As humans, we have become obsessed with our dogs. We think they are the best thing to walk the planet, totally enamored by them – but why?
In reality, they’re not that special or clever. We praise them for being able to do basic things like sit or give us their paw, but it’s nothing extraordinary.
Why we think our dogs are so amazing
We spoke to qualified veterinarian Iram Gladen, who explained why humans are so enamored with their dogs and perceive them as exceptional, even when they perform such simple tasks.
“This phenomenon is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history, psychology, and the unique bond between humans and dogs,” she told The Focus. “The human-dog relationship dates back thousands of years.”
Dogs were among the first domesticated animals, and they played crucial roles in early human societies as hunters, protectors, and companions. This long-standing relationship has led to a deep bond and mutual dependency between the two species.
“Over time, humans have selectively bred dogs for traits that make them more compatible and responsive to us, further strengthening this connection,” she continued.
Emotional and psychological benefits
From a psychological perspective, dogs also provide numerous emotional and psychological benefits, offering unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of security.
“For many people, dogs fulfill the need for social interaction and emotional support, especially in times of loneliness or stress. This emotional connection can lead to an inflated perception of their abilities and worth,” Gladen said.
New York-based psychologist Dr. Sanam Hafeez explained to The Focus that dogs offer four different things:
- Unconditional love and companionship: Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty and affection. They provide constant companionship and can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Emotional support: Dogs can sense their owners’ emotions and often respond with comforting behaviors. Their presence can be especially soothing during times of stress or sadness.
- Physical health benefits: Owning a dog encourages physical activity through regular walks and playtime. This can lead to improved cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and better overall fitness.
- Mental health benefits: Interaction with dogs has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and happiness. This can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Why we think our pets are really clever
The idea that dogs are clever or exceptional stems from the concept of anthropomorphism, where humans attribute human-like qualities to animals.
“When dogs perform tricks or display behaviors that resemble human actions, we interpret these actions as signs of intelligence. The positive feedback loop between the dog and the owner reinforces this tendency,” the vet said.
When a dog does something we ask and receives praise or a treat, it strengthens the bond and the owner’s perception of the dog’s cleverness.
On top of that, the media and popular culture also play a significant role in shaping our views on dogs. Stories of heroic dogs in movies and TV shows portray them in an extraordinary light, further enhancing the perception of their capabilities and importance.
Being able to lay down or go to bed on command might not seem very advanced in comparison to humans, but dogs are exceptional in their own right, having evolved to be “highly attuned to human emotions and cues”.
This demonstrates a unique form of intelligence and social adaptability, and this ability to connect with humans on an emotional level is a significant part of why we value them so highly.
“While dogs may not be exceptional in the human sense, their unique qualities and the profound bond they share with us make them truly special,” Gladen added.
Iram Gladen is a qualified veterinarian who received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Sarajevo.
