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a study by Emily Kunz

- Tom Hayden

They motivate us to play, be affectionate, seek adventure and be loyal.

During a press conference near the start of his first term in office, The President of the United States, Barack Obama, mentioned adopting a dog. We have two criteria that have to be reconciled, he said. One is that Malia [his daughter] is allergic, so it has to be hypoallergenic. [O]ur preference would be to get a shelter dog, but, obviously, a lot of shelter dogs are mutts like me. So whether were going to be able to balance those two things, I think, is a pressing issue on the Obama household. The Nation went crazy with their predictions and suggestions about what type of dog should join the First Family. According to an American Kennel Club survey, most Americans hoped the Obamas would select a Poodle. With every citizen in the US carefully considering the new president, it was imperative that he make a wise canine selection. Why? Because our dogs communicate a lot about the kind of people we are!

Sure, Scooby Doo can clearly articulate this thoughts, but most dogs just dont have that luxury (no matter how loud they may bark). However, our voiceless furry friends are still doing a lot of talking, and what they are saying is a direct reflection of us. When President Obama and Bo, a purebred Portuguese Water Dog, are romping on the White House lawn, hes telling the world that Barack Obama is intelligent, active, and outgoing.

So, when you and Fido are sauntering around the block, what is she divulging to the world about your interests, personality, and even your socioeconomic status? The mere fact that you have a dog speaks volumes, but Fido is spilling all your secrets and you may not even know it.

Introduction

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To understand our modern canine friends, we must first understand their history as a species. While the modern dog is by no means a mystery to the humans who love it, its historical origins are. Genetic evidence suggests that dogs as a domesticated animal could be as much as 16,000 years old. In this narrative, the modern dog is a descendant of the early wolf a wild, ravenous animal driven by hunger, instinct, and a pack relationship. This wolf learned the value of working alongside and as a shadow to man, hunting game and enjoying the portions unused by humans. It was not a difficult evolutionary leap for this wolf to quickly learn that physical necessities were easier to come by when working with humans.

But there is clearly a double-layer to this history. Fossil records indicate that the early man also found it advantageous to work with canines. When the hunting groups went out, the value of having an animal to sniff out, chase, and distract game was no doubt enormous. In this sense, the early canine served both a cooperative and coexistent role with humans both species benefiting from the existence of one another while maintaining their distinct goals.

As mankind itself became more domesticated, the dog naturally found its role being adapted. When humans began relying upon agriculture for their food and clothing, the dogs purpose became one of protection. Moreover, scientists have suggested that early herding and working dogs adapted to a lifestyle of serving humans in exchange for food and health. The wild instinct to hunt was redirected to the ends most suited to humans, with dogs sharing in the production.

History of DogsCivilizations shifting to urban and complex societies brought still more changes to the dogs environment and at this point in history, we see a foreshadowing of the modern dog. Dogs were brought indoors, trained to perform varying tasks, and allowed to spend significantly more time with their human counterparts. Moreover, the same standards humans had been applying to livestock were employed with dogs; dogs were selectively bred for particular traits, sizes, dimensions, or levels of intelligence.

Although the modern dog is likely far removed from its primeval ancestor in both appearance and temperament, the same basic factor exists today: to know the dog, is to know the human.

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History tells us that dogs have evolved from their utilitarian roots to fill more of an emotional need. Because of their capability to change, its easy to see that dogs have responded to those emotions and absorbed behaviors like those of their owners. Dr. Lance Workman, a professor of animal behavior at Bath Spa University in Bath, England explained that when we look for a dog to join our family, we look for something that is like us. Much like dating, we subconsciously match ourselves with animals that share a commonality.

Dr. Workman and his colleague, Dr. Jo Fearson, surveyed dog owners on facets of their personalities including extroversion, agreeableness, emotional stability, conscientiousness, and intelligence. They also asked them questions about these traits in their dogs. The results of their study concluded that yes, in fact, our dogs are a reflection of us.

But this fact was not news to Daisy Okas, assistant vice president of communication at the American Kennel Club. Yes, says Okas, owners typically identify with animals who have similar personality traits, quirks and physical activity levels. Okas surveyed breeders about breed behaviors and owners buying habits, and between her survey and Dr. Workmans research, we can get a good idea of what story a particular breed tells.

About Breeds

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Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and other sporting dogs are social and active animals. They like everyone and everyone likes them. People who own these animals are agreeable, affectionate, and enjoy being around people.

Dogs such as English Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, and Chow Chows are lovable and mellow, but not particularly active. Owners of such breeds are funny, relaxed and tend not to be overly fastidious.Owners and dogs enjoy downtime together.

