There is one thing no one can deny- dogs are the best friends ever!
Our furry companions are a source of purest joy, unlimited loyalty, unconditional love, and endless fun!
You probably don’t need them as you have countless of your own, but here are 4 reasons more to cuddle your dog more often:
- Cuddling strengthens your bond, as during this positive interaction, the levels of oxytocin, or the “love hormone”, are elevated in both of you
- Cuddling improves mood and fights stress, anxiety, depression and prevents breakdown since it calms the heart rate and stimulates the release of oxytocin, that directly counters cortisol, the stress hormone
- Cuddling relieves pain, as oxytocin is a natural way the body uses to deal with various types of aches
- A bedtime cuddling session will help you sleep better, as the lower cortisol levels will allow the body to calm down, relax, and fall asleep easily
Yet, note that not all dogs express their love and affection by cuddling. Sometimes, your cuddly furry friend might be a member of a traditionally independent dog breed or a puppy from a cuddly breed might not be that into cuddling.
Our dogs can show their love in numerous other ways, though, like by their desire to play or sleep next to you, by following you around the house, wagging the tail when they see you, or by jumping up on you when you enter the door.
Either way, they are perfect!