Dogs are life mates who satisfy nearly all of our emotional demands

[WORLD] Could dogs play a more vital role in people’s emotional lives than they realize? A Hungarian study published in Scientific Reports suggests just that, comparing the bonds people share with their dogs to those with their closest human relationships.

The research, conducted by scientists at ELTE Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary, involved interviews with over 700 dog owners. Participants were asked to assess 13 different aspects of their relationships, not only with their dogs, but also with their children, romantic partners, closest relatives, and best friends. The aim was to explore the role dogs play in their owners’ lives, and the findings were, to say the least, unexpected.

In recent years, the emotional value of the human-animal bond has gained increasing recognition. Studies have shown that pet ownership can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and even lower blood pressure. This Hungarian research adds a new layer by examining how the emotional significance of dogs compares to that of human relationships.

It turns out that dogs are much more than loyal companions: they blend the qualities of both a child and a best friend. Dogs provide the same sense of security and need for protection or nurturing that a child does, while also offering the simplicity and emotional stability of a close friendship—without the complexities and conflicts often present in human relationships.

However, unlike human interactions, the bond with a dog is rooted in a clear power imbalance. The owner has complete control over the dog’s environment, creating a stable and rewarding dynamic for both parties. This predictable affection and loyalty stand in contrast to the often challenging nature of human relationships, offering people a comforting emotional anchor in a world that can feel fraught with complexity.

"The power asymmetry, having control over a living being, is a fundamental aspect of dog ownership for many," explained Enikő Kubinyi, the senior author and head of the Department of Ethology at ELTE, in a press release.

Perhaps most striking was the fact that participants ranked their relationship with their dog as the most valuable of all, surpassing even their connections with family and friends. For many, their dog was not only their most loyal companion but also the one who showed them the most affection.

This reinforces the idea that dogs provide a unique form of emotional support. Unlike human relationships, which are influenced by personal growth, external pressures, and shifting circumstances, the bond with a dog remains steadfast and constant.

The study also found that those who have stronger human relationships tend to form deeper, more harmonious connections with their dogs. Once primarily seen in practical roles, dogs are now central to the lives of many families, as reflected in the rise of terms like “dog moms” and “dog dads,” used by those who view themselves not as pet owners, but as parents who nurture their dog’s well-being and shower them with affection.

This shift in how dogs are perceived is not just a passing trend, but is supported by growing research highlighting the therapeutic benefits of pet ownership. From therapy dogs in hospitals to service dogs assisting individuals with disabilities, dogs are increasingly recognized for their capacity to enhance the quality of life in concrete ways.

In sum, this study emphasizes the unique position dogs hold in people’s lives—blending unconditional love, emotional stability, and the absence of conflict. This powerful mix may well explain why dogs hold such a special place in the hearts of so many.