Introduction
The question of whether owning a dog makes you happier is an intriguing one. The belief that dogs bring joy and fulfillment to their owners’ lives is prevalent in our society. Dogs are often portrayed as loyal companions who provide unconditional love and support. Many dog owners would say their pets are key sources of happiness in their daily lives.
But does the scientific evidence back up this commonly held notion that dogs make us happier? Researchers have explored the potential link between owning a pet dog and human well-being or life satisfaction. Studies have looked at how dog ownership may reduce stress, increase social connectedness, and provide other emotional benefits for their guardians.
Dogs Provide Companionship
Owning a dog provides many people with constant companionship. Dogs give their owners someone to care for and love unconditionally. Simply stroking and playing with a dog has been shown in studies to increase levels of oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the “love hormone,” while decreasing levels of cortisol, the “stress hormone.” Unlike relationships with other humans, a dog’s love and loyalty almost never wavers. They are always excited to see you when you get home and ready to provide comfort when you are down. In fact, studies have shown that even just gazing into a dog’s eyes releases oxytocin. This powerful hormonal response helps cement the human-animal bond.
This companionship motivates many dog owners to get outside and exercise on a daily basis. Dogs require regular walks, trips to the dog park, and play time. Living alone can increase feelings of isolation, but owning a dog encourages interaction and physical activity. Simply having a dog waiting for you at home gives many people a sense of purpose and responsibility.
Dogs Reduce Stress and Anxiety
One of the key benefits of dog ownership is that interacting with dogs has been scientifically shown to help lower stress hormone levels in humans. When you pet, play, or snuggle with dogs, your brain produces serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin – hormones that make you feel happy, relaxed, and calm. At the same time, the production of cortisol – the primary stress hormone – is reduced.
Multiple studies have confirmed these effects. For example, research at the University of Missouri-Columbia compared levels of cortisol in people before and after interacting with dogs. They found that just 15-30 minutes of contact with dogs created significant reductions in cortisol. Other studies have shown similar stress-reducing effects to persist even when people simply imagine petting or interacting with dogs.
Beyond just generally lowering stress, dogs also provide specific comfort and anxiety relief in stressful situations or during crises. Their presence helps dissipate anxiety and provides a source of calming support. For example, dogs are often brought in to help survivors following natural disasters or to provide solace at funerals. Therapy dogs are also regularly used to help provide stress relief and comfort to hospital patients, students, trauma victims, and more.
Dogs Encourage Social Connections
One well-known benefit of owning a dog is that they can help facilitate social interactions and expand an owner’s social circle. Simply by taking their dog for a walk or to the park, many dog owners find themselves meeting and connecting with other local dog owners. These impromptu meetings and greetings help dog owners establish a sense of community and belonging.
Dogs also act as natural conversation starters with strangers. People are drawn to pet and interact with dogs in public, which gives the owner an easy opportunity to engage in friendly small talk. Dog owners frequently exchange tips on local pet stores, dog parks, groomers and more. For those who struggle with social anxiety or shyness, having a dog along can take off some of the pressure during social interactions.
Beyond just brief encounters, dogs can also facilitate deeper social connections and friendships. Dog owners who regularly see each other at the park or out on walks often transition to exchanging contact information, planning play dates with their dogs and getting together for social activities without the dogs. The shared love of dogs acts as a natural compatibility factor between owners. Dog owners understand and relate to each other’s devotion and responsibility to their pets. For singles, dog ownership can also act as a signal of nurturing qualities when looking for potential partners.
Potential Negative Factors
While the companionship and health benefits of dog ownership are well-established, there are some potential downsides to consider as well. Taking on a dog is a long-term commitment that involves real costs and responsibilities.
The expenses associated with properly caring for a dog can be substantial. Quality dog food, veterinary care including vaccinations and checkups, grooming supplies, boarding when traveling, and more all add up over time. For those on a tight budget, these recurring costs could become a source of financial stress.
Some dogs are prone to behavioral issues like constant barking, chewing of furniture or shoes, or separation anxiety. Attempting to train and correct these problems can end up being a frustrating process for owners without professional experience. Patience and persistence are key, but not every owner may be equipped to handle the challenge.
Additionally, dogs typically live 10-15 years. The long-term commitment involved with properly caring for a dog throughout its entire life is not something to take lightly. Owners must be ready to invest the time and energy needed for walks, play, training, and simply spending quality time together every day for years to come.
While the rewards absolutely make it all worthwhile for dog lovers, considering the potential negatives will help set realistic expectations for prospective owners.
Studies on Dog Ownership and Happiness
Several studies have explored the potential link between dog ownership and human happiness and wellbeing. While they have limitations, these studies generally suggest dog owners report higher levels of life satisfaction and emotional wellbeing.
