Contact with dogs is virtuous, science has already proven it via physiological and biochemical indices: the production of oxytocin increases when we caress a dog, while the secretion of cortisol (the stress hormone) decreases, like the heart rate, promoting a form of relaxation.
But what is actually happening in the brain?
A team of Korean researchers from Konkuk University in Seoul explored the impact of canine contact on brain waves and emotional feelings.
Thirty healthy adults were equipped with a cap with electrodes to perform an electroencephalogram (EEG), capable of measuring waves from the prefrontal, frontal, parietal and occipital areas of our brain, and thus detecting unconscious processes. .
Once equipped, they were asked to interact with a standard-sized female poodle, aged 4 years, in eight different ways (three minutes each): meeting the animal, giving it treats, massaging it, play with it, brush it, take a photo with it, hug it and finally take it outside.
Brain waves were measured instantly, and after each activity, the participant completed several evaluation grids of their feelings, for a more subjective dimension of their emotional state.
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The results of the study are clear: the amplitude of alpha brain waves, known to promote emotional stability and a form of relaxation, increased when the participants played with the dog or took her out for a walk.
Beta waves, involved in concentration, were more important when the volunteers brushed, massaged or played with the dog.
Finally, based on self-report measures, participants felt less stressed and in a more positive mood after engaging in any activities with the dog.
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The researchers therefore conclude that interactions with a dog have a positive effect by promoting brain activity.
Certain activities more specifically promote relaxation, emotional stability, attention, concentration and creativity.
The conclusions of this study can be used to develop more effective animal mediation protocols by constructing activities according to the desired benefits, such as better well-being for a vulnerable population in a hospital environment or better learning in a school environment.