Sykesville Veterinary Clinic

Make an Appointment

410–549–7798

Are Dogs Good Pets?

Considering getting a dog?

Wondering “Are dogs good pets”? Well, they don’t call them ‘mans best friend’ for nothing. They truly are one-of-a-kind companions.

In fact, owning a dog could even help relieve stress and anxiety. Want to know more?

Read on to learn about why dogs make great pets.

Loyalty

Dogs are extremely loyal creatures which are why some people prefer them over cats. When a dog knows you’re its’ owner, he or she will want to protect you and keep you safe.

A dog will love you unconditionally. They’ll always greet you when you get home from work and want to lay by your side when you watch TV.

Not only are they emotionally loyal, but they’ll literally protect you from outside dangers. They will guard your home should there be an intruder, alerting you to a possible threat through their barks.

Their ability to hear sounds you can’t help you rest easy at night knowing you’re protecting and that your dog will let you know if you’re in trouble.

Stress Relief

Interacting with a dog can reduce stress and anxiety. Playing with or petting a dog can change the chemicals in your brain, releasing oxytocin and minimizing the production of cortisol which causes stress.

This is why dogs are often used to treat veterans who suffer from PTSD or why they’re brought to hospitals to visit with sick patients.

A little love from a furry friend can go a long way.

Imagine coming home from a stressful day of work and snapping out of it when your dog wants to play. It’s a great distraction from the stresses of life and can bring joy to any household.

Stay Active

Dogs need to have activity and therefore so do you. You’ll inevitably get exercise when you have a dog because you’ll have to take them for walks or to the dog park to get their energy out.

Depending on their breed, age, and overall health, a dog should get between 30 minutes and 2 hours of exercise per day.

You can bring your dog running with you in the mornings, take them hiking, throw a ball or toss a frisbee to keep them active and get some exercise for yourself as well.

Companionship

If you often feel lonely, a dog can make the perfect companion.

Dogs love to please and serve their owners. They pretty much live to make you happy. So having one by your side can help you through a difficult time and make you feel less alone.

There is something very comforting about having your furry friend by your side at all times.

Socializing

Because your dog requires you to get out of the house and engage in activities, it’s inevitable that you’ll begin to socialize with other people.

Strangers may approach you to ask to pet your dog, or you’ll make new friends at the dog park because your pups become pals.

Whatever the reason, having a dog is a great conversation starter and a way to connect with others.

You may build a new network of friends or meet the love of your life because of your dog!

Are Dogs Good Pets? The Answer Is Yes!

If you were asking yourself, “Are dogs good pets?”, you now have your answer!

Not only are they loyal and great guards of your home, but they’re fun and comforting too.

We’ll work to keep your canine healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.