Welcome to paws for connection
A practical guide to enjoying a little more social interaction on your dog walks
What is Paws for Connection?
Paws for Connection is a free, self-guided resource designed to help you notice and make more intentional use of the small opportunities for social connection that can arise while walking your dog.
It was originally created for adults who live alone and would welcome a little more everyday social interaction, but anyone who regularly walks a dog and would like to feel more connected can use it.
The guide grew out of my MSc dissertation in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, which explored dogs as facilitators of social connection. It brings together research on social connection and wellbeing, brief everyday interactions, and the ways dogs can make it easier for people to connect.
It was also inspired by my own experience with my dog, Hudson, who has opened the door to countless conversations, familiar faces and relationships in my life.
The aim is simple: to help you notice the opportunities that may already be there, choose what feels right for you and your dog, and explore whether some of those small moments of connection add something positive to your day.
Who is it for?
Paws for Connection is for adults who live alone, regularly walk their dog, and would enjoy a little more social interaction in their everyday life.
Did you know that even a brief hello or chat with a stranger or familiar face during a dog walk can give your day a small lift?
What does it involve?
Paws for Connection has four short sections: Understand, Prepare, Engage & Reflect, and Review & Build.
1 Learn about the importance of connection
2 Plan what feels right
3 Try it out on five dog walks
4 See what worked for you and choose what, if anything, to keep doing
Based on research
Paws for Connection draws on research into social connection, brief everyday interactions, and how dogs can create opportunities for conversation and connection.
That research has been turned into a practical guide you can use to get more social interaction when you're walking your dog.
More details on the research behind Paws for Connection can be found in Explore the Science.
Your dog’s comfort, other people’s cues, safety, and what feels right for you all matter. There is no pressure to interact.
Still have questions?
You can find more about how Paws for Connection works, who it’s for and what to expect in the FAQ.
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