Motivational mates: Three-quarters of owners in Wales agree dog walks boost mood

Research from The Kennel Club released during Mental Health Awareness Week shows positive impact dogs have on both mental and physical health

• Three-quarters of dog owners in Wales say that walking their dog improves their mood and well-being
• Two-thirds of owners in the region also credit their dog for improved fitness and for becoming more active
• Nationwide, older generations see the most significant benefits, with more than four in five crediting their dogs with keeping them active

Research from The Kennel Club released this Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19 May) has revealed the positive impact that dogs have on their owners’ wellbeing, not only through providing a source of comfort, but also by keeping them active and giving them a routine.

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is focusing on the importance of moving more for our mental health, and this research demonstrates how dog ownership can play an integral part in that, with three-quarters (73%) of owners in Wales agreeing that walking their dog improves their mood and well-being. Similarly, two-thirds (66%) of owners in the region agree their dog helps them become fitter and healthier, while 62% say they have become more active since owning a dog.

Furthermore, while the positive impact of dog companionship on both mental and physical health were felt across all age groups, the nationwide outlook showed that older age groups were the most impacted, with four in five (82%) of those aged 45-54, and 80% of those over 55, claiming that their dog helps their mental health by keeping them active.

And it’s not just the physical benefits of dog walks that owners credit with improving their mental health – three-quarters (75%) of owners in Wales acknowledge that their dog helps their mental health by giving them a routine.

Beyond exercise, dogs prove to be a tonic for all aspects of our wellbeing:

• More than eight in ten (83%) owners in Wales say their dog provides unconditional love and comfort
• Three-quarters (748%) in the region find that their dog helps to relieve feelings of loneliness
• And 75 per cent agree their dog helps to relieve feelings of anxiety.

Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club said: “While we know how invaluable the companionship provided by our four-legged friends is, this research shows just how much dogs can enrich our lives, not only through providing unconditional love and solace through tough times, but also through keeping us active, which in turn provides a wealth of benefits for our mental health.

“There are plenty of opportunities to keep moving with our canine companions, which isn’t limited to just regular daily walks. From the fast-paced agility, to learning a heelwork to music routine, there are different activities to suit all ages and abilities.”

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, The Kennel Club is celebrating the positive effect that dogs can have on our mental wellbeing. More information and useful resources can be found by visiting thekennelclub.org.uk/mentalhealth.

More information on getting involved in physical activities with your dog can be found by visiting thekennelclub.org.uk/activities, while information on local training clubs can be found by visiting thekennelclub.org.uk/fac.