Behavioral synchronization—where one individual mirrors the movements of another—is a hallmark of social bonding across species. In a study published in PLOS ONE, Jasmine Heurlin and colleagues explored how domestication, breed type, and human interaction affect synchronization between dogs, wolves, and their handlers.
Across three experiments, the team investigated whether human movement and interaction styles influenced canine responses. In the first experiment, 20 companion dogs were tested after being petted, played with, or ignored by their owners. Regardless of treatment, dogs adjusted their movements to match their owners’ walking and standing patterns, showing strong behavioral alignment.
The second experiment compared ancient dog breeds, solitary hunting dogs, and companion breeds. All synchronized with their owners, though individual variations suggested that domestication and selective breeding may fine-tune responsiveness to human cues.
The third experiment contrasted six socialized wolves and six similarly socialized pack-living dogs. Unlike companion dogs, neither group synchronized their movements with handlers, indicating that living closely with humans is key to developing this coordination. The researchers conclude that interspecies behavioral synchronization likely evolved through domestication, reflecting dogs’ adaptation to human lifestyles and their unique social bond with people.
This study adds to growing evidence that shared routines and physical proximity deepen the dog–human relationship, reinforcing communication and cooperation between the species.
Source: Heurlin, J., Barabás, G., & Roth, L. S. V. (2024). Behavioural synchronisation between different groups of dogs and wolves and their owners/handlers: Exploring the effect of breed and human interaction. PLOS ONE, 19. Published May 3, 2024.
