Why Dogs Are Good for Our Mental Health

CLEVELAND - August 26 is National Dog Day, and there are plenty of reasons to celebrate.

A Cleveland Clinic psychologist explains why spending time with our four-legged friends can boost our mood. 

"Dogs are wonderful greeters. They're waiting for you to come home, and they're always happy to see you. In turn, this increases our feel-good hormones, like dopamine and serotonin,” explained Chivonna Childs, PhD.

Along with boosting those happy hormones, dogs may also help lower stress hormones that negatively affect our bodies.

Dr. Childs said dogs are so beneficial because they offer companionship and give us a sense of purpose.

They also get us out of the house and keep us moving.

Dr. Childs said those daily walks not only provide exercise but give us a chance to socialize with others as well. 

“It’s similar to how people react when they see a cute baby. When you’re out with your dog, everyone wants to say hi, and that can open the door to new social interactions,” Dr. Childs said.

If you don’t have a dog, that’s OK.

Dr. Childs said you can get similar benefits by spending time with other people’s dogs – or with other animals in general.