A new small study published in the journal PLOS One suggests that interacting with dogs through activities such as playing and walking can strengthen brain waves associated with rest and relaxation. The study, conducted by researchers at Konkuk University in Seoul, South Korea, aimed to explore the specific effects of different activities with dogs on participants' mood and brain activity.

The study involved 30 healthy adults, with an average age of 28, who were recruited from pet salons and a dog grooming school in Seongnam, South Korea, between May and June 2022. Each participant engaged in eight activities with a well-trained, 4-year-old female standard poodle in a quiet room at a local grooming academy.

Before the activities began, the participants took three minutes to sit and minimize external stimulation. Electroencephalogram (EEG) tests were then conducted during each activity to measure brain waves. EEG tests use small metal discs called electrodes attached to the scalp to measure electrical activity in the brain.

The results of the study revealed that playing and walking with the dog increased the strength of alpha-band oscillations, indicating stability and relaxation. These brain waves have been associated with improved memory and reduced mental stress. Additionally, grooming, playing, and gently massaging the dog were linked to strengthened beta-band oscillations, associated with heightened attention and concentration.

Participants also reported feeling significantly less depressed, stressed, and fatigued after interacting with the poodle. These findings provide further evidence for the emotional, physiological, and cognitive benefits of interactions with animals, particularly dogs. Animal-assisted health interventions have been increasingly utilized in various fields due to their positive effects.

Dr. Colleen Dell, a professor and research chair in One Health & Wellness at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, expressed excitement about the study's insights into the mechanisms underlying the known benefits of human-animal interactions. She emphasized the importance of studying this area in multiple ways, such as EEG measurements and subjective questionnaires, to gain a comprehensive understanding.

Despite the study's contributions, experts noted some limitations. The small number of participants and their lack of mental, medical, or neurological conditions were considered weaknesses. Furthermore, the study did not include a control group for comparison with activities involving humans instead of dogs.

While more research is needed, the study's findings support the idea that interacting with dogs can have positive effects on emotional well-being. It is important for individuals to consider their ability to care for a pet and ensure their pet's welfare when engaging in such interactions.

For those who are not ready for pet ownership, experts suggest playing with a loved one's pet or visiting local shelters or pet stores that allow interactions with dogs. These experiences can provide emotional health benefits and also help socialize puppies. It is crucial to be mindful of the dog's well-being, as their participation in interventions depends on their health and happiness.

In conclusion, the study highlights the potential of interacting with dogs to strengthen brain waves associated with relaxation and concentration. As more research is conducted in this field, a better understanding of the mechanisms behind these benefits can be achieved, leading to potentially wider implementation of animal-assisted therapies.