QuickCheck: Is it true that dogs that are more social tend to be healthier?

AS PET owners, we all want our furry companions to live long, happy lives.

Beyond good nutrition and lots of exercise, there’s a growing belief that a dog’s social life might extend their lifespan.

Could regular playdates, companionship and human interaction actually help them live longer?

Verdict:

TRUE

Just like humans, social connections play a key role in a dog’s overall health and lifespan.

A major study from the Dog Aging Project, which analysed data from over 21,000 dogs, found that dogs with more social connections – whether through human companionship or living with other dogs – tend to be healthier and may even live longer.

The study, a partnership between the University of Washington School of Medicine, the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and more than ten other member institutions in the United States, found that dogs who lacked social interaction were more likely to face health challenges, especially when combined with factors like financial instability in their households.

Much like in humans, where loneliness has been linked to poor health outcomes and even shorter lifespans, dogs appear to benefit significantly from strong social bonds.

The study, published in the journal of Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health, also supports the idea that dogs with positive social environments tend to experience less stress and have stronger immune systems.

Stress plays a huge role in overall health, and dogs that experience chronic stress – whether from isolation, lack of stimulation, or unstable environments – may be more prone to illness and age-related diseases.

Social engagement, on the other hand, can lead to lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and higher levels of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” which is associated with bonding and relaxation.

Socially active dogs also tend to have better cognitive function as they age.

Research from the University of Washington’s Dog Aging Project suggests that socialisation can help slow cognitive decline in older dogs.

Mental stimulation through play, training, and companionship are as important for a dog’s well-being as physical exercise.

Studies also show that having a loving owner can help regulate a dog’s heart rate, reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.

While having an active canine social life may not be the sole factor in determining how long a dog lives, it certainly plays an important role in their overall health and happiness.