You would think that starting university while living out of home would have lent itself to being busy.
But long nights of studying and days spent motivating myself to attend lectures were my only responsibilities, and I quickly felt lonely. My landlord was an animal lover, so getting approval to have a dog at home was an easy sell.
With my days quickly filling up with university and training a puppy, I didn’t have much time to assess whether I was lonely. To be honest, I don’t remember whether I felt lonely or not—but I suppose that’s a good thing.
In this article, I’ll discuss what science says about pet ownership and loneliness, to decipher whether his presence made my life feel more ‘full.’
While research suggests that dog ownership can reduce feelings of loneliness, it’s essential to carefully consider whether you have the time, energy, and resources to care for a pet properly. Dogs require attention, exercise, and love, and while they can offer companionship and emotional support, they may not directly prevent loneliness.
In this guide, I will also recommend “The Complete Dog Breed Book” by DK. This comprehensive resource provides expert advice on selecting the ideal canine companion, with detailed descriptions of over 420 breeds, making it an essential reference for any pet owner.
What I'll Cover
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Loneliness is a significant problem that can impact both our physical and mental health.
Research conducted in 2018 revealed that around half of Australians experienced feelings of loneliness, with younger individuals more affected than older ones.
Importantly, loneliness was found to be associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety, affecting both men and women equally [3].
Should You Get a Dog if You're Lonely?
If you’re thinking about getting a dog to help with loneliness, it’s important to understand that while research suggests dog ownership can reduce feelings of loneliness in 8 months, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Interestingly, people who are the type to own a dog, known as “dog people,” often have certain personality traits that make them less likely to feel lonely, whether they have a dog or not. These traits include being more outgoing, responsible, and emotionally stable.
So, if you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s important to consider if you have the time, energy, and resources to take care of a pet properly. Remember, dogs require not only attention and exercise but also unwavering affection. Before bringing one into your life, ensure you are prepared for the long-term commitment that a pet deserves [1].
How Do Pets Help with Loneliness?
Pets, particularly dogs, offer unparalleled companionship and emotional support, especially in moments of solitude. Their presence can be profoundly comforting.
Studies show that having a dog or a cat can really help you feel less lonely, especially if you live alone. Dogs, especially, are good at making you feel less lonely because they’re comforting, loving, and give you a sense of purpose [1].
But having a pet doesn’t always directly stop you from feeling lonely. Instead, having a dog can lead to things that naturally help you feel less lonely, like going for walks or talking to your neighbours [3].
So, if you’re feeling isolated, remember that having a dog can encourage you to be more active and social, which could reduce those lonely feelings over time.
So, it’s important to think carefully before getting a pet and make sure you’re ready to take care of them, so they can be there for you too.
Best Dog Breeds for Loneliness
When you’re thinking about getting a dog to help with loneliness, it’s important to pick a breed that suits your lifestyle and what you like. While any dog can be a good friend, some breeds are especially known for being affectionate and loyal, which can really help if you’re feeling lonely.
Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Beagles are famous for being friendly and forming strong connections with their owners. Also, mixed-breed dogs often have great qualities and can be awesome companions for people looking for a furry friend to help with loneliness.
Discover your perfect canine companion with “The Complete Dog Breed Book” by DK. Featuring over 420 breeds, from classics like the Labrador Retriever to trendy mixes, this comprehensive guide offers expert advice on choosing, training, and caring for your dog. With detailed descriptions, annotated photographs, and practical tips, this reliable book is your one-stop resource for making an informed decision.
Best Pets for Anxiety
Besides helping with loneliness, pets can also be a source of comfort and support for people dealing with anxiety. While dogs are often suggested for their therapeutic effects, other pets like cats and birds can also offer emotional support and help ease anxiety symptoms. Just having a pet around can bring a sense of calm, lower stress, and make you feel more secure.
When picking a pet to help with anxiety, it’s important to think about things like their personality, how much energy they have, and if they’ll fit well in your home to make sure you have a good relationship with them [1].
Conclusion
In the end, deciding to get a dog to beat loneliness needs careful thought. Even though research shows that owning a dog can help reduce loneliness, it’s not a fix for everyone.
Also, remember that while pets can keep you company and offer support, they might not directly stop you from feeling lonely. Instead, having a dog can lead to activities that naturally help you feel more connected, like going for walks or chatting with neighbours.
Ultimately, adopting a pet is a reflection of your commitment to their care, and an opportunity to enhance both their well-being and your own happiness.
Sources:
[1] Oliva, J.L., Johnston, L., McGreevy, P.D., & Starling, M.J. (2022). Dog ownership, mindfulness, and loneliness during COVID-19 lockdown in Australia. Animals, 12(2), 338. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12020338
[2] Duvall Antonacopoulos, N. M. (2017, July 20). A longitudinal study of the relation between acquiring a dog and loneliness. Society & Animals. DOI:10.1163/15685306-12341449
[3] Oliva, J. L., & Johnston, K. L. (2020). Puppy love in the time of Corona: Dog ownership protects against loneliness for those living alone during the COVID-19 lockdown. Journal of Social Psychology, 67(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/0020764020944195