Herding dogs such as German Shepherds and Sheepdogs are fearless, eager, and alert. They enjoy a pack environment like no other breed. People who own herding dogs are more extroverted, outgoing, and friendly.

Staffordshire Bulls, Scotties, and other terriers are home bodies. Most studies show them as the most adaptable of the breeds. Owners can be a bit introverted, choosing to be at home rather than outdoors.

Greyhounds and Beagles are hound dogs, making them inquisitive and willing to learn new things. Owners of such breeds are emotionally stable, calm, and consistent. They can also be curious, willful, tough on enemies, and loyal to friends.

Dalmatians, Dobermans, and Schnauzers are working dogs and active, outdoor animals who can be very protective of their own. Their owners are typically joggers, hikers, or enjoy other outdoor activities. They are hard and trusted workers.

Chihuahuas and Poodles are showy and graceful. They are highly intelligent creatures who can be open to new experiences. They have a lot of energy. Owners are the same way; they tend to be detail-oriented and appreciate art and culture.

Sporting Non-Sporting

Herding Terriers

Hound Working

Toy Today, we see dogs interacting with humans on a variety of levels: as companions, as protectors, as co-workers, or a combination of

all three. The capabilities of a breed are now far less important than their personality traits.

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Celebrities and their pups arent immune to the generalizations about breeds and owners.

- There are some 70 million pet dogs in the U.S.- 46% of US homes have a dog.- The top dog-owning state is Vermont.- Families with children are much more likely to have dogs.- People with lower education levels are more likely to own dogs.- 18-24 year olds are the most likely age group to own dogs.- 78% of dog owners own their own home. - 76% of Americans consider their pet to be part of the family.- 54% consider themselves pet parents instead of pet owners. - 53% of dogs sleep in their owners bedroom.- Dog owners are more likely to be male. - Dog owners are more likely to be conservative.- Dog owners are more likely to know several neighbors by name.- Dog owners are very likely to be active outdoors.

Facts & Figures

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While generalizations about specific dog breeds and the people who own them can be true in a broad sense, each individual dog has a personality and characteristics all her own. I visited with twelve dog owners and their dogs to see what their furry friends communicated about them. I asked them questions such as Why did you choose this breed, How did you pick out your dogs name? and What personality traits do you and your dog share? I also observed their behaviors, the mannerisms of the dog, and how dog and owner interacted with each other. I found astonishing similarities between man and mans best friend, and had a wonderful time doing it.

Case Studies

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Nikki is a Schnauzer who has a few years behind her. Brycia, her owner, joked that they are both aging ladies. Nikki is named after Brycias great aunt who also owned a Schnauzer. I felt like selecting the same breed as [my great aunt] would pay honor to her legacy, said Brycia. This told me right away that Brycia was nostalgic and thoughtful. When meeting Nikki, shes a bit standoffish at first, but quickly warms up and even enjoys new friends. Similarly, Brycia says that she herself gets a bit wary of new people at first, but if she can push past her introversion, she can and often does make friends for life. Both Brycia and Nikki are quiet, contemplative types who enjoy spending time in nature and even alone. As we spoke, Nikki poked around the grassy area, often turning her face to the sky and breathing deeply. Nikki and I both like our space, said Brycia. I have my office in my house, decorated the way I want it, where I can do and be whatever I want. Nikki is sort of the same way with her spot in the house. She also doesnt sleep with me. She goes down to the couch and sleeps there instead. I can respect that. Brycia also joked that both she and Nikki are motivated by food, but after seeing their healthy, active appearance, I say they just enjoy the finer things in life.

Brycia & Nikki

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Jenny & Dixie

The two best words to describe Jenny and Dixie are energy and intelligence. Jenny is an academic, finishing her Ph.D., and has almost limitless energy for her work and family life. She approaches a conversation with ease and interacts with others casually. Likewise, Dixie, a miniature Australian Shepherd, has boundless vitality and is ready to play from the minute she meets a new person. She approached me with confidence and excitement, just as Jenny did. Moreover, Dixie portrayed the intelligence that is the hallmark of her breed; after only half an hour of interaction, it was clear that Dixie had figured me out and had already cataloged my mannerisms. Dixies coat is a little wild and free, which told me that Jenny isnt particular or overbearing. Jenny says that she made a deliberate choice in Dixie, knowing that she wanted a breed that would complement her own active lifestyle and would be able to assimilate seamlessly into Jennys routine. And this conscious decision on Jennys part is very apparent from the outside. Jennie and Dixie both have a demonstrable love of life and learning!

