Patting your dog on a regular basis not only improves the bond between you, but it also has numerous mental and emotional benefits that science backs. Patting your dog before leaving can make the parting process easier, while also providing them with physical contact and comfort.
The Science Behind Patting Your Dog Before Departure.
Picking up on the importance of physical contact, a recent study investigated how patting your dog before leaving impacted their experience of separation anxiety. The researchers used a sample size of 10 dogs to observe what differences there were between 'gentle petting' and 'neutral' (i.e., ignoring) conditions. All dogs partook in both conditions, with owners spending one minute patting the dog before leaving in the former condition and ignoring the dog for one minute prior to going away in the latter situation.
The absences lasted three minutes, during which time their heart rate and salivary cortisol levels were measured. Despite displaying no signs of real distress or high levels of stress hormones in either condition, the dogs consistently spent nearly half of their time searching for their owners upon separation. Interestingly, when patted before leaving, they stayed calmer throughout the period apart and experienced lower heart rates afterwards compared to being ignored prior to departing.
Research has shown that the act of patting a pup releases hormones like oxytocin in both humans and animals, impacting our emotions. This is beneficial for when it comes time to depart and potentially helps you stay calm while leaving your pup to avoid displaying visible distress. The bond between a pet and a pet parent is strengthened when patting them before departure, giving them a sense of comfort even after you are away.
Benefits of Patting That Include Lower Stress Levels
Patting your pup has a calming effect that reduces stress levels in both humans and animals. Studies have also found that pet owners who spend extra time with their furry friends before leaving the house experience lower levels of stress due to lowered cortisol during departures. This helps to reduce behaviors like separation anxiety by providing comforting reassurance that you will be back soon.
Physiological Effects: Hormones and Their Responses.
Research has found when petting a dog, levels of certain hormones decrease.
In particular, oxytocin, a hormone associated with stress relief, increased bonding and trust, is released in both humans and dogs during moments of physical touch. This can help promote an overall sense of wellbeing for both owners and their furry friends. Additionally, petting your pup activates the parasympathetic nervous system - the body’s “rest and digest” system- which further helps to calm anxiety before leaving.
Bonding Together Before Separation Makes the Goodbye Easier.
Patting your pup before you depart can also be a great way to prevent a stressful goodbye. Moments of tenderness, kindness, and unconditional love increase the bond between an owner and pet. That being said, this can help make goodbyes less difficult and discouraging for both dog owners and their loyal companions. A lingering moment of emotional closeness gives both a sense of comfort that everything is going to be alright.
Valuable Tips When Patting your Pup Before You Go Away
As you give your pup an extra-long tummy rub before departure, make sure to keep the moment gentle and clear. Speak in soothing tones and be mindful of body language - is your dog getting a bit antsy? Take the time to show them how much you appreciate them; they will love it! Make sure not to leave abruptly; don’t forget to reward them with treats or toys. Finally, be sure that their safe living environment remains unchanged while you are away.
© weknowpets 2023
