A dog who is active, but also calm, can have the same effect on the owner. The function enables organisms to detect mental states of conspecifics that accord well with simulation theory. Anxiety is a reaction to stress or fear and can be brought about by changes. 20, 703-715 (2017). • 45% of dogs abandoned to shelters are less than 1 year of age and 60% are less than 2 years of age. 47(4): 644-675.  https://repository.upenn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1101&context=mgmt_papers, [71]Huber, A; Barber AL; Faragó, T; Müller, C; Huber, L.  Investigating Emotional Contagion in Dogs (Canis familiaris) to Emotional Sounds of Humans and Conspecifics. Psychiatric Clinics of North America. Jan 2019.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330088651_Highly_Heritable_and_Functionally_Relevant_Breed_Differences_in_Dog_Behavior_supplemental_information, [60]Samuel, L; Arnesen, C; Zedrosser, A; Rosell, F. Fears from the Past? However, can an anxious dog create an anxious owner? Front. “Empathy: its ultimate and proximate bases” (PDF). [CrossRef] [PubMed] 
  https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/75/10/75_13-0082/_article, [57]Flint, H.E. Findings support the existence of an interspecies oxytocin-mediated positive loop facilitated and modulated by gazing, which supports the coevolution of human-dog bonding by engaging common modes of communicating social attachment.[78]. While operating CPT for the past 30 years I have availed myself of many anecdotal observations. I rush home from work as fast as I can to make sure I can check on them before the vet’s closing time. She was with me for 14 years and had arrived in my life at a difficult period in my life where she became therapy for me. • 22% of dogs are abandoned after less than 3 months of ownership, 49% after less than 1 year of ownership, and 62% after less than 2 years of ownership. Sci. To answer the question we need first to determine whether dogs can be inherently anxious. During private or in-home private consultations, CPT Head Trainers can instruct clients how to properly implement non-verbal and verbal communication that has the greatest impact in managing a dog’s behavior. They evolved their ability to read human gestures. An anxiety jacket (such as the Thundershirt Dog Anxiety Jacket from Amazon) is a relatively new idea in treating this condition in dogs. It is unlikely that the experimental dogs were previously exposed to any of the odors. Nov 11, 2019. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-52938-4, [75]Bartel, C. A.; Saavedra, R. (2000). 2009;81(3):383–391. Personality consistency in dogs: A meta–analysis. 2014;17(2):373–385. The attachment style may result from similarly inconsistent treatment from parents. There is also a biological explanation for emotional contagion. Dog Anxiety Summary. Recent research tends to agree with CPT’s opinion. There is the potential for stress with things like adjusting to owning a new pet, training a pet, acquainting new pets and existing pets, introducing pets and children, and finding solutions to various responsibilities in terms of help with pet sitting, dog walking, etc. Mirror neurons, which have been detected both in humans and monkeys, are visuomotor neurons within the brain’s premotor cortex that respond both when a particular action is performed by an individual and when the individual observes the same action performed by another. ; Schaaf, J.M. However, after changes in leadership communication, some impulse control drills, improved leash walking mechanics, and several counterconditioning and systematic desensitization drills he can now behave calmly proximal to unfamiliar people and dogs. Share This Story. This contrasted of course with what was going on around me, and with my pets in particular, which has lead to me having constant stress about their life circumstances and conditions. The Silver Fox Domestication Experiment. Persons with social anxiety are more likely to avoid social contact with persons, neighborhood dogs, and many environmental contexts. Numbers 1 – 7 in this Section are preventive. Separation anxiety occurs when a dog is hyper-attached to the owner, meaning that the dog gets very stressed and anxious. Each time she becomes ill with some new infection (due to her reliance on steroids and other immunosuppressants) I pay hundreds of dollars for more bloodwork and more prescriptions. Verywellmind. • 35% of abandoned dogs exhibited chewing or other behaviors that caused property damage. I share this in hopes other pet owners who relate can recognize that the strong emotions they feel regarding their pet’s care, health, and life are valid. [21]   Yet, effective obedience may be essential to prevent a bite, especially once a dog progresses into a high-arousal state that may indicate impending or current aggression. For some people, pets are “just animals.” The emotional attachment some have with their pets may not be understood or validated by those who don’t share the same love of dogs, cats, iguanas, or whatever your beloved pet may be. Administrative Science Quarterly. Clin. [54]Salonen, M; Sulkama, S; Mikkola, S; Puurunen J; Hakanen, E; Tira, K; Araujo, C; Lohl, H.  Prevalence, Comorbitiy, and Breed Differences in Canine Anxiety in 13,700 Finnish Pet Dogs. Traits with the highest heritability were trainability (0.73), stranger-directed aggression (0.68), and attachment and attention seeking (0.56).[59]. [92]  The Reciprocity Principle is one of the primary reasons persons acquire a pet and have highly favorable opinions of their pet, as a pet often provides unconditional love that is less frequently observed in human-human contact. So as I struggle with the uncertainty of how things will progress, questions about what my next steps should be, and anguish over what’s to come, I find myself feeling a dreadful combination of anxiety, guilt, and helplessness. and Hutchison, J.M. Pet Owner Anxiety: The Challenges Associated with Loving a Pet. And the anxiety is very real. And I recognize the greatest factor in my anxiety is in anticipating my dog’s impending passing and knowing there is no course of action that will eliminate facing this hurdle. [82]  Moreover, the canine fMRI neuroscience research conducted by Berns and Spivak in Atlanta, GA and by the Miklosi Lab in Budapest, Hungary provide numerous examples of the similarities between the structure and function of dog and human brains. J Res Pers. Your article really hit home for me and I feel like it was the perfect article for me to read. • The success of dogs comes down to the survival of the friendliest. Dogs gonadectomized between the ages of 7 – 12 months of age were 26% more likely to demonstrate aggression toward strangers. What Is It? 2017,8, 2059. [12]  Furthermore, the condition rarely occurs alone. She has good moments throughout the day, still enjoys her walks, plays with her toys – most of my family and friends comment that she appears to be in good health. From an overall psychological standpoint, the children are disposed to anxiety, lack of exploration, and general emotional distance. ; Gosling, S.D. 2013,75, 1297–1301. Of the 14 behavioral traits studied the mean heritability was 0.51 +/- 0.12 SD. 25 (1): 26–33. All this in just one lesson! PMID 12876428, [52]Laudenslager, ML; Rasmussen, KLR; Berman, CM; Suomi, SJ; Berger, CB (1993). Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. • 11% of abandoned dogs fought with other dogs. Developmental Psychology. • Dogs who were eventually abandoned were more likely than continued dogs to sleep outdoors. [87]  The Elaboration Principle is pertinent to dog clubs or groups that meet at a dog park. July 17, 2019.  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-attachment-theory-2795337, [29]Mariti, C.; Gazzano, A.; Ricci, E.; Zilocchi, M. Owners as a secure base for their dogs. Bela Szandelszky/AP Updated at … [1]  However, the study never answered why. Emotional contagion is the phenomenon of having one person’s emotions and related behaviors directly trigger similar emotions and behaviors in other people. However, if a client first contacts CPT after a dog exhibits anxious traits or aggressive behavior or if prevention is insufficient, then treatment is indicated. However, should we just accept the inevitable? Small. 48 (1): 26–34. However, there may be great diversity in temperament within a breed, between lines, or even within a litter. It is more than a … When is it okay to put my mental health ahead of my dog’s life? Additionally, the knowledge pets are animals as opposed to humans can bring about confusion regarding what that means in terms of our devotion to giving them the best possible care while doing what is in everyone’s best interests. [68][69]  The phenomenon of emotional contagion has been found in humans, dogs, and primates. [18]  Dogs are skillful in acquiring information socially from humans and are able to copy the actions of a human demonstrator. Of the owner personality traits studied (agreeableness, conscientiousness, extraversion, neuroticism, and openness), only neuroticism had a significant effect on the dog-human and dog-dog aggressive propensity of the pet. I hate seeing him debilitated and I hated feeling trapped in the house having to take care of him for weeks on end. ; Serpell, J.A. Yet, not all maternal figures are quality caregivers who respond rapidly, reliably, and kindly to the infant’s emotional and physical needs.[26]. Some of the greatest anxiety I’ve encountered has come from juggling the grief that comes with knowing my dog is reaching his life expectancy and dealing with an irreversible and fatal disease, all the while managing the guilt I experience when questioning whether it’s worth it to shell out $600-plus every six months, per the vet’s recommendation, for echocardiograms that will monitor the progression but not actually stop it. Furthermore, the preceding would be a more frequent concern if neurotic owners exhibited a preference for purchasing or adopting anxious dogs. While it is said euthanizing a pet is one of the most loving and humane decisions you can make, it’s one that is never easy and it inevitably brings about an array of challenging emotions. © Copyright 2017 GoodTherapy.org. 58 (5): 823–831. Pers. Anxious Owner Pets Dog Down To Hairless Stump. Hum. Permission to publish granted by Megan MacCutcheon, LPC, therapist in Vienna, Virginia. Moreover, the earlier the dog was neutered the more negative the effect on behavior and orthopedic development. I share this in hopes other pet owners who relate can recognize that the strong emotions they feel regarding their pet’s care, health, and life are valid. There are many factors that lead to interpersonal attraction, including physical attraction, propinquity (frequency of proximal exposure), familiarity, similarity, complementarity, reciprocal liking, and reinforcement. • After modern humans arrived in Europe 43,000 years ago, they pretty much wiped out every large carnivore that existed. I wish they could just be okay but I find it hard to see a good future for them although their lives have improved in recent years. The dog becomes anxious when the owner prepares to leave. Asian Journal of Social Psychology. • The wolves that were bold but aggressive were killed by humans. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 3, 179-201. http://dx.doi.org/10.1207/S15327604JAWS0303_1   https://www.animalsandsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/179-201-Characteristics-of-Shelter-Relinquished-Animals-and-Their-Owners-Compared-With-Animals-and-Their-Owners-in-US-Pet-Owning-Households.pdf, [41]Salman, M.D., New Jr., J.C., Scarlett, J.M., Kass, P.H., Ruch-Gallie, R. and Hetts, S. (1998) Human and Animal Fac- tors Related to the Relinquishment of Dogs and Cats in 12 Selected Animal Shelters in the United States. All rights reserved. Many of these are the result of a shared genetic predisposition to anxiety. Subscribe me to the GoodTherapy.org public newsletter. By commenting you acknowledge acceptance of GoodTherapy.org's Terms and Conditions of Use. CPT has authored a detailed article on the public policy history of spay/neuter surgery, modern changes in policy, international differences in policy, the potential negative and positive health effects of de-sexing a female or male dog, the negative and positive husbandry impact, and surgical and non-surgical options to spay/neuter. Proximity fosters frequency, which promotes interaction, and resultantly increases the probability of a relationship.[85]. The human-dog similarity-attraction research is more limited. [CrossRef] 
