Are Dog Owners More Trustworthy?

A new study supports the notion that people with dogs appear to be more trustworthy. Research from the U of A and NAIT indicated that 82% of the population would be more likely to speak to a stranger if they had a dog. I've done it, haven't we all?

Somehow it's different if a stranger has a dog, they seem more approachable, and it's easy to find yourself engaged in friendly conversation. The study determined that the majority would trust someone more if they had a dog with them, but researchers Linda Glasier, Alicia Glasier, and Gaylene Fasenko found the reaction can vary depending on the breed of dog.

The study wasn't just confined to surveys and questionnaires, they actually took dogs out in public to test reactions. Big happy dogs like the Bernese Mountain Dog seemed to rule the day, where complete strangers became very friendly wherever they went. At least by public perception, if you have a big goofy dog you are trustworthy, or at the least are safe to start a conversation with.

Dogs are honest, playful, funny, innocent, and loving. It's a normal reaction to feel at ease, and enjoy being around them. For those that care for dogs, it says a great deal about character, and that fact alone indicates a level of trustworthiness.