For decades, people have joked that dogs look and act like their owners. This idea, long considered anecdotal, now has scientific backing. A systematic review of 15 studies explored the evidence for physical and personality similarities between dogs and their human companions. The results support 2 major hypotheses: (1) people choose dogs that look like them; and (2) over time, dogs and owners grow similar in personality.

In terms of physical appearance, the studies consistently show that humans can match dog-owner pairs based on looks. One experiment even found that participants correctly matched owners and dogs using only their eye regions.

Researchers also identified matching features such as body weight and hair or ear length, especially between female owners and their pets. These patterns suggest that people often choose dogs who resemble them. This selection may result from psychological effects like the mere-exposure effect, where people prefer what feels familiar, or a preference for self-similarity, which draws individuals to traits that mirror their own.

When examining personality traits, researchers found even stronger correlations. Dogs and owners often share characteristics such as extraversion and neuroticism. Many studies confirmed these personality overlaps. Notably, highly neurotic owners tended to have dogs that also showed signs of anxiety or mood instability. Although some researchers argue that this similarity arises from initial selection, others believe it develops over time through shared experiences and emotional coregulation.

Researchers have proposed several mechanisms for the development of internal similarities. Emotional convergence happens when close companions gradually align their emotional responses. For example, a neurotic owner may behave inconsistently, prompting the dog to act cautiously or anxiously. Coregulation also plays a role. Here, the dog and owner continuously shape each other’s emotional states and behaviors. Some studies showed that the owner’s emotional instability influenced the dog’s obedience, whereas others found that the dog’s anxiety affected the owner’s mood.

Observational learning may further explain personality similarities. Dogs observe their owners’ behavior and mimic certain emotional and social cues. For instance, dogs of highly extraverted owners have more chances to watch social interactions and may adopt more outgoing behaviors. Over time, reinforcement strengthens these traits, as owners reward behaviors that reflect their own tendencies, sometimes without realizing it.

Future research needs to explore these dynamics further. Longitudinal studies could track how personality similarities evolve over time, according to the systematic review.

 Scientists should also consider who selects the dog in each household, whether the dog is purebred or mixed breed, and how gender influences owner-dog similarity. Investigating narcissism might shed light on why people choose dogs that mirror their appearance. Additionally, analyzing live interactions or video footage could reveal more about the subtle behavioral parallels between humans and their pets.

In conclusion, this review supports the claim that dogs resemble their owners in both appearance and personality. People often select dogs that look like them, and as they live together, their personalities grow more alike. Whether through choice, coregulation, or emotional convergence, dogs and humans form deeply connected and similar pairs. The next step is to examine what these similarities mean for their happiness, functionality, and compatibility as companions, according to the authors of the review.

 is a 2026 PharmD candidate studying veterinary pharmacy at the University of Connecticut in Storrs.

Bender Y, Roth F, Schweinberger S, Witte S, Brauer J. Like owner, like dog: a systematic review about similarities in dog-human dyads. 

. 2025;233:112884. doi:10.1016/j.paid.2024.112884

Articles

A systematic review of several studies offers insight.

Do dogs really resemble their owners? 

Diverse suite of veterinary research funded

The Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation (ACAHF), which funds veterinary research to improve pet health, has awarded a milestone AUD $100,000 in grant funding to 10 recipients.

Garth McGilvray, AM, BVSc, FAICD, ACAHF chairperson, explained exclusively to 

 that the foundation is very excited to be funding a diverse range of projects, which will enhance the clinical capability of veterinarians in practice.

“2025 has been a momentous year for the Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation. In addition to a major bequest from a veterinarian and donations from pet owners, there has been a strong return from the foundation's investment portfolio. On top of this, we also received a large number of high-quality research applications from veterinary researchers. Consequently, the foundation has—for the first time in its 36 years—been able to distribute just AUD $100,000 to researchers into companion animal medicine in Australia,”  McGilvray said.

Garth McGilvray, AM, BVSc, FAICD, chair of the Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation (image courtesy of Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation)

“The projects being funded range from assessing the development of antimicrobial resistance in dogs, elucidating the role of interleukins in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis, to ongoing research into important cat diseases,” he said.

Christine Griebsch, DrMedVet, DECVIM-CA, of the University of Sydney, received the Roger Clarke Memorial Grant for her research project titled, "Comparison of Two 

 Antibody Point-of-Care Testing Methods in Healthy Dogs After Vaccination Against Leptospirosis and its Implications for Diagnosis of Naturally Occurring Leptospirosis."

