One reason I am so infatuated with being a Psychology major is because it's a discipline that can explain the complex world around us. Working off physiological evidence and behavioral analysis, psychology makes it possible to comprehend why we do what we do. Being a huge dog lover I have recently become interested in why I personally, and most the population, are so obsessed with these furry best friends. Research suggests it is more than just their sheer adorableness and ability to make us laugh. Now here are seven other explanations as to why we looove dogs:
1. As social creatures, humans have an evolutionary basis to be with others as a means of survival. The "need to belong" is written in our DNA and we crave companionship on a daily basis. As we all know dogs are more forgiving and accepting than humans. So it makes sense that we would befriend such sweet and caring animals. A species that forms an almost instantaneous bond with its owner, no strings attached.
2. Dogs also exude a rendition of the "halo effect". Which means because we perceive them as cute and often as beautiful creatures, we are more likely to consider everything they do to be amazing. Maybe this is why you can never stay mad at them when they tear up your shoes or don't make it outside to go to the bathroom.
3. The basic reciprocity theory of attachment states that we tend to like others who like us in return. So since our puppies love us unconditionally we love them back just as much.
4.Studies on rejection show that the same areas of the brain that process physical pain also process the feeling of social rejection. It hurts to be socially rejected and dogs being the accepting animals they are, can make up for the rejection we may receive from humans. I mean honestly how many times have you said something like "well if no one else likes me at least I have my dog".
5. Loneliness can be an extremely toxic feeling. According to Roy Baumeister's research on social psychology, humans who have social relationships are more likely to live longer than those who isolate themselves. So having a dog not only gives even the most introverted of humans a companion, but they will probably also get you out of the house! You have to walk your dog, take it to the vet, and make frequent trips to the store for pet supplies. Maybe you even enroll your pup in dog training classes. These outings all become chances for social interactions and social connections to be made. So thanks to your furry friend's push to socialize you, you live longer!
6.Studies by many animal and social psychologists detail the power of the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin works as a bonding hormone secreted in order to cause a connection because two people in a committed loving relationship and between mothers and their children. However, this "oxytocin gaze" also works as a positive feedback loop with animals. When you gaze into the eyes of your dog oxytocin is released in both of you. This causes a silent communication solidifying your social attachment to your dog.
7. Dogs are hilarious, they do incomprehensibly odd things that make our day. They cause us to laugh which subsequently causes us to smile. Not only does this release endorphins in our body that give us a boost of "happy energy" but activates a common psychological phenomenon. The facial feedback hypothesis explains that the emotions we perceive are ones we are likely to mimic. Thus, seeing a fun loving puppy with make us happy and fun loving too!
