Needless to say, we love dogs at Canine Cottages. We recognise their amazing natural qualities for giving us a boost, bringing up our positivity baseline, and enhancing our 'joie de vivre' whenever we're around them. Dogs have been our domestic companions since hunter gatherer times and the bonds that link humankind with our four-legged compadres have grown ever stronger. So much so, even their map of facial expressions has evolved to appeal to us, for instance, when they look up to us to ask for food or care giving. Dogs have developed an extra muscle in order to manipulate the 'eyebrow region' to express their emotions to humans too (for instance wolves don't have this extra muscle).
Dogs unleash oxytocin (the love toxin) which increases feelings of wellbeing in humans and dogs. Beyond how cute and appealing they are, this is a recognised scientific plus as to why we love dogs and they love us. Eye contact and stroking your dog's coat increases oxytocin levels and before you know it, you feel good and so does your dog! Cuddling your dog slows your heart rate, demonstrating how good our canine pals are at making us feel calm too.
So we can state that dogs positively impact our mental wellbeing, and help to alleviate our stress and anxiety levels, but it's more than a poll, or science, it's a reassuring feeling. Read on to discover more about the wellbeing benefits of owning a dog.
What are the benefits of owning a dog?
Our canine pals can help us cope with difficult situations, by making us feel safer and more confident. 18 to 24 year olds were the group most likely to feel as though their dog had helped them to feel safer and more confident. Interestingly, those that fall within this age group came into adulthood during the pandemic, so are likely to be less comfortable with social situations. Many claim that having a dog has greatly or somewhat improved their physical health and activity, encouraging them to get outdoors every day for exercise and walks with their pets.
Jay McGuinness, Rehoming and Welfare Manager at Battersea said, “At Battersea, we know that our pets make wonderful companions and dog ownership has proven to have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Not only have dogs been shown to help people to feel calm and at ease, they also encourage us to connect with our local community and spend more time in green spaces. Something as simple as stretching your legs and getting out in nature on a dog walk can help improve your mood and increase your mental energy, all while spending quality time with your pet.”
Why dogs are good for our wellbeing
- Dogs provide emotional support and companionship, and engaging in outdoor activities with them can be a source of fun and relaxation for both owner and pet.
- Dog walking can lead to new friendships and has therapeutic value, with petting or stroking a dog shown to lower blood pressure and relieve stress and anxiety.
- Engaging in physical activities with a dog can improve mental and physical health, with the release of endorphins and dopamine improving mood and happiness.
- Having a dog can provide social connectedness and a sense of identity and belonging, with improved social connections and access to the wider community playing a role in mental health and wellbeing.
- Dogs improve our happiness by loving and accepting us without judgement, getting us moving and providing emotional support, ultimately encouraging us to be reliable and trustworthy human beings.
Outdoor fun with your dog
Dog walks
Regular walks with your dog are mutually beneficial and fun for all. Depending on the size and breed of your dog, the amount of exercise it needs obviously varies. Walking and exercising your dog brings no ends of positive energy your way. If you live near a safe open space, your dog would welcome a run off the lead too. It's always quite a sight to watch your dog at play, running and dancing in circles; it's good for the soul to see them happy. And you will gain from the experience too. You are also likely to meet other dogs and their owners whilst you are out and about, and these encounters often open out your life in a great way. Take a look at our brilliant selection of dog walking guides.
Dogs on beaches
If you live on the coast or are planning a beach holiday, it's a real treat for your dog to spend some time gallivanting on the sand. There's something about a beach which inspires most dogs to enjoy a dash in the shallows, or even a swim. They love exploring the rock pools too. The more remote the spot, the more likely you are to have more space to yourselves for a day of play at the beach. Be aware that some beaches have dog-exclusion zones during the summer season, so check local information before booking a break or visiting with your hound. Read on for some dog beach inspiration.
Taking your dog on holidays
Dogs need not be left in a kennel when holidaying in the UK. They are most welcome at all of our properties and we'd say it's a great way of spending quality time with your pets. For longer trips, there are some factors to consider, like if you have a comfortable space for your pet to relax. It's also important to take regular breaks so they can stretch their legs. Dogs love a routine, so even though the setting has changed, you should consider sticking to their timetable (feeding times, walks) and taking along their favourite toys and some bedding from home. We have a handy blog post about how best to get your dog holiday ready.
Treat your dog to a pet-friendly break
Our furry friends are not only cute and cuddly, but they also play an important role in supporting our mental health. Whether it's the emotional support they offer, or the physical activities they encourage us to engage in, dogs are truly our best companions.
If you're thinking about taking a well-deserved break with your pet in the UK, be sure to check out our collections of dog-friendly cottages including those with enclosed gardens, those that are near a beach, and those that are big enough to accommodate the whole family. Don’t forget to check out our blog for tips and inspiration while you’re away too. With plenty of dog-friendly places to stay and explore, you and your four-legged friend are sure to have a tail-wagging time!
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.