How playing with a dog affects our brain

We have already written about how useful communication with animals. The results of new research have expanded our understanding of how playing with dogs affects our brain, and this is another reason why it would be worth getting a pet. 

Photo: publicdomainpictures

How playing with a dog affects our brain

You might think that our brain processes all touches in the same way, but it turns out that this is not so. The brain divides things we touch into three categories:

• pleasant,
• neutral,
• unpleasant.

Each of these categories is processed differently, so that pleasant touches “deliver” us with pleasant emotions.

Playing with dogs releases serotonin and dopamine, hormones that improve mood. Given that serotonin and dopamine levels are extremely low in people suffering from depression, socializing with a dog can help manage symptoms of depression.

Moreover, eye contact with a dog promotes the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for the formation of affection.

Photo Shoot: goodfreephotos

How do dogs affect our well-being

Canistherapy (animal therapy using dogs) has already been proven to reduce stress in students during a session, bereaved people, children in hospitals, and people who are afraid of flying. In moments of stress, the hormone cortisol is released into the blood, which has a negative effect on the functioning of the body. Dogs have been shown to lower cortisol levels in the blood.

Playing with a dog can also normalize blood pressure and reduce the risk of a heart attack. Also in the society of dogs, the level of anxiety is reduced.

Dog owners are less likely to suffer from obesity and its consequences. While walking with a dog, you get an additional portion of vitamin D, the lack of which affects well-being.

And children who grow up in a dog society are less likely to suffer from allergies.

Of course, every dog ​​owner knows how much better his life has become with the advent of a pet. But it’s always nice to get more evidence from science.