12 Science-Backed Reasons Dogs Make the Best Pets

Dogs have long been hailed as “man’s best friend,” and it’s not hard to see why. Their wagging tails, soulful eyes, and unwavering loyalty point to a sense of companionship and joy that’s hard to match. 

As it turns out, there’s a considerable amount of scientific research that backs up what all dog lovers instinctively know: Dogs are truly awesome. Whether you’re a lifelong dog lover or considering welcoming a pup into your home for the first time, these 12 science-backed benefits of having a dog will deepen your appreciation for these incredible animals and give you another reason to adopt.

12 Science-backed reasons why dogs are awesome

1. Dogs reduce stress

Interacting with dogs can have positive effects on your stress levels. Even the simple act of petting a dog has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. In one study, college students who had 10 minutes of hands-on interaction with cats and dogs from a local shelter experienced significantly lower salivary cortisol levels compared to those who did not engage in petting.

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2. Dogs motivate you to be active 

Being a pet parent to a dog typically means going on daily walks and engaging in other outdoor activities with them. A UK survey found that dog parents get about 200 more minutes of walking each week than non-dog parents. This increased activity isn’t just fun. It can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity — and improve overall physical fitness. 

3. Dogs can reduce feelings of loneliness 

As any dog parent knows, dogs are often like little shadows, always by your side wherever you go. This constant companionship can be a powerful antidote to loneliness, especially for those who live alone. In one survey, 80 percent of pet parents said their pet makes them feel less lonely. This is backed by studies showing that getting a dog can reduce feelings of loneliness.  

4. Dogs are really good for your heart 


Dogs will not only wiggle their way into your heart with their adorable antics, but they’ll also keep your heart healthy. According to a recent Mayo Clinic study, this benefit may be because dog parents are more likely to be physically active, be non-smokers, eat better, and have lower blood sugar than non-dog parents. The stress-lowering effects of having a dog may benefit your heart, too.

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5. Dogs make you more social

Dogs are great at getting you out of the house and into your community. Whether it’s at the dog park or during neighborhood strolls, dogs provide countless opportunities for socializing. One survey found that pet parents were significantly more likely to get to know people in their neighborhood than non-pet parents. Additionally, 40 percent of people reported receiving one or more types of social support (such as emotional and informational support) via people they met through their pets.

6. Dogs can also help you get more dates 


Need a wingman? Look no further than a dog. Dogs are fantastic conversation starters and can make social interactions much smoother. In a series of studies, men were more likely to get a woman’s digits when they had a dog with them. And in a survey by Rover, 83 percent of online daters thought that profiles featuring dogs are more likely to receive matches. Philip Tedeschi, a professor and researcher on the human-animal bond, explains that this is likely because people with well-cared-for dogs are often seen as more approachable, responsible, and attractive.

7. Dogs make you happier 


You know that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when you cuddle or pet a dog? That’s caused by oxytocin, a hormone often referred to as the “cuddle chemical.” Oxytocin increases feelings of relaxation, trust, and happiness. One study found that simply gazing into a dog’s eyes causes a big spike in oxytocin levels in both the dog and their human counterpart. Add on the stress-relieving benefits mentioned above, and you have a surefire recipe for increased happiness.

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8. Dogs help you sleep better

If simply petting a dog can make you feel calmer and happier, imagine what sleeping next to your pup can do. While sharing your bed with your dog might not be for everyone (especially if they’re a giant breed), the release of oxytocin that comes from being close to your dog promotes theta brainwaves, which occur during meditation and REM sleep. This means you’re more likely to sleep deeper when your dog is nearby. Additionally, close contact with your dog can reduce the stress hormone cortisol, further enhancing your sleep quality. 

9. Dogs can support senior citizens 

Dogs can be popular companions for senior citizens, providing loving companionship and encouraging regular physical activity and social interactions. Additionally, studies have found that interactions with dogs can improve cognitive function in seniors with mental illness and reduce agitated behaviors in seniors with dementia. 

