The Science-Backed Benefits of Being a Dog Owner

Let’s not forget to thank our dogs for all the benefits they bring us—especially through the challenges of COVID-19

Nobody is as excited to see us as a dog and that kind of affection can have a healthy impact. New Africa/Shutterstock

My friend, Jan, has spent the entire pandemic in lockdown in San Francisco, unable to touch another human being. It’s hard to imagine how difficult that must be. And yet she’s doing OK. One big reason: her dog, Maisie.

“This cottage would feel kind of bereft of life without Maisie padding around,” says Jan.