A growing body of research is showing that, when properly trained, dogs can provide a calming influence on people suffering from depression. A 2017 study concluded that dog owners with depression had better mental health than people without a dog, and people who owned service dogs or trained therapy dogs showed even more improvement in their symptoms.
So why do dogs have such a positive influence on human mental health? Most experts point to the unique bond between humans and canines, which is the result of thousands of years of living and working together. Dogs aren’t just pets; they are pack animals, loyal and devoted to their humans. They’re living, breathing reminders that you’re not alone—they offer companionship and unconditional love when you need it most.
When a person has depression, they often feel disconnected from the world around them. A pet can make it easier to cope with feelings of loneliness and worthlessness. Owning a dog requires its own set of responsibilities, such as feeding, walking, grooming, and playing. Having these frequent duties to tend to can provide some structure and purpose to a person’s day, which can in turn help with depression.
It’s also been found that simply petting an animal, or spending time focused on the animal’s needs, can be a very effective distraction from the negative thought processes that often accompany depression. Stroking a pet’s fur or playing fetch can help to relieve mild to moderate symptoms of depression in some cases.
The positive effects of owning a pet aren’t limited to just dogs. Cats, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, and other pets also offer emotional and mental health benefits to owners. For many people, the key may be having a companion—someone to share your troubles with—effectively making it easier to work through them.
For people with severe depression, a pet may not be a suitable cure, and it’s important to seek the help of a medical professional or mental health professional if you’re experiencing symptoms. One of the most effective treatments for depression is a combination of medication and therapy. In some cases, a person may be able to use the emotional bond they create with their pet as part of their healing process.
In summary, it appears that dogs can significantly reduce the symptoms of depression in some people. The bond between humans and their canine companions is a strong one, and can help to lift moods and provide a sense of purpose and connection. Of course, they’re not a substitute for professional help, but owning a dog may provide a valuable supplement to other forms of treatment.