Dogs provide better emotional support than human friends, partners: study

New research highlights the distinctive ability of dogs to induce psychological and physiological calmness in their owners during challenging situations. The profound impact of dogs on mental well-being and physical responses is attributed to their unconditional love and non-judgmental support.

Insights from the Research:

1. Unconditional Love and Support:
   • Dogs provide unconditional love and non-critical support, fostering a sense of security.
   • Their predictability and reliability contribute to a calming influence.
2. Physiological Effects:
   • Studies in Psychosomatic Medicine and the Journal Emotion show smaller increases in blood pressure and heart rate during stressful tasks in the presence of dogs.
   • Participants with companion dogs exhibit lower stress levels during stress-inducing tasks.
3. Conversations with Dogs:
   • Engaging in daily conversations with dogs contributes to emotional well-being.
   • Conversations serve as reminders of meaning and purpose, enhancing a sense of security and unconditional love.
4. Therapeutic Benefits:
   • Confiding in dogs about emotionally charged issues is associated with therapeutic benefits.
   • Individuals are more willing to share difficult emotions, such as depression and anxiety, with their dogs compared to other human relationships.
5. Oxytocin Release:
   • Interacting with dogs releases oxytocin, the “love hormone,” leading to a decrease in the stress response in the short term.
   • Dogs contribute to a positive and supportive environment, promoting emotional and physiological well-being.

The research underscores the unique and valuable role that dogs play in providing comfort, emotional support, and a sense of security to their owners. The unconditional love and companionship offered by dogs contribute significantly to overall well-being during challenging situations.