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RESEARCH PAPER / 2025-09-23

Dog Ownership, Physical Activity, and Mental Health in Mid-to-Older Aged Adults: Findings From the HABITAT Cohort Study.

Emma K Adams, Kevin Murray, Adrian Bauman, Hayley Christian

The Kids Research Institute Australia, The University of Western Australia, West Perth, WA, Australia.The Kids Research Institute Australia, The University of Western Australia, West Perth, WA, Australia. · pubmed

Abstract

Dog ownership is a potential strategy for maintaining physical activity levels and supporting healthy aging. This study examined longitudinal effects of dog ownership and dog walking on physical activity and mental health in mid-to-older aged adults.

The following analysis is generated by AI and may contain errors. It is separate from the authors’ abstract and is not peer review.

Research summary

Dog ownership is associated with increased physical activity and improved mental health in mid-to-older aged adults. This study is relevant as it explores lifestyle factors that may contribute to healthy aging and longevity.

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