How dog ownership shapes the relationship between physical activity and stress: Insights from college students

OBJECTIVE: This study examined how dog ownership influences the relationship between physical activity (PA) and stress among college students. Quantitative analyses examined if PA levels differ between dog and non-dog owners, and whether dog ownership and residency moderated the association between PA and stress. Qualitative analyses explored how canines may promote undergraduates' health. METHODS: age = 19.1) across 11 different courses. Participants primarily identified as Latine (40.4%) and Asian (34.1%), and female (75.2%). RESULTS: Findings showed no differences in PA frequency between dog and non-dog owners. Dog ownership and residency significantly moderated the association between PA and stress, such that PA was associated with reduced stress only among students who owned and lived with their dog. Qualitative findings highlighted how dogs provided routine, offered endearing companionship, and encouraged outdoor PA. CONCLUSIONS: Dog companionship may serve as a valuable support for student well-being.