Who’s Causing the Stress?

Recent research indicates that dogs often reflect the chronic stress levels of their owners rather than the other way around. Ann-Sofie Sundman, a scientist at Linköping University in Sweden, shares her experiences with her two scruffy Berger des Pyrénées dogs. “My work emphasizes the profound bond that exists between humans and dogs,” she notes. “As pet owners, we play a critical role in our dogs’ lives, and it's essential to honor the trust they place in us.”

A study published in Scientific Reports earlier this month by Sundman and her team highlights that dogs can mirror their owners' long-term stress. Other research has demonstrated that dogs can show empathy towards humans. For instance, a recent study published in the Patient Experience Journal found that patients in an emergency room felt “more comfortable, happier, and less distressed” after a brief interaction with a therapy dog. Additionally, children undertaking stressful tasks showed reduced anxiety levels when accompanied by their family dogs.

Investigating the Transfer of Stress

Sundman and her team explored whether humans could transmit their stress to dogs, similar to how stress can ripple through other species. To investigate this, they measured cortisol, a well-known stress hormone, in 58 border collies and Shetland sheepdogs alongside their owners over several months.

It’s important to recognize that the personalities of owners are not the sole stressors for dogs. Research has shown that dogs react differently to stress based on their individual experiences and environmental changes.

In a 2017 study involving search-and-rescue dogs, it was found that some experienced stress during helicopter rides to disaster sites, indicated by heightened cortisol levels and other stress markers. “Some dogs are unfazed by flying, while others, even with prior experience, may exhibit stress responses like elevated body temperature or diarrhea,” explains Kelly Swanson, an animal scientist at the University of Illinois.

In a recent study, dogs in large, bustling shelters were given the opportunity to spend the night with volunteers, leading to a notable decrease in their cortisol levels. Similarly, dogs that tremble or hide in response to loud sounds may not only be reacting to the noise but could also be experiencing internal pain, as suggested by research published last year in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

The new study utilized activity collars to track the dogs' movements while owners provided insights into their personalities as well as those of their pets. Hair samples were collected from both dogs and humans to analyze cortisol levels.

Sundman’s research confirmed that long-term cortisol levels in dogs were synchronized with those of their owners. They meticulously ruled out various potential stressors for the dogs, concluding that the fluctuations in cortisol were not influenced by the dogs' activity levels. “We considered whether a dog's personality might affect cortisol levels, but found that it was the owners' personalities that had a more significant impact,” Sundman explains. “This leads us to suggest that dogs reflect their owners’ stress rather than the reverse.”

Exploring Other Influences on Dog Stress

Despite these findings, Sundman acknowledges that other factors may also influence stress levels in dogs, such as their past experiences. Notably, the study predominantly involved women and their dogs, though Sundman believes the results will likely be applicable to male owners as well. Moving forward, the research team intends to examine different breeds, particularly those with more independent traits, to broaden their understanding.

The Importance of Understanding Canine Stress

“What’s the takeaway?” asks study team member Lina Roth, also from Linköping University. “By gaining insights into how various dog breeds are affected by human stress, we can better match dogs with owners, enhancing stress management for both parties. Some breeds may be less affected by high-stress owners.”

For concerned dog owners, Sundman offers reassuring advice: “Don’t worry. Spend quality time with your dog, enjoy cuddling, playing, and having fun together. This not only benefits your stress levels but will also positively impact your dog’s well-being.”

The first video titled "10 SIGNS of STRESS in DOGS How to Help With Anxiety" offers practical insights into recognizing stress in dogs and effective strategies to alleviate their anxiety.

The second video, "Your Dog DOESN'T Have Separation Anxiety (They Have THIS)," explores misconceptions about dog anxiety and provides clarity on what may truly be affecting your pet.