As dog lovers have long suspected, having a canine companion can be good for you. In fact, studies suggest that your four-legged friend can help you feel better after a heart attack or stroke and may help you live a longer, healthier life.

Dog owners may have better outcomes after a major health event.

Studies have found that, overall, dog owners tend to live longer than non-owners. And there is a link to better recovery from major health events like a heart attack or stroke, especially if they live alone.

Heart attack survivors living alone had a reduced risk of death if they had a dog. Survivors living with someone else (a partner or children) also had a reduced risk.

Stroke survivors who lived alone had a reduced risk of death if they had a dog. Survivors who lived with someone else (a partner or children) also had a reduced risk.

There is a link that dog owners are less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke than non-dog owners.

Interacting with dogs can increase your production of “happy hormones” like oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. This can lead to a greater sense of well-being and help lower levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. And having a dog can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, ease depression, and improve physical fitness.

Studies show that people who walk their dogs can get significantly more physical exercise than those who don't. And there's a bonus: Our pets can also help us feel less social anxiety and interact more with other people. Perhaps that's why dog ​​owners report less loneliness, depression, and social isolation.

Here are some tips to make the most of your time with your four-legged friend:

Play and interact with your dog to get the most health benefits – for both of you.

Walk with your pet. You'll both get exercise and fresh air, and you can meet other dog owners in your area. Socialization can be a good thing.

Hit the road. Do you love to travel? Your dog can too. Look for hotels that accept pets so you and your furry friend can go on adventures together.

Enjoy the cuddles. Scratch them behind the ears a lot, rub their belly, or pat their head, as is customary in the old style. The more you love your pet, the more they will love you.