Peter Atkinson, BSc, DVM, of the University of Adelaide, received a grant for his research, titled "Revision of the Clinical Guidelines for Canine Heartworm Prevention in Australia Against Best Current Evidence," whereas Corrin Boyd, BSc, BVMS, MVCS, DACVECC, PhD, of Murdoch University, received 2 grants for his research projects, titled "Development of Antimicrobial Resistance in Dogs Administered Erythromycin as a Gastrointestinal Prokinetic" and "Association Between Potassium Chloride Administration, Hyperchloraemia, and Acute Kidney Injury in Dogs."

The foundation’s funding rounds occur once a year, with applications assessed and ranked by an expert research committee. Selected research is primarily focused on gaining a better understanding of a disorder, with the aim of improving long-term health outcomes and better treatment and prevention options to companion animals.

Anyone interested in more information about the ACAHF's research grant program should visit the foundation’s website.

Nature Needs More, an Australian nonprofit organization that works on tackling the key systemic enablers of the illegal wildlife trade, released a new report, "The Exotic Pet Trade—An Unnecessary Luxury In Need of Regulation." Cameron Murray, BSc, BVMS, a director of Nature Needs More and coauthor of the report, explained the goal of the publication to 

“I would hope this report leads to meaningful change in how the exotic pet trade is managed, starting with an honest assessment of what is appropriate to be owned and then looking at the process through the whole supply chain,” Murray said. “Additionally, I would hope to inspire the veterinary profession to be part of the solution with regard to recognizing and addressing the risks that lie within the trade. It is a real opportunity for our profession to lead on behalf of the animals in this case.”

Murray’s interest in rhino conservation led him to investigate the wildlife trade more widely. He explained that, as a veterinarian, he was interested to see the issues surrounding the exotic pet trade examined carefully.

“It is time to put the interests of animals first and see the real and potential risks that the trade presents. Looking past the biodiversity loss risk, then, from a veterinary point of view, the welfare and biosecurity concerns alone should be enough for the profession to support the move to a precautionary principle management approach. I will continue to advocate that the profession in Australia and globally should be more active in driving positive change in this trade,” Murray said. “It seems there is a real inertia in the willingness to...change the mindset of the last 50 years of conservation. Systems don’t necessarily need to be thrown out and recreated but rather...reappraised and modernized. The exotic pet trade would seem to be a good test case for this. A trade that is not essential could be turned on it’s head and managed with the animals interests at heart while mitigating a range of risks associated with it.”

The full report is available on the Nature Needs More website.

Updates on grant funding to aid veterinary research, and a report examining the exotic pet trade.

Veterinary scene down under: Funding grants for research, plus a new report investigating the exotic pet trade

Everyday ophthalmology with Jennifer Sheahan

Vet Watch Episode 3

, we dive into the essentials of veterinary ophthalmology with Jennifer Sheahan, DVM, DACVO; and Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM. The pair discusses tonometry—what it is and why it’s important—along with practical tips and tricks for accurately measuring eye pressure. You’ll also learn expert techniques for using fluorescein stain and get clear guidance on when and how to perform direct vs indirect retinal exams as a general practitioner or emergency veterinarian. 

The discussion also goes in-depth on the management of both primary and secondary glaucoma, with the goal of providing the knowledge and confidence necessary to handle these cases in practice. 

 You love what you do by getting good at what you do and by practicing.... And you know that it comes quickly. It's as simple as, 'Oh, I need to get good at checking the eye pressures so it's more efficient and faster.' Just perfecting your trade. I think we're very lucky in the field that we're in.... [It's] so beautiful, helping animals and stuff like that, so I'm always trying to learn as well.

A link to the educational materials mentioned in the episode can be found here: 

Jennifer Sheahan, DVM, DACVO, was born and raised in Edmond, Oklahoma. She graduated from the University of California, Irvine in 2003, with majors in biology and criminology. She attended veterinary school at Oklahoma State University, graduating in 2011. Following veterinary school, she completed a 1-year rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship at The Ohio State University, followed by a 3-year residency in comparative ophthalmology at Animal Eye Care. She has a particular interest in ophthalmic pharmacology, as well as dry eye disorders and retinal diseases. In her free time, she enjoys photography, running, traveling, and spending time with family.

Videos

Learn real-world strategies from Jennifer Sheahan, DVM, DACVO, to help master essential eye exams, manage emergencies, and elevate your ophthalmology skills in everyday practice.

Real-world ophthalmology: Diagnosing and managing eye conditions in pets

With the Fourth of July approaching, keeping clients informed of the dangers dogs face during this holiday season is important. With many people celebrating the holiday near bodies of water, Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) recently shared precautions pet owners should take to keep their dogs safe if bringing their animal companion along to a day on a lake.

Assessing the quality of the water is a must before allowing dogs to access it, as large bodies of water may contain parasites and other hazards to dogs, according to Texas A&M.