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/272138480_Does_Personality_Delinquency_or_Mating_Effort_Necessarily_Dictate_a_Preference_for_an_Aggressive_Dog, [23]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bowlby, [24]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Ainsworth, [25]David L. “Attachment Theory (Bowlby),” in Learning Theories, January 24, 2016.  https://www.learning-theories.com/attachment-theory-bowlby.html, [26]Cherry, K.  “Bowlby & Ainsworth:  What is Attachment Theory? Behaviour2013, 150, 1275–1294. I think that suffering through the loss of pets is one of the most difficult experiences we may have, yet we learn from this how precious life is, and how unique each creature is on this globe. • Abandoned dogs were less likely than continued dogs to receive veterinary care. Anim. I will never forget the difference she made and I often struggle with feeling as if I failed her somehow despite all I did to try and help her. [86]  To apply the Proximity Principal to an owner-pet scenario, regardless of the temperament characteristics of the dog and owner, they are likely to bond with one another simply by residing together, provided one or both do not have a highly maladaptive temperament or attachment style. CPT’s protocols, usually administered via private and in-home private lessons, provide the highest probability of modifying general anxiety, state anxiety, and aggressive behavior. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. The Many Faces of Emotional Contagion:  An Affective Process Theory of Affective Linkage. Therefore, it is not a stretch to assume that dogs also have mirror neurons and exhibit purposeful communication to affect the emotional state and behavior of others within their pack, be those pack members canine or human. Moreover, given what we know about coevolution, emotional contagion, mirror neurons, and simulation theory of empathy, an owner predisposed to anxiety is likely to succumb to the dog’s intentions. [89]  The Similarity Principle is highly relevant to our discussion, as it set the groundwork for Morry’s Similar-Attraction Model. [53]Suomi SJ. Would you rather handle a relaxed dog or an aggressive dog? For instance, mob behavior in humans and predatory pack aggression in dogs are both examples of high-arousal emotional contagion. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. Whereas persons with an anxious personality type react with elevated distress, rumination, and loss of meaning of life, persons with an avoidant attachment style deactivate emotions. Furthermore, there is no difference in personality consistency in dogs tested first as puppies and later as adults versus dogs tested again as puppies and later again as puppies. There is a high correlation between canine anxiety and aggressive behavior. [115], There was a significant increase in the odds of moderate or severe aggression toward strangers for all gonadectomized dogs compared with intact dogs. Typically, the owner comes back from work and is greeted by an overly excited dog. 197(3): 795-808.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4096361/. Dog anxiety is stressful for dogs and humans alike. More saliently, there is a clear inter-relationship between dog-human aggression, dog-dog aggression, and owner neuroticism. Unfortunately, in line with the principles of emotional contagion, their dogs may both chronically and acutely develop a mirrored response. University of Manitoba. In accordance with the similarity attraction model, persons will fare best with a breed and individual dog that best matches his/her temperament and lifestyle, with the exception that anxious persons are better with confident, non-aggressive dogs versus anxious or anxiously aggressive dogs. J Appl Anim Welf Sci. (1982), In memoriam: Harry F. Harlow (1905–1981). Anim. 2013;145(3–4):109–122. I know it probably isn’t good to be choosing to stay home so that they can have company and outside time, but I feel so much guilt whenever I leave them. [46], Moreover, the experiment showed that other than during brief periods of hunger tactile contact and the feeling of security were valued higher than was feeding. Appl. The phenomenon of spaying increasing the likelihood of aggression in female dogs was known previously, although most believed the effect insignificant. The answer lies in the psychological principals of emotional contagion. In a sample group at Dartmouth College, geographic proximity and race were greater determinants of social interaction than were common interests, majors, or family background. • 30% of the abandoned dogs were characterized as fearful at least some of the time. 121(1): 79-119.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/24091935_How_Do_Friendships_Form, [87]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elaboration_principle, [88]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Newcomb, [89]Secord, PF; Backman CW. Sci. For instance, an anxious, meek owner, who feels unsafe around people, may purposefully seek an aggressive animal to acquire a greater feeling of security and power. 2013;8(10):e78455. [10]  There is also a strong association between generalized anxiety disorder and substance abuse disorder. 11 October 2013.  https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aso/databank/entries/bhharl.html, [45]McLeod, S.  Attachment Theory. Pet ownership, rewarding as it can be, can be a source of great stress and anxiety and is a valid reason to seek support when needed. September 2010. Even environments such as car rides, going to a park or vet visits can trigger your pooch. Therefore, I eagerly read recent research from the University of Ljubljana. One of the most common complaints of pet parents is that their dogs are disruptive or destructive when left alone. July 2005. I’m getting to the point of making the decision to euthanize her but still struggle with it every day – how do I put her down when she’s clearly still getting enjoyment from life? From an overall psychological standpoint, the children are frequently secure, happy, and wiling to explore environments. Complementarity was associated with more positive regard and more group integration in bands consisting of musicians who were high in interpersonal rigidity, whereas the effect was less strong in bands consisting of musicians who were lower in rigidity. PMID 12625087.  