10. Dogs can reduce symptoms of PTSD

Therapy dogs are amazing support animals for people with PTSD. In one study, military veterans with PTSD living with a service dog exhibited significantly reduced PTSD symptoms, anger, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and alcohol abuse than those on the therapy-dog waitlist. The findings suggest that, in combination with usual care, service dogs can greatly benefit veterans with PTSD psychologically and physiologically. 

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11. Dogs can detect certain medical conditions

Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell which allows them to detect certain medical conditions. For example, some dogs are trained to alert their guardians to impending seizures, while others are trained to recognize drops in blood sugar. There’s even some evidence that dogs can smell cancer in humans before it’s diagnosed. For those with certain conditions, dogs’ keen senses can provide early warnings and potentially life-saving alerts.

12. Dogs are great company

A dog is the ultimate companion, always ready to join in on your daily adventures and cuddle sessions. They’re not just a pet  — they’re a best friend who sticks by you through thick and thin. Their loyal and affectionate nature means you’ll always have a supportive friend by your side, ready to lift your spirits on tough days and share in your joy on good ones. Plus, who else will listen to your rants without any judgment?

Considering adopting a dog?

While dogs are undoubtedly awesome (it’s science, after all), it’s essential to consider if you’re ready for a dog before adopting one. Here are some important factors to mull over: 

• Time commitment 

Dogs require a considerable amount of time and attention. They need daily exercise, feeding, grooming, training, and social interaction. Puppies, in particular, need more time for training and socialization. Think about your daily schedule to make sure you can dedicate the necessary time to care for a dog.

• Lifestyle compatibility 

Evaluate your lifestyle to determine if it is compatible with dog parenthood. Consider factors such as your work hours, travel frequency, activity level, living space, and other people in your household. 

For example, if you’re less active or living in an apartment, a small dog (or even a cat) with less exercise and space demands would be a better choice than a large dog like a German Shepherd. You’ll also need to dog-proof your living space to make your home safe for your new pup. 

• Financial responsibility 

Being a dog parent comes with several expenses, including dog food, various dog supplies, veterinary care, and pet insurance. Make sure you have the financial stability to cover these ongoing costs.

• Long-term commitment 

Depending on the breed, dogs can live for 10 to 15 years, or more. You need to be confident that you’re ready for a long-term commitment and are prepared to care for your dog throughout their entire life. Consider how your life might change over the years and whether you will still be able to provide for your dog.

• Training and socialization 

Training is essential for a well-behaved dog. Some dogs come with training, but certainly not all. For those who aren’t trained, be prepared to invest time in teaching your dog basic commands, good manners, and potty-training. Socialization is equally important to ensure your dog is comfortable around other animals, people, and different environments. Consider enrolling your pup in a dog-training class or working with a professional trainer if needed.

• Impact on other pets

If you already have other pets, consider how a new dog will fit into the household. Some pets may have difficulties adjusting to a new dog. The introduction should be gradual and supervised to promote harmony among your pets. 

If you’ve carefully considered all of the above, and are ready to adopt a dog, you can use Adopt a Pet’s search feature to find your new family member today.

References 

Animal Visitation Program (AVP) Reduces Cortisol Levels of University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

A Scoping Review of Research on Human-Canine Interactions to Reduce Loneliness and Promote Socializing Behaviors in Early and Middle Adulthood

​​Canine Olfactory Detection and Its Relevance to Medical Detection

Dog Owners Are More Likely to Meet Physical Activity Guidelines Than People Without a Dog

Dog Ownership and Cardiovascular Health: Results From the Kardiovize 2030 ProjectDomestic Dogs as Facilitators in Social Interaction: An Evaluation of Helping and Courtship Behaviors

Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Agitated Behaviors and Social Interactions of Older Adults with Dementia

Oxytocin-Gaze Positive Loop and the Coevolution of Human-Dog Bonds

Pet Therapy in Elderly Patients with Mental IllnessSocial Isolation & Loneliness The Effect of a Service Dog on Salivary Cortisol Awakening Response in a Military Population with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Theta Frequency Activity During Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep Is Greater in People with Resilience Versus PTSD

The Pet Factor — Companion Animals as a Conduit for Getting to Know People, Friendship Formation and Social Support

Your Dating Profile Might Need a (P)update