Have you considered adding a dog to your family? 5 reasons why owning a dog is a good idea

Dogs have the reputation as being man’s best friend, and rightfully so. The humane society estimated that approximately 39 percent of households own a dog, but why? Dogs provide companionship, friendship, and entertainment. They don’t pass judgment and are always happy to see you when you come home, which is especially uplifting if you’ve had a tough day at work. Dogs can also help teach your children about responsibility, and can even help your children develop stronger immune systems.

If you’re on the fence about adding a dog to your family, True Homes, the largest homebuilder in Charlotte, NC, has put together a list of the top five reasons you should own a dog.

Dogs are good for your health

Studies have long shown that dog ownership is associated with a number of positive health benefits, including: reduced stress, lower blood pressure, reduced risk of dying from any cardiac disease, increased physical fitness, 

Dogs are entertaining

Whether you plan on training your dog to perform funny tricks, play fetch, or simply want another personality in the household, dogs are a constant source of entertainment. 

Dogs help teach your children responsibility

Dogs are a wonderful way to start teaching your children responsibility. By giving your children certain responsibilities for you dog, such as feeding, walking, or grooming the dog, you can start to teach them the importance of being responsible. Since the responsibility of the dog is ultimately up to the adults of the household, you can teach your children consequences by taking away privileges if their duties are not kept up with. Dogs also teach your children the importance of being kind and respectful to animals.

Dogs make your children healthier

According to several researchers, infants who grow up in a household with a dog go on to live a healthier life. In particular, one study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that children who grew up with dogs were 31 percent less likely to contract respiratory tract infections and 44 percent less likely to suffer from ear infections. While this may seem counterintuitive, since dogs are known to have a number of allergens and track in dirt and debris from outside, it is the exposure to these contaminants that help your children develop strong immune systems.

Dogs help keep you and your family safe

Dogs are very loyal companions and part of their companionship means protecting their masters. One of the most common examples is when dogs bark to alert you if someone is approaching your home, or if one of your family members is in distress. Other ways that dogs keep your family safe depends on the particular breed of dog. For example, herding dogs will keep the family pack together no matter what, which can help keep your children from wandering off.

There you have it, True Homes’ top five reasons to add a dog to your family. If you are thinking about getting a dog, you should consider adopting. By adopting, you’ll save a life, money, and feel better about your decision to get a pet. Adopted dogs appreciate you rescuing them, and make one of the most loyal companions you’ll ever have.

True Homes has a number of new home developments in Charlotte, NC marketed to young families (many of which are dog owners). To learn more about True Homes, visit us online at www.truehomesusa.com or get in touch with us directly on the phone at 704-271-1191 today.