Here at Barker and Bone HQ, there is nothing we love more than dogs! So, it came as no surprise to us when we found hard evidence demonstrating just how good dogs are for our health. This is what Karen in HR has been telling us for years! Dogs are more than just cuddly companions to us and the research continues to show that dogs bring real health benefits to their owners.

 IMPROVE HEART HEALTH

Researchers at the Karolinska Institutet, Sweden have discovered that men and women who were aged 40-80 and owned dogs for over 12 years had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. In addition to this, they also had a decreased risk of death from other causes. If you live alone, there are benefits for you too - you have a 33% reduced risk of death and 11% less chance of developing cardiovascular disease than those who lived alone without a dog. 

GOOD FOR ALLERGIES

Have you ever asked someone “why don’t you have a dog?” and they spin you some story about ‘allergies’? Yeah, that’s not very scientific. Studies have proven that growing up in a house with a dog can have massive benefits for the immune system.

LESS STRESS

I once asked my boss to bring my dog to work. He said no - now I am stressed at work all the time. I wish my boss knew how much more productive I would be if I had my little furball by my side! It’s a scientific fact that it’s impossible to have a bad day if you come home to a dog. In fact, dog owners show a better response to stress (their pulse and blood pressure rates don’t soar).

MORE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

It’s well known that dogs need to be walked and played with numerous times a day. This means that many dog owners are getting an extra 30 minutes of exercise a day, lowering their risk of cardiovascular disease. Daily walking is also excellent for your mental health and general well-being.

BETTER SOCIAL LIFE

Your four-legged friend can help facilitate friendships and social networks (well they actually have two arms and two legs, but that’s beside the point). A 2015 study published found that dogs can help you meet new people and also keep your social networks thriving. One study even showed that those with dogs also had closer and more supportive relationships with the people in their lives.

As you can see there are tons of incredible health benefits to do with owning a dog! Why don’t you say ‘thank you’ to your 4 legged friend with some treats or some toys? Check out the full range at www.barkerandbone.com.au.