INSCMagazine: Get Social!

By Carol Trehearn

While some dogs are certified as service dogs and others certified as companion dogs, it should be clear that dogs can have a major impact on your life.

More importantly, there is scientific evidence that substantiates the one-time theory that getting a dog can improve your health.

However, the type of dog you get may play a significant role in how dogs can improve your health, so that is something to consider as well. You obviously have your heart set on getting a new forever friend, so what will it be? Here are some thoughts on how dogs really can improve your health.

Dogs Can Help Reduce Stress Levels and Lower High Blood Pressure

Everyone knows that stress plays a significant role in raising one’s blood pressure. The less stress you are subjected to, the fewer your chances will be of seeing a spike in blood pressure readings. There is something quite calming about stroking a dog’s back. Both you and your furry companion are soothed in the process. Just be sure to find out ample information about dogs, like do dogs see colour before getting one.

Building Immunity in Babies

According to WebMD, studies have shown that babies raised in families with dogs seem to build up immunities to allergens. Citing reference material also quoted on Time.com and other news sites, it has been found that children living with dogs and cats tend to build immunity to common allergens many people suffer from. Dog dander is a big issue with those who suffer from allergies, but babies raised around dogs may build up an immunity, giving them better health as adults.

An Amazing Cure for Loneliness

Being lonely often leads to major issues with depression and sometimes the results are catastrophic. Many people don’t know that more than 25 million Americans suffer from depression, major depression that is, and of that number, many result in suicide or suicidal thoughts. In the United States alone, one person dies by their own hand (suicide) every 11.9 minutes of every day, 365 days a year. Dogs can cure loneliness which leads to depression in many cases, so just think for a moment how many people dogs save every day by averting loneliness and depressive episodes.

What Kind of Dog Is Best for You?

Knowing what kind of dog is best for you makes all the difference in the world. If you are not a highly energetic person, it is suggested that you stay away from toy poodles or Yorkies. These dogs tend to be overly hyper and can try the patience of a saint. If you are fond of big dogs and are also seeking some sort of protection because you live alone, you might want to consider a bulldog because most people fear them.

Don’t Be Afraid of Bad Press

Pit Bulls have gotten a bad rap over the years because of societal ignorance. Actually, Pits are not nearly as ferocious as German Shepherds or Rottweilers, and they do make great companion dogs. Bulldogs of all breeds tend to be more laid back than many breeds and are extremely loyal to their owners. Maybe you have heard horror stories and are afraid of Pits and so are looking into America Bulldogs. Is an American bulldog a pitbull? In either regard, both have gotten bad press and both can make amazingly healers if you are looking for a loyal companion that is calm and will stay right by your side through thick and thin.

The one key takeaway here is that dogs are certainly good for your health but you should also know that the breed you choose makes a difference. Large, small, or medium, it is a matter of what you like and what characteristics you prefer. That’s the bottom line.

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