Benefits of Owning a Dog

Pets/Animals - Dogs/Dog Breeds

By: ListMaker 11-Jan-2011

Introduction:

Actually, around my house, I'm not sure if I the owner of the dogs or if they own me! There are many many benefits of owning a dog, only the surface of which are detailed below. But, anyone who has ever loved a dog and been loved in return can come up with hundreds of benefits of owning a dog (or six).

A Dog Will Always Give Unconditional Love

Your mate may say they love you unconditionally but I'm betting that's not so. There are always conditions to love when one is in a relationship and generally faithfulness is at the top of the heap.

A dog though will always give you unconditional love. You can reprimand him one minute for chewing through your best boots (or the cat...) and he'll still try to cuddle up close for some loving.

A Dog Is a Great Read of Character

When I was actively dating, I always introduced my new dates to my dogs. This served two purposes; if my dates brushed off their clothes the minute they walked in my door, it was a doomed relationship. But, more importantly, my dogs are great reads of character and, if they accepted my date, it was a good situation. There were a few times when the most intelligent of my dogs, Killian my Australian Shepherd, had an immediate adverse reaction to a date. I took the dog at his word and curtailed any further contact. I don't believe that dog has ever led me astray.

People Who Have Dogs Have Lower Blood Pressure Than Non Dog Owners

Studies have proven that just the act of stroking a dog's fur lowers a human's blood pressure and calms the mind. And, stroking a dogs fur is a nice way to pass a few minutes of the day (or hours).

Dog Lovers Generally Get More Exercise

Well, it's a theory anyway....but, if you've got dogs living with you, they usually need some sort of exercise. Either walking, throwing a frisbee or just getting on the floor and wrestling with a dog will give you some sort of exercise. For the best time though, learn to bike ride with your dog so he'll get a good long romp and you'll get some aerobic exercise in at the same time (word of caution: wear a helmet).

Dogs Are Comforting

In my darkest hours after my sister died in a car accident, my dogs were the ones who provided me with constant comfort. Whether they understood my depressed state or simply wanted to be close to me, they followed me everywhere I went and were never more than a hand's touch away. Chesapeake and Flapps were two of my best friends and remain that way even today, years after their deaths.

Final Thoughts

Those of us who love dogs so dearly are blessed by having this characteristic. I never trust anyone who doesn't love dogs (well, except maybe the few cat lovers I know but, what's up with THAT? Don't they know that dogs are so much better?....).

If you're thinking of adding a dog to your home, please consider rescue instead of purchase. There are so very many good dog rescue organizations caring for many unwanted dogs who are just waiting for a home. And, I believe firmly that rescued dogs make the best pets - just ask my five.

Supporting Links

Give this list a high five!

Comments

Post a Comment

dashboardc33 2/3/2012
Flag This Comment

Great list about dogs!
jseven 1/12/2011
Flag This Comment

I love my dog and agree! Nice pic, too!
IzzyDuncan 1/11/2011
Flag This Comment

I'm a cat person at the moment, but dogs are also oh, so swell.
clewand550 1/11/2011
Flag This Comment

I would be totally lost without my two dogs. Nice list. Great job!
Ellie 1/11/2011
Flag This Comment

This is very true! Dogs are wonderful companions and excellent judges of character.