While it’s a well-known fact to dog owners that spending time with their pets can be soothing, recent research confirms the tangible benefits of play sessions for both humans and dogs. A new study published in Plos One sheds light on how playing with a dog not only alleviates human stress but also has a calming effect on the dogs involved.
The Study: A Small but Insightful Experiment
The study, led by a team from Chiang Mai University in Thailand, involved a small sample of six dogs—five chihuahuas and one Shetland shepherd. None of the dogs had prior experience in therapeutic settings, and all interactions took place without the presence of their owners.
A total of 122 university students participated in the experiment. First, they filled out questionnaires to assess their stress levels. They were then measured for blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in their saliva before engaging with the dogs. The students were given 15 minutes to play with one of the dogs, after being briefed on the dog’s personality and favorite activities. Following the session, the researchers took measurements again, both for the students and the dogs, who provided fecal and saliva samples.
Results: A Clear Stress Reduction
The results were striking. Every student reported feeling less stressed after the session, with physical measurements supporting their claims. Blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels all dropped significantly. On average, the stress levels of the students decreased by 33%.
The dogs also benefitted from the interaction. Even one week later, their cortisol levels, measured in both saliva and fecal samples, remained lower than before the experiment, indicating a prolonged sense of calm following the play session.
Conclusion: A Win-Win for Both Humans and Dogs
This study confirms what many dog lovers instinctively know: spending time with dogs has a powerful, positive effect on stress levels. Not only do humans experience relief, but the dogs also enjoy the social interaction, leading to a mutual calming effect that extends beyond the immediate session. Whether for therapy or simply for play, engaging with dogs offers a simple yet effective way to reduce stress for both parties.
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