Do you look just like your dog? Here are a few reasons why this comical phenomenon occurs.
1) It happens on purpose
In many cases, humans purposefully search for dogs that are similar to them— both physically and attitudinally. For example, people who live an active lifestyle will try to find a companion that can join them on hikes or runs. These are typically dogs with lots of energy and ambition, like shepherds or retrievers. On the other hand, there are people who live a more relaxed,slow-paced lifestyle. Pups who love to cuddle in bed all day and watch the squirrels out the window are great companions for these folks. Great human-canine bonds are built when the two can co-exist well together.
2) It happens subconsciously
Humans tend to gravitate towards things that feel familiar and safe. For example, people with long hair might be more in favour of dogs with droopy, long ears, while those with short hair might love a pooch with perked ears. There could be hundreds of reasons to justify why someone might choose one dog over another, but it really all comes down to feeling familiar and comfortable with your companion.
3) Dogs take on our mannerisms
Even if a dog doesn’t physically resemble his guardian, he may still appear to look like her because he acts like her. Dogs absorb our emotions. Our behaviours and feelings are passed onto them whether we want them to pick them up or not. This is why therapy dogs are so popular! A dog’s powerful senses allow him to exude empathy and form deep, emotional bonds with his people.
As with all families, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Whether it happens on purpose or not, having a mini-me companion is always a thing to treasure!
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Canadian Dogs is the definitive resource for helping people find and care for their new best friend. Featuring all the breed information you expect but with a fresh new approach. Published by one of Canada’s foremost pet publishers and distributed across Canada, this exciting publication is supported by leading breed experts, veterinarians, trainers, nutritionists and groomers.
