3 Ways Dogs Help People Connect

Whether you’re a proud puppy parent or are just curious about adopting a dog, you’re sure to have heard the phrase “man’s best friend.”  It’s true; dogs are wonderful companions that emotionally help you in countless ways, but did you know that they also socially help you? Check out these three ways that dogs help people connect and get ready to get talking!

1) Dogs Give People a Reason to Talk

I’m sure all you dog owners out there have noticed that a lot more people come up to you in public when your buddy is with you. Dogs naturally attract attention where some people simply don’t. Sometimes people are too shy to approach strangers and just don’t feel like talking to other people, ending in many missed opportunities to connect. This is where Fido comes in and helps bridge the gap for you! Maybe your
pup catches someone’s attention, or another person’s dog walks up to yours. Either way, this creates the perfect chance for human connection.

Pedigree created a perfect moment like this in their Feed the Good commercial.

Dogs are easy and fun to interact with. They’re so good at distracting you when you’re uncomfortable that it’s no surprise they clear out the awkwardness between people. They give you something to focus on and talk about when you aren’t sure what else to say, and that initial bond can grow into a great friendship. There’s also something special about another person appreciating your buddy like you do. Whenever someone stops me to pet and say hi to my golden retriever or Labrador mix, I automatically feel friendlier and more willing to open up to that person.

2) Dogs Can Improve Social Skills for People With Social Difficulties

Admit it; sometimes hanging out with your dog is much more fun than hanging around people. You can tell him anything and he won’t judge you. He’ll just be there for you. There aren’t any confusing social cues to understand and follow when you are with your dog. You can just be you and know that he still loves you, and having that special relationship can give you the confidence to reach out to others.

Being social is tiring but manageable for some, while for others it can be close to impossible. This is true for many people with autism. Navigating through a world of people you can’t understand or talk to is a scary and incredibly difficult thing to do, but having a furry friend can actually help in social situations. Quoting research from the University of Missouri, The Huffington Post stated in a recent article that autistic children who lived with dogs were more likely to engage and interact with other people than those who didn’t live with dogs.

Each child and situation is unique, so it’s important to stay cautious when when deciding whether to adopt a dog for your child or not. Having a dog can help but they aren’t compatible with every autistic child.

3) Helping Dogs Brings People Together

Though having a dog is great, you don’t need to be a puppy parent to better connect with other people. Take working or volunteering at a shelter, for example. You’re working with other people toward the same goal: to help dogs (and cats) find a good home and live a better life. Sharing that passion toward the same cause gives you a sense of comradery and something in common with people you may have never wanted or tried to be friends with.

Even just working with someone to rescue a dog in need can break people’s barriers. Pedigree’s other Feed the Good commercial shows you exactly what I’m talking about. Sometimes it takes saving a dog from a dangerous situation to unite people who previously had no reason to like each other. Differences become small when you see a terrified dog in the middle of traffic who needs your help.

Dogs are great for you in so many ways. It’s no wonder that “man’s best friend” is such a well known and agreed upon phrase. If you have a dog I’m sure you’ll agree, and if you’re thinking about adopting one, there’s a good chance they’ll open doors to some wonderful relationships for you and brighten your life in ways you never expected.

Has your dog or another dog helped you become more social and connect with others? Let us know in the comments below!