Dogs and Oxytocin

I recently saw a study that reminded me of Audie’s Kids and Pets Community. The Boston Globe reports that dog owners who gave commands to their pets while looking at them had higher levels of oxytocin in their urine. And, owners who were closer to their dogs had higher levels than those who were less attached.

This is probably not suprising to pet owners, but an important factor was not just the owners looking at the dogs. The original study is titled "Dog's Gaze at Owner Increases Urinary Oxytocin During Social Interaction." If the owner wasn’t establishing eye contact with the dog, I doubt it would have worked. It was the dog also looking at the owner that was the key. It was the connection.

I’m betting that oxytocin plays a part in why pets are so good for kids. Of course, dogs are the only source of sustained, unconditional love that many people experience, and that has to be important for anyone. It seems especially important for a child, who is so vulnerable to parents' words and actions, even or especially when they are misinterpreting them. When mom’s mad, your dog will love you and calm you down.

I am eagerly looking forward to what Ellie and Dr. Sugar will tell us about accessing oxytocin, and connecting with your pet seems a good way to me. It reminded me of studies that show that in good relationships, holding your partner’s hand calms people in stressful situations. Oxytocin is all about loving connection from all kinds of relationships.

So if you haven’t yet, check out a great place to connect about Kids and Pets, and come see us about improving the oxytocin producing potential of relationships at The Relationship Dance Community!

Hugs,
Hedy
Awareness Transforms
The Relationship Dance Community