Thinking about getting a dog? Coming from a family of animal lovers, I've grown up with countless different animals. My whole life, we've always had at least one dog, and I wouldn't trade those experiences for the world. If you're unsure if owning a dog is right for you, here are 10 reasons you need to consider, and it might just make up your mind...
1. Dogs are always happy to see you
Whenever you walk in the door, whether it be after 5 minutes, 5 hours, or 5 days, a dog will always greet you the same. Tail wagging as they jump to try to get closer to you will always bring a smile. Being greeted with a happy face everytime you come inside is enough to make anyone happy.
2. Dogs keep you company
You never have to be home alone. You never have to eat alone. You never have to watch a movie alone. Dogs are great because they will do anything you want to do. You'll be able to relax away from other people, but you'll still have someone to talk to about everything.
3. Dogs keep you active
As a good dog owner, you'll have to take your dog on walks, or even to the occasional park to run around, to keep them healthy. In a chain reaction, this also forces you to get up off the couch and move. By simply caring for your dog, you'll become a healthier version of yourself as well.
4. Dogs make you laugh
Dogs do very silly things at times. It could be them running into the couch, playing with a laser light, or even just laying a certain way, but living with a dog will always make you smile. Plus, they know when you're sad, so they'll do anything to make you smile.
5. Dogs are good for your health
Studies have shown that owning a dog decreases depression, blood pressure, and overall stress. In fact, just cuddling with a dog can also help you relax. If you're stressed out from work or school, coming home to a dog can make you feel better. Some dogs are even able to sniff out cancer, so it's like having your own little doctor at home.
6. Dogs keep your floors clean
Dropped food on the floor? It's okay, the dog will get it. If you're clumsy like me, you might drop things A LOT. And having a dog there to clean up your mess saves your back a bit from bending over so much. It's a win win for everyone.
7. Dogs will always protect you
There isn’t a more loyal and fierce protector than a dog. In fact, studies show that just owning a dog can be a deterrent of crime. If a burglar is foolish enough to trespass into a home guarded by a protective dog? Well, let’s just say that he won’t do that again.
8. Dogs know what you're feeling
Studies confirm that dogs can indeed read our emotions. In fact, dogs are the only non-human animals who scan the left side of our faces when they look at us. This is something that humans do in order to read another person’s emotion. Therefore, if you're sad or having a bad day, your dog will know. They might not be able to talk to us, but they'll know that all we really need is a good cuddle.
9. Dogs give you a chance to save a life
There are so many dogs who end up on the streets and eventually in shelters. Sadly, around 56% of dogs that enter these shelters are euthanized in order to make room for other dogs. I guarantee you that these 56% of dogs want you as their owner. If every family owned at least one dog, then no dogs would have to suffer. By adopting a dog, you can save a life. And that dog will always treat you like a superhero.
10. Dogs will always love you
Dogs don't care if you messed up at work, spent money on something stupid, or had a fight with your best friend. No matter how much you mess up, they will always love you the same. As man's best friend, your dog can be your biggest support system, and will help you get through the tough times. Who doesn't want that unconditional love and companionship?
Having a dog increases your life in many different ways. And getting one is a big decision, as it not only affects your life, but the dogs life as well. So think carefully, but also consider all the benefits to having a dog in your life. And if you do decide to adopt a dog, give them the best life possible. Remember, they might only be a part of your life, but you are their whole life. Love them as much as they love you.
