Top 5 Reasons You Should Get a Dog

Dogs and humans aren’t all that different when you start to break it down. We both need food and water, a little bit of love and attention and of course, some quality time outdoors. The latter usually translates into either a walk or run around the neighborhood. You may not even realize it, but all those jaunts to the park or around the block add up over time. In fact, studies have shown that dog owners are almost 35 percent more likely to get their full week's worth of physical activity than their dog-less peers. A cute and cuddly pet that also keeps you fit… now that’s a sweet 2 for 1.

For quite some time, dogs and humans have been pretty tight. From Pugs and Poodles to Labradors and Chihuahuas, the link between our two species is a strong one. But did you know that acquiring a canine companion could help improve your mental well-being? Over the years, various studies have come to a similar conclusion: dog ownership equals higher self-esteem, increased social interaction, and the ability to bounce back from rejection at a faster pace. Your dog will always be there for you after a tough day, week or breakup. Owning a pet gives you a sense of purpose, consequently increasing your conscientiousness towards others. Ultimately dog ownership keeps you feeling positive, and less like a hermit.

Whether you are lounging on your couch or walking through the park, your dog is always going to have your back. Be it a bark to sound the alarm or a ferocious growl to scare off an attacker, your loving pooch can turn into the world’s best bodyguard on a dime. This isn’t a coincidence either. Dogs are wired to remain vigilant at all times. Some breeds like Rottweilers and German Shepherds have even become synonymous with human protection. Sure, most of the times they bark, it's at nothing but it's definitely comforting to know that if trouble is coming your way, Fido will be there to defend you… free of charge.

From sniffing out cancer to boosting your immune system, dogs have a surprising range of health benefits sure to have you rushing to the nearest animal shelter. Due to their super-charged sense of smell, dogs are able to detect small changes in human breathing patterns that may be a sign of breast or lung cancer. Additionally, the American Heart Association has found “that having a dog could actually reduce your risk of getting cardiovascular disease” while dog ownership helps to lower blood pressure. If that isn’t enough to pique your interest, consider this: simply petting a dog positively impacts your immune system. Forget the hospital, next time you get a cold just head to your nearest dog park!

Imagine yourself coming home after a tough day only to find an adorable pooch anxiously waiting for you by the door. If that doesn’t put a smile on your face, you might just be a robot. From their fun-loving smiles to their wet-nosed kisses, dogs carry with them an indefinable quality that is simply infectious. From toddlers to seniors and everyone in-between, owning a dog is one of the most fulfilling endeavors a person can undertake. Not only that, but dogs have been used to help cure people suffering from pain, depression and a host of other ailments for decades in what’s known as pet therapy. From chemotherapy patients to veterans with PTSD, dogs can help lift the spirits of those in need. It appears the answer is simple: get a dog and you won’t regret it!
Do you agree with our list? Why do you think people should own a dog? For more entertaining Top 10s and awesome Top 5s, be sure to subscribe to MsMojo.