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Joe is a 30-something graphic design professor. Mr. Elwood is a lovable, white-haired Westie dog, named after Claude Elwood Shannon, mathematician, cryptographer, and a huge part of Joes thesis work. In fact, Joe told me that Mr. Elwood was his gift to himself when he finished graduate school. Without meeting the two, it may not be clear whats so special about them, other than the fact that men are rarely seen with small dogs. But Joe and Mr. Elwood are two peas in a pod. When I asked Joe if I could include him and Mr. Elwood in my study, he heartily agreed and mentioned that hed have Mr. Elwood wear his hoodie. Funnily enough, when I met up with them, they were both wearing hoodies, and Joe told me that it was completely unintentional. Joe likes people and is often checking in with his colleagues to say hello. Hes friendly and outgoing. Like Joe, Mr. Elwood also enjoys associating with humans; he was more excited to see me than even my own dog! Joe also mentioned that he can be a bit of a comedic curmudgeon about petty annoyances. Similarly, Mr. Elwood can also get a bit cranky at times, but always in a harmless, funny way. Mr. Elwood mirrors my personality so much so that Ive learned a lot about myself from him, Joe mused.

Joe & Mr. Elwood

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The similarities between Megan and Kameha are apparent right from the beginning. Megan is Hawaiian, with darker skin and eyes. Kameha, a mix breed rescue dog, also has a dark and mysterious appearance. Kameha is named after Hawaiian King Kamehameha, which told me that she is proud of her heritage. Both Megan and Kameha have friendly, outgoing personalities, despite Megans insistence that she is a little intense. I can get really snippy sometimes. But Im a fierce momma bear and very protective of my friends and family, she says. In the same way, Kameha is top dog in her pack. When I arrived, she was protective of Megan and the other family members, but soon siddled up to me and allowed me to pet her. I also noticed that she was the alpha-female, keeping her furbrother, Tyson, in his place. Megan assured me that that had no reflection on her personality, but when her son guffawed, she punched him playfully and winked at me. Megan and Kameha are two strong women who rule the roost. At first, Megan seemed hesitant to find similarities between her personality and Kamehas, but toward the end of our chat, she begrudgingly agreed that Kameha is a reflection of her, saying, For better or for worse, we are both the Queen Bee.

Megan & Kameha

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This pair are proof that the bond between canine and human is not necessarily apparent from the surface. Its clear that Tyson is an older dog; his weathered face and tired body reveal his true age. Anthony, on the other hand, is an 11 year old boy with his life still ahead of him. But as I interviewed him, he sat with his hand on Tysons head, quietly and carefully considering my questions. Anthonys mother, Megan, told me that he is a very reflective and considerate child. He loves quiet pursuits and is an old man in a little boys body, she said. Anthony smiled and shrugged, saying that it wasnt his fault that he enjoyed Billie Holiday more than Justin Bieber. Like Anthony, Tyson is agreeable and patient, content to putter around the house and enjoy the little things in life.

Anthony & Tyson

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Jessica & Wyatt

Jessica is a busy graduate student who takes her job as a dog parent very seriously. Wyatt, a hound mix, has been through dog training, goes to doggy daycare, and enjoys all the luxuries a furbaby could possibly want. Hes tall, beautiful, clean, and neat, just like Jessica herself. Jessica joked that both she and Wyatt arent keen on strangers, and though Jessica herself is warm and welcoming, Wyatt was cautious of me and protective of Jessica. She told me that Wyatt liked being around loved ones the most, and she agreed that she is happiest with her family as well. As we talked, Wyatt was a little concerned about his surroundings and Jessica mused that she sometimes lets petty stress get the best of her too. Neither of us are rays of sunshine in the morning, laughed Jessica. They love to stay in bed and cuddle the day away. Its clear that these two are the best of friends and, with so many similarities, its clear why they are, too!

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I had never met Dan before interviewing him about his relationship with Harlem, his youthful border collie mix whom he found abandoned on the streets, but their mutual adoration is clear right away. They are both stocky and athletic, with dark hair and kind eyes. The visual similarities arent the only commonalities they have, though. Dan told me that Harlem likes to be active, and, as a personal trainer, he does as well. He also said that shes easily trainable, when the task is something that interests her. In the same way, he said that when he is learning something about physical fitness, nutrition, or his other hobbies, he can absorb the information quickly. As I watched Harlem run in the park, she was playful, curious, and bounced from one place to the next. Dan seemed to mirror this behavior, looking around as if taking it all in and moving about easily. Its obvious that Dan is confident in himself and his abilities, and Harlem seemed to feed off his confidence and ease. Dan joked that Harlem was, in fact, the dog version of himself.

