Want to appear 10 years younger? Just buy a dog

They are known as man’s best friend.

Now, scientists have shown that simply owning a dog can turn back the ageing clock, with canine companionship making owners act 10 years younger, The Daily Mail reported.

It may not add a decade to your life, but it is very beneficial – it is all about getting up and out and about.

Remaining active into old age is proven to stave off a host of ailments, particularly muscle and bone conditions, as well as promoting mental wellbeing.

In addition to the physical benefits, a dog is also good for the owner’s mental health.

‘On average dog owners have lower levels of depression,’ said Dr Feng, a senior lecturer in the university’s School of Geography and Geosciences. ‘The bond between pet and owner benefits people’s health generally.’

He suggests that setting up more dog-sharing schemes could help many older people enjoy the benefits of ownership, without the expense or responsibility.

Dr Feng’s study, published in the journal Preventive Medicine, looked at 547 elderly people in Tayside, whose average age was 79. All lived within 60 miles of each other.

Over a seven-day period participants were asked to wear an accelerometer which measured their movements.

Of those who took part, nine per cent – around 50 people – were dog owners and all showed significantly lower levels of anxiety and depression.

On average, older dog owners were 12 per cent more active than their counterparts who did not own a dog.

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