https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/Preston_dewaal2002.pdf, [82]Preston, S.D. • Dogs also served as a warning system and a defense from hostile strangers and predators. In succinct terms, the lifestyle and actions characteristic of a severely neurotic owner may contribute to the neuroses, anxious behavior, and aggressive behavior exhibited by a dog. ; Maheswaranathan, N.; Burke, K.J., Jr.; Borius, M.; Inoue, S.; Chiang, M.C. Losing Pepper has affected me so badly and I don’t know how to settle the sense of dread about the others. This article truly hit home for me. Moreover, the belief that anxious persons wish to avoid out of context bites is not true in all cases. I need to learn how to deal with it somehow but I don’t know how. Anatomical structure will usually remain fairly consistent within a breed, although it may vary somewhat between lines within a breed. [Google Scholar], https://www.academia.edu/6183144/Should_old_dog_trainers_learn_new_tricks_The_efficiency_of_the_Do_as_I_do_method_and_shaping_2_clicker_training_method_to_train_dogs, [20]Podberscek, A.L. The American Psychologist. https://www.academia.edu/19008017/In_memoriam_Harry_F._Harlow_1905-1981_, [44]Harry Harlow.” A Science Odyssey. As a therapist myself, I knew what I was feeling was normal but it was hard to deal with often alone. 18(1): 125-143.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229477663_The_attraction-similarity_model_and_dating_couples_Projection_perceived_similarity_and_psychological_benefits. Am. And I felt that very few people understood what I was going through as they would look at me funny if I talked about my anxiety related to her. The foxes that reacted aggressively were removed from the experiment, whereas the foxes that reacted least were selected for breeding. Cover Photo Credit: Welcome Library, London. [Google Scholar], [17]Rehn, T.; Beetz, A.; Keeling, L.J. The process was mutually advantageous. Appl. I have a personal theory regarding why anxious owners tend to select anxious pets, even though cognitively they may realize there is a greater potential for detrimental outcomes. The results suggest that attachment avoidance may facilitate the development of separation anxiety in dogs. I don’t blame them because it is a sort of quietly widespread approach to having pets and we had never really seen any different among the people we knew. (1997). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-017-1092-8, [72]D’Aniello, B; Semin, G; Alterrisio, A; Aria, M; Scandurra, A.  Interspecies Transmission of Emotional Information Via Chemosignals:  From Humans to Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). • 31% of abandoned dogs exhibited housebreaking problems. If you have a dog that struggles with fear, anxiety, or stress, it’s important to be supportive and patient.. [PubMed] [Google Scholar], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23544756/, [39]Weiss, E; Gramann, S; Spain, CV; Slater, M. Goodbye to a Good Friend: An Explanation of the Re-homing of Cats and Dogs in the U.S.  Research and Development, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. 2008, 38, 1023–1041. October 2010. Two years ago my mini-schnauzer was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis. Royal Society Open Science. CPT behavior modification programs can do wonders in improving the emotional state and behavior of an anxious and/or aggressive dog. She had various health issues for some time, but it wasn’t until the end that I knew how severe they really were despite numerous visits to the vet whom I was also in constant contact with, thousands of dollars, medicines, special food, the bit. 2012;345:34933.  https://www.bmj.com/content/345/bmj.e4933, [110]Dreschel, N.  The Effects of Fear and Anxiety on Health and Lifespan in Pet Dogs. 2013;16(2):168–183. Perceived, not actual, similarity predicts initial attraction in a live 
romantic context: Evidence from the speed- dating paradigm. American Sociological Association. In addition, since we wrote the referenced article, which focuses on the health and husbandry effects of surgical castration and ovariohysterectomy, researchers have released groundbreaking studies that question the assumed long-term behavioral benefits. Yet, there are a number of controllable factors, both from the standpoints of prevention and treatment, whereby CPT can decrease the probability of anxious and/or aggressive behavior or decrease the severity and resultant emotional and financial impact. We believe CPT’s comprehensive evaluations are the best in the industry. [75]  Theories of coevolution between humans and dogs explain how humans became more adept at interpreting canine communication and more socially bonded with dogs as the species evolved from wolves into the many breeds of the contemporary domestic dog. The decision still haunts me but deep within I know it was the most compassionate thing I could have done for her. [CrossRef] https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0054907, [112]Jones, A.C.; Gosling, S.D. [98], North Americans show a significant pronounced similarity-attraction effect. I adore my girls, but I am finding myself so stressed about their well-being. (2003) Characteristics of Shelter- Relinquished Animals and Their Owners Compared with Animals and Their Owners in U.S. Pet-Owning Households. Genetics. 32(4): 485-500.   https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229794322_The_Similarity-Attraction_Relationship_Revisited_Divergence_between_the_affective_and_behavioral_facets_of_attraction, [103]Tidwell, N.D.; Eastwick, P.W. When a dogs problems are accompanied by other distress behaviors, such as drooling and showing anxiety when hi… Dec 7, 2018. Owning a pet can be wonderful. Thanks again. Mirror Neurons and the Simulation Theory of Mind-Reading. [CrossRef] 
 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0118375, [35]Zilcha-Mano S, Mikulincer M, Shaver PR. Nov 15, 2016. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5112909/, [109]Russ, T; Stamatakis, E; Hamer, M; Starr, J; Kivimaki, M; Batty, GD. True separation anxiety, on the other hand, causes the dog to experience real stress during the absence of his owner. This involves changing how the dog perceive pre-departure cues (e.g. [66]  Resultantly, the foxes developed a less extreme hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal response, which created calmer, less aggressive animals.[67]. Yet, the classic and most descriptive depiction of developmental maladaptation resulting from an avoidant attachment style is the series of cruel but enlightening rhesus macaque monkey experiments conducted by University of Wisconsin psychologist Harry Harlow. All rights reserved. 22(4): 561-584.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/200008880_Relationship_satisfaction_as_a_predictor_of_similarity_Ratings_A_test_of_the_attraction-similarity_hypothesis, [96]Morry, M.  