Considering getting a dog to help with my mental health

One more thing: I think the fact that you’re concerned about whether you’d be a good enough dog person is probably a pretty good sign that you would be. I’ve definitely seen lots of dog owners that I wish would be more concerned about their dog’s health and happiness.

I have anxiety, plus other chronic illnesses that involve fatigue and chronic pain, and my dog absolutely makes my life better! I like to say he takes me for walks, plays with me, and does cute things for my mental health. And he makes me laugh and feel happy every day because he is a goof, which is good for me. Exercising, being outside in nature, and petting animals all have science-backed mental and physical health benefits, and my dog is happy to help me with all of that. I also do a daily breakfast time mindfulness meditation routine that basically involves focusing on how adorable he is while while he licks my yogurt cup after I’m done with it. (Between watching his ears flop around, listening to his licking sounds, and feeling his warm tongue, it’s very grounding.) Sometimes I do feel too tired to play very enthusiastically or take him for walks as long as he’d like, but on those days he’s happy to accept a short walk and a puzzle toy. He also picks up on how I’m feeling and will lie around with me all day if I’m feeling especially bad. I also struggle with getting out of bed because mornings are especially hard for my body, but I get up to feed him breakfast and let him out to use the bathroom because my good boy deserves to be taken care of. I will say, having a new dog can be stressful while everyone is settling in and learning about each other. It’s common for dogs to be whiny and unsettled, have bathroom accidents, and chew on things they shouldn’t the first few days in a new place. Dogs obviously do take a lot of work, but I think it’s well worth it for all the joy they add to their humans’ lives.

Adopt an older pet,don't start out with more than you know you can handle. Plus you give an older shelter pet a home where as they would most likely be over looked by others in favor of a younger and livelier animal.

If you decide to adopt, adopt one older than 3 y/o. You’ll be able to meet their energy needs much more easily, even on hard days!

I researched at great length to get a dog to match my needs. Although I was looking specifically to getting a dog to be trained as my service dog. My dog Zinc, is a a labradoodle and he’s been great helping me and he’s a fast learner.

Dogs are great for motivation and routine, mine is also trained (maybe self trained?) To do deep pressure when I panic and alert a nearby person if I fall, faint, or get seriously hurt. Exercise, need for attention, grooming, ect will all come down to breed and personality, you can do breed research and try to find an ideal breeds or mix of breeds and check your local shelter for one with the personality traits and/or training you need or go to a breeder and train a puppy yourself. You can also foster dogs first to see if dogs are a good fit for you in general and if you find any you particularly bond with.

I am wondering the same thing! I have a cat now but wondering if having a dog will help me get out of my apartment and get moving. Since I live alone, I'd have to weigh the cost of dog walkers in addition to everything else to care for it while at work.

That’s why I got a bearded dragon lol snuggles with me on days I can’t get off the couch, comes for car rides with me when it’s nice out, & I don’t feel bad on the days I leave him in his tank all day

My dog helped me start exercising and I always feel happier when she’s near. Do research on breeds, as they have different needs that may not suit your lifestyle. 🐶🐕

i think a dog would be good emotional support for you. if you get one i recommend a poodle. they don’t shed, they’re hypoallergenic, and they are very smart and easy to train, and they’re big babies! the biggest part for me would be that they don’t shed, which would take a lot of energy for me to clean up and i wouldn’t want to do it most days when i’m depressed. if you keep their coat short you also won’t have to brush them very often. just a thought :)

I have a hubby, and teen/adult children at home to help me take care of our two dogs. We have a Pitbull/ Blue healer named Dixie. She is a big heavy sweetheart. She is full of energy, and needs lots of attention and play time. I couldn't take care of her right now if I didn't have help. I also have a little black Chihuahua/dashhound named Elvis Presley. He is completely mine. He will not leave my side. He sleeps with me, sits on the bathmat while I potty, sits on my lap all day, and goes with me pretty much everywhere. He doesn't require as much exercise. He usually falls asleep and naps while I pet him. He is not tiny, but small. He weighs 13 pounds so I can easily pick him up. He doesn't eat very much at each meal. His toys and food are way cheaper then our big dog. So maybe a Chihuahua or other small breed would be good. I love my dogs especially little Elvis. When I was having dementia after my Covid coma I I kept asking for my dog Elvis. The rehab finally let him stay with me, and two days later I no longer had dementia.

My dog changed my life. I have more of a high functioning depression/ anxiety so getting my dog motivated me to focus my thoughts else wear. She’s a very cuddly and loving dog (pit bull). She puts a smile on my face daily

I want another dog also but I don't know if I can take care of one either but my therapist recommended me get a therapy dog. Maybe that's worth a try

My dog is the best thing that happened to me. He motivates me to do more when I can and have found ways to exercise him on low energy or high pain days without a lot of physical strain on me. Love the fostering idea. Also look into senior dogs who may have less energy and exercise needs. Happy to talk more about my pup and our routine if you like.

Like the above comment suggested, fostering would be I great start! I would recommend doing a ton of research(about specific breeds, training required, food, potential illnesses, grooming, cost of everything involved, etc.) Before even looking for a dog, that way you know you're prepared! Then find a dog that fits your specific lifestyle(ie, if you arent an active person, maybe stick with breeds that are less energic). Dogs are a lot of work and can be expensive, but they're so worth it! My dog makes my heart whole and I couldn't imagine my life without him💕 I hope this helps, good luck!

Maybe you could foster one first.

I love my dog! With the certain breed, they can held reduce stress. :)