Is it true that having dogs around you lessens stress?

For sure, having animals makes you forget about all your troubles and they make you a smile which is a good thing.

Well I have been a dog lover all my life, and I do believe they help to lessen stress. I have a chesapeake bay retriever now, and they are known for 'smiling' they show their teeth and curl their lips, but it is diffinently not a snarl or growl. She only does it when she is really happy and when she greets me at the door. Coming home after a stressful day at work, and seeing her 'smile' and jump around, melts my stress away. When I'm upset about something she seems to sense it, and either does something really silly and makes me laugh or snuggles up next to me to be petted and the stress just seems to go away. They also say that they are good for people with high blood pressure (which I don't have so.....)

I say absolutely! I've been much healthier since we got our pup. In fact, I don't think I've been sick at all since we got her (I've been injured and haven't been at work for a lot of the time, so this might have something to do with it), but I truly feel that she lifts me up when I'm down. When you're really down, there is nothing better than having a cuddle with your dog. She gives you a little lick and you just feel so much better. And if you've had a bad day, or you've had a run in with bureaucracy, coming home to a welcoming pup, with a wagging tail can just put everything else behind you, and you just forget it all, because she is so happy to see you. I would recommend getting a dog to anybody who is depressed or stressed - both my husband and I have been positively influenced by our 12mth old beagle.

I have always believed so. I have a huge lab/german sheppard mix at home with me now, and have always had some kind of dog as a pet all of my life. I couldn't imagine my life without some kind of dog in it. I love them as they will always love you if you just treat them right. They are man's best friend after all. Or should I say woman's?

You could say that it does atleast you don't have to worry about them complaining to much or wanting alof of money lol.

Yes, studies have shown that dogs -- and cats as well -- can actually reduce blood pressure. The unconditional love and joy that you get from your pet has a calming effect. In addition, people who live alone but have a pet tend to have a greater sense of well being than those who live alone without a pet. Pets make wonderful companions.