Dan Buettner, a longevity expert and founder of Blue Zones in Minneapolis, Minnesota, emphasizes the benefits of dog ownership in prolonging life. Scientific studies suggest a strong correlation between having a dog and a lower risk of early death, especially from cardiovascular diseases.
Buettner suggests that getting a dog might be a surprisingly effective way to increase life expectancy. On “The Dan Buettner Podcast,” he mentions, “Research shows that dog owners live longer, endure fewer heart attacks, and feel less lonely. Owning a dog prompts daily walks, offers purpose, and provides unconditional love.”
According to the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation, dog ownership is linked to a 24% reduction in all-cause mortality for the general population. For those who have experienced major cardiac events, such as heart attacks or strokes, having a dog reduces the risk of death by up to 33%.
Reasons Why Dogs May Extend Lifespan
Daily Physical Activity
Studies in BMC Public Health reveal that dog owners walk on average 22 more minutes per day compared to non-owners. This additional activity makes them more likely to meet standard weekly exercise guidelines.
Stress Reduction
Interacting with dogs can decrease cortisol levels, the body’s main stress hormone, while increasing oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. A 12-year Swedish study of 3.4 million people found that dog owners had lower blood pressure and reduced rates of cardiovascular disease.
Reduced Isolation
The U.S. Surgeon General highlights chronic loneliness as a significant public health issue, equating its risks to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Dogs serve as “social catalysts,” encouraging community interaction and providing emotional support, particularly for those living alone.
The benefits of dog ownership align with principles from “blue zones,” regions with the highest concentration of people over 100 years old. These principles include daily movement, a sense of purpose, stress reduction, and strong social ties.
Incorporating a dog into your daily life helps foster these healthy habits naturally, without complicated regimens. Buettner advises, “If you want to live longer, go adopt a dog.”
Khloe Quill, a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital, covers various topics including health, travel, and food.
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