
- Improved mood and happiness (37%)
- Reduced anxiety (36%)
- Emotional support (32%)
Philip Tedeschi, an expert in the human-animal bond from Rover, emphasises the positive impact dogs have on mental health. He explains, “Dogs possess an extraordinary ability to uplift our spirits, offering emotional support, companionship, and motivation. The bond we share with them transcends mere affection; they bring a calming influence that diminishes stress, alleviates loneliness, and infuses our lives with purpose.”
“Engaging with dogs—be it through walks, playtime, or simply relaxing together—stimulates the release of oxytocin and endorphins, the feel-good hormones that promote happiness and relaxation. This bond not only enhances our mood but also fosters physical activity and social connections, all vital for boosting mental wellbeing. It’s no surprise that so many now view their dogs as essential components of their mental health toolkit.”
So, it seems, when it comes to lifting spirits and providing unwavering support, our furry friends truly are a man's best friend!