Why Do Dogs Make Such Good Pets?

There are very many reasons why dogs make such good pets, and why they can be a wonderful part of growing up for many children. It’s not always practical for a family to have a dog, but if it is in your case, and if you’re ready to take on the responsibility of having such a fantastic pet, here are some of the reasons to go ahead with your plans.

Dogs Protect You And Your Property

In a purely practical sense, dogs can guard your home and your person, as well as your loved ones. If a potential home invader were to see that you have a dog, they would have to think twice before entering your property, simply because it would be far easier for them to break into somewhere without a noisy dog, of which might possibly even attack them.

Knowing that your dog is protecting your home even if you’re not there can be a great comfort. Of course, a barking dog is not something your neighbors will like, so it’s a good idea to take your pet to puppy training classes.

Dogs Keep You Active

When you have a dog, you will need to take it for a walk at least once a day, and twice if you can. Without a dog, how likely would it be that you would go out every day, even if the weather is bad? When you have a dog there is no excuse; you simply have to go. This is great for your physical health as it will keep you active.

Walking your dog for just 20 minutes a day is enough to make a difference to your health and to keep your heart healthy.

Dogs Stop You Being Lonely

Dogs are perfect for preventing loneliness, or at least for making people feel less alone. Sometimes people don’t have friends or family nearby, and they might go through each day without even seeing or talking to another person. When you have a dog, you will always have a companion to be with and to talk to, and you won’t feel so alone.

Not only that, but when you take your dog out for a walk, you might meet lots of other people, particularly other dog owners, who you can talk to and make friends with. You could easily go from having no friends to having many friends very quickly.

Dogs Relieve Stress

It has been proven in scientific studies that stroking a dog relieves stress and anxiety. Although there are licensed therapy dogs that are trained specifically for helping people with their mental health problems, you don’t have to have one of these special creatures to feel the benefit – any dog will help to relieve stress.

When you pet your dog you should feel content and relaxed, and because dogs enjoy being stroked you will be able to do it whenever you feel the need, for example if you are feeling panicked or overwhelmed.