Dogs provide loyalty and affection without judgment. They reduce loneliness through constant cuddles and presence—studies show dog owners report lower levels of isolation, with one survey finding 85% of people believe pet interactions combat loneliness. Gazing into a dog’s eyes even boosts oxytocin (the “love hormone”), enhancing mood and bonding.
Petting a dog lowers stress hormones like cortisol while increasing serotonin and dopamine. Dogs help alleviate anxiety, depression, and even support those with conditions like PTSD. They provide routine and purpose, which stabilizes mental well-being.
Unfortunately it also requires $ for vet visits and upkeep. Not everyone on the spectrum has the means to be able to Even if they have the space and time. Its just like having a child, $ Is a huge factor.
I'm allergic to dogs, cats are more my speed.
I love dogs but don't have the daily energy to care for one. Cats are lower maintenance.
Cats are more my speed
They are often more sympathetic to the concept of overstimulation
Pet theory (pun intended): Cats are Autistic, dogs have ADHD.
You might be on to something there.
I love dogs so much, and would never want one in my home. I definitely think not everyone should have a dog, they take a ton of time to walk and clean and want to be around you all the time and take so much effort every single day.
I cannot handle the noises dogs make- barking, whining, paw or other body licking noises. Claws clicking on hardwood floors or scrabbling around as they run. They smell, even if you bathe them regularly there's still farting and their breath. They require frequent walks, and while I love walking I don't love the idea of HAVING to do it a couple times a day, every day, for the next 10+ years.
Yes, they're lovely perfect beings and it brightens my day to interact with one. But wow they're too much! (This is the same reason I'm childfree, honestly)
The responsability of having a dog would drain me so much it would be a horrible decision to have one! But glad that it worked out for you!
Because dog. Good enough reason. 😁
Yeah it's really hard to explain other than ... it's dog, you should have one. My strongest connection right now is with my dog. I can be comfortable making eye contact with her and being myself. And dog snuggles are peak.
The timing of this post today was perfect. Earlier one of my coworkers brought their dog in to the office for a bit. Everyone's mood immediately improved.
Well, I have two dogs and two cats ...... all four of them are unique in their behaviors and interactions.
I don’t think everyone should have a dog. Judging on 4 of my asshole neighbors I live near, they don’t take care of their dogs at all and just leave them outside to bark all day and night. I hate dogs because of this now. And yes, I know it’s not the dog’s fault - it’s the shitty owners, but good god dogs are fucking annoying. Give me a cat any day.
I really want one, but I would feel bad that I leave them at home for hours on end when I'm at work with nothing to do. At least with an outdoor cat, you can give it a cat flap and let it wonder as it pleases
Cats sleep most of the day, so even if you have an indoor only cat, it won't feel neglected if it's alone during the day.
Dogs are wonderful, and I have two. But some days I wish I didn't. Caring for them can use up a lot of energy and on bad days I end up not providing the level of attention I know they deserve (they still get everything they NEED). Also, as others have pointed out, money. If you can't afford to feed a dog and take it to the vet regularly, you shouldn't have one.