Daily coexistence with dogs during the adolescence could directly influence the biology of the human body. A recent scientific study detected that adolescents who live with dogs develop a distinct microbiotawith specific characteristics compared to those who do not live with pets.
The research was carried out by scientists from the Azabu University, Japanand points out that regular contact with dogs during a key stage of development may have implications not only biological, but also social and emotional.
What the study analyzed and what were the findings
According to the researchers, the study analyzed samples of microbiota oral in adolescents with and without habitual coexistence with dogs. The results showed clear differences in bacterial composition between both groups, which allowed us to identify a microbial profile associated with the presence of a dog in the domestic environment.
As the scientists explained, the adolescence It is a particularly sensitive period for conformation of the microbiota due to the changes hormonal y behavioral. Constant exposure to microorganisms in the environment, including those from domestic animals, can influence this biological balance.
The results were published in the scientific journal iScience and later disseminated by international media such as Infobae.
Relationship between microbiota and social behavior
To delve deeper into the results, the researchers carried out experiments with animal models. According to the study, mice that received adolescent microbiota who lived with dogs showed higher levels of social interaction than those exposed to microbiota from adolescents without pets.
Although the authors clarify that these results do not allow establishing a direct causal relationship in humans, they do reinforce the hypothesis of microbiota-brain axisa line of research that analyzes how microorganisms can influence behavior and emotional well-being.
Why living with dogs can make a difference
The scientists of the Azabu University point out that daily contact with dogs, through play, petting and coexistence in shared spaces, exposes adolescents to a greater environmental microbial diversity.
This exposure could favor a more diverse microbiota, something that in previous research has been associated with possible benefits for physical and emotional health. However, the authors emphasize that more studies are needed to fully understand these effects.
A field that continues to grow
Although the study does not affirm that living with dogs is a unique determining factor for adolescent well-being, it does provide evidence that Relationships with pets have measurable biological effects during a key stage of human development.
The researchers conclude that their findings open new lines of study on how the family environment, living with animals and the microbiota interact in the health and behavior of adolescents.
More information:
Scientists determine the exact age at which dogs begin to age
Study suggests Chernobyl dogs are undergoing rapid evolution
Experts advise how often it is recommended to bathe a dog