Dan & Harlem

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Stacy is a thin, brunette, has piercing eyes, and a look of intelligence. Her dog, Lana, a Malinois Shepherd mix, has nearly identical, canine features. On first meeting the two of them, its clear that they are one smart duo! Aside from the physical traits, both Stacy and Lana have shared dispositions. Lana is friendly, but cautious, willing to bond with a stranger only after spending some time to get to know him. Similarly, Stacy said shes a bit measured about her interactions with others and only takes risks after careful calculations. However, once Stacy gets to know a person, she is a trusted friend and, in the same way, Lana is a constant companion. Further, as a working breed, Lana likes to stay busy (she goes to work with Stacys husband and loves every minutes of it), but also enjoys her rest. Unbelievably, Stacy is the same way. She keeps a full schedule between a full-time job, full-time graduate school, and spending time with family and friends, but she also knows when to take a load off and relax in front of the television. Stacy told me that Lana is a rescue dog, a fact that Stacy is proud of. This spoke volumes to me about her personality: she is thoughtful, generous, and caring.

Stacy & Lana

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No three characters are better suited for each other than Katie, Bradley, and Lucy. Lucy is a purebred English Retriever, a choice that Katie and Bradley consciously made. The type of play they engage in, the care for Lucy, and the general dynamic among them underscores this conscious decision. Moreover, Lucy clearly mirrors the personalities of each of her humans. Katie is approachable, but deliberately withdrawn, waiting to know the people she meets before she opens up to them. Katie observed that Lucy has picked up on this behavior and often holds back her energy, possibly as a way to match Katies mood. In contrast, Bradley is energetic and more outgoing, and Lucy interacts more aggressively with Bradley. Additionally, Bradley is more of a disciplinarian than Katie and Lucy pushes less boundaries with Bradley than with Katie. Physically, this trio complements one another: they are healthy, outdoor-loving, and flexible with their environment traits that come naturally to Katie and Bradley and are innate to Lucys breed. Bradley and Katie look like the All-American couple and Lucy, the Nations top dog breed choice, fits perfectly into that picture.

Bradley, Katie & Lucy

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Lola and Adam underscore the shared personalities of dog and owner. On the surface, Adam and Lola do look visually similar both are dark, have early graying hair, and seem wary of the camera. Lola is named after The Kinks song Lola, so I knew right away that Adam liked classic rock. Adam and Lola, a terrier mix, are truly kindred spirits. Adam didnt make a lot of eye contact during our conversation and seemed very aware of his surroundings. Lola was the same way, sniffing at anything and everything, and only vaguely acknowledging me. Adam told me that he would classify himself as generally anxious and Lola could not be more similar. Adam said, I wonder sometimes just how much of my personality Lola has adopted. When I first got her, Lola was an anxious, busy puppy, but over time shes begun to channel that into a routine. Adam told me that he likes his agenda and his schedule and hes noticed that Lola has followed suit. She even has a set bedtime routine. Adam says that this routine is likely a product of his interaction with her. Despite their shared unease, they both are gentle and kind; he is very affectionate with Lola and its clear she adores him as well.

Adam & Lola

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Stephanie and Marigold are another pair that illustrate a predetermined match. Marigold has only been with Stephanie for a few short months, but the similarities between them are already pronounced. Marigold is a lovable, friendly Chihuahua who enjoys the company of others. She is small and compact, two traits that Stephanie said she loves (her next car will be a Mini Cooper). When I first interacted with Marigold, she took to me right away, climbing into my lap for a snuggle. The same is true for Stephanie; Stephanie has a virtually permanent smile, a delightful laugh, and a warmth that draws people close. She goes out of her way to make people feel comfortable and the same can be said of Marigold. Stephanie doesnt have human children, but I can tell shes a nurturer because Marigold has become her baby. And interestingly enough, Marigold responds to this humanist role, curling up in her lap, kissing her cheeks, and even burying her face into Stephanies neck. Like mother, like doghter!

Stephanie & Marigold

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I would be remiss if I didnt include my dog and I. Eleanor and I are cut from the same cloth. She is a small Chihuahua/Dachshund mix, full of life and personality. We are both scrappy and a bit slight, but we have fierce dispositions and are not easily intimidated by the large and loud. Both of us are head strong and independent, but we still find time for lifes simple pleasures like food and rest. Eleanor knows her limitations, but more importantly she knows her potential. She often faces down frightening situations that would send other dogs running, like cars and bigger dogs. While I dont think Im quite that brave, I do have the ability to muscle through tough situations. My husband jokes that neither of us are easy to train. We are visually similar with our matching hair color and, I would even say the shape of her ears mimic the curls in my hair. Interestingly, she is the responsibility of both myself and my husband, yet, she seems more concerned about my wellbeing and interested in my activities than she does about my husbands. I think she senses our similarities and finds comfort in that. Eleanor is named after Eleanor Roosevelt; I admire strong, confident women and I hoped she would become one as well.