 “I would try to discourage pets from drinking lake water as much as possible, as parasites, trash, contaminants and even certain algae can be in the water,” Erin Ray, DVM, clinical assistant professor at VMBS, said in a university report.

 “Researching the area, checking social media, or even calling the area officials to inquire about current conditions is always a good idea.

According to Ray, blue-green algae—a cyanobacteria that is found in stationary bodies of water like ponds, lakes, or rivers—produce toxins that may affect the liver and neurological system, posing a lethal risk to dogs and cats.

 Because this bacterium is difficult to spot with the naked eye, even clear bodies of water pose a risk.

“Dogs get infected by drinking or swimming in affected waters. When anchoring for a swim break (on a boat), it is best to avoid stagnant water and water with obvious algae ‘blooms’ on the water surface,” said Ray.

 Initial clinical signs of infection from this cyanobacterium include convulsions and collapse and can develop immediately after the animal leaves the water.

If bringing pets along to a boat trip, Texas A&M also advises owners to pack “pet care essentials.” These include

Gentle shampoo for dogs, such as those that are soap-free or oatmeal-based

Additional safety tips, in and out of the water

When operating a boat, exercise caution to prevent pets from falling overboard and being pulled underwater. To help keep pets safe, avoid sharp turns and high speeds. Additionally, introducing the dog to a life jacket ahead of the trip can help them feel more comfortable and ensure the life jacket fits properly. Ray recommends dogs wear a life jacket when on or near water to prevent drowning.

Aggressive animals inside and outside of the water

Human foods and beverages such as hot dogs, chips, alcohol, and chocolate should be kept out of reach of pets. Caregivers should also remain vigilant of pets consuming fireworks or trash.

Additionally, prolonged exposure to the sun and high temperatures pose a risk of dehydration and hyperthermia. “In the middle of summer it gets very hot, putting dogs at risk for heat stroke—especially brachycephalic breeds and dogs with thick/long coats—which is life-threatening and caused by not having access to ample clean, fresh water, shade or air-conditioning to cool down in,” Ray said.

Signs of hyperthermia include excessive panting, excessive water intake, seizures, lethargy, collapse, and blue-colored tongue or gums.

 Ray recommends avoiding dogs play for prolonged periods of time during the hottest times of the day without shade or water.

Data and advice on hyperthermia, dehydration, and burnt paw pads in dogs

Pets who are not in a safe space during firework displays may become stressed or anxious and are at higher risk of running away or becoming lost. According to a data analysis from the nonprofit organization Shelter Animals Count, the number of stray dog intakes at shelters consistently increases in the days surrounding July 4th.

Precautionary steps caregivers can take include planning ahead to secure pets in a safe, quiet place ahead of, during, and after the firework displays. According to Ray, white noise or reggae music may help calm pets.

For dogs on a boat trip, anchoring the boat farther from the fireworks can help reduce their stress. “Owners can try to calm down their pets physically with petting, calm voices and a loving hold,” Ray added.

 If firework-related anxiety is known prior to boat travel, a veterinary consultation is recommended to discuss potential medications that may help manage the pet’s stress levels.

Your pet’s lake day survival guide for the Fourth of July. Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. June 26, 2025. Accessed July 1, 2025. 

https://stories.tamu.edu/news/2025/06/26/your-pets-lake-day-survival-guide-for-the-fourth-of-july/

Springtime bliss: Keeping your pets safe from poisonous plants. Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. March 14, 2024. Accessed July 1, 2025. 

https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk/keeping-your-pets-safe-from-poisonous-plants/?_gl=1*14r0p84*_ga*MTAxMDQ5Nzg3MS4xNzQ0MjkyNzky*_ga_3LYM4WJM04*czE3NTEzOTAwODQkbzExJGcwJHQxNzUxMzkwMzg4JGo1NCRsMCRoMA

Stray dog intakes spike after July 4th, new data from Shelter Animals Count confirms—Shelter Animals Count. News release. Shelter Animals Count. June 23, 2025. Accessed July 1, 2025. 

https://www.shelteranimalscount.org/stray-dog-intakes-spike-after-july-4th-new-data-from-shelter-animals-count-confirms/#:~:text=Analysis%2C%20SAC%20News-,Stray%20Dog%20Intakes%20Spike%20After%20July%204th%2C%20New%20Data%20from,seasonal%20spike%20and%20respond%20effectively

Blue-green algae is found in still bodies of water and may pose a lethal risk to cats and dogs

July 4th pet safety: Lakes, boating, and fireworks

“Veterinary technicians are wonderful...patient advocates and I think we sometimes...limit ourselves,” says Tabitha Kucera, RVT, VTS (Behavior), CCBC, KPA-CTP, FFCP, in this interview with dvm360

A message for veterinary technicians from a veterinary technician 

Tabitha Kucera, RVT, VTS (Behavior), CCBC, KPA-CTP, FFCP, owner of Chirrups and Chatter Cat and Dog Behavior Consulting and Training in Cleveland, Ohio, shares advice she hopes veterinary technicians will carry with them following a lecture she presented at the Fetch dvm360 conference in Nashville, Tennessee this past spring. In the video, Kucera speaks about the importance of self-advocacy and encourages technicians to 'find their happy.'

Below is a partial transcript, which has been lightly edited for improved clarity:

Tabitha Kucera, RVT, VTS (Behavior), CCBC, KPA-CTP, FFCP: 

I understand it can be challenging out here for vet techs. I know sometimes we don't have title protection, we're working towards a lot of things as far as us being respected and just treated well. Again, title protection is a whole separate thing, but I need you to understand how amazing you are. Veterinary technicians are wonderful, amazing patient advocates, and I think we sometimes—a lot of the time—limit ourselves, and that is not something I do anymore.

I have so many gigs, and I am helping animals and people in so many ways and that's going to look different for all of you but please don't limit yourself. Many of you may feel stuck. I work with a lot of, and kind of talk to a lot of vet techs who are like, "I'm stuck here, it's like this everywhere," and they're not happy due to numerous reasons. The good news is it can feel like that but it's not like that everywhere.

And the more of us advocating for ourselves...yes, you're going to take a lunch. Yes, my scrub allowance will be part of this. Yes, CE allowance is part of our just normal, right? The amount of interviews I went on and I just had routine open-ended questions, and although I wasn't a good fit with that clinic, they then started offering CE allowance for all their technicians.

So these are things that you can do to not only advocate for yourself but also advocate for your colleagues and then also find your happy. Your thing might be behavior or it may be nutrition or end-of-life care. And that's where going to conferences like 

 is really helpful because I know we're like, “oh, we're so tired.” The idea of going to a conference is exhausting, but actually it kind of lifts you up. You get to talk to others who understand and recognize what you're going through. And you kind of get to get excited about vet med...

Vet Set Go in partnership with Antech Diagnostics has launched a veterinary shadowing contest for high school students, marking the first year the program is being offered. The winner of the 2025 Become a Vet Shadowing Contest will have the opportunity to shadow a veterinarian at West Ridge Animal Hospital in Greeley, Colorado this summer.

The contest is open to high school students aged 16 to 18 years. Entries are being accepted through July 11, 2025.

The selected student will have the opportunity to shadow a veterinarian and their team at West Ridge Animal Hospital on July 30, 2025.

 The winner will also have the chance to meet Tammi Lesser, BASc, interim president and senior vice president of strategic marketing and commercial support of Antech Diagnostics, North America. Lesser will share her career journey from kennel assistant through credentialed veterinary technician to her current leadership role.

“Vet Set Go works everyday to encourage future veterinarians across the country to make their dreams come true and this contest is here to jump start your shadowing efforts,” Vet Set Go stated in its contest guidelines.

To enter, applicants must submit a personal statement of 300 words or less explaining why they want to become a veterinarian, sharing any steps they have taken to pursue that goal. According to the contest guidelines, students may consider addressing the following

What they have done to get animal experience

What they have done to gain experience or knowledge about the science of animals

What they have done to learn more about veterinarians

Applicants should also submit a photo of themselves helping animals or spending time with one. All entries must be submitted by a student, parent, or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age.

In 1978, West Ridge became the first hospital in the Northern Colorado area to receive American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accreditation.

 To date, the hospital stands as the only full service AAHA-accredited hospital in Greeley and has recently attained the highest level of AAHA accreditation available.

The hospital offers preventive care and wellness examinations, illness examinations, urgent/emergency care, exotic pet care, and traditional and special medical boarding.

They also offer internal medicine services, such as digital radiology, blood transfusions, ultrasound, and more. Surgical and specialty services, including advanced orthopedic surgery, laparoscopy, endoscopy, and dental services are also offered. Moreover, the hospital provides alternative medicine. This includes acupuncture and veterinary orthopedic manipulation, cold laser therapy, rehabilitation, and fitness services.

2025 Become a Vet Shadowing Contest – Colorado. Vet Set Go. Accessed June 30, 2025. 

https://www.vetsetgo.com/about/2025-colorado-shadowing-contest

Win a shadowing opportunity this summer. News release. Vet Set Go. June 12, 2025. Accessed June 30, 2025. 

https://www.vetsetgo.com/community/win-a-shadowing-opportunity-this-summer

About our hospital. West Ridge Animal Hospital. Accessed June 30, 2025. 

Aspiring veterinarians in Colorado can gain real-world insight through the 2025 Become a Vet Shadowing Contest