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. 2015 Nov 25;12:E205. doi: 10.5888/pcd12.150204

Figure 2.

The model illustrates how pet dogs influence play, caretaking, companionship, and social interaction. Play: provides opportunities for exploration, novel experiences, mastery, and independence and increases physical activity. Caretaking: promotes sense of responsibility and empathy, increases physical activity (eg, walking, grooming), allows for learning about animals. Companionship: promotes self-esteem, relieves stress, provides emotional support (pet dog can act as a confidante). Social interaction: catalyzes social interactions, stimulates verbal and nonverbal communication, and develops relationships.

Model for how pet dogs may influence the physical and mental health of children aged 4 to 10 years. The model summarizes study findings regarding how pet dogs promote children’s behavioral and emotional development, mental health (3,4, 11–13,30), and physical activity (6–10,26).