EXAMINING THE LINK BETWEEN DOG OWNERSHIP, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND MENTAL HEALTH

A recent study published in BMC Psychology has revealed that while dog owners are generally more physically active than other pet owners, it is the physical activity they engage in independently of their dogs, along with their overall exercise habits, that are most closely linked to better mental health.

Previous research has indicated that dog ownership can increase physical activity and improve mental well-being. However, few studies have explored these connections together. This new study aimed to bridge that gap by investigating whether dog ownership, dog-related physical activity, and non-dog-related physical activity are associated with mental health outcomes like depression and anxiety, and whether these relationships vary between older and younger adults.

Led by Kirrily Zablan from Deakin University in Australia, the research team sought to understand how dog ownership and physical activity might impact mental health, particularly through the lens of loneliness. Loneliness is a significant factor in poor mental health, and the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of social connections and physical activity for overall well-being.

To investigate these questions, Zablan and her team conducted a cross-sectional study involving 588 Australian pet owners (76% female), aged 18 to 84, all of whom owned at least one pet. Participants completed questionnaires assessing dog ownership, physical activity, depression, anxiety, and loneliness.

The findings revealed that dog owners were indeed more active than those who owned other pets like cats, birds, or fish. On average, dog owners engaged in higher levels of both dog-related and non-dog-related physical activity.

However, it was only non-dog-related physical activities—such as running, playing sports, or working out at the gym—that were linked to improved mental health outcomes. Dog walking and other pet-related activities did not show the same effect.

Interestingly, the study also found that both older and younger adult pet owners experienced similar moderate levels of loneliness, and that loneliness played a significant role in mental health outcomes. However, for younger adults, this moderate loneliness was linked to higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to older adults.

The researchers acknowledged several limitations in the study. For example, the cross-sectional design prevents drawing causal conclusions, and the sample was disproportionately female.

Ultimately, Zablan and her team advised against promoting dog adoption solely for mental health benefits. They concluded that acquiring a dog “with the sole aim of improving mental health is unlikely to lead to mental health benefits.” They also cautioned that exaggerating the benefits of dog ownership could pose welfare risks to dogs, potentially leading to neglect or abandonment.

While dogs may not be a cure for mental health struggles, they can still be valuable companions. However, the most effective way to improve mental health appears to be engaging in regular, independent exercise.