Many dog owners wonder whether they share similarities with their dogs, including characteristics like a calm temperament, a sociable personality or even a bit of stubbornness. The idea that people and dogs resemble each other is not just a joke. In fact, some researchers have explored this question.

As a clinician and researcher who has been studying different aspects of the human–animal bond and works clinically with people grieving the loss of a pet, I understand how meaningful these relationships can be. I am particularly interested in how perceived similarities and emotional connections with dogs can shape the quality of the relationship.

Understanding what is known so far about the similarities between people and dogs is crucial, as this can reveal whether perceptions of similar physical and personality traits play a role in the quality of the relationship people share with their dogs.

Research on perceived similarities between people and their dogs aims to understand whether such perceptions are accurate and how they affect the relationship between people and their dogs.

A recent review synthesizes findings from 15 empirical studies that investigated similarities between dog-human pairs, both in appearance and personality. Regarding personality, the findings suggest that dogs and their guardians may have parallel traits, such as levels of extroversion, anxiety and sociability.

Looking further, some people seem to choose dogs that physically resemble them, particularly when choosing a purebred dog.........

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