Owning a dog is almost guaranteed to enhance your life. A dog is much more than another mouth to feed and another creature to clean up after — it’s a treasured member of the family. If you already own a dog, you know how much the benefits outweigh the costs. And if you’re still deciding whether to open your door to man’s best friend, Cheapism’s list of free perks can help you get to closure.
LOVE
By far the best part of owning a dog is the mutual and unconditional love. Dogs are hard-wired to love their humans. Through good and bad, they can’t help but shower your face in wet, slobbery kisses. The emotions shared between master and pet are a special bond that dog owners cherish. To sweeten the deal, the exchange is 100 percent free.
COMPANIONSHIP
Unlike cats, dogs always want to be part of the group. Once trained, your dog will follow you just about anywhere, staying by your side and offering you steadfast companionship. Dogs will listen to you vent about your problems, share in your excitement when new opportunities arise, and comfort you when you’re down.
EXERCISE
All dog owners know the value of exercising with their pet. Depending on the breed and age of the dog, this could mean a weekly walk around the park or daily mile-long runs. Regular exercise keeps you both healthy, and because you’re out and about in nature, this perk of owning a dog is totally free.
WARMTH AND CUDDLES
There’s nothing worse than a cold, lonely winter night. Lovers come and go but as long as you have a dog, you will always have a warm body by your side. Cuddling up on especially chilly evenings costs nothing, and might even save a few pennies on the heating bill.
SECURITY
Dogs are naturally protective of their family and their territory. Any dog owner can tell you that a dog is the best alarm system. With their sharp senses they can detect even the subtlest intruder or danger and won’t hesitate to wake you, or the entire neighborhood, when a possible threat lurks nearby.
SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES
If you’re single and looking to meet someone, walking your dog gets you in the mix. Not only will your adorable friend attract possible mates, it will also sense their vibes. Just think what might happen if your dog could sniff out your soulmate from the crowd. Even if you’re not single, owning a dog is an easy and free way to meet other dog lovers in the neighborhood.
ENTERTAINMENT
We’ve all been to parties where the pooch steals the show with its antics. A dog in your life is a free ticket to constant entertainment, from playing fetch to watching the animal chase its own tail. Not to mention all the cute photos and videos you can post to favorite social media.