Why We Love Dogs (And You Should, Too!)

Everyone has an animal that they treasure the most. For some, it may be a cat, horse, or fish, but for others, it’s a dog. No matter what kind is your favorite, we can all agree that animals are the best companions! For us here at Jolly Pets, it's dogs (duh)! Here are the reasons why we love our pups.

They Love to be Active with You

Dogs require daily exercise, so it only makes sense that dog people tend to be more active. Researchers at Michigan State University found that dog owners are 34 percent more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking per week than non-dog owners. This study also found that owning a dog promotes health and fitness even after you take your pup for a stroll, increasing leisure-time physical activity by 69 percent.

Nobody will give You a Better Greeting

Dogs wait at the door when they know you’re coming home. They dance for you with excitement when they see you, and they’re always deliriously ecstatic to see you. Our dogs are pack animals, so it’s unnatural for them to feel separated from the pack. When we leave our homes, our pups can feel anxious and worried. Being separated is not a natural choice for the dog. Hence, when we return, our dogs are overjoyed to be reunited with us.

Dogs are Loyal

Some that say a dog is only loyal so long as they're getting food and shelter, but if you have ever known a dog and seen their reaction when you come home or are reunited after a long time away, then you know it's about more than that. This loyalty could stem from the fact that dogs view themselves as our equals, not a separate species. They are pack animals, and naturally seek alliances with other dogs, people, and other animals. Even though they no longer live in the wild, dogs still have an instinct for friendship, making them the perfect companion.

All of the Cuddles

Cuddling with humans is an important part of canine domestication. Puppies snuggle to keep warm, but it's not just about that. Research shows that cuddling is one way in which our dogs strengthen their bond with us. Plus, it’s a great stress reliever, increasing oxytocin levels in both dogs and humans. Research has shown that it is more important for dogs to bond with their ownersthan for other pets.