Relationship Satisfaction as a Predictor of Similarity Ratings: A Test of the Attraction Similarity Hypothesis. Psychophysiology. [CrossRef]  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260135317_Owners_as_a_secure_base_for_their_dogs, [30]Horn, L; Huber, L; Range, F.  The Importance of the Secure Base Effect for Domestic Dogs- Evidence from a Manipulative Problem-Solving Task. Therefore, handling a difficult to manage, excitably anxious, fearfully anxious, or aggressively anxious dog is likely to invoke an anxious emotional state upon an owner concerned about potential liabilities. The study found that dogs exhibiting aggression to humans tend to be less social with unfamiliar humans than are non-aggressive dogs. The “Domestication Syndrome” in Mammals:  A Unified Explanation Based on Neural Crest Cell Behavior and Genetics. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.58.5.823. A psychiatric service dog may help someone with anxiety by: bringing medication, ... An emotional support animal simply provides the owner with a therapeutic presence. While operating CPT for the past 30 years I have availed myself of many anecdotal observations. [68]Schoenewolf, G. (1990). One of the most devastating parts of pet ownership is coming to terms with the fact we will likely have to say goodbye to our beloved companions whose lifespans just don’t equal ours. John Bowlby, a British psychiatrist, psychologist, and psychoanalyst,[23]is credited as being the principal developer of attachment theory. [44]  Moreover, once immersed in a peer group, the surrogate-raised monkeys were more generally timid, unfamiliar with normal monkey social protocols, easily bullied by other monkeys, hesitant to mate, and inadequate mothers. Scientific Reports. [29]  There is evidence for an owner-specific secure base effect in dogs[30]. [Google Scholar], [38]Kwan JY, Bain MJ. 71(9): 1187-1195.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2951633/, [12]Koyuncu, A; Ince, E; Ertekin, E; Tukel, R. Comorbidity in Social Anxiety Disorder: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges. • 89% of persons abandoning a dog had paid less than $200 for the dog. Yet, they appeared to inherently respond fearfully to the predator odors, while not responding fearfully to the prey and control odors. Anyone who makes that decision is truly brave. With our dying human relatives, we have no choice but to accept not knowing what the future holds as we await their final breath. But I find I am constantly worrying now about my other 2 cats. Consequently, to obtain the highest probability of obtaining a puppy or dog of optimal temperament, aptitude, and structure, we highly recommend that anyone visiting a breeder, shelter, or rescue solicit a CPT professional evaluation prior to completing a purchase or adoption. [Google Scholar], https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2752/175303712X13316289505422, [33]Edelstein, R.S. Primatol., 2: 319–342. CPT individual dog evaluations thoroughly examine 50 criteria. This is a beautiful and companionable dog, but they have recently declined in health and temperament, and this can make them more prone to separation anxiety … 2017,197, 45–54. [61]  Belyaev isolated 2 primary problems affecting the fox fur industry. The above footnoted statements document experiments confirming the benefits of secure owner-dog attachment. I’ve had trouble putting names to what I’m currently feeling, with a 14 yr old dog who is experiencing mild dementia, bad anxiety, lameness and a degenerative larynx condition. Altruism in Wolves Explains the Coevolution of Dogs and Wolves. In toto, persons who abandon their dogs are likely to maintain the relationship only for a short period; less likely to commit a substantial investment in the pet, for purchase, veterinary care, or training; more likely to keep their dog at a physical and emotional distance; and disproportionately likely to claim notable behavioral problems. Chronic stress reduces the pet’s physical and psychological health, spawns illnesses, and reduces lifespan. [71]  In addition, interspecies emotional communication can become contagious via olfactory chemosignals. var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; This entire article speaks directly to my experiences with her. ISSN 2054-5703. Mirror neurons form a cortical system matching observation and execution of goal-related motor actions. 15: 49–61. I can relate to this completely (I found this thread because I googled ‘always worrying about pets’). [62], Belyaev’s method of selection was remarkably simple. The following video explains the Big 5 personality types defined by Goldberg: Now that we comprehend the definition of neuroticism and can envision practical applications where neuroticism is maladaptive, let’s consider why and how a neurotic owner can transmit his/her neurotic tendencies to a household dog. Sci. Consequently, we maximize the probability of developing a confident, happy, healthy pet and a satisfied, bonded owner. [45]  In addition, those raised exclusively by wire surrogates commonly experienced diarrhea. Get our newsletter. It's more than a little whining when you leave or a bit of mischief while you’re out. In Touch in Early Development, Field TM, ed. Therefore, satisfaction and attraction lead to perceptions of similarity. [55], Moreover, there is a correlation between anxiety and the development of aggressive behavior. In contrast, aroused dogs are more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior. PLoS One. Given that recent research provides strong evidence that spaying and neutering may pose significant behavioral detriments, CPT advocates behavioral consultations to determine the pluses and minuses of gonadectomy surgery for a client pet, as it relates to the specific pet’s age, temperament, and behavior and the owner’s management style, lifestyle, and preferences. April 21, 2017. Consequently, the logical conclusion is that human owners exhibiting a neurotic emotional state or neurotic behavior may infect their dogs with homologous state anxiety and concomitant anxiety-related behaviors. doi:10.1037/a0037009. Neutered dogs were more aggressive, fearful, excitable and less trainable than intact dogs. Anim. Appl. One of my (young) cats was killed in September when my ex accidently closed our garage door on her. ; Pearl, D.L. She was an angel and we tried everything that the vets could recommend, but in the end I just thought that it was time to allow her to cross that bridge with dignity and on her own terms. [CrossRef]  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319399953_Risk_factors_associated_with_stranger-directed_aggression_in_domestic_dogs. As discussed in previous sections, owner personality type and attachment style can affect the emotional development, emotional state, and behavior of the puppy or dog. July 2000. 