Why Every College Student Needs a Dog

By Brittany Loeffler on May 24, 2017

I know what you’re thinking: the last thing you need in your life right now is a dog to take care of. Between your classes, internships, social life, and extracurricular activities, how and when will you be able to feed, play with, and walk a dog?

However, one of the benefits of adopting a dog as a college student is that you learn responsibility and have a friend who will always be there for you.

Everyone wants a nice, fluffy puppy, and here are some reasons to justify your need for one.

via Pixabay

Teaches responsibility

Taking care of a living creature teaches you a tremendous amount of responsibility. You must be aware and conscious of what your dog needs. This includes feeding your dog every day and making sure you take it on walks and keep it happy. It also means paying attention to know if something is wrong with your dog and if you need to take it to the vet.

Having a pet is like having a child. They cannot take care of themselves, so you have to take responsibility and make sure that they have everything they need for a healthy and fulfilling life. You can’t stay out all the time and leave your dog cooped up in a crate or the house. You must think about your dog’s needs and fulfill them.

via Pixabay

Dependable exercise buddy

There will never be another time where your gym buddy has stood you up at the gym because they are too hungover to work out. Your dog will always be game for a jog or running around in the park. A dog is a live-in exercise buddy who is always ready to go and will motivate you to get in shape.

Having the responsibility and expectation to walk your dog and keep him active will motivate you to have a more active lifestyle and get healthier yourself.

via Pixabay

Unconditional love

No matter what, your dog will always love you. In any relationship, you will have some ups and downs; in this case, if you step on your dog’s paw or he chews up your favorite Michael Kors handbag, you two will always forgive each other. When you walk through the door, you will be welcomed with the greatest excitement and happiness a dog can muster. You’ll get kisses the second you come home from class.

Having a dog who loves you unconditionally is a serious confidence boost for when you are feeling down. After having a bad day, your dog will always be there to cheer you up.

via Pixabay

Takes away the stress

Contrary to common belief, having a pet dog can take away some of the stress that comes with going to college. Throughout the semester, stress levels can be extremely high. A dog can bring down these stress levels, especially during finals week. Many schools will bring in therapy dogs for students to play with during finals week so they can relax and reduce anxiety and stress.

When you own a dog, you are forced to take some time off of worrying about school or work. Whether you relax when taking your dog for a walk or relieve your stress by watching a movie and cuddling with your dog in your bed, a dog will make you take time for yourself.

via Pixabay

Short-term popularity

Everyone loves seeing an adorable dog on the street. Owning a dog, you are almost guaranteed to grab more attention from strangers than without your dog. Walking along the street people may ask to stop and pet your dog. When you take your dog on campus, there will be tons of students trying to be your friend so they can have access to your dog.

Having a dog gives you a great icebreaker for when you are trying to meet new people and make new friends. Bring your dog around and people will just become attracted to you. You now also have an in with other dog owners. You can talk about your dogs and give each other tips on how to take care of your dogs as college students.

Just do it

After reading all of these reasons why a college student needs a dog, what are you waiting for? Head over to your local SPCA or adoption website and start looking for your new best friend! Enjoy quality love and time with your dog while improving your lifestyle by learning responsibility and becoming more active. Gain more friends and become part of a community by owning a dog. Stay stress-free during rough times and always have a friend to greet you when you come home.

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