Dogs and happiness

Dogs, who are sometimes referred to as humans' closest companions, have been the subject of a significant number of scientific studies that have investigated the ways in which they could improve our wellbeing. In this Highlight, we'll discuss how the companionship of your lovable canine may improve several aspects of your health.

It is quite probable that humans and dogs have had a unique tie of friendship and mutual support dating back to at least the Neolithic era. The question that arises, however, is why this link has lasted for such a significant amount of time.

It should come as no disbelief that these close relatives of wolves have traditionally been quite helpful to us in terms of ensuring the security of our homes and other buildings, as well as our livestock and other possessions of monetary value. In the course of history, people have taught dogs to aid them in hunting, and they have also produced several breeds that have odd or unusual appearances for the sake of their attractiveness or beauty.

Dogs and happiness

One of the most obvious advantages of sharing your life and home with a canine companion is the fact that dogs are nearly immediate sources of "feel-good vibes" for their human companions. When you are welcomed with eagerness, frequently vocal enthusiasm, by a nice dog, it is impossible not to perk up, even after a long day's work. This is especially true if the dog is a puppy.

Our levels of the feel-good hormone oxytocin go through the roof whenever we're around dogs. This "love injection" of oxytocin is beneficial to our mental health since it is the hormone that is chiefly responsible for the formation of social bonds.

In addition, it would seem that having a dog lessens the symptoms of depression and makes individuals more resistant to the effects of stress. Because of this, dogs are often used in the role of therapy animals. In addition, dogs may enhance the mental health of youngsters undergoing treatment for cancer. They can also assist those who have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in coping with disruptive symptoms or even in preventing the beginning of PTSD episodes.