It’s been proven by science — dogs are good for your mental health.
In separate studies recently conducted by the Journal of Psychiatric Research and the Journal of Applied Developmental Science, researchers found that owning a dog not only made people suffering from mental health issues feel better, but it also made them more likely to help others. Additional research has shown that dog ownership also lowers blood pressure, elevates serotonin and dopamine in the brain, and even lowers triglycerides and cholesterol.
If you’re already a dog owner, some of these things may already be a given. You know what it means to have a dog and how it’s impacted your life. But if you’re still on the fence about dog ownership and are also experiencing mental health issues, dogs offer companionship and comfort and can help ease loneliness, depression and anxiety.
Check out our list of the best purebred and hybrid emotional support dog breeds. You can also visit this page to learn more about emotional support dogs. These loving friends will surely brighten your day.
American Pit Bull Terrier
Although they get a bad rap, pit bulls are loyal, family dogs. Getty Images
For various reasons, pitties have gotten a bad rap over the past few decades, but they were once labeled “nanny dogs,” as they were (and still are) extremely lovable toward children. (This doesn’t mean they — or ANY dog — should be left alone with them!)
Today, pitties are used in myriad ways by government and civilians alike for protection, rescue, therapy and emotional support. They are smart, loyal and friendly, but as with several dog breeds, they do need proper training from an early age.