2 (12): 150505. The selection fulfills a validation goal, as they consciously or unconsciously apply the logic, “If this dog is worthy of love, then so am I.”. "If the separation anxiety came about from the dog losing a companion, and the dog is used to having another dog around all the time … getting another dog can solve it." The help of my own therapist really made a difference in that time of my life. June 1964. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2785710?seq=1, [90]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Newcomb, [91]O’Connor, Brian; Dyce, J. These things have little or no impact on s… Cultural variation in the similarity-attraction effect”. [69]Elfenbein, HA. First, aggressive foxes were difficult and dangerous to handle for the humans working on the farm. [36], Furthermore, people who have an avoidant attachment style react differently upon the death of a pet. It usually manifests itself within 30 minutes of its owner's departure. The Complementary Principle states that in large groups the group will seek dissimilar members who productively complement existing members. [58], A study of 17,000 dogs concluded that a large proportion of variance in dog behavior is attributable to genetic factors. However, if you are an anxious person, there are still ways that you can make sure your dog is as anxiety-free as possible. Volume 4, Issue 7.Pg 252-254.  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1364661398012625, [80]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simulation_theory_of_empathy, [81]Preston, S.D. Pet ownership, rewarding as it can be. https://www3.canyons.edu/faculty/rafterm/0%200LLI%20LOVEandLOSS/Day%20Files/Day%201%20Files/1958%20-%20The%20Nature%20of%20Love%20-%20Harlow.pdf, [48]McLeod, S.  Attachment Theory. Behav. [104]Botwin, M. D.; Buss, D. M.; Shackelford, T. K. (1997). Nevertheless, our opinion is that well-designed, thorough evaluations executed by professional evaluators provide a high-degree of accuracy and certainly provide a higher probability of effective selection in comparison to the absence of information that would occur had the client never solicited a competent evaluation. Neutered males were more likely to be aggressive than any other group. For instance, a group of leaders will need followers and conversely a group of followers will need leaders. Psychol. Scientific Reports. • Friendliness changed their appearance.They started to develop splotchy coats, floppy ears, and wagging tails. I had feelings of anger as well. [25], Infants undergo multiple stages of attachment with the primary initial attachment figure, whereupon they begin to also form bonds with additional caregivers, such as the father, older siblings, and grandparents. Photo Credit: Mark Spivak and Patricia King. April 2, 2019.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6448478/, [13]Social Anxiety Disorder: Recognition, Assessment, and Treatment. For others, pets are truly members of the family and losing a pet can be incredibly challenging and affecting. doi:10.1111/j.1469-8986.2007.00551.x. Greater friendship satisfaction predicted greater perceived friend-self similarity. April 17, 2015. These findings strongly support the need for an immediate re-evaluation of the current recommendation to spay or neuter dogs to prevent or treat behavioral problems, and an equally pressing need to more fully examine the wide range of physical effects of spaying and neutering pet dogs. • People who had dogs on a hunt would have an advantage over those who didn’t. Aggressive behaviour in English cocker spaniels and the personality of their owners. Similarly, a CPT board train is an excellent modality when owners prefer to delegate the work to CPT. Only the ones that were bold and friendly were tolerated. [37], Compatible with the avoidant persons’ response to the death of a pet, persons who relinquish their dogs to shelters score lower on “companion animal attachment” than do continuing owners.[38]. Combining the results from the preceding studies, dogs can be genotyped with a predisposition toward developing anxiety and aggression and fearful dogs are more predisposed toward developing aggressive behavior toward unfamiliar persons and dogs. Simply Psychology. Touch and the immune system in rhesus monkeys. doi:10.1098/rsos.150505. While I share the sentiment that my dog is a beloved part of my family, I’ve found it overwhelming and difficult to navigate his diagnosis as I balance the discrepancy between doing everything we can versus doing what is realistic. 348, Issue 6232, pg 333-336.  https://science.sciencemag.org/content/348/6232/333, [79]Gallese, V; Goldman, A. There is an urgent need to systematically examine other means of preventing unwanted procreation, such as vasectomy and hysterectomy.[116]. Dmitry Belyaev was a Russian geneticist who in 1959 was quested with improving the production at silver fox farms, as fox fur was very popular in Russia. Sign Up and Get Listed, I recently experienced an increase in my anxiety related to the flood of emotions I have been navigating in dealing with my aging, ailing dog. [57], Aggression toward unfamiliar dogs and people arises most commonly from fear and territoriality. Breeds will exhibit temperament and behavioral norms. At the start of the appointment this dog was highly reactive to unfamiliar persons and dogs. It was only a year ago that I had to make the heartbreaking decision to let my fur baby go due to failing health and a very grim diagnosis. It is a process, but I do know now she is no longer suffering. Scientific Reports. With regard to perceptual factors, ideal similarity, self-similarity, and security all were significant predictors. [17]  When an owner is conveying an emotional message, dogs are capable of discerning between a happy or fearful expression and have some basic understanding that the emotional message refers to a specific object. Social control of hypothalamus-mediated male aggression. Here is an excellent video of monkey responses in Harlow’s lab: Later study provided a scientific explanation for Harlow’s experiments and the practical observations of attachment theory in humans and dogs. Adult attachment style and parental responsiveness during a stressful event. For instance, an infant separated from a maternal figure at birth and raised in an orphanage will likely have less opportunity to develop secure attachment than an infant raised in a typical maternal-child environment. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Interpersonal-rigidity%2C-hostility%2C-and-in-musical-O%27Connor-Dyce/5c4dbc8157d055649e71b8e81202d98486f7ee86, [92]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Newcomb, [93]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interpersonal_attraction, [94]Dr. Marian M. Morry. There are differing opinions when it comes to the value we place on our animal friends. [CrossRef] 
