How Do Pets Help Your Mood? 7 Benefits of Having a Dog or Cat

Do Dogs and Cats Make People Happier?

If you live with a pet, you’ve probably felt how much calmer or lighter things can feel when they’re nearby. Whether it’s a wagging tail at the door or a quiet presence next to you on the couch, those everyday moments of connection aren’t just comforting – research suggests they may also support your emotional wellbeing in measurable ways. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 1 in 5 U.S. adults face mental health challenges each year. Mental health conditions – including depression, anxiety, chronic stress, and eating disorders – affect each person differently, and treatment approaches vary widely. 

One supportive element that many pet parents report is the positive effect their dogs and cats have on daily mood and routine. While pets are not a substitute for professional mental health care, a 2022 paper in Frontiers in Psychology reported that many dog owners describe significant emotional support and companionship from their dogs; for some, a strong pet‑owner relationship brought meaningful comfort.  

Studies like the 2023 Frontiers in Psychology review indicate that dogs and cats, in particular, may help support lower stress levels, provide comfort during anxious moments, ease feelings of loneliness, and encourage regular physical activity. Over time, those shared routines may help build emotional resilience, especially when paired with the right kind of support from loved ones, health practitioners, and community groups. 

What Wellbeing Benefits Do Pet Owners Experience?

Research on the human–animal bond suggests that many pet owners report greater emotional comfort, reduced loneliness, and better overall wellbeing when living with a dog or cat.” (Multiple studies, including a 2025 survey of pet owners).

Research in Springer Nature Journal suggests that many dogs appear to perceive and respond to human emotional cues — such as voice tone and facial expression — which may help provide comfort during anxious or sad moments. 

As humans, we have an ingrained need for touch. So stroking, hugging, holding and petting an animal can fulfil this need, and rapidly calms and soothes our mind and body when we are feeling anxious or stressed. 

Here are the main ways in which owning and caring for a pet can improve your mood, and alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders: 

How Can Pets Increase Your Daily Exercise? 

Just 20 minutes of walking a dog each day can make a real difference, not only for your pet’s health, but for your own mood, too. That gentle movement gets your body going and may trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin, the brain’s feel-good chemicals, which help us feel more balanced and emotionally grounded. 

Regular physical activity is widely recognized as a helpful tool for managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially when used alongside other forms of care.  

If you’re exploring ways to support your mental wellbeing, try tracking how long and how often you walk over the next 2–4 weeks. Establishing a consistent routine can help, and it’s worth chatting with your healthcare provider about how increased movement might fit into your overall wellness plan. 

Key takeaways: 

• Aim for at least 20 minutes of walking per day with your dog 
• Exercise supports the release of mood-regulating neurotransmitters like endorphins and serotonin 
• Physical activity is a complementary tool – not a replacement – for professional mental health care 
• Establish a routine by tracking walks over 2-4 weeks using a simple journal or phone app 

How Do Pets Help With Loneliness?

Dogs and cats have a special way of filling quiet spaces, offering steady companionship and a daily sense of purpose. For people who live alone or feel socially isolated, that reliable presence can help ease feelings of loneliness and help you feel a little more connected. 

Simple routines like feeding, grooming, or playtime don’t just benefit your pet, they give structure to your day and create meaningful moments of interaction. If you’ve been feeling disconnected or low, and you’re wondering whether a pet might be a good fit, it’s worth speaking with your healthcare provider to see how pet ownership could support your broader wellbeing goals. 

Key takeaways: 

• Pets provide consistent daily companionship that may help ease feelings of isolation 
• Caring for an animal offers a sense of purpose and responsibility 
• The routine of pet care creates natural touchpoints throughout your day 
• Discuss pet ownership with your healthcare provider if you’re managing mood-related concerns 

Related: Learn more about how dogs support wellbeing

Can Pets Help with Anxiety Symptoms? 

Spending time with your dog or cat, whether it’s petting, cuddling, or simply sitting close, can bring real comfort during anxious moments. That physical connection may help you feel more grounded and gently shift your focus to the present, especially when your mind is racing. 

Pets are great at living in the moment. They’re not worried about yesterday or stressed about tomorrow, and being around that kind of energy can remind us to slow down, too. 

If you experience ongoing anxiety, try making pet time part of your daily routine. Try spending 10–15 minutes with your pet and pay attention to how you feel before and after. Do this for 1–2 weeks to notice any patterns, and consider sharing what you observe with your healthcare provider as part of your overall wellness plan. 

Key takeaways: 

• Physical touch with pets (petting, cuddling) may offer calming effects during anxious moments 
• Pets naturally focus on the present, which can encourage mindfulness and help you stay grounded 
• Pet interaction is a complementary support tool, not a substitute for anxiety treatment 
• Track your response to pet time over 1-2 weeks – note your mood before and after interactions 

How Can Pets Help Create Daily Routine? 

