- A study from Linköping University in Sweden indicates that increasing playtime can significantly strengthen the emotional bond between dogs and their owners.
- More than 400 pet owners participated, completing questionnaires before and after a four-week intervention period.
- The group instructed to play more with their dogs reported an improved emotional bond, even with just a few minutes of extra play daily.
- Groups that focused on increased training with treats or maintained their usual routine showed no improvement in their perceived emotional connection.
- Interactive play activities like tug-of-war, rough and tumble, or hide-and-seek were found to be more effective for bonding than simply throwing a ball.
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