Ever wondered why dogs are so good for us, and how to show them the love they deserve in return?
In this article, we will share the magic they bring into our lives and what we can do in turn to show them we them.
Quick Take
- Dogs improve physical health, reduce stress, and boost immunity
- They give unconditional love, and thrive when it’s returned
- Learn how to read your dog’s body language and emotional needs
- Show love through quality time, natural nutrition, and enrichment
Dogs may only be part of our lives, but to them, we are their whole world. Let’s make that world as loving and healthy as it can be.” – PetWell.
Why Dogs Are Good for Humans
There’s a reason we call them our best friends.
From the moment a dog trots into your life, things change. Suddenly, your steps get counted, your stress gets softened, and your heart somehow grows a little bigger. Dogs aren’t just pets, they’re our fur family, mates, therapists, exercise buddies, and full-time cheerleaders rolled into one furry body.
But the love shouldn’t be one-sided. Just like they support our well-being, we need to show up for theirs, every day.
Let’s look at the real benefits of having a dog and how you can repay their loyalty with care that’s meaningful to them.
1. Dogs Help You Stay Active and They Need That Too
Walks in the park. Beach runs. Backyard play time. Dogs get us moving in the best possible ways. And that movement is good for everyone involved.
But here’s the thing, our dogs need us to commit to it. A dog who’s left alone all day or only gets a lap of the backyard can suffer from joint issues, anxiety, boredom, weight gain, and even depression. Movement isn’t optional, it’s essential.
Help them stay active longer with our MOBILITY range
PetWell’s MOBILITY supplement and MOBILITY + BEEF treats are designed to support joint flexibility, reduce inflammation, and protect their mobility as they age, so those tail-wagging adventures don’t have to stop.
2. They Reduce Your Stress, But Don’t Forget Theirs
Science backs it: petting your dog lowers cortisol, slows your heartbeat, and lifts your mood. They’re always there with a wag or a nuzzle when the world feels too loud.
But here’s the truth most people don’t realise, dogs feel stress too. They just can’t tell us in words. Instead, it comes out in subtle behaviours: hiding, pacing, whining, refusing food.
Read more on Dog Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms & Solutions
Help them feel safe with CALM
PetWell’s CALM supplement and CALM + LAMB treats are crafted with naturally soothing ingredients like chamomile Aussie goat milk which is rich in,and L-tryptophan, green tea contains l-theanine and other relaxing ingredients in to help reduce anxiety without knocking them out. Whether it’s separation anxiety, stress or fireworks, CALM is your pup’s peacekeeper.
And don’t underestimate the power of simply being present. Sit with them. Massage their ears. Let them feel your calm, too.
3. Dogs Help Strengthen Your Immune System and Need That Boost Themselves
It might sound strange, but living with dogs can expose us to a broader range of microbes, something that helps our immune system become more resilient.
But our pups also face their own daily immune challenges, from allergens in the air to bugs they sniff out on walks.
PetWell supplements are formulated to address the most common issues such as anxiety, gut and joint health, allergies, skin and coat. All these supplement work to strengthen their immune system as a base.
4. They Teach Us How to Love, No Conditions, No Ego
Dogs don’t care what you do for a living, how you look today, or what mood you’re in. Their love is simple, pure, and wildly loyal. It’s humbling and healing.
So how do we return that kind of love in a way they understand?
Let’s explore.
How to Show Your Dog You Love Them (in Their Language)
1. Feed Them Real Food That Supports Their Body
Food is more than fuel. For dogs, it’s one of the primary ways they experience love, comfort, and health.
❌ Skip the highly processed commercial pellets
✅ Focus on fresh, whole food meals and treats with functional ingredients
PetWell’s functional treats combine freeze-dried proteins with targeted supplements, delivering a tasty reward and a health benefit in one bite.
From immune support to gut health, these are treats with purpose.
2. Keep Their Body (and Brain) Moving
Daily walks are just the start. Dogs need movement and mental stimulation to stay healthy and fulfilled.
✔ Try changing your walking route
✔ Visit a new dog-friendly park or hiking trail
✔ Set up a DIY agility course
✔ Play fetch or tug
✔ Try hide-and-seek with their favourite treat
Read more on Dog Exercise Benefits: Tips for a Healthier, Happier Pet
Don’t forget about mobility support as they age, PetWell’s MOBILITY range helps keep them agile and pain-free for all your shared adventures.
3. Learn to “Speak Dog”
Love isn’t just cuddles, it’s understanding their needs and boundaries. Watch their body language:
Signs of stress:
❌ Ears pinned back
❌ Tail tucked
❌ Lip licking
❌ Yawning or trembling
Read more on the Signs to Watch for and How to Calm Your Dog
Signs of happiness:
✔ Waggy tail
✔ Relaxed body
✔ Soft eyes
✔ Leaning into you
Respect their signals, and you’ll build trust that lasts a lifetime.
4. Play, Train, and Engage
Games are more than fun, they’re mentally enriching and emotionally bonding. Try:
✔ Fetch, tug-of-war, or chase
✔ Puzzle toys or slow feeders
✔ Trick training using positive reinforcement
✔ Short but regular one-on-one play sessions
Use PetWell’s freeze-dried treats during training to reinforce behaviour and support their health at the same time.
5. Make Time for Intentional Connection
Some days, the best gift you can give your dog is you. Whether it’s a gentle massage, a quiet cuddle, or a slow walk with no phone in hand, being fully present shows your dog they matter.
Oxytocin (the love hormone) is released through touch, for both of you.
Petting, massaging, even brushing, these small acts build trust and help reduce stress, soothe joints, and ease tension.
Final Woof
Dogs give so much of themselves. They ask for very little in return, just love, care, consistency, and maybe a few belly rubs.
At PetWell, we believe that a well dog is a happy dog. That’s why we make it easy to give them the natural support they deserve, from anxiety relief and joint care to gut health and skin and coat.
Every wag, every cuddle, every zoomie... it’s all better when your pet feels good. And when they feel good, so do we.
Here’s to loving them well!
FAQs
How do dogs improve human health?
Dogs help reduce stress, encourage movement, and can even support our immune system by exposing us to more diverse microbes.
How can I show my dog I love them?
Through nutrition, daily exercise, mental stimulation, affection, and understanding their emotional cues.
How can I tell if my dog is feeling anxious or uncomfortable?
Look for subtle signs like trembling, excessive panting, lip licking, or avoiding eye contact. These are often signs they’re not feeling okay.
Disclaimer: The entire contents of PetWell emails and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
Posted By Ayda Hornak - Trained in Canine Psychology and Natural Animal Nutrition Care
