In some nations The number of dogs has exceeded that of childrena trend that raises questions about the change of family and social dynamics. According to a study conducted by Professor Enikő Kubinyi of the Eötvös Loránd University, there is one connection between the possession of dogs and the decrease in birthsbut not in the way that many might think.
In the modern context, in fact, dogs are increasingly seen as family memberswith some owners who even consider them most important than the people. A recent survey revealed that 19% of children without children and 10% of parents appreciate their dogs more than any human being.
The professor underlines that, while some studies suggest that possession of a dog can Reduce the propensity to maternityother searches indicate that dogs could actually stimulate fertility. Many families with children have dogs, and some couples see the dog as a sort of “preparatory child“, A step towards parenting. Furthermore, having a dog could make some people more attractive in the eyes of potential partners, increasing the chances of paternity.
The growing popularity of dogs has roots in the biological needs of care and social support
Kubinyi proposes a theory called “The theory of the escape of the pet animal“, According to which the growing popularity of dogs has roots in biological needs of care and social support, but these instincts turned more and more towards pets due to the lack of satisfactory human relationships.
In modern societies, many people feel socially isolated and dogs offer a comfort that human relationships are not always able to give. This phenomenon is also visible in the evolutionary changes of dogs, which today present physical traits reminiscent of i human childrenlike the short muzzle, which strongly stimulate treatment instincts.
The growing number of dogs is not so much a replacement of procreation, as a reflection of a wider transformation of social networks and the emotional needs of people. Kubinyi says that although possession of dogs can be an excellent source of emotional support, it is fundamental strengthen the systems of family support To reduce isolation and promote collective well -being.
