There are plenty of lifestyle factors that could help you live longer, from eating a healthy diet and avoiding processed foods, to getting plenty of quality sleep and staying physically active. But according to a new study, there’s something else that could improve your life span you may not know about — man’s best friend.

A meta-analysis of nearly 70 years of research was recently published in the journal Circulation. Researchers found an association between dog ownership and a 24% reduced risk of dying from any cause. If you have a dog, you probably didn’t need a study to tell you that he’s good for your heart — but researchers also linked dog ownership to a 64% reduced risk of death following a heart attack, and a 31% decreased risk of death following a heart attack or stroke, compared to survivors of cardiovascular events who did not own dogs.

It turns out tail-wagging companions provide plenty of heart-healthy benefits for their owners, including increased physical exercise, lower blood pressure levels and better cholesterol profiles. While the study showed that dog owners who lived with a partner or child were also found to survive longer after a heart attack, dog ownership was especially beneficial to those who lived alone. Canine companions are also known to help decrease loneliness and depression.

Caring for a dog is a big task, but it’s also a rewarding one — in more ways than one. Pets benefit your health at all life stages, regardless of your age. Along with all the heart-healthy benefits above, studies have also shown pets can have a positive effect on your body’s reaction to stress.

Let’s face it — even without all of these health benefits, you still wouldn’t trade your furry friend for anything. But it doesn’t hurt that he offers a natural health boost, along with all of the love, play and loyalty he has to offer.