When adopting a dog, a person is most likely unaware of what they are actually adopting. In a way, those balls of fluff and energy that people call “puppies” bring a host of mental health benefits.

Starting with the most obvious, dogs are called “a man’s best friend” for a reason. While a bundle of fur and joy is not a person, dogs still provide a form of social interaction. In fact, being around them causes the brain to release serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine. Dopamine is more of a motivational reward chemical, while serotonin and oxytocin are connected to longer-lasting happiness. In the same regard, people who are not very sociable can fight loneliness with a furry friend. No matter what, humans need companionship, which is why dogs are often recommended for people who struggle with social anxiety.

Dogs also act as guards of the house while psychologically helping their owners sleep better. Knowing that a loyal animal can sense intruders better than a person lowers stress levels. The brain often confuses stress with danger. If a person feels anxious, their brain may refuse to enter its most vulnerable state, which makes sleeping difficult. With a dog nearby, the brain feels safer and allows the body to relax and fall asleep more easily.

In addition, pets help reduce cortisol levels, which is a hormone linked to stress. When it comes to schoolwork or complex tasks, anxiety is not helpful for getting things done. A clear-headed mind allows for better focus and efficiency. Personally, I do most of my homework in my living room, which is where both my cat and dog usually are. Sometimes they get the “zoomies,” and my kitchen turns into an F1 race. Eventually, though, they calm down and get extremely needy. One of them will cuddle next to me on the couch, and I somehow finish my math homework in 15 minutes.

Overall, dogs and mental health go hand in hand through companionship, improved sleep, and reduced stress. Simply put, dogs are not just a man’s best friend, but a man’s best medicine.