A 2006 study of dog owners in Germany found participants scored higher on life satisfaction, positive emotions, and ability to engage with others, compared to non-dog owners. However, the study relied on self-reported data and did not prove cause and effect.
In a study of older adults in China, dog owners reported better physical and psychological wellbeing compared to non-owners. Walking and playing with dogs contributed to increased physical activity. The companionship also reduced feelings of loneliness and depression. Critics argued other factors beyond dog ownership may have impacted the results.
A UK survey in 2019 found dog owners were four times more likely to report being very happy compared to non-dog owners. But with over 9 million dogs in the UK, it is unclear if happier people tend to acquire dogs or if dog ownership directly increases human happiness.
While interesting correlations exist, the limitations of these studies prevent definitive conclusions on dogs causing happiness. More research is needed to account for confounding variables. But the findings suggest potential psychosocial benefits to dog companionship.
Consider the Individual
Just because research shows dogs can increase happiness on average, owning a dog may not be suitable or beneficial for every individual. The lifestyle and personality of a potential owner should be considered carefully when deciding if getting a dog is the right choice.
Caring for a dog requires a significant time commitment and responsibility. Individuals who are unwilling or unable to provide adequate care, exercise, training, and socialization may actually find dog ownership to be a burden rather than a joy. Additionally, the costs associated with food, supplies, medical care and other expenses need to be within the owner’s budget.
Those with allergies, cynophobia (fear of dogs), or past trauma related to dogs should carefully weigh if having a dog in the home will negatively impact their health and happiness. While dogs can provide comfort, some people may be better suited to owning other pets or none at all.
Ultimately, the individual needs to assess if adding a dog to their life will enhance their wellbeing and if they are fully prepared to meet the needs of the dog. An ill-suited match between owner and pet will likely not yield the increased happiness and benefits discussed here.
Advice for Prospective Dog Owners
Before getting a dog, there are some important things you should consider. Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle is essential – make sure to research breeds and select one that matches your activity levels, space constraints, and temperament preferences. Budgeting is also key – dogs can be expensive between food, medical care, training classes, grooming, toys/supplies, boarding, etc. Make sure you factor in these costs.
Additionally, dogs require a substantial time commitment. You’ll need to set aside time every day for walks, play, training, and general care. Puppies in particular need close supervision. Consider your schedule and make sure you can devote plenty of time and energy to a dog. If your lifestyle involves frequent travel or long work hours, a dog may not be the best pet for you.
With some forethought about breed, costs, and time commitments, you can make the best decision about whether dog ownership will fit your lifestyle and resources. This helps set both you and your potential dog up for a happy life together.
Foster or Volunteer Opportunities
If owning a dog full-time does not work with your lifestyle or living situation, there are still great ways to reap the benefits of canine companionship. Consider fostering dogs in need of temporary homes or volunteering at local shelters.
Fostering provides the fulfillment of caring for a dog without a lifelong commitment. As a foster parent, you temporarily house and care for dogs until they are ready for adoption. This gives dogs a break from the shelter environment while freeing up space for other pets in need. Studies show that fostering dogs can reduce loneliness, lower stress, and provide mood-boosting oxytocin. The companionship is temporary but the health perks remain even after saying goodbye.
Volunteering at animal shelters is another feel-good way to spend time with dogs. Activities like walking, playing, grooming, and training shelter dogs provide mental stimulation and affection for the pets. Interacting with the animals also boosts the volunteer’s oxytocin and provides a sense of purpose. Regular volunteering enables you to see the dogs regularly and get all the perks of canine companionship without having to commit to full ownership.
So if adopting a dog does not work for your situation, explore local opportunities to foster or volunteer. Caring for shelter pets temporarily allows you to share your time and affection while reaping the mood-boosting benefits of canine companionship.
Conclusion
To summarize, there are many potential benefits of dog ownership when it comes to happiness, including valuable companionship, stress relief, encouragement of exercise, and increased social connections. However, studies on the impact of dogs on happiness have shown mixed results, indicating that suitability depends largely on individual circumstances. While dogs can fill a void and vastly improve quality of life for some people, they require major commitments of time, money and responsibility. Prospective owners should consider their lifestyle and ability to properly care for a dog’s needs.
Rather than making an impulse decision, it is wise to volunteer at a shelter or foster a dog first to see if the responsibilities of dog ownership fit your lifestyle. If adopting a dog full-time is not feasible, you can still enjoy regular interactions with dogs through dog walking or pet sitting services. With sensible expectations and preparation, dog adoption can be extremely rewarding. But dogs should be viewed as family members, not quick fixes or accessories. When welcomed into a loving home, dogs can provide joy, companionship and motivation for years. But ultimately, true happiness comes from within.