It’s not unusual to whisper to your dog, “At least you understand me!” This preference for dogs over people is more common than you might think and is gently explored by psychology. Interestingly, it does not mean a rejection of humanity, contrary to popular belief. Let’s delve into what experts have to say about this fascinating topic.
Human disappointments and emotional scars
Human relationships are complex, filled with joys but also judgments, unmet expectations, and sometimes betrayals. These experiences can leave deep emotional scars. For someone who has endured rejection or trauma, turning to a dog can be a protective refuge.
A dog does not judge your past or your flaws. Its affection is steady, and its love is pure and unconditional. Psychologists call this “nonverbal social support”. Studies in anthrozoology, the science of human-animal interactions, confirm that the comfort perceived from a pet can be as strong, or sometimes stronger, than that from a human, especially during challenging times. A dog offers a safe and reassuring presence that many struggle to find elsewhere.
A simpler, honest connection with animals
Contrary to the stereotype that preferring animals means antisocial behavior, psychology suggests this choice can actually point to extreme emotional sensitivity or “hyper-empathy”. Some people feel others’ emotions so deeply that navigating human interactions becomes exhausting.
Human relationships often demand decoding hidden meanings, intentions, and complex emotions. However, a relationship with a dog is far more straightforward; their emotions—whether joy, fear, or contentment—are seen as simple and honest.
American psychologist Stanley Coren, an expert on canine intelligence, explains that dogs are masters at reading your body language and tone. For someone highly empathetic, this nonverbal communication can be soothing and effortless. It’s not about escaping people but choosing a less emotionally draining connection, one that refreshes your social and emotional energy.
Dogs as a natural remedy for anxiety
Many people prefer dogs because of the need to feel useful and the search for a calming bond. For those who have experienced trauma, live alone, or suffer from social anxiety, the outside world can seem overwhelming.
Dogs offer predictability and structure. Feeding, walking, and caring for a dog create a sense of stability and responsibility that, according to psychology, can be incredibly therapeutic. Research shows that simple interactions with animals can lower blood pressure and reduce cortisol, the stress hormone.
For introspective individuals or those wishing to evade social stress, dogs act as protectors, calmers, and constant sources of comfort. Their silent companionship can ease anxiety and offer emotional healing.
From my own experience, I’ve noticed that after a long day of confusing social dynamics, spending time with my dog feels like pressing a “reset” button. His wagging tail and happy eyes provide a down-to-earth reminder that connection doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful.
What do you think about this unique bond between humans and dogs? Have you ever felt more understood by a pet than a person? Share your thoughts, stories, or questions below, and let’s explore this heartfelt topic together!
I trust a dog that doesn’t like a person and I don’t trust a person that doesn’t like dogs. I’ve learned not to expect much from people and they STILL never fail to disappoint me.
I completely agree. My dogs got me through my divorce 10 years ago and are the sole reason I’m still here. Their ability to love regardless of short comings will never be matched by humans. They truly are mankind’s best friends
I have to agree. I have learned that my 2 dogs can determine a lot about a person before I do. They have been right every time.
That is the most truest answer ive heard. All day.I
Agree my dogs always tell me the truth about people.
Very true..😊👍🐕
My dog recently barked NON STOP at a friend/co worker recently. I was confused.
Couple months later, she betrayed me in an ugly way. Cost me my job.i knew, but didn’t want to know…..?
That is the most truest answer ive heard. All day.
I feel a genuine love from my dogs that is unhampered and always consistent. Humans, not so much.
Dogs don’t hurt your feelings and ignore you! They love you unconditionally the moment you come through the door! They can’t talk but Happy to see you! All my life an animal lover! We have a lab dog the way he moves his mouth it sounds like he is saying” Hello” Jeanie Loveland
I think your analysis is spot on. I feel that people are constantly using and abusing me, but dogs offer me pure love, no demands. . My rest and love mostly come from my dog.
Dogs are loyal where people are only out for their own agenda
I have just lost my loyal dependable and constant friend, I had Archie nearly 14yrs, I prefer the company of animals than disloyal two faced humans
I am grieving more for my Archie than any human including my father
I learned at an early age that dogs are trustworthy and humans are mostly not. The love from a dog is indeed unconditional and the love from, probably most, people comes with strings attached.
It’s a very powerful bond that is hard to explain and understand unless you’ve experienced it. I had to let go of mine a couple of weeks ago and it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do he was almost 15yrs old and I had him ever since he was 4 weeks old. He was there for me when my life got turned upside down. And that was an eye opener for me realizing that certain people in my life that should’ve be there for me weren’t and turns out never will be.
Let’s hear it for the DOG’S!!!! They have been a constant in my life. I’m getting older now and have two geriatric dogs. I hope they go before me because these guys think I hung the moon. God knew man would need “a real best friend”.
I’ve always said you’ve never been loved until a dog loves you.
