A Dog’s Long-term Stress can be Linked with Relationship it has with its Owner

As with a lot of popular pets, many dog lovers associate ownership with reduced stress levels. However, sometimes it is also worth asking about the other way around. What does having a human owner mean for the dog's own stress?

Well, it turns out that this link clearly exists but can differ across breeds. A study from Linköping University has discovered that the long-term stress level of the dogs was correlated to their owners' personality in a number of ways.

The stress of having dog owners

The research quizzed participating dog owners on their personality as well as the kind of relationship they had with their parts. This was done in tandem with a measurement of stress hormones from their dogs' hair samples.

Interestingly, breeds that descended from more ancient and independent dogs were not as affected by their relationship compared to those breeds that have a long history of working with humans.

Still, this study had barely scratched the surface on how these relationships affected a dog's history of stress. Things like first encounters, the owner's general pet-raising experience and regular experiences in their environment have not yet been factored in.

Also read: Can Dogs Experience Napoleon Complex?

How dog owners can help

It is important to remember that a really solid relationship with any pet is based on mutual benefit, not just a one-sided affair. A common mistake by many first-time dog owners is underestimating their responsibility, which could prove counterproductive if your goal was to have a pet for stress-relief.

It is important to acknowledge that you have a lot of new duties to make sure your dog is clean, healthy and feeling cared for. That includes maintaining their mental health. If this type of thing stresses you out, then this is why it is important to understand these responsibilities before committing.

A healthy relationship with your canine best friend should certainly lead to less stress and anxiety for the both of you in the long run. Here are some strategies that can help:

#1. Be sensitive when a dog is wary.

Familiarity is a big deal for dogs. It is what lets them know that an environment is safe and when to tell if someone is a stranger or a friend.

Still, this is not always perfect. This makes them prone to having more stress in things that break routine. Whenever you are taking your dog somewhere different or bringing in someone they have never seen before, always be prepared to calm them down.

#2. Playtime definitely helps.

Playtime is not only fun for dogs, but it also gives them the opportunity to exercise and stimulate their minds. Both of these are obviously great for their own mental health.

Always make sure that playtime is on your daily agenda. It gives your dog a sense of certainty and that really takes the stress off your bond.

#3. Allow your dog to comfort you.

Lasly, it is commonly known that dogs can sense their owners feeling a bit down in the dumps. If you have had a rough day and your dog nudges up to you to make you feel better, then let it.

Sure, there might be some other things that you would rather do to blow some steam. But by letting your dog try and help you, it still nurtures your relationship.

Remember, having a pet is a partnership. And out of all animals, it can be argued that this is the truest when it comes to dogs.

Also read: Understanding Your Dog Through Eye Contact