  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/13963621_Aggressive_behaviour_in_English_cocker_spaniels_and_the_personality_of_their_owners, [21]Kotrschal K, Schöberl I, Bauer B, Thibeaut AM, Wedl M. Dyadic relationships and operational performance of male and female owners and their male dogs. [34], Pet avoidant attachment consists of feelings of discomfort with physical and emotional closeness. Thus, dogs exhibiting aggression to humans are also more likely to exhibit aggression to dogs than are dogs non-aggressive to humans. September 2017. However, her condition requires multiple medications daily, intermittent small meals, and regular bloodwork and checkups. https://evolution-outreach.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12052-018-0090-x, [67]Wilkins, AS; Wrangham,  RW; Fitch, WT. Yes they are messy and yes it is like taking care of a toddler, but where else can you find such unconditional love and affection as that given by a pet? Bowlby described 4 primary attachment styles: 1) Secure attachment– occurs when the primary caregiver promptly, dependably, and sensitively provides physical and emotional comfort to the infant. 3) Avoidant attachment– occurs when the primary caregiver is physically, emotionally, and/or operationally disengaged with the child or when the caregiver punishes or dismisses the child for seeking assistance or comfort from the caregiver. Although these problems often indicate that a dog needs to be taught polite house manners, they can also be symptoms of distress. Are neurotic owners purposefully acquiring anxious dogs that mirror the owner’s personality type? Persons with an avoidant attachment style maintain emotional distance from the pet, avoid intimacy with their pet, prevent the pet from intruding in their personal space, and exhibit difficulty in depending upon the pet and relying upon it when distressed. Analysis of association between behavioural traits and four types of aggression in Shiba Inu. 2017,197, 45–54. Sci. Extrapolating further, when persons with general anxiety or social anxiety are exposed to social contexts they have an elevated probability of responding fearfully or even with panic. College students believe their opposite-gender friends to be similar to themselves, although these beliefs may be a perception of the partner’s similarity, rather than an accurate assessment. Animals. However, despite disparity in race creating an obstacle to interaction, by placing persons of different races in proximal residences the likelihood of interaction increased threefold. All I feel is anxiety for them and myself, and I constantly feel alone in the process although my mother helps me when she can. However, the research presented thus far evaluated only human-human relationships. Persons displaying an avoidant attachment style are more likely to reside with dogs exhibiting dog-owner aggression. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Feb 26, 2018.  https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00018/full. Temperament and personality in dogs (Canis familiaris): A review and evaluation of past research. The attachment style may result from the parental style of interaction with the infant or from lack of schedule availability during times of need. Separation anxiety happens when a dog that’s hyper-attached to their owner gets super-stressed when left alone. Similarly, conformation German Shepherds will have increased angulation and a greater preponderance of black/tan saddle coats in comparison to working-line German Shepherds, which typically have a less angulated spine-hip structure and more frequent sable coats. [47], Fortunately, in the case of surrogate-raised monkeys less than 3 months of age, if they were immersed in a social group they could over time develop normal social skills and development, which indicates that if intervention occurs early enough another caregiver or social source can replace the developmental benefits typically provided by the mother. Vol 56 Issue 43 Pets anxiety dogs. There are lots of reasons your dog may become anxious or stressed, but there are still a few popular triggers that may be the source. PLoS One. Behav. Quarterly Journal of Economics. An attachment perspective on human-pet relationships: conceptualization and assessment of pet attachment orientations. With our pets, we’re faced with the potential we may have to make decisions and take it upon ourselves to assist in ending their lives. Consequently, the owner can become an effective and benevolent leader that increases the dog’s confidence and reduces the likelihood of anxiety and undesirable aggressive behavior. The analysis provides evidence that dogs resemble their owners.[9]. Anim. The nature of love. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. Death and loss are never easy topics, but I find them to be particularly complicated with pets. This enjoyable video provides a practical explanation of Bowlby’s attachment styles and their impact throughout a person’s social and emotional life: Thus, the attachment style of a parent can have great effects on the personality development and associated behavior of a child. • 21% of abandoned dogs frequently escaped the property. ; Brodbelt, D.C.; O’Neill, D. Mortality resulting from undesirable behaviours in dogs aged under three years attending primary-care veterinary practices in England. British Psychological Society. What is the chicken and egg? The Similarity Principle states that persons tend to join groups that contain members who are similar to the person in values, attitudes, beliefs, races, gender, age, and other demographic factors. Yet I’m still struck by how stressed, lost, and guilty I’ve felt regarding truly knowing what steps to take between now and then—and how this dilemma, or any type of stress related to pet ownership, is something I’ve rarely heard others voice. The process of emotional contagion can be linked to facial mimicry and body language. Regardless, the presence of a neurotic owner increases the probability the dog will exhibit anxiety and associated aggression and that the owner will have reduced capability and maybe even reduced desire to properly control the animal. Moreover, in comparison to the wolves first domesticated 16,000 years ago, the contemporary domestic dog has greater membership stability, mood regulation norms, task interdependence, and social interdependence that facilitate contagious interspecies emotional interaction. CPT Head Trainers specialize in scientific-based behavior modification training focused on human-dog communication, general impulse control, counterconditioning, and systematic desensitization principles. 