I agree they cuddle with us and love us true companions who don’t ignore us . Always by my side, looking at me with love in his eyes.
I have always had a dogsin my 80 years ,,the love n trust they give me I could not be without they are soo faithful n loyal ,,,they are both rescued one is 11 n 14 years old I will love them until they or I die,,,
Certainly without a shadow of doubt, ‘mans’ best friend.
The only species on earth to love their ‘master’ more than they love themselves.
We have so much we can learn from them.
I believe the closest we humans will ever get to know how much God cares for us is through the love our dogs show towards us.
Even spelt backwards DOG//GOD
Such special old souls 💞
I’m a professional dog trainer for over 37 years and I can honestly say this… My EX husband was hated by my dogs!! They growled at him they would get in between me and him it was definitely noticeable…. Notice my description…. My EX LOL they are the best judge of character out there if my dogs don’t like you then neither do I
Everyday. I prefer my dog and needed to read that I’m not alone or weird for it. I enjoy his company and he is my best friend. I Wouldn’t trade him for anything. 2nd pound puppy I’ve owned and my last one was 17 when we finally had to say goodbye. I hope to have at least that long with my new best friend. ❤️
My best buddy Tommy has provided healing, stability, and a sense if purpose that I so desperately needed after a painful divorce. I thank God every day for bringing my boy into my life. I think without him I would have given up.
I have a magnet on the back of my car that says ” I would like you better if you were a dog”
Truer words were never spoken!
I know tons of people but I’m mostly a loner n my circle of people I Trust is small ..I’m a Dog Lover n prefer them over people Mostly..Dogs are the most trustworthy loving n loyal pet you can have n no matters how bad my mood is on certain days when I arrive home the Love that vibrates towards me from my dog as I open that door destroys all the negativity n frustrations that has developed that day which I’m sure we’ve all experienced time to time..I just lost my Havanese dog Apollo of 15yrs on a Friday Dec 20,2024 at around 7am 😭 He had a bad heat over the last year n that morning after I just finished talking out for his usual duties n was besides me on the couch n he was staring at me n I looked deeply into his eyes for n caressed him for a bit he lifted his head let out a howl n died n the pain the entered into my heart was so overwhelming I could stop sobbing as I held him tightly in my arms😭 I think of him every single day n periodically the tears will roll down my eyes..will absolutely get another dog one day when I’m ready but for now I have to deal with the ache in my heart that still lingering..
Honey, grieve the loss but don’t get stuck in it. Get past it by remembering the great times that you had. And then, when you’re ready, go get another pet. You can’t replace your friend, but you can get a new one to HONOR him for the amazing pal that he was! Adopt a dog that can be with you for the next chapter of your life. Make new memories & save a dog that would just adore you for it. You deserve it & there’s a dog just WAITING for YOU to come take him or her home!!!
I love DOGS better than humans!! I have had dogs in my life,, all kinds of breeds, small medium and large. I had 2 adopted adorable Pomeranians Sadie and Sugar, they have both passed away and are at rainbow bridge in doggy heaven now,, I miss them so so much every day of my life and I will miss them until the end of my life. DOGS are my favorite kind of people. They give you so much unconditional love for everyone and always. I am just not ready to adopt another Dog yet. But some day I will. I miss having a furry companion in my life!! I LOVE DOGS!!!!!
Humans always disappoint. Dogs, never. Dogs tell you who to trust. When I was single, my dog gave me the 411 about guys. When a guy says to you, “You have a dog?” in an odd judgemental tone. Run. Run like hell the opposite direction with your dog.
I am eternally thankful to my belated Mooch Man.
Couldnt agree more my australian blue heiler is my best friend and she is blind. Love her dearly
I’ve had dogs in my life since I was 5 years old. Their unconditional love took me through a violent & scary childhood, a divorce after 35 years of marriage, and now into my old age. My dogs love was the one constant that I could always count on. They always love us, and love being with us. They don’t care about our looks, income or what size house we have. They ask for nothing but are always willing to give. I have felt much pain in my life from humans. I don’t hate humans but they can be exhausting, disappointing and incredibly cruel at times. They’re unpredictable. Dogs are not. I trust their instincts, judgment & love, and they can trust mine. I’ve sadly lost several in my long lifetime, but, if we live a long life with dogs, we will. That’s the sad reality! The key to healing from the loss of our treasured pets is to grieve the loss, and refuse to get stuck in the sadness. Get past the sadness by remembering the best times you shared together & then, in HONOR of your beloved friend, give another animal the great life you shared with your pet. You can never replace it, but you can write the next chapter with another friend who’s just waiting for YOU! One who needs you & longs to be there for you. It’s because of my love & memories with my previous special friends that I’ve rescued another dog. Because they made my life so good that I simply can’t live, without another one in my life. I’m confident that I’ll never marry again, but I will always have a dog!!!