At Wag Tantrum, our focus may be on providing dog parents with the most nutritious fresh dog food and the most convenient dog food delivery, but aside from that, we also would like to take a moment to focus on health and, in particular, how our furry companions boost our mental and physical health.

Dogs Lower Our Stress Levels & Anxiety

These are stressful times, and so many of us suffer from anxiety. While talking with a professional therapist is always a good idea, our furry friends can provide us with a source of stress relief and reduce our anxiety.

Did you know that simply petting a dog for a few minutes can significantly reduce stress levels? Petting our dog can lower our heart rate and help us relax, and studies have shone that petting a dog lowers our cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that boosts our stress levels, and while cortisol has beneficial properties, too much cortisol can trigger anxiety and depression and even cause headaches, sleep issues and heart issues.

This is why many people who suffer from anxiety or depression seek comfort from a therapy dog.  While spending time with your dog can lower your cortisol levels, this bonding also can boost the production of hormones such as serotonin and dopamine, which help us feel calmer and more relaxed.

Dogs Can Reduce Work Stress

These days, many of us are still working from home, but if you are back in the office, some studies show bringing your dog to work can reduce workplace stress substantially. While certainly not all offices and workplaces are suitable spaces for canine co-workers, if it’s an option at your job, consider bringing your furry friend to work once or twice a week. Not only will you benefit, but your dog will be happier, and having a dog around can reduce stress for everyone in the office. 

Even if you cannot take your dog to work, consider dedicating those first few minutes when you get home to providing your dog with some love and exercise. Give your dogs some pets and grab that leash and head out for a walk or just throw a ball around. Not only will your dog enjoy it, but it will shift your focus from your busy workday and help you relax and wind down.

Dogs Provide Us With Purpose

If you are feeling a bit out of sorts and directionless, adopting a dog can be a great option. Dogs rely on our care and providing them with love, exercise and nutrition can help us feel more tethered to this world.

While a dog cannot solve all of our problems, caring for a dog can make our lives better. Dogs love us unconditionally, and there is no one more grateful than our loyal friends. They love it when we feed them, they love us when we take them for a walk. They love us when we just cuddle with them on the couch.

Perhaps your children have moved out of the nest, or you’ve lost your beloved partner. Adopting a dog can provide you with a great outlet for love and companionship. They’ll get you into a good routine and force you to head outside and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine and this can make a world of difference for anyone dealing with life changes or depression.

Dogs Boost Our Heart Health

At Wag Tantrum, we think a lot about heart health, and while a lot of this focus is on creating heart-healthy dog food, we know that’s not the only way to help keep your dog healthy. To get to the point, dogs need exercise and while this exercise benefits our furry friends, it also improves our physical health and heart health.

Most dogs need about 30-40 minutes of exercise per day, and so do their human companions. Two 15-minute walks and a rousing game of tug or fetch can provide benefits for both of you. While some breeds obviously need more exercise than others, any exercise is going to be good for you and your dog.

Dogs Make Us More Social

If you have been feeling a bit isolated and lonely, your dog can help with this, as well. Dog parents tend to have richer social lives than those without a dog. For instance, a trip to the dog park isn’t just an opportunity for your pooch to run and play with friends, it’s an opportunity for you to meet people and build new friendships.

These days, many restaurants and pubs even host social events where dogs are welcome or encouraged. Many cities and towns also host fun events where you can bring your dog and mix and mingle with others.

For instance, in our own backyard of Houston, you could take your dog to the annual Puptopia Festival, which is scheduled for November 5, 2022. This huge event includes games and activities for your dog, as well as pet spa services, and even a “K9 Lounge” with treats and beverages for dogs and their humans. These types of events can be a great option for anyone who craves some social activity, and your dog will have a blast, as well.

Treat Your Dog To Wag Tantrum!

Of course, while we want everyone to enjoy wonderful physical and mental health, we also want to make it easy for dog parents to improve the health of their precious furry companions, and Wag Tantrum organic dog food delivery can be a great option to consider.

Our high-quality beef dog food and chicken dog food varieties contain only the finest organic ingredients, including USDA-organic beef and chicken. Each small batch of our human-grade dog food also includes a specially crafted blend of pharma-grade vitamins and minerals to provide complete nutritional support for your furry friend. If you've been searching for the best pet food brands, consider making the switch to our fresh food diet.