Why Dogs May Offer More Fulfilling Relationships Than Most People

A new study by Hungarian researchers has found that dog owners often have more fulfilling relationships with their pets than with most people, including friends and relatives. The study, published in Scientific Reports, shows that dogs offer more support and fewer negative interactions than most human relationships. Experts point to three key factors: a high level of companionship, minimal conflicts, and a clear caregiving role. The bond between dog and human is characterized by an unequal power dynamic: Owners make the decisions, and dogs rarely question them. This leads to less tension and conflicts that are common in human relationships. Participants were asked to evaluate their relationships with their dogs and four individuals (closest relative, romantic partner, best friend, and child) based on criteria such as care and conflicts. The results showed that the relationship between dog and owner most closely resembles a parent-child relationship, but with far fewer negative experiences. It is important to note that people with strong human relationships also had strong bonds with their dogs, suggesting that dogs complement human bonds rather than replace them. With children, the perception changed slightly; parents rated dogs lower in companionship, but most aspects remained unchanged. Ultimately, dogs provide constant emotional support without judgment or drama.