The dog is one of humanity's oldest companions. Millennia of co-existence have led to the formation of a unique language of communication, and sometimes mutual understanding reaches the level of telepathy. It is interesting to learn how time spent with a dog affects our mental state and brain activity.
A recent study conducted by South Korean scientists addresses a number of relevant questions.
Feed and Pet the Poodle
There are numerous experiments confirming the positive impact of dogs on humans. Research shows that dogs contribute to maintaining both the physical and mental health of elderly people. American scientists have also established that having a pet positively affects cognitive abilities. Furthermore, dog owners exhibit lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Some studies have previously shown that dogs can alleviate symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The new study, conducted and published by specialists from Konkuk University (Seoul, South Korea), examined the effect of interacting with a dog on human brain activity and which areas of the brain are activated in the process. For this purpose, the researchers recorded electroencephalogram data from individuals playing with pets.
The study involved 30 participants aged 20 to 40 years, with an equal number of men and women. They were invited to interact with a well-trained dog—a poodle named Aro. The interaction included eight different activities, each lasting three minutes. The participants got acquainted with the dog, played, fed it, massaged it, brushed its fur, took joint photos, hugged, and walked it in the park.
During the experiment, participants wore special devices that measured the electrical activity of the brain. After interacting with the dog, each of them answered questions about their emotional state. The entire process took about an hour.
Attention Improved, Stress Reduced
By analyzing the electroencephalogram data, the scientists found that certain areas of the brain showed increased electrical activity. These zones are associated with stress regulation and enhanced concentration.
During games and walks with the dog, the participants' alpha rhythms increased, which, according to the researchers, is characteristic of a relaxed and calm state. The alpha wave range is associated with improved memory and reduced stress levels.
When brushing the fur, massaging, and playing with the poodle, the participants exhibited increased beta waves, indicating improved concentration. This rhythm was most pronounced in the frontal areas of the brain, but it sometimes spread to other regions as well.
Moreover, as shown by the questionnaires filled out by the participants, their mood improved after interacting with the dog. They felt less depressed, tense, and tired.
No Love, No Way
“The study demonstrated that certain types of interaction with dogs, by enhancing the corresponding brain activity, can contribute to relaxation, emotional stability, concentration, and the development of creative abilities. Furthermore, interacting with a dog reduces stress levels and evokes positive emotions,” the authors of the study conclude.
They hope that their work will serve as a foundation for developing new methods to combat anxiety and stress. However, the scientists emphasize that the effect of interacting with dogs manifests only if a person feels love for them.
Of course, if you have negative experiences related to dogs (for example, if they have attacked or bitten you), it is unlikely that new interactions with these animals, even friendly ones, will have a calming effect.
