March 17, 2025

Pets & Longevity: What the Science Says

Pets are more than just pets. They may be beneficial to your health. Research has shown that the association between pet ownership (especially dogs) and longevity and overall well-being may be linked. How strong is the association between owning a pet and living a longer and healthier life? In this article we will explore the science behind the relationship between pets and human health.

The Science Behind The Human Animal Bond

Studies have identified the release of oxytocin ("love hormone") when you look into a dog's eyes or pet a dog. Oxytocin is the hormone released by mothers during childbirth. It helps create an emotional bond between a mother and her infant. This chemical release creates a strong emotional bond between a person and their dog, which may reduce stress and enhance the emotional well-being of the owner. Additionally, researchers have discovered a dramatic decrease in heart rate and blood pressure when people interact with dogs and horses. At first, the researchers thought they were measuring the heart rate of the animals rather than the humans.

Pets and Longevity: What Does The Data Show

A large-scale meta-analysis that tracked over 3 million people for ten years found that dog owners had a 24 percent decreased chance of dying prematurely. The researchers attributed this decreased risk to increased physical activity. Dog owners typically walk more often than those who do not own a dog. However, it is important to note that there are some demographic differences between dog owners and non-dog owners. Pet owners are generally younger, wealthier, and better educated than non-pet owners. When the demographics of pet ownership are taken into account, the increased risk of premature death disappears.

Cat owners present a different picture. Some research indicates that cat owners are at an increased risk of mortality. This may be because cat owners tend to be less active than dog owners. Dogs require regular walks. Cats do not. Therefore, cat owners tend to lead more sedentary lifestyles.

The Impact of Owning a Pet, Even Crickets

One of the most interesting randomized controlled trials evaluated the impact of pet ownership on mental health. Instead of giving participants a dog or cat, the researchers gave participants pet crickets to care for. The results indicated that elderly individuals who cared for crickets had a significant improvement in their depression, cognitive function and overall mental health. Although crickets are certainly not the same as a loyal Labrador, the results indicate that caring for another living being has a positive psychological impact.

How Much Do Dog Owners Walk Their Dogs?

There are two components to the health benefits of pet ownership. There is the emotional benefit and the physical activity benefit. The physical activity component of pet ownership is the factor that is most closely tied to longevity. Longitudinal studies demonstrate that dog owners are significantly more likely to meet the physical activity recommendations. However, only approximately one third of older dog owners walk their dogs at least three times per week.

To get the maximum benefit from owning a pet, you must not only own a pet; you must spend time interacting with your pet. Take your dog for a walk, throw a ball for your dog to chase. Spend time playing with your cat. Any amount of physical activity that you can get through your pet will help improve your overall health. Find out more about the physical activity that can improve your health in small amounts of exercise, big health gains.

Conclusion: A Recipe for a Longer Life

In 1925, a medical journal wrote:

"The best prescription for a walk is to take a dog."

As we continue to learn about the ways that pets can positively affect our lives, we realize that the benefits of pet ownership include reduced stress, encouragement of physical activity, and a potential increase in longevity. Regardless if it is a dog, cat or cricket, the company of animals can provide us with companionship, joy and a sense of belonging.

Research Sources

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