Have you ever found yourself just sitting and watching your dog? Whether they are chasing their own tail or chasing squirrels through the backyard, you might find yourself smiling or even laughing out loud. What is it about these four-legged, furry creatures that makes us so happy?
Why Dogs Make Us Happy
How it all began
The human-dog relationship was born tens of thousands of years ago. Some research shows as far back as 30,000 years. It is believed that early canines discovered that they could more easily scavenge off what humans killed rather than hunt for themselves. Over time, humans began to adopt these early dogs into their service, sharing food and companionship with them. Eventually, our emotional attachment to our canine counterparts created the ability to bond with them. Given this long-standing alliance between humans and canines, it’s easy to see how we have become so attached to one another.
A little science
Since dogs navigate the world through their sense of smell, studies about how dogs process odors in their brain have given us some insight into their world. Scientists have found that dog owners’ aroma sparked the activation in the “reward centers” of their brains and that they prioritized a humans smell over anything else. They also found that dogs process emotional vocal sounds in much the same way that humans do which furthers the strong communication system between us. Dogs can sense our mood and will even seek out eye contact with people. They are reliant on us for affection and will run to their owners for protection if they are frightened or worried. The old saying that dogs are “man’s best friend” is pretty close to the truth and, undoubtedly, spending time with our best friend is a great recipe for happiness.
Dogs keep us moving
Researchers have also figured out that dog owners are more active than those who don’t own dogs. On average, they are taking almost 3,000 more steps per day. If you are a dog owner, you already know that you are spending more time outdoors throwing a ball or going for walks. Dogs get us up and moving even if it’s wet, cold or dark. The obvious fact is that simply being outside and getting in a few more steps a day will naturally make us smile more, especially when we can share these activities with our best friend.
Oxy-what?
Spending time with dogs, petting and playing with them, increases our levels of oxytocin in the brain. Oxytocin is a hormone that is often called the “love drug.” When released, it causes us to feel a surge of positive emotion while calming our nervous system down and relaxing us. Research has also found that gazing into your dog’s eyes can cause a release of oxytocin for you as well as your dog. This shouldn’t be surprising as dogs are always looking for our companionship and affection.
Mental boost
It’s no surprise that dogs have a positive influence on our mental health. Certainly, you know this if you own a dog and you have children as well. Dogs have been shown to strengthen self-esteem and expand vocabulary as well as improve speech in small children. Therapy dogs that visit hospitals, nursing homes and schools, provide extra attention and love. They have the power to lift spirits and reduce anxiety with just one furry hug.
Funny bone
Dogs keep us laughing with their antics, excitement and quirky characteristics. Whether they are cocking their head to one side or have their lip stuck in a funny position, they are often laugh out loud funny. They all have their own personalities and aren’t afraid to show them. In fact, the more attention we give them for a particular behavior, the more they will repeat it. So, if you find yourself telling your dog “you’re so cute” when he’s laying upside down on your bed, you can be certain he will do it again to win your favorable attention.
Socially acceptable
Whether it’s on your morning walk or a visit to the nearest dog park, you will meet other humans. The nice part is that we have something in common when we run into them: our love of dogs! Being able to get out and meet others is necessary for our wellbeing and happiness. Dogs provide a good means for doing this and we have them to thank for it.
Unconditional love
Love is hard to find, especially the unconditional kind. But dogs love us with everything they have, no holding back. Knowing that you are loved can make you happy even when things aren’t going your way. Dogs are always there to remind us that they care for us no matter what. When you come home from a long difficult day, they are always at the door so excited because you are home. With that kind of reception, it’s pretty hard not to be happy!
Get happy
Dogs make us happy in so many different ways and have been doing so for a very long time. They are our loyal, constant companions. They are our best friends, and they help us to be more successful and generally happier in life. If you have a dog, give them a hug today and tell them how much you love them. I know they will reciprocate!
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Photo courtesy Pixabay/Fotokalade
Barbara Bauer is a Georgia-based blogger obsessed with inspiring others in the pursuit of self-development. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, drinking way too much coffee, and speaking with a British accent whenever possible.
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