Dog owners live longer

Epidemiologists from Sweden have shown in a large study that dog owners live longer and are less likely to develop cardiovascular disease. The results clearly demonstrate that living together with a dog is beneficial to one's own health. This companionship has an invigorating effect and ensures regular activity in the fresh air. This helps to cope better with everyday stress. Dog owners need around 15 per cent fewer visits to the doctor than people without a pet. Living with a dog also significantly prolongs survival time after a heart attack compared with patients who have no four-legged companion. I would like to help you make the most of the positive effect of your dog.

One essential aspect is that dogs get us moving

Our furry companions demand a structured daily routine. They want us to care for them intensively, to walk with them, to feed them and to stroke them at length. In addition, mental stimulation through games and targeted training is of great importance. A further advantage is the social factor, as dogs bring us together with other people. This offers, especially for people living alone or for seniors, a simple way of staying in contact with the outside world. For older people a dog is often one of the most effective remedies against loneliness and age-related depression. Dogs also promote communication in partnerships and families. They serve as emotional anchors for coping with stress in everyday life.

Not every person suits every dog

A prerequisite for these positive effects is a harmonious relationship between human and animal. Unfortunately, not all partnerships run completely smoothly. One reason for failure is often an ill-considered purchase or a spontaneous acquisition. For very indolent people, active dogs can in theory be motivating, yet in practice this often leads to being overwhelmed. If expectations of the four-legged friend are too high, stress arises. Some people shower their animal with too much attention, while others show too little affection. It is therefore essential to inform yourself very precisely before acquiring a dog about which dog suits your own character, and by no means to decide solely on outward appearance.

• Marked improvement in physical fitness in everyday life
• Reduction of stress through social interaction and closeness
• Important emotional support for senior women and men
• Improvement of general well-being through affection

Use in therapy and animal-assisted education

Studies in residential groups for young people have shown that the mere presence of a calm, friendly dog changes social behaviour positively. The young people treat one another more respectfully and show considerably less aggression. Dogs are also being used more and more often in schools in order to lastingly improve the learning atmosphere. What matters here, however, is that the dog is suited to this particular task and receives sufficient rest periods. Studies at universities also showed that students were considerably more focused during important exams when dogs were present in the room. Particularly valuable is the service of therapy dogs in care homes or hospitals. Their level-headed nature conjures up a smile on many people's faces and contributes considerably to overall condition and inner peace.

This article serves as general information and as a caring entertainment about the wonderful relationship between human and dog.