Understand What Pets Actually Want & Need | Dr. Karolina Westlund

Play & Empathy

The dynamics of play among dogs reveal much about their social structures and empathy. Karolina Westlund explains that larger dogs often self-handicap during play to maintain interaction, showcasing a form of empathy 1. This behavior suggests that dogs, as social animals, are adept at reading emotional states and buffering negative emotions within their groups. Andrew Huberman shares a personal story of a dog comforting a grieving person, highlighting the empathetic nature of dogs 1.

It's hard to not interpret that as a meaningful moment of empathy. Who knows what he was experiencing? Maybe he was experiencing distress for all I know, but the more pleasant interpretation is that he wanted to extend comfort.

--- Andrew Huberman

Social roles in animal groups, such as leaders and controllers, further illustrate the complex social dynamics at play. These roles are not about dominance but about cooperation and synchronization, as seen in cows and dogs 2.

   

Social Learning

Social learning is a crucial aspect of animal behavior, allowing them to adapt and thrive within their environments. Karolina Westlund notes that animals, including dogs, learn behaviors through social interactions and trial and error 3. This learning process is not limited to interactions with humans but extends to other animals within their group, highlighting the importance of social structures in animal development.

They also have social learning.

--- Karolina Westlund

Understanding these mechanisms can improve how we train and interact with pets, fostering better relationships and enhancing their well-being 4.