Why Celebrate National Dog Day?

National Dog Day is coming! Recognized worldwide on August 26th, it is a day to celebrate our canine companions and highlight the importance of dog adoption. But why celebrate dogs in the first place? Dogs have been dubbed “man’s best friend” for good reason. They make us better, both mentally and physically, they make us happier, reduce stress and supply us with unconditional love. Now, that’s something truly worth celebrating!

Why Celebrate National Dog Day?

There are more reasons to celebrate National Dog Day than you can shake a stick at! Keep reading to find out why we are fortunate enough to have these amazing companions in our lives.

Laughter

Dogs are natural born comedians. If they do something that makes us laugh, you can bet that they will do it again to elicit the same response. Research has shown that dogs have a stronger emotional response to positive humans sounds, like laughter, than negative sounds. They can read our facial expressions, discern the tone of our voice, and read our body language. With their keen ability to pick up on our social cues, they know that laughter is a positive thing and they have learned to change their behavior based on these cues. Positivity begets more positivity, especially with our furry friends who know that laughter is the best medicine.

Less stress

Since humans began domesticating dogs, literally, tens of thousands of years ago, our relationship with them has evolved into more than simple survival. Modern day dogs have a place in our homes and are even considered family members in most households. Spending time with them reduces stress. The simple act of petting a dog can calm us down almost instantly. And, studies have shown that even thinking about dogs can release the feel-good chemicals in our brains that can help to stabilize our mood and create a sense of well-being. 

Mental health

Dogs impact our mental health in a positive way. Their companionship can alleviate anxiety, depression and loneliness. Caring for a dog and having contact with them provides us with a sense of purpose and structure. And, since dogs are so intuitive, they can very often sense when we are struggling or upset and can provide comfort and support when we need it the most. Consider “therapy dogs” for instance. They are used to comfort people in nursing homes, hospitals, colleges, just about anywhere where people have become anxious or stressed out. Think of dogs like fuzzy, little therapists that never charge for their services!

Physical health

Dogs motivate us to stay active. Experts at making us feel guilty if we skip a walk outside, we are compelled to get up and move. Daily walks, playtime and other forms of exercise help us maintain our weight and improve overall fitness. We can thank our furry personal trainers who never judge us for our improved physical health.

Connection

Owning a dog is a great way to connect with others. Whether at a dog park or out for a walk in the neighborhood, dogs serve as great conversation starters. Everyone knows that dog owners love to share dog stories. Like that time they shredded their new dog bed or ran “zoomies” around the living room for ten minutes after a bath, these shared experiences can be a springboard for newfound friendships with other dog owners.

Companionship

Dogs may well be some of our closest companions. In a world that is full of stress and anxiety, dogs provide social support for people of all ages. Need a work from home buddy? Looking for a hiking partner? Just need someone who likes to cuddle on the couch and watch reruns of 'Friends'? Dogs thrive on social interaction with humans and are eager to please us. No one should ever have to feel isolated or alone and thanks to our furry friends, no one has to.

Love

How do you spell ‘love’? D.O.G. Dogs don’t judge us. They don’t get mad or hold grudges. They love us with everything they have, no matter what. Their loyal affection is believed to be rooted in their pack mentality. Dogs adopt us as their own and form strong bonds with us. This unconditional love and acceptance is part of what makes them so incredibly special.

Adoption

National Dog Day is a great time to consider adopting a dog. Shelters are full of loving pups waiting for their forever homes. Adopting a dog will transform your life in more ways than you can count. Where else can you save a life and gain a best friend at the same time?

Celebrate

National Dog Day is so much more than a day to show affection to our dogs. It’s a reminder of the many ways that dogs improve our lives. From reducing stress and improving our health to providing unconditional love, dogs are unique companions that deserve our love and attention. So, this August 26th, let’s celebrate our furry friends and spread the word about adoption, doggone it! Happy National Dog Day!

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Photo courtesy Pixabay/Foto-RaBe