The Healing Power of Dogs: How Our Four-Legged Friends Boost our Mental Health

Dogs are much more than just loyal and loving companions—they are powerful contributors to mental and emotional well-being and the benefits of having a dog can be felt after just 30 minutes in their presence!

Walking a dog provides an emotional boost, and simply spending time with one offers both mental and physical rewards. Studies show that interacting with dogs reduces stress, lowers anxiety, and increases happiness. Dogs also trigger the release of oxytocin, the "love hormone," which fosters a sense of connection and trust. Moreover, owning a dog encourages regular exercise, boosting physical health and stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers.

Surveys reveal the wide-ranging psychological benefits of dog ownership. With owners reporting feeling more motivated, socially connected, and confident due to their dog’s companionship.

Caring for a dog also gives us a purpose and structure in life, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression or anxiety. Their unconditional love and support also help combat loneliness, offering comfort and companionship in difficult times. Research is clear: dogs enrich their owners' lives and have a lasting positive impact on our mental health.

I wanted to write on this topic after my conversation with James Middleton, our guest on this week’s episode of Therapy Works. Reflecting on his struggles, he shared, "Only Ella gave me cause to keep living." His book is more than a tribute to Ella—it highlights how she became an emotional lifeline during his darkest  moments.

James is a passionate advocate for the healing power of dogs, saying, "One of my ambitions is to have dogs prescribed by doctors. There's an undeniable amount of healing they offer." He beautifully explains how dogs motivate us, even when we feel paralysed by despair: "They get us up in the morning and outside." His words capture what may of us have experienced - how our dogs, with their unwavering love and need for care, can bring us back to life and help us find joy even in the hardest of times.

To hear more about the therapeutic power of dogs and Jame’s personal journey, tune in to this week’s episode of Therapy Works.