Emily & Eleanor

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The American Kennel Club is correct that dogs are a product of their breeding. A Terrier will protect her owners and a Dachshund will be mischievous and silly. Further, their temperament is often influenced by their parents. For example, studies show that a mother dog under duress while pregnant is likely to give birth to anxious puppies.

However, one look at a litter of new puppies and its clear that each dog is born with a singular personality. But those personalities morph and change based on that of their environment. Stanley Coren, author of a variety of books on the nature of dogs, says, A dogs personality is not fully set in his genes but is also affected and shaped by his life history, living conditions, his owners nature and characteristics, and the social and educational interactions that he has with his owner.

Because dogs evolved from subsisting in the wild to living in our homes, eating our food, and sharing our beds, their loyalties are to those who provide them necessities of life (us). In order to satisfy the alpha-humans, dogs seek to please, establish a firm footing in the pack, and, ultimately, get their basic needs met. I also believe that because dog owners are conscientious, caring individuals, they amend their lifestyles for these lovable, furry creatures. Dog owners and dogs settle on a middle ground to create a life that works for them both. Because of this, a human/canine relationship is a complementary one.

Dogs names, their breeds, and their grooming all give visual cues about the kinds of people who take care of them. It doesnt take science to see that Kamehas Hawaiian name refers to Megans

Conclusionheritage, for example. Or that Dixies unfussy appearance is a result of Jennys laid-back nature.

As for why dogs often resemble their owners physically, Simply put, says Coren, we like things that are familiar. This explains why we are so willing to read or view each new version of the King Arthur legend, or why people go back, year after year, to hear the same opera, and why radio stations that play only oldies are so popular. Science suggests that because we see and know our own features, we have become fond of ourselves and, therefore, may select a hound that appeals to this desire for the known. Michael Roy and Nicholas Christenfeld, psychologists from the University of California at San Diego, studied this phenomena by photographing dogs and their owners separately and asking observers to guess which dog belonged to which person. In a majority of the results, the observers correctly matched the pair.

The parallels between humans and their dogs are truly astounding. Dogs understand us in ways we might not even comprehend and they reveal parts of our personalities that may be unfamiliar, even to ourselves. They reveal so much about who we are, the President of the United States not withstanding, that they might has well be speaking as clearly as Scooby Doo.

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SourcesAmerican Kennel Club, Americans Elect Poodle as Obamas Top Dog, AKC.Org (Aug. 28, 2008).

Coren, Stanley, Do Dogs Look Like Their Owners?, Psychology Today (Aug. 7, 2013).

Coren, Stanley, Do Owners and Their Dogs Have Similar Personalities?, Psychology Today (Aug. 20, 2013).

Coren, Stanley, Does Genetics Determine a Dogs Personality?, Psychology Today (Apr. 17, 2013).

Coren, Stanley, Life History and Owners Nature Shape a Dogs Personality, Psychology Today (July 30, 2013).

Cossins, Dan, Dogs and Human Evolving Together, The Scientist (May 16, 2013).

Greenwood, Arin, U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook 2012: D.C. Has Lowest Percentage Of Pet Ownership In U.S., The Huffington Post (Jan. 16, 2013).

Hekman, Jessica, How a Mothers Stress Can Influence Unborn Puppies, The Whole Dog Journal (Nov. 2014).

Neuman, Johanna, New first dog: The Obamas choose a Portuguese water dog, Los Angeles Times (Feb. 25, 2009).

Pappas, Stephanie, What Your Dogs Breed Says About You, LiveScience.com (Apr. 19, 2012).

Poggi, Jeanine, What Your Dog Says About You, Forbes (Nov. 21, 2008).

Readers Digest, What Dogs Say About Your Personality, ReadersDigest.ca.

Roy, M.M. & Christenfeld, N.J., Do Dogs Resemble Their Owners? Psychological Science, Vol. 15, pp. 361-63 (2004).

Toellner, Brent, US Pet Ownership Statistical Breakdown, KC Dog Blog (Nov. 12, 2012).

Wang, Xiaoming, Dogs: Their Fossil Relatives and Evolutionary History, Columbia University Press. pp. 233236.

Woof vs. Meow: What Our Furry Pals Reveal About Us, Hunch.com (July 2, 2011).

Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.

- George Eliot

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