If you have ever felt that your dog is more than a pet, that he is a member of the family, an inseparable companion and even your "doggie-child", you are not exaggerating. What you feel has a scientific explanation: love for our dogs is the result of thousands of years of shared evolution and biological mechanisms that strengthen our bond with them.

But what makes dogs steal our hearts in this way? From their tender gaze to the wagging of their tails, there are multiple reasons why our connection with them is so special.

From wolves to best friends: a story of evolution and selection

Thousands of years ago, the ancestors of our modern dogs, wild wolves, began to approach human settlements. Initially, they did so to feed on leftover food, but over time, some more sociable wolves were tolerated and even protected by humans. As generations progressed, humans favoured (consciously or not) those wolves that showed less aggression and a greater capacity for interaction.

This process of domestication shaped the unique relationship we share with dogs today. But beyond selecting for practical skills, such as the ability to hunt or protect the home, humans also unintentionally select characteristics that we find adorable.

The look that makes you fall in love: the secrets behind the "puppy dog eyes".

I'm sure you've experienced that feeling when your dog looks at you tenderly and you simply can't resist. It's no coincidence. Science has shown that dogs have evolved a special ability to manipulating our emotions with his gaze.

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences revealed that dogs have a facial muscle that allows them to subtly raise their eyebrows, giving them a more childlike and expressive appearance. This gesture, which wolves cannot do, increases our emotional response to them and prompts us to care for them.

Not only that: we prefer dogs with large, dark eyes because we associate them with tenderness and gentleness, which further strengthens our bond with them. In other words, our dogs know exactly how to give us "puppy dog eyes" to earn our love (and probably a couple of extra treats!).

The language of the tail: how dogs convey our emotions

The wagging of a dog's tail is another of those irresistible signals that generate positive emotions. But beyond being a simple manifestation of joy, science has shown that the rhythm of tail wagging can influence our mood.

Researchers have found that watching an energetic tail wagging can have a similar effect to listening to soothing music. This rhythmic movement activates areas of the brain related to pleasure and well-being, helping us to feel calmer and happier.

Moreover, dogs do not only wag their tails when they are happy. Their direction and speed can indicate different emotional states:

• Wide and relaxed movement: Happiness and confidence.
• Low and slow tail: Insecurity or submission.
• Rigid and fast movementState of alertness or excitement.

By learning to interpret these signals, we can better understand what our dogs are feeling and strengthen our bond with them.

Our brains react to dogs as if they were our children.

If you're the type who calls your dog "my baby" or "my doggy child", rest assured: science backs up your instinct.

Neuroimaging studies have shown that when humans think about our dogs, they activate in the brain. the same regions that are activated in a mother when she thinks of her child. These areas are related to attachment, love and the protective instinct.

That's why we feel such a deep connection with them and why their well-being matters so much to us. Our brains are programmed to love, care for and protect them as if they were part of our family.

Celebrate doggy love on Valentine's Day with GUAU Events ❤️🐶

February 14 is known as the Day of Love and Friendship, but who said it's only about romantic love? This year, we propose a different way to celebrate: discovering how compatible you are with your dog and connecting with other animal lovers. February 20th is also the day to love your pet, so double celebration!

At GUAU EventsWe have designed a unique experience to celebrate doggy love with a special activity:

📅 DateFriday 14 February 2025
🕒 Time: From 17h to 20h
📍 PlaceParque del Oeste, with sunset at the Temple of Debod

🐾 What does it consist of?

• We will conduct a compatibility test specially designed to assess the relationship between humans and dogs.
• We will take a guided walk through the beautiful Parque del Oestewhere you will meet other people who share your love for dogs.
• We will end the event with a magical sunset at the Temple of DebodThe perfect setting to make new friends (or something more!).
• We will reveal the compatibility results according to the test.

💌 Why shouldn't you miss it?

• You will do a different and fun activity with your dog.
•  You will learn more about the special connection you share with him.
•  You'll meet other dog lovers... and who knows, maybe you'll find a walking partner!

🐶 Reserve your place before they sell out 🎟️

•  To register click on this linkwhere you have all the information, and get your ticket. 

📢 The first places have already been filled, secure your place and come and celebrate doggy love with us. 

We are waiting for you!