Do dogs fall in love too? Here's what science says about it, a Japanese study answers the question that has often intrigued us.
Japanese studies reveal that oxytocin, the “love hormone,” increases in both. Behaviors such as kissing and physical contact signal that dogs are falling in love. A natural and profound phenomenon. The question of whether dogs can experience feelings similar to those of love is a fascinating and mysterious topic.
Love, in all its forms, is a universal concept that touches every living being, including animals. When we share our life with a dog, we inevitably ask ourselves questions about their emotions and their ability to form emotional bonds. But the answer to this question is complex and not so obvious.
The Nature of Love in Animals
Love is an intrinsically human emotion, but animals, especially dogs, show signs of affection that may seem similar to those we experience ourselves. However, identifying love in dogs requires a deeper understanding of their emotions and behavior. Unlike humans, who can verbalize their feelings, animals communicate through behaviors and nonverbal signals. This makes assessing their emotions quite complex.
Science has sought to clarify whether dogs are capable of falling in love. A major study conducted by a group of Japanese researchers, led by Professor Miho Nagasawa, explored the behavior of dogs in interaction with their owners. During the experiment, the dogs and people looked into each other's eyes, and the results revealed a significant increase in oxytocin levels in both.
Oxytocin, commonly known as the "love hormone", is linked to feelings of serenity, trust and attachment, and is also released when two lovers exchange a deep gaze.
This study showed that the bond between dogs and humans can be compared to that between mothers and their
children. Oxytocin also plays a crucial role in maternal behavior and the formation of social attachments.
In another study conducted by the Max Planck Institute in Munich, researchers delved into the theories of John Bowlby, a psychologist who studied emotional relationships in detail. Bowlby theorized
that the bond between mothers and children was a “lasting psychological connection.” This concept was expanded to include the relationship between dogs and humans, suggesting that the affection that dogs feel for their owners is similar to that which a child feels for its mother.
Signs of love in dogs
But what are the signs that indicate a dog has fallen in love? There are specific behaviors that can reveal a dog's feelings of affection, both towards other dogs and towards humans. In fact, each dog develops a unique sensitivity, influenced by the context in which it was raised. Dogs that live indoors, for example, tend to show greater emotional sensitivity than those that live in wilder environments.
Another interesting aspect is that the signs of falling in love can vary based on the dog's age. For example, puppies often express their affection through play, showing enthusiasm in running and interacting with other dogs. On the contrary, older dogs may show their affection through calmer behaviors, such as walking together and sniffing each other.
Ultimately, although science is still exploring the complexities of animal love, it is clear that dogs are capable of forming deep and meaningful emotional bonds. These bonds not only enrich their lives, but also ours, making every day with a four-legged companion a unique and precious experience.