Are you your dog's best friend, or are you theirs? Every time they see you, they greet you with warmth, honesty, and eagerness. And you wouldn't exchange them for anything; they're like family to you. So, you might be wondering if dogs have pals.
The old cliché that dogs are man's best friend is true. Perhaps your dog is a charming breed that enjoys greeting and sniffing humans and other dogs on your daily walks. You already know how much your dog enjoys company, but do dogs have best friends in the same way that humans do?
Is it True That Dogs Have Friends?
The dispute over whether dogs have friends (or are simply sociable creatures) is a common one. While there is no definitive scientific evidence on the matter, there are several observations and tales that imply dogs do have pals. Marc Bekoff, Ph.D., for example, quotes researchers Robert Seyfarth and Dorothy Cheney in an article for Psychology Today "The evolutionary origins of human friendship are revealed by convergent data from a variety of species... However, not all friendships are based on kinship; many are developed between strangers."
Living in groups is essential for certain species, including dogs, to survive. It is advantageous for these animals to acquire favorable sensations from their pack members, as this motivates them to stay together. That, in a nutshell, is friendship. Certain dogs show signs of friendship more easily than others. Chihuahuas, for example, are known for their unwavering loyalty to one person over all others. These dogs will shadow their chosen friend wherever they go, seeking their attention and company. German shepherds are also known for their strong attachment to their families. Some dogs will widen their social circles and be friendlier to outsiders than others, yet these dogs will still create enduring bonds.
While dogs are most likely to form a special, symbiotic, time-tested link with humans, there are many cases where dogs form deep bonds with other animals. These are sometimes dogs, and sometimes the link is interspecific. Dogs and cats who share a home, for example, can get close and even cuddle or clean each other. According to Psychology Today, certain dogs are known to look out for their fellow canines in times of difficulty.
Should I Get Another Pet?
"Because dogs are very sociable creatures, getting another dog is the proper thing to do," says Stephanie Borns-Weil, DVM, director of the Tufts Animal Behavior Clinic. "I feel that dogs, in general, are happier with other dogs." Sharing your life with another dog or pet can provide mental and physical stimulation as well as companionship, all of which can improve your pet's quality of life.
However, some dogs do not perform well in households with other pets for a variety of reasons. It's critical to spend time introducing possible new family members to your dog and allowing them to get to know each other before deciding to adopt a second pet. Otherwise, you may be contributing to your dog's anxiety.
If your dog gets along well with other dogs but you don't have room for a second pet, consider arranging for them to meet other dogs and humans at dog parks or doggie daycare. Some canines benefit greatly from these social interactions.
What Should I Do If My Dog Isn't Behaving Like a Friend?
Changes in a dog's behavior are frequently indicators that something isn't working for him. Antisocial behavior that appears out of the blue could suggest that your dog is sick or in discomfort. This conduct can be an indication of jealousy or anxiousness in some circumstances. Dogs' behavior, like humans', can alter as they become older.
If you discover that your once-friendly dog is less cuddly or playful than usual, a visit to your local veterinarian for a check-up is an excellent first step. Keep an eye on your pet for any other symptoms of illness, such as limping, a loss of appetite, or losing feces. These indications can help your veterinarian diagnose health problems. If everything checks up, you may want to consult a behaviorist to better understand your dog's behavior.
Take into account any alterations you've made to your home. Have you recently relocated? Your dog may still be nervous about moving into a new home. What if you have a new roommate or a new baby? Changes like this can make your dog feel like they're no longer the center of attention, causing them to withdraw or act out in unwanted ways. Have you recently returned from a long vacation? Aside from health issues, there are a variety of reasons why your dog might not be acting like your best friend. If your veterinarian gives your dog a clean bill of health, think about any significant adjustments you've made. Returning to "normal" or reminding them that you're still there for them may be just what they need to return to their normal, friendly self in these instances.
Comments