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According to New York City-based dog trainer and pet expert Andrea Arden, the human and dog relationship is very much the equivalent of a parent and child relationship. "Dogs feel most secure, comfortable, and happy when around their people," the author of Barron's Dog Training Bible and Dog-Friendly Dog Training told Bored Panda.
"Even just the scent of their human makes them happy. This has been proven in studies that use MRIs to track brain activity in dogs."
You can see this in their eyes. "A dog looks at the owner and attempts to work out what kind of relationship is taking place," Nigel Reed, a dog behaviorist and author from London, UK, said.
Science says that spending time with canine companions does wonders for our well-being.
For example, a comprehensive review of studies published between 1950 and 2019 discovered that dog owners had a lower risk of death—studies suggest that dog owners have lower blood pressure levels and improved responses to stress.
Interestingly, people who had experienced previous coronary events had an even higher level of risk reduction for death.
Also, dogs make us a lot more sociable. Think about it, aren't people with canines more approachable? There's always a conversation starter wagging its tail next to them!
Researchers have found that about 40 percent of dog owners have an easier time making friends—these animals really help us to get to know strangers and form new relationships.
With all of the unconditional love we receive from dogs, it's only fair we take real good care of them. "Dogs provide one of the most uncomplicated (and most beneficial) relationships one could hope," Arden said. "Making them happy is generally as simple as providing them a home, nutritious food, clean water, appropriate toys, plenty of appropriate exercises for them to release both physical and mental energy, and companionship. Pretty short and easy list for a bestie."
And while dogs can't articulate their emotional state, they can certainly show us when they're having a good time. "A dog's body language tells you a lot about how they're feeling," Arden said. "Relaxed, soft, loose body language (including soft tail wag, play bows, relaxed ear set, and soft eyes) are all indicative of a happy dog. Also, a good appetite, good sleep habits (about 16 hours a day for an adult dog), and enthusiasm for interaction are signs that a dog is healthy and happy in their environment."
To see just how much pups benefit from a healthy relationship with humans, check out these 30 Photos Of Dogs Before & After Their Adoption That Will Melt Your Heart.
