One of the most powerful lifestyle choices for extending life may also be one of the simplest. According to longevity expert Dan Buettner, the potential answer could be waiting at the end of a leash.

Dog ownership has been linked to a lower risk of early death, better cardiovascular health, more daily physical activity and reduced loneliness. Buettner says canine companionship can naturally reinforce several habits commonly associated with longevity.

Buettner is a longevity expert and founder of the Blue Zones organization in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He highlighted scientific evidence associating dog ownership with a reduced risk of early death, particularly death related to cardiovascular disease.

“The best thing you can do to add years to your life may surprise you. Get a dog!” Buettner advised during a recent episode of “The Dan Buettner Podcast.”

He continued, “Research shows that dog owners live longer, suffer fewer heart attacks and experience less loneliness. Why? Because a dog forces you to walk every day, gives you a purpose and provides unconditional love.”

Research published by the American Heart Association in its journal Circulation associated dog ownership with a 24% reduction in mortality from all causes among the general population compared with people who did not own dogs.

The association was even more striking among people who had already experienced a major cardiac event. For individuals who had suffered a heart attack or stroke, living with a dog reduced the risk of death by up to 33%.

Researchers in epidemiology and psychology have pointed to three possible reasons canine companions may help extend human lives. Those areas include greater physical movement, biological responses related to stress and stronger social connection.

Studies published in BMC Public Health indicate that dog owners walk an average of 22 minutes more each day than people without dogs. That additional movement makes owners significantly more likely to meet standard guidelines for weekly physical activity.

Interaction with a pet has also been associated with lower levels of cortisol, which is the body’s primary stress hormone. At the same time, spending time with a pet can boost oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin.

A Swedish study lasting 12 years analyzed 3.4 million participants and found that dog owners had lower blood pressure and reduced rates of cardiovascular disease. Those findings add to the evidence connecting canine companionship with heart health.

Loneliness is another major concern that dog ownership may help address. The U.S. Surgeon General has declared chronic loneliness a national public health epidemic and compared its health risks to smoking 15 cigarettes each day.

Dogs can serve as natural “social catalysts” by encouraging interaction within a community while also providing emotional attachment. Experts say that companionship can combat isolation, particularly for people living in single person households.

The connection between pet care and longevity also aligns with principles observed in the world’s “blue zones.” These are regions with the highest concentrations of people who have lived to at least 100.

According to Buettner, the central principles include natural daily movement, a strong sense of purpose, reduced stress and deep social connections. A dog may bring several of those elements into an owner’s everyday routine without requiring a complicated health regimen.

Daily walks can provide regular movement, while caring for an animal can offer a continuing sense of responsibility and purpose. Companionship and community interaction may also help owners strengthen emotional and social connections.

Buettner’s recommendation was direct for people who want to pursue those potential benefits. “So if you want to live longer,” Buettner advised, “go adopt a dog!”

---

Are you feeling overwhelmed or hopeless right now? Have you been withdrawing from people or activities you usually enjoy? Are you having thoughts about hurting yourself, or feeling like things will never improve?

You do not have to handle those feelings alone. Support is available, and talking to someone can make a difference. You can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available 24 hours a day to listen and help.

If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call emergency services right away. Even a small step, like reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional, can help create a path forward.