How does dog ownership affect teenagers according to Azabu University research?

Research from Azabu University suggests dog owners have lower scores for social problems, aggression, and delinquency.

Can the microbiome of dog owners influence behavior, according to the study?

Yes, microbes from dog owners transferred to mice promoted empathetic behavior, suggesting a microbiome link.

Do all teens need a dog for better mental health like in the study?

No, the study suggests maintaining a diverse microbiome is important, and dog ownership isn't essential for everyone.

Home / Health / Dog Ownership Boosts Teen Mental Health Via Gut Microbes

Dog Ownership Boosts Teen Mental Health Via Gut Microbes

3 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Dog owners showed fewer social problems and aggressive behaviors.
Specific bacteria abundant in dog owners' saliva transferred empathy.
Microbial transfer in mice indicated potential for empathetic behavior.

Dog Ownership Boosts Teen Mental Health Via Gut Microbes

New research indicates that having a dog at home may significantly enhance teenagers' mental well-being and social behavior. Scientists observed that adolescents who owned dogs displayed notably lower scores related to social issues, withdrawal, and aggressive tendencies.

The study delved into the microbial communities of teenagers, identifying specific bacteria more prevalent in dog owners. When these microbes were transferred to mice, the animals exhibited increased empathetic behaviors, such as approaching unfamiliar mice.

These findings suggest that the shared microbiome between humans and dogs could play a crucial role in fostering better social skills and mental health in adolescents. However, researchers note that further investigation is needed to fully understand the direct impact of dogs versus stress reduction on microbial changes.