Dogs are very special animals and they quickly form a bond with their owners. Some dogs bond with only one person and others spread their love around. It is also healthy to own a dog, both physically and mentally.

Dogs force you to get out and exercise because you know they need the exercise and you feel guilty if you don’t take them out. But once you take them out you will find you will also enjoy the exercise.

Walk a dog – make new friends! Most people love to stop and talk to you about the dog and ask permission to pet him or her, especially children.

Dogs love attention – by paying attention to their needs, your own problems and worries are forgotten. 

Excellent heaters! Even little dogs put off a lot of heat and warm you up on a cold winter’s night.

Studies have shown dogs help reduce stress and lower your blood pressure. That is one reason why dogs are popular for pet therapy programs at hospitals and nursing homes.

Dogs make your home more secure. They alert you when someone is approaching long before you hear them. A dog on the property usually scares away any would-be intruders.

Someone to talk to that actually listens….and they never argue with you!  Many pet owners claim their dog knows exactly what they are saying to them.

Dogs provide companionship. You are never alone with a dog in the house. 

Dogs have the ability to sense your mood and know when you need some loving attention. They can rid you of a bad mood in a few minutes.

Unconditional love. No matter what, your dog will always come running and greet you with enthusiasm and never-ending love. Even if you are only gone for a short period of time, the response is always the same.

Dogs greatly enrich your life. They work their way into your life and your heart and make your life complete. Dog ownership does involve responsibility and dedicated work to care for them, but it is satisfying work. The rewards of owning a dog are endless.

All images above are in the public domain.