22/02/2023
Did you know that dogs can feel several of the emotions that humans feel? There are also other emotions that dogs are not capable of feeling.
Dogs can feel the five core emotions that humans experience; fear, anger, disgust, joy and sadness.
They can also feel more complex emotions, like; excitement, distress, contentment, anxiety, shyness, anticipation, and love.
A dogs developmental level is around that of a two years olds. Which means that dogs do not have emotions that develop after this time, like shame, guilt, pride or contempt.
A lot of emotions are responses to hormones like dopamine, adrenaline and oxytocin. Just like in humans, when you look into your dog’s eyes for a moment or give them a good long pet, levels of oxytocin are released which makes your dog feel content and helps to form attachment. The bond that is formed, is what we often see as loyalty and love.
What about those times when we walk in the room and know our dog has been up to something, just by that guilty look on their face? In these moments what the dog is actually feeling, is usually fear. Not necessarily fear of you, but fear of the correction or consequence to come (being told no, being sent back to their bed, etc.)
Understanding your dogs emotions, or lack of ability to have certain emotions, can help you to understand your dog better! Which of course helps lead to more harmony in the home and family.
DM to set up a training appointment today and learn more!
