Science Says Dogs Are Better for People's Mental Health Than Any Human
If you've ever felt that you can confide more in your pup and your pup is a better listener than your family members, your friends or even your spouse, you're not alone.
Mounting research suggests that our dogs are more beneficial to our emotional and mental health then human companions are.
On January 19, National Geographic published a fascinating article that goes into all the reasons science has found that our dogs can relax us even better than our human best friends can.
The article states, "A mounting body of research has found that when dog-owners are faced with stressful situations, their bodies tend to be less physiologically reactive when their pets are present. The unconditional support people get from their pups has a psychological impact and a physiological basis. In recent years, multiple studies have illustrated the many ways people’s dogs can provide comfort, calm their frazzled nerves, be good listeners, and provide other forms of valuable support, proving that sometimes words are simply not necessary."
Related: New Study About Petting Random Dogs Is a Breath of Fresh Air
The article goes on to say that when we talk to our pups, they simply just gaze back at us with their lovey eyes. This silent form of canine encouragement can have a calming effect when you’re anxious or under pressure, sometimes more than the presence of a human friend or partner does.
Dogs provide nonjudgmental social support. They don't expect anything from us, other than our love and care. We don't have to worry about what they think of us, or how we look to them, or if we embarrass ourselves in front of them. A dog will never find us weird or awkward for expressing any emotions.
Why You Should Talk To Your Dog
Not only does your dog love the sound of your voice, but talking to your dog can do a world of good for your own mental health. First of all, your dog won't judge you or disagree with you. They are just perfect listeners.
The National Geographic article also explains, "Research has found that talking to your dog about emotionally fraught issues can be particularly beneficial. In a study in a 2018 issue of Anthrozoös, researchers found that people are more willing to confide in their dogs about difficult emotions, such as depression, jealousy, anxiety, apathy, and fear, than they are with their romantic partners or friends."
Because your dog doesn't talk, they won't get into a conversation with you which could make you dwell on the problem even more. And because our dogs are so good at reading us, we instinctually regulate our own selves so we don't upset our dogs, causing what the article calls a positive feedback loop.
Now, we all know it's healthy to spend time with our friends and family and cultivate those relationships, but the next time you feel like you'd rather just stay home alone with your dog? That's healthy too.
Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
