There is nothing better than coming home and being greeted by a wagging tail. It’s an instant mood booster. But did you know that the bond you share with your dog goes far deeper than just emotion? It turns out, your four-legged friend is working hard to keep your heart healthy - literally.
At Nobbl, we believe that interactive play is the key to a happy dog, but the research suggests that this active lifestyle is just as beneficial for you.
The Heart of the Matter
It is official: owning a dog is linked to a healthier heart - science says so. A major nationwide cohort study, conducted in Sweden, specifically examined dog ownership and the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. The findings suggest that having a pup by your side can be a significant factor in lowering the risk of heart disease (Mubanga et al., 2017).
Why is this the case? It is likely a combination of the physical activity required to care for a dog and the emotional support they provide.
Bouncing Back Together
The benefits aren't just preventative; they can also be crucial during recovery. Research published in the American Journal of Cardiology investigated the impact of pet ownership and social support on one-year survival rates following an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), revealing higher survival rates among pet owners (Friedmann and Thomas, 1995).
The presence of a pet can offer a unique form of social support that helps owners navigate health challenges with more resilience.
The "Activity" Effect
Let's face it, it’s hard to be a couch potato when you have a dog that needs walking (especially when a Nobbl toy is waiting to be thrown!).
A study on health and leisure activities in Sweden found distinct associations between pet ownership and physical activity. Dog owners simply move more. Whether it is a morning jog, a long hike, or an intense game of fetch in the garden, these "leisure activities" contribute to a more active, heart-healthy lifestyle (Müllersdorf et al., 2010).
This aligns perfectly with our philosophy - promoting human and animal health and welfare through joint play. Meaningful interaction keeps your dog mentally stimulated and keeps you physically moving.
Stress, Mental Health, and the "Good" Hormones
Heart health isn't just about cardio; it's about stress management, too. The psychological effects of dog ownership are profound. Research has explored "Role Strain" versus "Role Enhancement," finding that despite the work involved in caring for a pet, the psychological benefits often outweigh the strain (Clark Cline, 2010).
The companionship of a dog can play a vital role in combating depression and reducing stress. Lower stress levels mean lower cortisol, which is great news for your blood pressure and overall heart health.
The Bottom Line
Your dog is doing a lot more than just looking cute. They are your personal trainer, your stress-relief therapist, and your heart’s guardian. So, the next time you are throwing one of our toys, remember: you aren't just entertaining them; you are investing in your own longevity.
References
Clark Cline, K.M. (2010) ‘Psychological Effects of Dog Ownership: Role Strain, Role Enhancement, and Depression’, The Journal of Social Psychology, 150(2), pp. 117–131. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/00224540903368533.
Friedmann, E. and Thomas, S.A. (1995) ‘Pet ownership, social support, and one-year survival after acute myocardial infarction in the Cardiac Arrhythmia Suppression Trial (CAST)’, American Journal of Cardiology, 76(17), pp. 1213–1217. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0002-9149(99)80343-9.
Mubanga, M. et al. (2017) ‘Dog ownership and the risk of cardiovascular disease and death – a nationwide cohort study’, Scientific Reports, 7(1), p. 15821. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-16118-6.
Müllersdorf, M. et al. (2010) ‘Aspects of health, physical/leisure activities, work and socio-demographics associated with pet ownership in Sweden’, Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, 38(1), pp. 53–63. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/1403494809344358.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor regarding heart health.
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