There are many reasons why owning a pet is a great idea, and they extend to your overall health and well-being! Bonding with a dog provides a friend for life, and it can be a very enjoyable and rewarding experience for the whole family.

Some benefits of pet ownership include:

1. Can motivate you to exercise more. Having a dog can get you up and routinely walking. Plus, a tired dog exhibits fewer behavioral issues than a dog that doesn't get enough exercise.
2. Can facilitate increased socialization. Pets can foster friendships and acquaintances with folks you meet during walks or at the park, and it gives individuals a shared interest to talk about during these social interactions.
3. Lowers cortisol levels and reduces stress. It is reported that owning and caring for a pet can reduce stress and lower cortisol levels, which leads to improved holistic health and well-being.

Strengthen the bond with your four-legged friend with these insights:

Watch when you point. Your dog will tend to pick up on your non-verbal cues and body language, and this includes pointing. When dogs watch you to try and determine what you will do or what you expect from them, this is a sign that your pet is quite communicative and bonded with you. This also means that your pet is looking to you to direct them and help them with decision-making.

Yawning is contagious. Have you ever witnessed someone else yawning, and then yawned yourself? Yawning can be contagious! Dogs tend to mimic the behaviors of those they are close to, so try a little test: yawn and watch your pet; if they also yawn, it is a sign of connectedness.

Enjoy long, loving looks. When a dog makes eye contact with you, it is a sign of trust and empathy. Try to catch your pooch looking at you, and make eye contact back. Between trusted friends, this is a sign of a deep connection and fondness!

If you don't notice any of these behaviors when you interact with your dog, it might be a sign that you need to spend more quality-time together. This could also point to the fact that your pet needs more stimulation, such as time spent at a dog park, exercising, and playing games with you. Take the time and effort to connect with your pet for a worthwhile and rewarding relationship that you will enjoy and appreciate, and that is therapeutic for both of you!

For more information, visit a facility such as Pitts Veterinary Hospital PC.