we love dogs

10 Reasons Having A Dog Makes You Lucky

by Jessica Wick March 11, 2017

Saint Patrick’s Day is approaching, which is a great time to reflect on all the ways in our lives that we are lucky. For many of us, our wonderful dogs are our lucky charms. And the truth is, if you own a dog, you are lucky indeed.

Here are 10 of the many ways having a dog in your family makes you lucky:

1. Studies have shown that simply petting a dog can lower your blood pressure.

It’s true. Own a dog, enjoy healthy blood pressure, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease? Sounds great to us.

2. Dogs improve your mood dramatically.

Spending just 15-30 minutes a day with your dog can help you feel more calm and relaxed, reducing stress and increasing your happiness. Playing with your pup increases your brain’s serotonin and dopamine levels, both of which are associated with pleasure and tranquility.

3. Having a dog could improve your fitness level.

Owning a pup means guaranteed exercise, especially if you live in a city where your dog doesn’t have a yard. They require daily walks, sometimes multiple times a day. Even if your pup has IVDD, eventually healthy movement is encouraged.

4. Humans with dogs recover more quickly from illnesses.

We’re not sure why this happens, but statistically, dog owners recover from being sick faster than non dog-owners. Perhaps we’re motivated by those sweet faces looking at us, hoping we’ll get out of bed.

5. If you have children, owning a dog could improve their self-esteem.

Studies have shown that dogs can improve a child’s confidence and self-esteem, and it even helps them handle stress well.

6. Our pups are excellent watchdogs.

From the time they are puppies, dogs instinctively learn to watch carefully and be aware of anything suspicious that comes your way. Potential burglars are more likely to be put off by a barking dog than a locked door. And while larger breeds tend to be more intimidating, the smaller breeds are just as good at raising a fuss. Anyone who has dachshunds know they can be surprisingly vicious if they think their humans are in danger.

7. You will laugh more than you ever thought possible.

Dogs are often goofy and quite funny. And a life full of laughter is a lucky life indeed.

8. Dogs help increase our social interaction.

Dogs need playtime with the people, but they also enjoy socializing with other pups. This means you’ll get the chance to socialize with other dog owners… and if you’re naturally shy, it’s a great way to come out of your shell.

9. Your family will be at a lower risk for allergies.

Potential pet allergies can keep families from adopting a dog, but a 2010 study in the Journal of Pediatrics found that children who grew up with at least one dog in their homes were less likely to develop allergies and eczema. So if there ever was a good excuse to adopt a dog, this is it.

10. Having a dog makes YOU more awesome.

Dog ownership is not always easy. The responsibility, patience, selflessness and dedication that comes from having a dog in the family will make you an all-around better person. How lucky can you get?