Pets and health: what research says about dog ownership
Social Connection
Key points
- Dog owners: 24% lower all-cause mortality.
- 31% lower cardiovascular mortality.
- After a heart attack: 65% lower mortality.
- The data are observational: healthier people may be more likely to get dogs.
What the research shows
A meta-analysis published by the American Heart Association pooled 10 studies with more than 3.8 million participants. Dog ownership was linked to a 24% lower risk of death from any cause and a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular death. Among people who had survived a heart attack, owning a dog was linked to a 65% lower risk of death (Kramer et al., 2019).
Why this may be
- Walking: dog owners walk more, and regular walking is linked to lower cardiovascular risk (Hamer & Chida, 2008).
- Less loneliness: pets provide companionship and help people meet others; loneliness is linked to higher mortality (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015).
- Lower stress.
Caveat
These studies are observational. People who are healthier, more active or less isolated may be more likely to own dogs.
Frequently asked questions
Do cats have the same effect?
There is less research on cats, with mixed findings. Any pet that brings companionship and routine may help.
Should I get a dog for my health?
Only if you can care for it. The benefits likely come from walking, routine and companionship.
Sources
- Kramer et al. (2019). Dog Ownership and Survival. Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes 12(10). doi:10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.119.005554
- Hamer et al. (2008). Walking and primary prevention: a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. British Journal of Sports Medicine 42(4):238-243. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2007.039974
- Holt-Lunstad et al. (2015). Loneliness and Social Isolation as Risk Factors for Mortality. Perspectives on Psychological Science 10(2):227-237. doi:10.1177/1745691614568352
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