There are so many perks to being a dog owner. They make you happier, lessen depression, keep you active and improve your outlook on life.

My dogs make me happy every single day. Not a day passes without them making me smile and laugh.

There is a slight exception to the calming affects dogs can have on anxiety and that is if you have a puppy. Much like a new baby, it is a rollercoaster of emotions.

But, those low moments (of naughtiness, chewing things they shouldn't and the relentless training period) are most definitely outweighed by the joy they bring a household.

Dogs are fantastic companions and as long as you have one around, you will never be bored or lonely.

What I have learnt from my dogs:

Press reset. If I've had a crap day, it all goes out the window when I return home and see those ecstatic faces happy to see me. They help me to reset and leave the bad day behind me.

Paying attention to my body. I noticed how often dogs intuitively stretch and by doing so, they encourage me to be more in tune with my own body. They are much smarter than humans in this respect. The first thing we should all do as soon as we get out of bed in the morning is wake our body up with a stretch - like they do. And throughout the day.

Shake it off. The bounce back rate of a dog is enviable. If they are unhappy about something, in a situation they don't like or end up in a scuffle, they literally get over and get back to their happy dog self within minutes.

Patience. So much patience. I have adopted and rehabilitated two dogs and it has not been an easy task. Many deep breaths have been done in moments of frustration and I have noticed that I have carried this across into my daily life. When something is overwhelming, I take a moment, take some deep breaths and calm my mind.

Being present. Dogs live in the moment, no matter what they are doing - eating, playing, resting, watching life go by. I have admired the mindful stillness and gratitude they have for even the simplest of things and am constantly trying to apply it to my own life.

Being present while I walk. I am guilty of powerwalking on a mission either overthinking something or being on my phone. Since having dogs though, I leave my phone at home. I walk mindfully and take a leaf out of their book - enjoying exactly what's in front of them. It's something I've carried across into my life when I'm out - not just walking the dogs.

Exercise everyday. Our bodies need it, particularly if we sit a lot during the day. Dogs lay around A LOT during the day, but they also need exercise everyday. I notice a big difference in their mood when we miss the occasional daily walk. Daily fresh air and movement (even in winter) is good for everyone - whether you have 2 legs or 4!

I would love to know how your dog has improved your health and lifestyle - please leave a comment at the bottom of this page.....

Kx

P.S.

A paediatric study in the US has shown the benefits of increased immunity of babies in their first year of life when they grow up in a household with a dog, particularly linked to lower respiratory tract infections. Read more here.

Another good read is the RSPCA article about the health benefits of pet ownership.

Why dogs are good for our wellbeing