Dan Buettner, a longevity expert and founder of Blue Zones, highlights scientific evidence linking dog ownership with reduced risk of early death, particularly from cardiovascular disease. He claims that getting a dog may be one of the best ways to add years to your life, as it encourages daily walking, provides a sense of purpose, and offers unconditional love.

According to research published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation, owning a dog is associated with a 24% reduction in all-cause mortality compared to those without dogs. For individuals who have already experienced a major cardiac event, living with a dog reduces the risk of death by up to 33%.

Reasons Dogs Improve Longevity

Epidemiologists and psychologists cite three main reasons why dogs might extend human lifespans.

1. Daily Physical Activity

Studies in BMC Public Health reveal that dog owners walk an average of 22 more minutes per day than non-owners, making them more likely to meet weekly physical activity guidelines. This extra exercise can contribute to a longer life.

2. Stress Reduction

Interacting with dogs helps lower cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, while increasing levels of oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. A 12-year Swedish study of 3.4 million participants found that dog owners exhibit lower blood pressure and reduced rates of cardiovascular disease.

3. Reduced Isolation

The U.S. Surgeon General has highlighted chronic loneliness as a national public health epidemic, comparing its risks to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Dogs serve as natural “social catalysts,” fostering community interaction and combating isolation, especially in single-person households.

The connection between dog ownership and human longevity aligns with principles found in “blue zones,” areas known for high numbers of centenarians. These principles include natural daily movement, a strong sense of purpose, stress reduction, and social connections, all of which can be naturally adopted by owning a dog.

Buettner advises those seeking longevity to consider adopting a dog to incorporate these beneficial habits into their daily life.

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital, covering topics such as food, travel, and health.