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Do Dogs Judge Human Character? Science Says Maybe Not – Study Finds

Source link : https://earth-news.info/general/do-dogs-judge-human-character-science-says-maybe-not-study-finds/

A new study challenges the popular notion that dogs can judge human character, suggesting that our canine companions may not be the discerning moral critics we often believe them to be. While dogs are renowned for their keen instincts and emotional sensitivity, researchers have found little scientific evidence to support the idea that they assess people’s personalities or ethical qualities. This unexpected finding invites a closer look at the complex nature of dog-human relationships and raises questions about how much our pets truly understand about us.

Dogs Rely More on Behavior Than Character Traits When Evaluating Humans

Recent research challenges the common belief that dogs assess humans based on innate character traits such as kindness or honesty. Instead, findings suggest canines are far more attuned to observable behaviors and immediate actions than to abstract qualities. For example, dogs appear to respond distinctly to repeated patterns of interaction, such as consistent kindness or aggression, rather than making judgments about an individual’s “goodness” or “badness” as humans might. This behavioral focus means their evaluations are dynamic, shaped by the tangible cues they receive during each encounter.

Scientists believe this behavioral reliance helps explain why dogs can sometimes be fooled by deceptive human behavior. Unlike humans, who use context and past knowledge to infer intentions, dogs prioritize what they directly experience. Key…

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Author : earthnews

Publish date : 2025-07-19 08:01:00

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