Multimodal assessment of positive affective states in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and owners during interaction

• Grant number: 24/22476-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Adroaldo Jose Zanella
• Grantee: Ana Paula Tarozo
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Dogs are present in around 44% of Brazilian homes and positive relationships with their owners are important for the welfare of animals, owners, and families. Even considering the longstanding emotional bond between humans and dogs, which exceeds 12,000 years, it is surprising how limited our knowledge is about positive affective states in these important animals. Moreover, the relationship between dogs and society is increasingly valued, with the connection between human-dog dyads being likened to that between children and their parents. At the same time, there is a growing tendency to equate human mental states (thoughts and feelings) with those of companion animals, which can lead to both positive and negative consequences. The present study aims to assess positive affective states in dogs and their owners during their interactions. Additionally, we aim to clarify how the level of proximity and the quality of life of the owners influence their interpretation of their dogs' affective states. In this way, the interaction between 100 dogs and their owners will be recorded, through stimuli considered positive, such as petting, playing, and offering snacks. The stimuli for each dog will be carried out on separate days and in a randomized order. The relationship between the dyads and the measurement of the dogs' affective states will be evaluated using the Dog Owner Relationship Scale (DORS), quality of life questionnaire for owners, behavioral assessment of the dogs, and measurement of salivary oxytocin and cortisol before, during and after the interaction in dogs and owners.