15 Minutes with Dogs Can Significantly Reduce Stress

New study shows brief interactions with furry friends lead to lower stress levels and increased emotional security for both humans and canines.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:04pm

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A minimalist, neon-outlined illustration of a playful dog, capturing the energy and emotional benefits of brief interactions with canine companions.The stress-busting power of a furry friend is captured in a vibrant, neon-outlined illustration.San Luis Obispo Today

A new study from Chiang Mai University has found that spending just 15 minutes with dogs can lead to a 33.5% drop in self-reported stress among students, along with lower pulse rates and cortisol levels. The research also showed that the dogs themselves experienced reduced stress and increased emotional security from the positive interactions. Experts say the bond between humans and dogs, facilitated by the release of oxytocin, allows the brain to unwind and reduce cognitive load in a way that other relationships cannot.

Why it matters

This study highlights the powerful stress-relieving benefits of interacting with dogs, providing a simple and accessible solution for managing anxiety and improving overall wellbeing. In an increasingly fast-paced and high-pressure world, these findings demonstrate the value of incorporating regular dog time into one's routine as a natural way to find moments of calm and relaxation.

The details

The study, which included five Chihuahuas and one Shetland sheepdog, found that even brief interactions with the dogs led to significant reductions in stress for the human participants. Researchers observed lower cortisol levels in the dogs' fecal matter a week after the playdates, indicating that the canines also felt calmer and more emotionally secure from the positive interactions. Lead author Jaruwan Khonmee noted that the absence of distractions and lack of social expectations with dogs allowed the students to truly relax and feel more emotionally balanced.

  • The study was conducted in 2026 at Chiang Mai University in Thailand.

The players

Jaruwan Khonmee

The lead author of the study and a researcher at Chiang Mai University.

Chiang Mai University

The Thai university where the study on the stress-relieving benefits of interacting with dogs was conducted.

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What they’re saying

“The absence of distractions and the lack of social expectations with dogs allowed students to relax and feel more emotionally balanced.”

— Jaruwan Khonmee, Lead Researcher

What’s next

The researchers plan to expand their study to include a larger sample size and explore the long-term impacts of regular dog interactions on stress levels and overall mental health.

The takeaway

This study provides compelling evidence that incorporating even brief periods of time with dogs into one's daily routine can be a highly effective and accessible way to manage stress and improve emotional wellbeing. As the demands of modern life continue to rise, these findings suggest that the simple act of spending time with a furry friend could be a powerful antidote to the pressures of the 21st century.