06/23/2026
The science of a "good boy" goes deeper than we think. In Boring, Oregon, we see how the silky coat of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel does more than just feel soft: it actively triggers a neurological relaxation response. When you slowly stroke a dog’s fur, you activate C-Tactile (CT) afferents. These specific nerve fibers are tuned to the velocity and temperature of a gentle human touch, sending direct signals to the posterior insular cortex. This process reduces heart rate and lowers cortisol levels, which is vital for seniors in our PNW community managing anxiety or cognitive decline. Our breeding program focuses on maintaining these specific coat textures to maximize therapeutic efficacy. Join us at 4 PM today on our blog for a deep dive into the neurobiology of touch.
Bibliography:
1. Loken, L. S., et al. (2009). Coding of pleasant touch by unmyelinated afferents in uninjured human skin. Nature Neuroscience.
2. Walker, S. C., et al. (2017). C-tactile afferents: A specialized system for social touch. Behavioral Brain Research.
3. Beetz, A., et al. (2012). Psychosocial and Psychophysiological Effects of Human-Animal Interactions. Frontiers in Psychology.