Dogs and cats require consistent feeding times (typically 2x daily for dogs, 1-2x for cats) and regular exercise or play, which is a great motivation for establishing a consistent daily routine and staying consistent, even on difficult days.  

Maintaining a regular schedule will help support your mood and emotional balance, while ensuring that your pets receive the care they need and deserve.  

Set specific feeding and walk times (e.g., 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM), use phone reminders or a pet care app to track consistency, and discuss routine-building strategies with your healthcare provider if you’re working on mood management. 

Key takeaways: 

• Pets need regular feeding (2x daily for most dogs) and exercise, creating built-in daily structure 
• Consistent routines support emotional balance and can help stabilize mood 
• Pet care responsibilities provide motivation and a sense of purpose, even on challenging days 
• Use timers, phone reminders, or pet care apps to maintain feeding and exercise consistency 

How Can Pets Help You Build Social Connections? 

Many people find that one of the unexpected joys of having a dog or cat is that pet ownership can facilitate social connections during walks, at the dog park, or in pet-related spaces.  

Everyday interactions with fellow pet lovers often spark real conversations, and sometimes even lead to lasting friendships that support your emotional wellbeing and help you feel less alone. 

If you’re looking to connect more, try visiting a local dog park or pet-friendly event once or twice a week. Start with small talk about your dog’s personality or favorite toy – you never know where it might lead. You could also explore local or online pet communities to meet like-minded pet parents and build your circle at your own pace. 

Key takeaways: 

• Dog walking and park visits create natural opportunities to meet other pet parents 
• Shared pet experiences provide easy conversation starters and common ground 
• Social connection supports emotional health and helps reduce isolation 
• Attend pet-friendly events, join local dog walking groups, or connect in online pet parent communities 

How Can Dog Walking Support Weight Management?

Taking a daily 20 minute walk with your dog may help support weight management – some studies suggest it is possible to lose up to 14 lbs per year just by consistently walking your dog and you can enjoy additional health benefits if you combine daily dog walks with consistent activity and a healthy, calorie-controlled diet. 

Regular walks also benefit your dog’s health and strengthen the bond between you as you build trust and practice skills like sit, stay, heel and fetch.   

Track your walks using a pedometer or fitness app, aim for ≥10,000 steps per day when possible, and talk with your healthcare provider about how increased activity supports your overall health goals. 

Key takeaways: 

• Daily 20-minute dog walks may support weight management over time 
• Increased physical activity benefits both you and your dog’s health and fitness 
• Walking together strengthens your bond and provides opportunities for training and play 
• Use a pedometer, fitness tracker, or phone app to monitor daily steps and set achievable goals.

Final Thoughts: Pets And Mental Health

Dogs and cats can offer meaningful support for your daily mood and overall wellness through companionship, routine structure, physical activity, and opportunities for social connection. The steady presence of a pet, and the unconditional love they offer, has a way of making even the tough days feel a little more manageable, and a lot less lonely.

That said, pets are a long-term commitment. From daily care and vet visits to the financial side of things, they rely on us for everything. Before bringing a pet into your life, take a moment to honestly consider whether you have the time, space, and resources to give them the stable, loving home they’ll need for the next 10–15 years (or more). 

Not ready for permanent pet ownership? You can still experience the mood-boosting benefits of connecting with (and cuddling) animals, by: 

• Volunteering at local animal shelters or rescue organizations 
• Offering to walk a neighbor’s or friend’s dog 
• Participating in pet fostering programs 
• Spending time with friends’ or family members’ pets 

Even brief periods of interaction with animals (as little as 15-30 minutes) can bring comfort and a renewed sense of purpose. 

For current pet parents: Take a moment to recognize the ways your dog or cat contributes to your daily routine, emotional balance, and overall sense of wellbeing. Give them an extra cuddle today – they’re doing more for you than you might realize! 

Supporting your pet’s wellbeing is a daily practice, from the food they eat to the supplements they take, the routine you build with them matters. At PetLabCo., we’re here to help with products formulated to support everyday health and happiness. 

From probiotics for digestive health to soft chews that support joints, skin, coat, and dental hygiene, our vet-reviewed supplements are made with high-quality ingredients to help support the wellbeing of beloved furry family members. 

Ready to support your dog’s wellness from the inside out? Explore our full collection: Shop All PetLabCo. Products 

Important note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or mental health advice. If you’re managing depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive care plan. Pets can be wonderful companions and provide emotional support, but they are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions: Pets and Emotional Wellbeing 

Q: Can a dog help with depression? 

A: Dogs may help support people managing depression by encouraging gentle daily movement, like walks or playtime, offering steady companionship, and bringing structure through regular care routines. Their presence can make tough days feel a little less heavy. 

That said, dogs aren’t a replacement for professional mental health support, and the benefits of having a dog will not be the same for everyone. If you’re experiencing ongoing low mood or symptoms of depression, speak with your healthcare provider about whether pet ownership is a good fit for your overall care plan. It’s also important to consider whether you have the time, energy, and resources to meet a dog’s daily needs in a consistent, loving way. 

