Do you feel like petting every dog ​​that comes your way? According to science, there are deeper psychological reasons for this.

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Researchers from the University of Florida, Carroll University, and Marquette University unanimously state that an instinctive and sincere approach to animals is a reflection of high emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience, i.e. mental flexibility. The latter may be explained by the fact that petting a dog has been proven to reduce the body's cortisol levels, which is commonly referred to as the stress hormone. As a result, we feel calmer, our blood pressure decreases, our heart rate decreases, and our general well-being improves.

Petting a dog lowers blood pressure and heart rate, while increasing oxytocin levels / Photo: welovedogz.hu/en

In addition to the physical effects, it is worth highlighting that a pet helps to establish a more stable daily routine for the owner, and the knowledge that a living being must be taken care of brings responsibility and a sense of usefulness, thanks to which the individual becomes more balanced, and in some cases mental problems, such as depression, can also be prevented by keeping a pet. It is not by chance that animal-assisted therapies are effective. This is also because being busy with pets increases the level of oxytocin, the so-called "love hormone", which also helps to develop a sense of well-being.

What does it say if you can't resist being around dogs?

If you feel like you're obsessed with all four-legged friends and you have to resist the urge to run up to a cute dog or fall in love with your neighbor's pet, then you probably have the following personality traits.

These qualities were summarized by psychologist Leticia Martín Enchuto, pointing out the importance of all of them not only in human-animal, but also in interpersonal, i.e. relationships with other people.

• high empathy;
• openness;
• sociable behavior;
• resilience;
• helpfulness and solidarity;
• developed emotional intelligence;
• inner balance, adequate self-knowledge.

Why is it dangerous to pet a strange dog?

Despite all its positive effects and kindness, we warn you against trying to pet strange dogs, especially uninvited! Many dogs react badly to the approach of strangers and may even act aggressively out of fear. Furthermore, owners do not approve of you trying to touch their pet without asking. If you absolutely must pet a four-legged friend, ask the owner first if it is allowed.

Always approach a strange dog with caution and pay attention to the animal's signals! / Photo: welovedogz.hu/en

If he says no, accept his decision without offense – there is certainly a reason why he does not allow it. If you get permission, approach the animal carefully; do not rush, do not be loud. Croucher down next to him and first let him reduce the distance between you, sniff him, or maybe touch you. It may also happen that even though the owner does not forbid it, the dog is still not receptive to friendship. In such a case, respect this too, and only admire the four-legged friend from a respectful distance!

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