Do Dogs Experience a Runner’s High?
If you’re a dog owner or enthusiast this is probably a scenario you know. You’ve likely seen your furry friend transform into a ball of energy during exercise. And then melt into a state of blissful relaxation afterward. This phenomenon has led many to wonder whether dogs experience the same “runner’s high” that humans do.
What is a Runner’s High?
For humans, a runner’s high is a euphoric sensation experienced during or after prolonged physical activity. This is often described as a feeling of elation and calm. This is largely due to the release of endorphins and endocannabinoids. These are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers.
Scientific Research on Dogs and Exercise
While direct scientific evidence of dogs experiencing a runner’s high is limited, several studies hint at the possibility:
- Genetic Changes: A 2017 study published in the Journal of Experimental Biology. Found that both domestic dogs and humans share genetic changes. These are associated with the physical demands of endurance exercise. This suggests that dogs may be genetically predisposed to experience similar benefits from prolonged activity.
- Endocannabinoid System: Research on the endocannabinoid system in animals, including dogs. This indicates that the release of endocannabinoids during exercise contributes to the euphoric feeling known as a runner’s high. Since dogs have an endocannabinoid system similar to humans, they could potentially experience a similar response to sustained physical activity.
- Observational Studies: Studies of working dogs, such as sled dogs and herding dogs, have shown behaviors and physiological changes. Changes consistent with an enhanced sense of well-being and resilience during and after prolonged physical activity. These observations align with the concept of a runner’s high.
Expert Opinions
Several experts support the idea that dogs may experience a runner’s high:
- Dr. Karen Becker, DVM: “While more research is needed, the similarities in endocannabinoid systems between humans and dogs suggest that the runner’s high, or an equivalent, is plausible in our canine companions.”
- Dr. Carlo Siracusa, Veterinary Behaviorist: “Observations of working dogs and the shared genetic changes with humans in endurance exercise support the idea that dogs achieve a state of well-being and euphoria during sustained physical activity.”
- Dr. Patricia McConnell, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist: “Anecdotal and observational evidence from dog sports and working dogs strongly indicate that dogs experience a positive mental state during and after intense exercise, akin to what humans describe as a runner’s high.”
Personal Observations
Even without hard scientific proof. Many dog owners and enthusiasts have witnessed behaviors that suggest dogs can achieve a runner’s high:
- Labrador Love: A friend’s Labrador, after a long game of fetch. Displayed a remarkable sense of contentment, almost euphoric, for hours afterward.
- Shelter Dogs: During volunteer work at a dog shelter. High-energy dogs often became notably calmer and more relaxed after extended play sessions in the yard.
- Agility Competitions: At local dog agility competitions. Many dogs seem to enter a focused, happy state during their runs, even those that were initially anxious or excitable.
Run together and get high on life’s healthy journey today…
While we may not yet have conclusive scientific evidence that dogs experience the same runner’s high as humans, the existing research and expert opinions strongly suggest that they do. The shared genetic changes related to endurance exercise, the presence of a similar endocannabinoid system, and numerous anecdotal observations all point to the likelihood that dogs achieve a state of euphoria and well-being through sustained physical activity.
Whether you’re a casual dog walker or an avid participant in dog sports. Exercise has profound benefits for our canine companions. Keep those tails wagging and those paws moving—your dog will thank you for it!
