Our stress is passed on to our pets

The study involved 85 people who own dogs. Participants filled out questionnaires about their stress levels and how often they continued to think about work during their free time. Scientists then observed the behaviour of their pets.

The results were surprising: dogs whose owners were immersed in work even outside the office were more likely to show signs of stress. They became restless, played less, began to whine, or simply looked tense.

The most surprising thing was that many owners did not even notice that their dogs were behaving differently. But animals, as it turns out, can read our moods just as well as psychologists.

When a person thinks about work all evening, they become tense: their voice changes, their movements become sharp, and the whole atmosphere in the house seems strained. Dogs, which are particularly sensitive to our emotions, pick up on this and experience it along with us.

There is good news: scientists offer simple advice on how to protect your dog from your stress.

First, it is important to be able to end the workday. This could be a short walk, changing into comfortable clothes, or even a simple breathing exercise. Such rituals signal to the body and brain that work is over.

Secondly, it is worth being ‘here and now’ more often. Turn off notifications, put your phone away, hug your dog, play with it. It is waiting for this — and you will feel better too.

Finally, try to maintain a calm atmosphere at home. Quiet music, soft lighting, kind words — all of this works for both you and your pet.

Your pets don’t know who your boss is or why he was unfair. But they know for sure that you are sad. Give yourself and your friend some peace — and you will both feel better.