Research suggests that people are healthier with pet dogs, both mentally and physically. They are really good for you. Not only do dogs provide unconditional love, but they can also make us happier. Pet owners know that dogs are fun and bring so much affection into one’s life.

However, their most significant impact on us is their powerful benefits for physical and mental health. One finding is that pet dogs help relieve depression. Depression has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

According to a published study in AIDS Care, people who owned dogs were significantly less likely to be depressed compared with those who did not own any pet. Other studies have indicated that petting dogs or simply interacting with them releases the feel-good neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. All of these help ameliorate the effects of depression among people.

This is not the only health benefit people can get from owning dogs. There is more to see in the infographic below. It showcases the physical and mental health advantages these K9 companions can provide.

Scroll down and view the colorful graphic to understand why dogs are important and why they are dubbed as man’s best friend. After seeing the graphic, you will surely thank your best buddy for your good health.