4 Ways Having a Dog Totally Improves Your Mental Health

I’ve said it once and I am going to keep on saying it: Dogs. We dont deserve them, but we NEED them! My two pups are what helps me calm down whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed, and they are always just great company.

If you needed one more reason to finally adopt that dog you’ve been obsessively scrolling through on your local animal shelter’s website, science just dropped the most perfect reasons! A new study from the University of Brighton says having a dog doesn’t just make your camera roll cuter, it can actually make your life better in four major ways.

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4 Ways Having a Dog Totally Improves Your Mental Health

Structure & Routine

When you’ve got a dog, you *have* to get up, feed them, and take those walks — even when your bed feels like quicksand. But that daily routine? It can seriously boost your sense of purpose and keep you more organized (and maybe even more fit).

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Built-in Bestie

Dogs are the ultimate ride-or-die companions. They listen to your rants, comfort you when you’re down, and never spill your secrets. Take that, therapy journal.

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Instant Mood Boost

Dog owners say their pups bring pure joy — sometimes, just looking at that goofy little face is enough to make your bad day better. Basically, dogs = walking serotonin machines.

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Social Superpower

Turns out, your dog might be your best wingman. Walks, dog parks, or even a quick “OMG, what breed is that?” can lead to new friendships — or maybe even something more.

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Bottom line: dogs don’t just fill your home with fur they fill your life with happiness, structure, and connection. BRB, gonna call my dogs to see how they’re doing!