Q: How much exercise do I need with my dog to see mood benefits? 

A: Many pet parents report improved mood and energy within the first week of consistent daily walks. Research suggests that just 20 minutes of walking your dog each day may help support your mood by triggering feel-good chemicals like endorphins, and getting outside consistently can boost both physical and emotional wellbeing.  

It’s not about how far or fast you go – consistency matters more than intensity. That’s because regular daily walks provide greater long-term benefits than occasional bouts of intensive exercise. Try tracking your walks for 2–4 weeks, and check in with yourself before and after each one.  

Q: Are cats or dogs better for emotional wellbeing? 

A: Both cats and dogs can be beneficial for emotional wellness, just in different ways. Dogs often encourage outdoor activity and social interaction through walks and trips to the park. Cats, on the other hand, tend to offer quieter companionship and calming affection right at home, with a bit more flexibility in their daily care. 

When deciding what’s right for you, think about your lifestyle, space, energy level, and daily routine. If you travel often, work long hours, or prefer a more low-maintenance companion, a cat might be the better fit. But if you’re active, enjoy being outdoors, and want a walking buddy, a dog could be a great match. 

Q: What if I can’t commit to owning a pet permanently? 

A: You don’t have to adopt a pet full-time to experience the emotional benefits of spending time with animals. There are plenty of ways to connect, from volunteering at a local shelter, to helping a neighbor with dog walks, or signing up for pet-sitting through apps like Rover or Wag. You could also consider fostering a pet for a short term, usually around 2–8 weeks, or simply spending more time with friends’ or family members’ pets. 

Even 15–30 minutes of animal interaction a day has been linked to stress relief and mood support. Many shelters welcome volunteers for as little as 2–4 hours a week, making it an accessible and rewarding way to give back, and get some tail wags in return. 

Q: Can petting a dog or cat really reduce stress? 

A: Yes – spending time physically interacting with pets (like petting, cuddling, or brushing) may help support the release of oxytocin, often called the bonding hormone, while also helping to lower cortisol, the hormone linked to stress. 

Studies show that even brief periods of animal interaction (10-15 minutes) has been shown to have calming effects, including reduced blood pressure and a greater sense of ease. That said, everyone’s response is different. Try tracking how you feel before and after your pet interactions for 1–2 weeks, it’s a simple way to notice what works best for your stress levels and emotional balance. 

Q: Are pets helpful for seniors or people living alone? 

A: Pets can be especially meaningful for seniors and those living alone, offering steady companionship, a sense of purpose, and comforting daily routines. But it’s important to find the right fit. 

For older adults, things like mobility, strength, and long-term planning are key considerations. Ask yourself: Can I comfortably walk a dog each day? Could I lift or manage a larger pet if needed? Who would care for my pet if I became unwell? 

For some, a small dog, cat, or even a companion bird might be the best match, bringing joy and connection without demanding too much physically. If you’re managing a health condition, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider to make sure pet ownership works well with your overall care and lifestyle. 

Related Reads: The Benefits of Having a Dog for Your Mood, Health & Wellbeing 

Related Reads: Dog Health & Daily Care Guides
Dog Nutrition & Care Guides	Dog Health: Signs & Symptoms	Daily Supplements: Support for Your Dog’s Wellbeing
Dog Daily Care Guide – Printable Routine Chart	5 Health Issues Your Dog Faces Each Year	Top-Rated Probiotics for Dogs
The Ultimate Dog Dental Care Guide	Healthy Vs. Unhealthy Dog Paws	Seasonal Allergy Supplements for Dogs
7 Ways To Support Your Dog’s Immune System	Dog Gut Health: 5 Reasons Why It Matters	Natural Probiotics (& Prebiotics) for Dogs
How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need?	Healthy Dog Teeth: What’s Normal	Probiotic Chews For Dogs – A Simple Hack To Boost The Benefits
Borage Oil For Dogs: Can It Support Skin & Immune Health?	Dog Gum Color Chart: Healthy Vs. Unhealthy	Can Probiotic Chews Support Dog Gut Health?
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?	How To Check if Your Dog’s Poop is Healthy	PetLab Co. Joint Care Chew Reviews: What Customers Think

Sources 

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness “Mental Health By The Numbers” NAMI, 2021 https://www.nami.org/mhstats 
2. The Neurotypical Site “Maslow’s Hierarchy Of Basic Needs” https://theneurotypical.com/maslows_basic_needs.html 
3. American Heart Association “Pet Ownership and Cardiovascular Risk: A Scientific Statement” Circulation, 2013 https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0b013e31829201e1 
4. National Institutes of Health “The Power of Pets: Health Benefits of Human-Animal Interactions” NIH News in Health, Feb. 2018 https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets 
5. Harvard Health Publishing “The health benefits and risks of pet ownership” Harvard Medical School, Jan. 2023 https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-and-risks-of-pet-ownership