Health Benefits of Owning Dogs
May 26, 2025
Disclaimer: Not Medical Advice. Opinions are my own.
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In partnership with The Farmer's Dog
Today's Newsletter at a Glance:
Are There Health Benefits of Owning Dogs?
Cardiovascular Benefits: More Than Just a Walk in the Park
Canine Cure for Stress & Anxiety
Cognitive Benefits from Dog Ownership
Today's newsletter will be a fan favorite, answering the question: Are there health benefits of owning dogs?
A while ago, we posted a video covering the suggested benefits of owning dogs, and the response was overwhelmingly positive - click here to watch the video I'm referring to.
We love our dogs like family, but did you know there are suggested heart health benefits, mood boosting, and neuroprotective aspects associated with dogs?
Cardiovascular Benefits: More Than Just a Walk in the Park
Let's start with the cardiac benefits.
Multiple studies have suggested that owning a dog can reduce risk factors of heart disease and all-cause mortality.
Why might this be? The most significant driver is increased physical activity.
The power of consistent daily walks has been clearly shown to have a positive impact on our overall health. Having the responsibility to let our dogs outside or go on walks helps hold us accountable.
This cross-sectional study showed that dog owners are more likely to enjoy both daily walks and spend more time in nature, which is not a surprising connection.
A comprehensive meta-analysis involving nearly 4,000,000 participants revealed that dog ownership correlated with a 24% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 31% decrease in cardiovascular mortality compared to non-owners. Remarkably, those with a history of coronary events reaped even greater benefits; owning a dog was linked to a 65% reduction in all-cause mortality.
If you struggle to stay consistent with physical activity, then a canine companion may help you stay on track.
With our four dogs, we are constantly reminded to take them on a walk because they will be bouncing off the walls if we don't.
Canine Cure for Stress & Anxiety
Beyond the physical health benefits, dogs have a promising positive impact on our mindfulness.
The bond of companionship between humans and dogs is well-documented throughout history, and for good reason.
Positive physical interaction between humans and our dogs has been shown to stimulate oxytocin, which is the "love hormone".
Oxytocin, produced primarily in the hypothalamus, strengthens trust, bonding, and empathy.
This interesting systematic literature review selected 129 articles from 1983 to 2021, examining the physiological mechanisms between humans and dogs. The researchers found that the power of social bonding and gentle touch resulted in higher levels of oxytocin, increased HRV (Heart Rate Variability), and decreased cortisol (the stress hormone).
The bond we share with our dogs creates a positive feedback loop. Making eye contact, hugging, petting, and playing with our dogs has increased oxytocin levels in humans and pets, reinforcing mutual bonding and emotional connections.
Cognitive Benefits from Dog Ownership
The final pillar we will cover today is the positive cognitive benefits of dog ownership.
Alzheimer's disease is one of the leading causes of death, so stacking neuroprotective tactics should be a priority.
Three primary mechanisms contribute to dog ownership cognitive benefits - the first two we have covered: exercise and emotional bonding.
The third is engagement in routine activities. Having the responsibility and caring for a pet may correlate with cognitive function.
Routine feeding times, daily problem solving, and social interaction all come with taking care of any dog.
This 2022 cross-sectional study highlighted better processing speed, attentional orienting, and episodic memory for stories.
Dogs: Not for Everyone, But Worth It for Many
Dogs aren't for everyone.
They require time, attention, financial resources, and commitment.
It's far from easy. I'm reminded of that when cleaning up accidents at 4:00 in the morning.
However, the benefits and upside are undoubtedly worth it in the end.
Life wouldn't be the same without our dogs.
“The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog.” - M.K. Clinton
Our Dogs Deserve Better
Proper nutrition makes us feel better and have more energy throughout the day.
Our dogs deserve the same.
The Farmer’s Dog doesn’t trade convenience for quality.
Their food is human-grade, made from whole meats and vegetables.
Our dogs have been eating The Farmer’s Dog for the past 3 years and absolutely love it.
Each plan is personalized to the dog, ensuring adequate portions, recipes, and calories.
The Farmer’s Dog makes feeding healthy, simple, and easy, so your pup’s nutrition doesn’t take a back seat when life gets busy.
Dog food should be real food.
If you're ready to have high-quality, human-grade food delivered to your doorstep, Click HERE and get 50% off your first order with The Farmer's Dog.
My ask to you:
Send this newsletter to a dog lover - it will make their day!
Only the best,
Jeremy London, MD
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this blog or materials linked from this blog is at the user’s own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.