12 November 2023 , 15:00
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We've all heard the saying that dogs are man's best friends, but just how true is that statement? Well, according to a dog behavioural specialist, it could actually be very true, as he has claimed there's a scientific reason behind our canine companions being so loyal to their human owners.
Doctor Clive Wynne, an ethologist specialising in the behaviour of dogs and their wild relatives, published a book in 2019 titled Dog is Love, in which he examined ground-breaking studies explaining why dogs are so loyal and how our relationship with them has developed to what it is today. He also discussed how dogs' evolution from wolves to mankind's ideal hunting companions has enabled the depth of affection between us.
And what's more, Dr Wynne also declared that studies have proved that over thousands of years, dogs have developed small facial muscles so they can make their eyes appear larger and their eyebrows expressive to prompt a nurturing response in us - hence the term "puppy dog eyes".
The dog expert said he wanted to see why our "relationship with dogs feels so much deeper" than with other species, but insisted that while your canine companion might love you, they could "love almost anyone, animal or human". Dr Wynne, who directs the Canine Science Laboratory at Arizona State University, described this as "fickle disloyalty" but puts it down to a dog's "unparalleled capacity to love".
During his research for the book, he went hunting with dogs in Nicaragua to study the vital role the animals play. He said: "I wanted to shed light on what the early human-dog relationship might have looked like." He also explains what really goes on when a young pup grows up in a human family.
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Meanwhile, dog owners were recently left heartbroken after discovering the real reason dogs constantly lick you. It might seem annoying to some, but the action is actually a display of affection, as one pet lover pointed out: "Some people may get irritated when their dog licks them but next time you get annoyed, just remember this releases hormones that soothe and relax your dog, gives them a sense of security, and helps them form a bond with you. It's their natural way of expressing affection toward you and thanking you."
According to The Kennel Club, "licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them, it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy, or because you taste good to them!"
However, the same experts warn that excessive licking could be a sign that your pooch is feeling anxious, uncomfortable, or experiencing pain, advising those with any concerns about their dog to consult with a vet or behavioural specialist.