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Abstract

Emerging research suggests canine companions may support the management of health conditions, yet evidence within complex, long-term conditions like hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) remains limited. hEDS is a multifaceted condition often associated with social withdrawal. Thus, the current research provided a high-powered investigation into whether the nonjudgmental support of canine companions could improve health and well-being outcomes for individuals with hEDS. An online survey of 401 participants was utilized to compare differences in health and well-being among individuals with hEDS who have a canine companion to those who do not. Results revealed that participants with canine companions experienced fewer difficulties in daily activities related to emotional issues, with some less robust evidence suggesting improvements in physical health and loneliness. However, most outcomes showed no significant differences between those with and without canine companions. Further analysis generally indicated better outcomes among individuals whose dogs exhibited fewer behavioral issues, highlighting the role of dog behavior in shaping outcomes. Moreover, participants who spent all their time with their dog reported worse outcomes, potentially reflecting the effects of severe symptomatology and limited mobility. These findings highlight the complex interplay between canine companionship and health. While canine companionship may offer specific benefits, particularly emotional support, it is not universally beneficial and may depend on nuanced factors such as dog behavior, the quality of the human–dog bond, and guardian expectations. Future research should explore these dynamics longitudinally and include broader considerations of dog-related and individual factors in both those with and without chronic health conditions.

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