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A recent study found that dogs and their owners have synchronized Heart Rate Variability (HRV), indicating shared emotions during relaxed moments. Their heart rates and activity levels adjust to each other, with the strongest bond seen during rest.
A study at the University of Jyväskylä found that a dog's Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is linked to its owner's during interaction. HRV measures heartbeat variations, reflecting autonomic nervous system activity. High HRV signals relaxation, while low HRV indicates stress, like during exams or sports.
The study also found that dogs and owners adjusted their activity levels to each other. During rest, both showed high HRV, indicating shared relaxation. Likewise, their activity levels matched during tasks like playing.
The study found that larger dogs had higher HRV, and owners with higher negative affectivity, who are more sensitive to negativity, formed stronger bonds with their dogs.
The study found that a dog’s HRV best predicted its owner's HRV, regardless of the owner's activity level or BMI. It included breeds like sheepdogs and retrievers, known for their strong human bonds.