Can a Dog Help with Mood Problems?

Adopting a dog is perhaps one of the best things you could ever do. But why? Is it as simple as “dogs are awesome”? While that’s a pretty good excuse to get yourself a dog, there’s more to it than that. Dogs are actually great when it comes to improving mood, which can be very important for those who are suffering from mood problems, either in the short-term or the long-term. Let’s take a quick look at the ways in which a furry friend can help ease mood problems!

(And by the way, yes, adopting any pet can have these sorts of positive effects. However, as you’ll see, there are many aspects to consider here that are pretty unique to dogs!)

Unconditional love

If you want to rant about the rotten day you’ve had, or certain things about yourself you’re finding irritating, then you’re hardly going to get further criticism or pessimism from your pup. A dog is going to love you anyway, and that’s a pretty important thing in this field. Dogs can help people overcome feelings of loneliness. They’re always excited to see you, and they’re always willing to cuddle up next to you.

Cuteness

Feeling a bit blue? Check out some dog or cat photos or videos on YouTube. This isn’t always idle time-wasting; cute things really do help us boost our mood. It brings a smile to our face, and the physical act of smiling can actually make us a little happier. This is why puppies are so darn effective at beating mood problems! Pomeranian puppies, Akita puppies, Bull Terrier puppies… whatever breed you go with, they’re going to bring new levels of cute to your household!

Responsibility

A lot of people have trouble with mood problems because they feel a bit useless, as though there isn’t much point to what they do. Having responsibility can have a tremendous positive effect on your overall mood – and what are dogs if not a big responsibility? Pets in general do require a lot of commitment on your part, but dogs certainly take the cake when it comes to the demand for responsibility. A dog will rely on you for so much, and will thank you for the delivery of those things in many ways. Mostly non-vocal, of course.

Exercise

Dogs need walkies – and so do you! Exercise isn’t the instant cure for sadness that some people make it out to be, but there’s no denying that it can help incredible amounts. Going for a walk with your dog every day for at least half an hour can be very beneficial, especially if it takes place in green spaces, which have been shown to help improve mood and decrease stress!

Distraction

Sometimes, you just need to be distracted from your problems. Sure, the problems won’t just go away, but a distraction can help you feel a little more optimistic, and can stop you brooding over everything, which can just make things worse. When you’ve walked in after a particularly awful day at the office, your pup – very happy to see you! – running up to greet you is definitely a great distraction from your troubles.

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