August is National Dog Month in both the United States and Canada, a celebration of the special bond between humans and their canine companions.
And for people over 50, it’s also a timely reminder of just how powerful that bond can be for your physical and emotional health.
Dog ownership isn’t just about wagging tails and unconditional love (though those are pretty great). The benefits are warm and fuzzy but so much more. They’re physical, measurable, and significant.
A large Scientific Reports study of nearly 17,000 adults ages 50 to 99 found that dog owners experienced slower memory loss and cognitive decline than those without pets. While cat owners saw improvements too, it was the dog walkers, who tend to get outside and engage socially, who saw the biggest gains.
Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, found that dog owners also have better heart health, blood sugar control, diets, and physical activity levels.
“Those who own a pet, particularly a dog, were healthier from a cardiovascular standpoint,” he said.
The American Heart Association echoes this, noting dog ownership is linked to lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and improved survival rates after a heart attack.
AARP even reports that dog owners experience less stress and depression, better emotional health, and fewer chronic pain symptoms — likely due to increased movement and social interaction, plus the endorphin boost we get just from petting a dog.
In Canada, programs like the Ontario SPCA’s Seniors for Seniors Adoption Program match older adults with older, calmer dogs, often with waived or reduced adoption fees. The goal is simple: create loving matches that improve health and wellbeing for both the person and the pup.
The Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada promotes walking as a key tool in preventing and recovering from cardiovascular events.
And what’s better motivation to walk regularly than a dog?
Just ask Malcolm Miller, 64, a retired athlete who volunteers as a puppy raiser for Southeastern Guide Dogs. Malcolm takes in black Labrador puppies for a year, teaching them manners and socialization before they continue their training to serve others.
“Without a dog,” Malcolm says, “I’m a fish out of water.”
He brings his pup to the gym and says the daily routine — walking, caring, bonding — keeps him active and emotionally grounded. For Malcolm, the love of a dog is more than companionship. It’s part of a healthy lifestyle.
Of course, dogs aren’t for everyone. It’s important to choose a dog that fits your energy and mobility level. Mature dogs can make great matches for active agers, since they are often calm, trained, and eager to love.
So, if you’re looking for more movement, less stress, and a little extra joy, consider adopting a dog this National Dog Month. You might just gain a new best friend — and a healthier, happier life.
Call us today to learn more about the power of regular exercise to improve your life.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.