Golden Retriever (Detailed Introduction)

       Keeping dogs has many benefits for our mental and physical well-being. Some dogs are understanding and often stay by their owner’s side when they are unhappy. Some dogs are lively and active, bringing much joy to the family. Especially for the elderly, dogs can be a kind of spiritual support. Moreover, keeping dogs can prevent childhood asthma and allergies.

       A study by scientists at the University of California, USA, shows that dog-owning families help children regulate immune responses and appear to protect children from developing asthma and allergies, reducing the chances of asthma caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The study found microbes in the dust of dog-owning homes and animals inhaling gut bacteria can regulate the immune response. Even after RSV infection, the respiratory tract did not show inflammation or excessive mucus secretion symptoms, and the bacterial composition in their gut differed from other animals.

       New research discovered that exposing mice to dust from homes where dogs are allowed outside greatly altered the composition of the mice’s gut microbiota. These mice were then injected with some well-known allergy triggers. Compared with those exposed to dust from dog-free homes or not exposed to dust at all, their allergic reactions were significantly reduced. Although the study examined mice, the results are consistent with previous human observational studies and may apply to humans.

       The benefits of keeping dogs need no further explanation; people can feel them for themselves. Dogs’ intelligence and understanding help relieve the psychological pressure of many people, and dogs have become their good confidants. Therefore, more and more people are starting to keep dogs.