Explore the wellness power of puppies and discover which breeds best fit your lifestyle. Time to start barking up the right tree
Friendship has long been considered a tonic for our mental well-being, and research on the kennel clubthe UK’s largest organization dedicated to dogs, shows that canine companionship in particular can have a positive impact on how owners feel and improve their well-being.
The survey revealed that 95% of owners believe their dog improves their overall mental health and well-being, and two out of five owners credit their dog with alleviating feelings of anxiety. loneliness. It is no coincidence that over the last two years, during periods of lockdown and social isolation, many people have struggled with loneliness and thus the UK has seen an unprecedented rise in dog ownership.
Dogs help throughout our lives, from teaching younger children responsibility to developing compassion among teenagers to helping adults find or maintain purpose and structure in their lives. The power of a dog to take its owner out for their daily walks can never be underestimated! And who can forget his ability to remind us of the power of unconditional love, often when we need it most.
No matter what breed, age, size, or shape, it’s clear that dog owners agree on the benefits of having a furry friend in their lives. However, for those who are ready to get a dog and are looking for a breed particularly renowned for its kind, friendly and caring nature, The Kennel Club has shared some suggestions to help find the four-legged therapeutic friend you might be looking for. Of course, an individual dog’s behavior will depend on training, socialization, and personality, but the following can serve as a useful guide to help you find your own canine companion.
golden retriever
These dogs have big hearts. Perfect for families, they are known for their friendly nature and their confidence can be contagious. They are intelligent, which often means that they pick up on the emotions of their owners and also tend to enjoy training. They are large in size so they love a long walk, which can benefit them by getting them outdoors and reaping the benefits of being in nature.
labrador retriever
The adorable Labrador has long been a family favourite: their cheerful and playful nature makes them a wonderful companion. His background as a fishing dog makes them highly trainable and intelligent, which means they can also make wonderful assistance and therapy dogs.
Maltese
A small but intelligent dog, the Maltese is a great choice for anyone in a smaller living space, and may not be able to take the long walks that larger breeds require. His lovable nature and sweet features make him a welcome companion to have at home and by your side. Their long, soft coat requires a great deal of grooming, which many may find to be a relaxing and therapeutic task.
Staffordshire Bullterrier
Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be wonderful family pets and are known to provide a lot of emotional support to their owners. They are very intelligent, sensitive and affectionate, especially with children.
havanese
The Bullmastiff is a small dog that requires less walking, around 30 minutes a day, and a smaller yard, making it a good choice for urban dwellers. They are very affectionate, but they also have a lively and intelligent character. They can offer valuable company to anyone, although those who are more introverted can benefit from their friendly nature.
Greyhound
Greyhounds can be a more independent breed at times, but they still tend to be affectionate, sensitive and docile, making them a support pet and the best friend for the right owners. The breed tends to enjoy a slower pace of life in general, although they also love strolling through the park or garden!
Of course, it is important for prospective owners to carefully consider whether their lifestyle suits having a dog and, if so, to research all aspects of the different breeds to ensure that they can meet the health and welfare needs of their dog. their dogs. With the current cost of living crisis, prospective owners need to consider the financials of owning and the associated costs of a pet and whether it is something they can commit to long-term.
The Kennel Club hosts London’s largest canine event, Discover Dogs, which, over two days, will showcase over 150 diverse breeds to help those considering a dog start their search and make an informed decision. Everyone is welcome to meet and greet the breeds, speak with experts, and ask current owners questions. The popular Cuddle Corner also provides visitors with relaxing and comforting canine hugs with their favorite breeds. So even if you’re not ready or unable to take the first steps to owning a dog, you can still reap the wellness benefits of this unique event.
Discover Dogs 2022 will take place at the Excel London from October 15-16. Tickets can be purchased at discoverdogs.org.uk, and find out more about the mental health benefits of owning a dog at thekennelclub.org.uk.
Photography | Golden Retriever: Flick.digital, Maltese: Lecinska-Ruchniewicz, Greyhound: Mark Blyth.
If you have problems with your mental health, visit the counseling directory or talk to a professional counselor.
