Research has shown that taking a moment to pet your dog before you leave the house can significantly reduce their anxiety during your absence. This small gesture not only strengthens the bond with your pet but can also make them feel more secure when you’re not around.
Dogs are known for forming strong attachments to their owners, often becoming visibly distressed when left alone. A study conducted by researchers from the Universities of Pisa and Perugia in Italy explored how pre-departure affection impacts dogs’ emotional state. The study involved 10 dogs, aged 1 to 11, of various breeds, and focused on their reactions to two different scenarios.
In the first experiment, owners interacted with their dogs briefly before leaving without offering any extra attention. In the second experiment, the owners pet their dogs during the interaction. After the owners left, the dogs were observed for signs of stress and anxiety.
The results were telling. While the dogs’ cortisol levels (a hormone linked to stress) remained unchanged regardless of whether they were petted, their heart rates dropped significantly when they were given affection before the owners left. Additionally, the dogs that received petting showed calmer behaviors, such as waiting more peacefully for their owners to return.
The study suggests that a little extra love and attention before leaving the house can help calm dogs and alleviate the stress they experience during their owners’ absence. So, next time you’re heading out the door, consider taking a few moments to give your dog a reassuring pat—it may make both you and your pet feel better.