How having a pet dog can significantly reduce chance of being diagnosed with dementia

Monday 26th of August marks International Dog Day, and as you probably know, there are plenty of positive health implications when it comes to having a dog . Firstly, they are proven to make people happier, which helps lower stress levels.

But according to a recent study in Japan, pet dogs can also reduce the risk of being diagnosed with dementia for a fascinating reason.

There are plenty of interesting ways that can reportedly lower your chances of having dementia, including things you can eat and even the way you sleep , and now it's believed that having a four-legged friend can help.

• Little-known dementia symptom is first spotted in the eyes, says health expert
• 'Loud' hobby could cause dementia later in life, warns top doctor

According to The Telegraph, a four-year study by the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology monitored the well-being of nearly 12,000 residents of the city over the age of 65 and concluded that dog-owners were 40 per cent less likely to get dementia than those without a dog.

It's not entirely down to having a dog, but moreso what changes when you have a dog . You are more likely to walk the dog, and therefore likely to be fitter. On those walks, you're likely to have social interactions, which helps. Plus the connection you form with the dog can help keep your brain active.

Dogs are also proven to increase happiness among owners, with some studies stating that 'negative people' are more likely to have dementia.

“Having a dog effectively requires people to get into the habit of physical activity and that makes it much more likely that they will then have interactions and socialise with other people,” said Dr Taniguchi.

Plus if you're taking your dog out for a walk, there are signs you can look out for that could also help in identifying the early stages of dementia.

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .