Can Owning a Dog Help You Live Longer?

Dogs have a reputation for being loyal companions and enthusiastic walking partners. But could owning a dog contribute to longevity? Well, studies suggest that dog owners may benefit from increased physical activity, companionship, and reduced social isolation—all of which can contribute to better health. Understanding these potential benefits opens a broader conversation about psychological well-being and the role of healthy environments, such as the workplace. ISO 45003:2021, Occupational health and safety management – Psychological health and safety at work – Guidelines for managing psychosocial risks provides guidance for managing psychosocial risks at work and promoting well-being.

Could Your Dog Help You Live Longer?

Research suggests a potential relationship between dog ownership and longevity, particularly through cardiovascular health and lifestyle factors. Owning a dog is strongly associated with a longer lifespan and a 24% lower risk of all-cause mortality. The study titled “Dog Ownership and Survival: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,” published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, reported that dog owners had 24% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared with non-owners and a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality. Dog owners walk roughly 2,000 more steps per day (about 20 extra minutes of walking) than non-owners, helping many easily meet weekly physical activity guidelines.

While owning a dog is strongly associated with a longer lifespan, research does not prove that dogs directly extend their owners’ lives.

How Dog Ownership Impacts People Living Alone?

Research suggests a potential connection between dog ownership, cardiovascular health, and mortality for people living alone. A 2017 Swedish cohort study titled “Dog ownership and the risk of cardiovascular disease and death – a nationwide cohort study,” published in Scientific Reports, examined more than 3.4 million adults and found that dog ownership was associated with a 20% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality. Among people living alone, dog ownership was associated with a 33% lower risk of death.

Additionally, the American Heart Association’s article, “Do Dog Owners Live Longer?,” explores research linking dog ownership to improved cardiovascular health, longevity, and overall well-being. Studies suggest that dog owners may have a lower risk of death following major health events, including heart attacks and strokes, with particularly notable benefits among people who live alone.

The Link between Dog Ownership and Companionship

Dog walking may encourage social interaction by creating opportunities for people to meet neighbors, other dog owners, and members of their community.

A 2024 study, “Dog ownership, physical activity, loneliness and mental health: a comparison of older adult and younger adult companion animal owners,” published in BMC Psychology, examined dog ownership, physical activity, loneliness, and mental health. The researchers discussed the potential for dog walking to act as a social catalyst, increasing opportunities for interactions with other people. This may be especially relevant for people who experience social isolation. However, the relationship between dog ownership and loneliness is complex. Owning a dog can provide companionship, but it can also involve financial responsibilities, caregiving demands, and challenges that affect well-being.

A 2022 study, “Dogs and the Good Life: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Association Between the Dog–Owner Relationship and Owner Mental Wellbeing,” in Frontiers in Psychology, found that stronger dog–owner relationships were associated with greater perceived emotional support and companionship, while some measures of anxiety and depression were also associated with stronger relationships. These results illustrate why the benefits of the human–animal bond should not be reduced to a single positive outcome.

How Can Standards Support a Broader Conversation About Well-Being?

Standards can help support human well-being. In fact, one in seven people globally live with a mental health condition. ISO 45003:2021offers guidance for managing psychosocial risks in occupational health and safety systems, particularly in the workplace. Since individuals may spend a lot of time in the workplace (full-time employed adults spend an average of 8.1 hours per day working on days they work), providing an environment that strives to mitigate psychological and psychosocial risks goes a long way. Implementing ISO 45003:2021 requirements can help build a better work environment, promote psychological well-being, and help lead to:

Reduced absence from work
Strengthened employee retention
Bolstered recruitment and diversity
Increased organizational stability
Enhanced worker engagement
Increased productivity and innovation
Improved customer satisfaction and company reputation
Greater potential legal compliance

While dogs may support individual well-being through companionship and physical activity, implementing ISO 45003:2021 helps organizations take a structured approach to creating healthier, safer, and more supportive workplaces where employees can thrive.