Have you ever found yourself feeling calmer or more focused after spending time with a dog? Now, there is scientific evidence to back up that experience.
A study from Konkuk University in South Korea, published in the peer-reviewed PLOS ONE journal, explored the positive effects dogs have on human stress levels and brain function.
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The Study's Approach
The study focused on animal-assisted interventions, which include therapies involving animals to help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and build trust.
These interventions are popular in various settings like hospitals and schools. Previous research on the benefits of interacting with animals generally looked at the overall impact without distinguishing between different types of interactions, such as grooming, playing, or feeding.
To delve deeper, the research team led by Onyoo Yoo conducted an experiment with 30 adults, who engaged in eight distinct activities with a well-trained dog. These activities ranged from playing with a toy to grooming and taking photos with the dog.
To measure the impact of these interactions, participants were equipped with EEG electrodes to track their brain activity, and they also reported on their feelings before and after the activities.
Intersting related article: Research shows that dogs can smell if someone is stressed (Universal-Sci)
The Surprising Impact of Time Spent With Dogs
The findings were quite enlightening. Activities like playing with and walking the dog were linked to an increase in alpha-band oscillations in the brain, a sign of relaxed alertness. Meanwhile, actions such as grooming or gently massaging the dog boosted beta-band oscillations, which were associated with better concentration. Moreover, participants noted feeling less tired, depressed, and stressed after spending time with the dog.
It's important to mention that the study had a small participant group, and not all were pet owners, which might influence the outcomes. However, the results suggest a clear link between specific activities with dogs and positive changes in brain activity and mood. This insight could help tailor future animal-assisted therapy programs to maximize their benefits.
This research underscores the potential of interactions with dogs to enhance our mental well-being, providing a scientific basis for the comfort and focus many of us experience in the company of our four-legged friends.
If you are interested in more details about the study, be sure to check out the article published in the PLOS ONE journal listed below.
Sources and further reading:
How old is my pet in dog years or cat years? A veterinarian explains (Universal-Sci)
Do dogs understand the words we say to them? (Universal-Sci)
Dogs can distinguish between humans doing something on purpose and doing something by accident (Universal-Sci)
Research shows that dogs can smell if someone is stressed (Universal-Sci)
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