#2. Cuddling your dog can release stress
Cuddling your dog isn’t just good for your pet — it’s great for you. While oxytocin is released, human cortisol levels drop, alongside a calmed heart rate after a session of petting and cuddling. Cortisol is your body’s stress hormone, used to bring about metabolic action to help you deal with your “hostile” environment and regulate your body — but excess levels lead to a physical breakdown.
