Dogs can form real friendships, behavior experts say

Dogs can form genuine social bonds with other dogs, according to a recent PetMD report that draws on commentary from board-certified veterinary behaviorists Meghan Herron, DVM, DACVB, and Wailani Sung, MS, PhD, DVM, DACVB. The article describes canine “friendship” as a pattern of repeated, mutual affiliative behavior, including play, licking, nudging, and choosing to spend time together, rather than a one-off friendly interaction. It also notes that dogs appear to recognize preferred companions through a mix of scent, visual familiarity, and prior positive experiences, while temperament and early socialization shape whether a dog seeks out canine relationships at all. (petmd.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the piece is a useful reminder that normal canine social behavior is individualized, and that not every dog wants or needs dog friends. That has practical implications for preventive counseling, behavior triage, daycare and boarding recommendations, and post-adoption guidance for pet parents. The PetMD experts emphasize relaxed body language, reciprocal play, and repeated positive interactions as markers of a healthy bond, while broader veterinary guidance underscores that early social experience, scent-based communication, and trust-building all influence later social competence. (petmd.com)

What to watch: Expect continued interest in translating canine social-bond research into clearer guidance for pet parents on socialization, introductions, daycare fit, and behavior risk assessment. (petmd.com)