In a fascinating study, researchers from Switzerland found compelling physiological evidence that owning dogs is great for brain health.
Measuring Blood Flow
The study, published in PLOS One, came from the University of Basel. In the study, researchers ran separate trials with 21 volunteers, where they interacted with either a dog or a plush animal. Notably, the trials were separated into four groups, with each group corresponding to increased proximity. Each trial lasted about five minutes.
Interestingly, researchers focused on measuring blood perfusion in various brain centers using infrared sensors. By measuring blood flow to specific brain regions, researchers deduced what parts of our brains activate while playing with dogs.
Fascinatingly, the study found that the most active brain center during human-dog interaction was the prefrontal cortex. According to Exploringyourmind, this cortex is typically linked to “attention, emotions, and decision-making”.
We’re Just Beginning to Understand How Dogs Affect Our Brain
Although the results shouldn’t surprise any dog owners, the depth of our relationship with dogs is still a new area of research. Recently, studies have discovered that our relationship with our dogs has incredible effects, and in ways we might not expect. For example, a recent study from Belfast found that dogs can actually smell stress in people with astonishing accuracy. After centuries of living together, it seems that dogs and people have evolved to help each other. However, some experts argue that dogs may be better off without us.
Regardless, what’s pertinent here is that science has tangible proof that dogs are a boon for our mental health. Already, service and therapy dogs provide companionship and assistance to people with mental health disorders. Besides that, the physical benefits of walking, being outside in nature, and connecting with other living creatures are vital for our health.
Ultimately, health is just one of the gifts that dogs give us. In return, it’s up to dog owners to make sure their dogs get the best quality of life they can acquire. For some, that could even mean taking your dog on your next vacation.
