Merkouri et al. (2022) analyzed data from 1,693 dog owners in the United Kingdom to explore whether stronger bonds with dogs improved mental health. Owner wellbeing was measured with validated PROMIS scales for depression, anxiety, emotional support, and companionship, while the strength of the dog–owner relationship was assessed with the Monash Dog–Owner Relationship Scale (MDORS).
The findings showed a complex picture: a stronger bond correlated with greater emotional support and companionship, but also with poorer mental health outcomes, particularly in anxiety and depression. One explanation is that individuals with pre-existing mental health challenges may acquire or bond strongly with dogs as a coping strategy. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses supported this, noting dogs provided purpose, distraction, and comfort, but also a burden of responsibility.
Interestingly, the perceived cost subscale of the MDORS, representing owner burden, was associated with better mental health outcomes. Owners who felt confident in meeting their dog’s needs reported more personal growth and stronger relationships with others. In contrast, when owners felt overwhelmed by responsibility, they experienced guilt, frustration, and reduced autonomy.
The study emphasizes that while dogs can offer profound emotional benefits, owner wellbeing depends on the balance between closeness and responsibility. Supporting owners in care and training could help strengthen the positive impact of dog–owner relationships while minimizing stress and mental health risks.
Source: Merkouri, A., Graham, T. M., O’Haire, M., Purewal, R., & Westgarth, C. (2022). Dogs and the Good Life: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Association Between the Dog–Owner Relationship and Owner Mental Wellbeing. Journal: Frontiers in Psychology, Volume 13. Publication Date: 2022-07-18. Authors: Aikaterini Merkouri, T. M. Graham, M. O’Haire, R. Purewal, C. Westgarth. References: 69. Citations: 17.
