Dogs can experience emotional contagion from the smell of human stress, causing them to make more ‘pessimistic’ choices, according to new research led by the University of Bristol. This study, published in Scientific Reports, is the first to examine how human stress odors impact dogs’ learning and emotional state.
Previous evidence suggests that human stress odors subconsciously influence the emotions and decisions of people nearby. Researchers at Bristol Veterinary School aimed to determine whether dogs also exhibit changes in their learning and emotional state when exposed to human stress or relaxation odors.
The research team used a test designed to measure ‘optimism’ or ‘pessimism’ in animals. This test is based on the idea that ‘optimistic’ choices indicate positive emotions, while ‘pessimistic’ choices indicate negative emotions.
The study found that dogs exposed to the smell of human stress were more likely to make ‘pessimistic’ choices. This response is thought to reflect a negative emotional state and may be a strategy for conserving energy and avoiding disappointment. Interestingly, the presence of the stress odor also accelerated the dogs’ learning about the presence or absence of food in two trained bowl locations.
Dr. Nicola Rooney, Senior Lecturer in Wildlife and Conservation at Bristol Veterinary School and the lead author of the paper, explained the significance of these findings: “Understanding how human stress affects dogs’ wellbeing is crucial, especially for dogs in kennels and those being trained for roles such as assistance dogs.”
This research highlights the sensitivity of dogs to human emotions, even through odors. Dog owners are often aware of how their pets respond to their emotional states, but this study shows that the smell of a stressed, unfamiliar human can affect a dog’s emotional state, perception of rewards, and learning ability. Dr. Rooney added, “Working dog handlers often describe stress traveling down the lead, but we’ve shown it can also travel through the air.”
The study underscores the importance of considering the emotional impact of human stress on dogs, particularly in environments like kennels and training facilities where dogs are closely interacting with humans.
Source: Science Daily