22(4): 561-584.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/200008880_Relationship_satisfaction_as_a_predictor_of_similarity_Ratings_A_test_of_the_attraction-similarity_hypothesis, [97]Morry, M.  The Attraction-Similarity Hypothesis Among Cross-Sex Friends: Relationship Satisfaction, Perceived Similarities, and Self-Serving Perceptions. “Interpersonal rigidity, hostility, and complementarity in musical bands”. Furthermore, we should expect that an owner exhibiting a secure attachment style will have the most psychological healthy and emotionally stable pet, whereas an owner exhibiting an avoidant or disorganized attachment style should have the most maladaptive and emotionally unstable pet. & de Wall, F.B.M. In simulated separation anxiety, the dog knows that he will get attention if … PMID 8427480.  https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/c9e5/ff2af5a184293feb8b5c4cdaf30d53694549.pdf?_ga=2.100999361.1122878789.1587316124-159651155.1540143283, [5]Jeronimus BF, Riese H, Sanderman R, Ormel J (October 2014). One of the more intriguing impressions is the apparent correlation between anxious owners and dogs exhibiting anxiety, aggressive behavior, or both. doi:10.1159/000071465. Dec 7, 2018. Behav. The Conclusion:  Is There a Bidirectional Relationship Between Dog-Owner Anxiety? In a study of 13,700 Finnish pet dogs, there were large breed differences in the prevalence of all anxiety-related traits, suggesting a strong genetic contribution. [109][110]  More saliently, as supported in earlier sections and by 30 years of personal experience, owners are more likely to socially isolate an aggressive dog, less likely to walk the dog, and less likely to exercise the dog. However, is the phenomenon exclusively unidirectional, where the owner affects the dog, or is the process bidirectional, where the dog’s temperament and behavior can affect the owner? The children tend to trust the caregiver, believe the caregiver will return to assist them, seek comfort from the caregiver as a secure base during times of stress, exhibit distress when separated from the caregiver, and exhibit pleasure upon the caregiver’s return. Influence of Owners’ Attachment Style and Personality on Their Dogs’ (Canis familiaris) Separation-Related Disorder. [Google Scholar], [37][37]Zilcha-Mano S, Mikulincer M, Shaver PR. Pages 157 – 162.  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/223596811_The_effects_of_fear_and_anxiety_on_health_and_lifespan_in_pet_dogs, [111]Fratkin, J.L. Her lab examined how individual similarities and differences influence thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, related to the relationships a person has with friends and intimate partners. Relatsh. What about human-dog relationships? doi:10.2307/2667070. Wouldn’t the likelihood be that anxiety in each would be magnified if both were primarily anxious and received a supplemental stimulus that also prompted secondary anxiety? National Geographic. Anim. Thoughts of, “I’m never owning another pet again” creep in and I question whether the anxiety of anticipatory grief or actual grief is worse. [CrossRef]  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319399953_Risk_factors_associated_with_stranger-directed_aggression_in_domestic_dogs, [58]Haug, L.I. A service dog for anxiety can provide a sense of calm, anticipate anxiety attacks, and even fetch medication for their owner. Human-like modes of communication, including mutual gaze, may have been acquired during the wolf to dog domestication process. In summary, there is clearly a bidirectional relationship between owner and dog anxiety. The anxiety I experienced due to my worry about her spread into other areas of my life. In addition, the stress of making decisions about her health and care has resulted in my own anxiety becoming unbearable. My other dog began having issues as well and thus the cycle continued. Sci. 2007. [48][49], Harlow also performed notable later experiments to study the effects of social isolation on the formation of depression. doi:10.1111/j.1467-839X.2009.01289.x. She was a very significant being in my life. “Interpersonal attraction and personality: What is attractive – self similarity, ideal similarity, complementarity, or attachment security?”. Bibcode:2015RSOS….250505P. Therefore, Belyaev reasoned that if he selected animals for tameness and only bred the tame animals, then over generations they would be easier to handle and more prodigious in producing frequent litters, larger litters, and healthier puppies. Not all socialization is productive socialization. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.554.2794. doi:10.1017/S0140525X02000018. Gobbo and Zuppan evaluated associations between owner personality types and attachment styles and their dogs’ behavior. A study found significant positive correlations between owners and their dogs in all 5 personality dimensions (neuroticism, extraversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness). Yet, the norms are only appropriate for the median member of the breed. Resultantly, the anxiety or fear of an owner can readily be replicated by a dog and applied to the target of the owner’s acute anxiety. 2014, 
9, 143–150. CPT in-home private lessons are a terrific resource for teaching owners strategies how to prevent housebreaking and household manners problems or resolve existing problems. Pet owners who feel insecurely attached to their pet tend to view the pet as having negative or troubling characteristics, mistrust their pet’s intentions, and don’t expect the pet to be available, sensitive, and responsive to their needs.