Summary:
- Researchers have found that the microbes in a dog's gut can influence the brain and behavior of their human owners. This is because the gut microbiome can produce chemicals that affect the brain and influence mood, empathy, and social behavior.
- Interacting with dogs and being exposed to their microbes can have positive effects on human health, such as improved immune function and reduced risk of certain diseases. This is because the dog's microbiome can help shape the human microbiome in beneficial ways.
- Owning a pet dog can provide social and emotional benefits, as the interaction with the animal can increase feelings of empathy and social connection in humans. This can have long-term positive impacts on mental and physical health.