Dogs and health: Our best friends in good times and bad
Dogs and Our Wellbeing: Why Aussies Can’t Live Without Their Four-Legged Mates.
Australians love their dogs – and for good reason.
They’re not just “man’s best friend,” research shows they can actually boost our wellbeing too. Let’s take a closer look at the incredible relationship between dogs and our health.
Our Long History With Dogs
It’s estimated there are over 5 million pet dogs in Australia, and our bond with them goes back tens of thousands of years.
Evidence suggests humans and dogs have been mates for over 20,000 years, working together, protecting each other and sharing companionship.
Over time, dogs have played many roles – guarding our homes and livestock, hunting with us, and more recently, being bred for companionship and cuteness. But no matter their role, one thing has never changed – dogs are loyal companions who brighten our lives.
Their devotion and ability to make us smile are just some of the reasons we cherish them so much. And beyond the love and laughter, they actually make us healthier and more resilient to stress.
How Dogs Keep Us Healthy
Plenty of studies show that dog ownership is linked to increased fitness levels.
One study even found that owning a dog can reduce the risk of premature death from heart disease by up to 30%.
Why?
Simple – dogs make sure we get up and moving every day. You can try saying no to a walk, but when those puppy-dog eyes are staring at you, good luck!
Research shows that dog owners are far more likely to walk for exercise than non-pet owners. For older Aussies, especially those over 60, walking a dog can significantly improve overall health and mobility.
Dogs Benefit Our Health Before We’re Born
This might surprise you – dogs can even be good for us before we’re born!
Studies have found that mums who own dogs during pregnancy can reduce the risk of their child developing eczema in early life. Kids exposed to the bacteria dogs naturally carry are also less likely to suffer from asthma symptoms.
Dogs Just Make Us Feel Good
There’s nothing quite like coming home to a wagging tail and a happy face. Dogs have an incredible calming effect, and being around them lifts our mood almost instantly.
Science backs this up – spending time with dogs increases levels of oxytocin, the “love hormone” that promotes bonding and feelings of happiness.
It’s why dogs are often used in therapy – they’ve been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, making people feel more connected and supported.
What We Can Learn From Dogs
Sadly, dogs share many of the same health problems we do – including obesity, diabetes, cancer, and even dementia.
Because of this, studying dogs can actually give researchers valuable insights into how these diseases affect humans too.
Understanding a dog’s gut health, for example, may help us learn more about our own.
Dogs Bring Joy to Our Lives
From endless funny videos online to the daily tail wags at home, dogs fill our lives with happiness.
They keep us active, provide unconditional love, and even help us live longer, healthier lives.
But perhaps their greatest gift is the simple joy they bring every single day.
So, next time your furry mate nudges you for a walk or snuggles up beside you on the couch, remember – they’re not just being cute.
They’re making your life better in more ways than you realise.
