𝔻𝕠𝕘𝕤 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕝𝕥𝕙
People with dogs know the benefits of pet ownership. The unconditional love, trust and loyalty shown by your canine companions, coupled with their unbridled enthusiasm on your return home each day, is hard to put into words.
There's another plus of having a dog by your side: It improves your overall physical and mental health. Here's how.
𝔻𝕠𝕘𝕤 𝕘𝕖𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕞𝕠𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘
One notable benefit is that dogs force you to get up and move. One research study found that dog owners are more likely to report regular physical activity than people who don't own dogs. Activities associated with dog ownership, like feeding, grooming, playing and letting them outside, all increase physical activity levels. Physical activity improves blood flow, induces muscle contraction and reduces joint stiffness.
Dogs also require regular exercise, and will greet it with smiles and wagging tails. In addition to a typical walk, you can work hiking and running into your outings with your dog depending on its breed. People who regularly perform aerobic exercise have improved blood pressure, reduced blood sugar levels, better controlled weight and a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Other studies have demonstrated that exercise can improve depression and anxiety.
Over time, exercise will help strengthen your muscles, bones and joints. You may notice that your usual route is feeling easier and decide to stay out longer or walk up that extra hill.
When selecting a new puppy or dog, carefully consider its energy levels and exercise requirements. It's best when your lifestyle and activity levels match that of your canine buddy.
𝔻𝕠𝕘𝕤 𝕙𝕖𝕝𝕡 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕨𝕖𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥
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Exercise burns calories and helps you maintain a healthy weight. In one study, adults who regularly walked their dogs were less likely