Dogs & Humans: The Sympathy of Dogs

The new Netflix series The Hidden Lives of Pets has a new bit of dog science to share with the audience. My daughter dutifully reported it to me. When dogs are reunited with their owners after a period of separation, the dogs not only read their masters’ moods, but they actually sync their heartbeats to the same rhythm as their owner s’. It’s yet another way this parasitic species, which is completely dependent on us, has found to bond with its source of food. It’s a feat of sympathy no human companion could possibly manage.

And, after nearly three years with our Kerry blue terrier, Dolly, I can’t say I’m surprised. This dog is the first for my wife. And every day she inspires my wife to call her “the best girl.” We’ve come a long way.

About the Author

Michael Brendan Dougherty

Michael Brendan Dougherty is a senior writer at National Review Online.

The new Netflix series The Hidden Lives of Pets has a new bit of dog science to share with the audience. My daughter dutifully reported it to me. When dogs are reunited with their owners after a period of separation, the dogs not only read their masters’ moods, but they actually sync their heartbeats to the same rhythm as their owner s’. It’s yet another way this parasitic species, which is completely dependent on us, has found to bond with its source of food. It’s a feat of sympathy no human companion could possibly manage.

And, after nearly three years with our Kerry blue terrier, Dolly, I can’t say I’m surprised. This dog is the first for my wife. And every day she inspires my wife to call her “the best girl.” We’ve come a long way.