Why is yawning contagious between humans, but not dogs and humans?

Answer 1

We've been wondering why yawning is often infectious amongs humans for years ~ now you bring dogs in to complicate things?

OK...the latest, pretty extensive studies came up with the same conclusions time and time again. In a group, large or small, it was found that (are you ready) the most EMPATHETIC people in the group showed a marked increase in yawning after another member of the group did!!!

Nothing to do with lack of oxyen, or anything which at least makes it sound more scientific, doesn't it?

Apparently, the more empathetic you are, the more you are likely to yawn after another person has done so, whether you know them or not.......it's about how YOU are, not them!

HOWEVER....what set the first yawner off, hm? hm? Was THAT due to the brain telling you to suck a bunch of oxygen in, it needed it?

And as for dogs not being as susceptible......perhaps, being as sensitive and empathetic as we know they can be.....they do not recognise it as anything requring pack participation!

Actually, we know little about our own "pack" behaviours, now that we're so damn civilized, (?) and I feel sure there are many more psychological factors coming into play than as yet we are aware! yaaaaaaaawn. did you did you? heh heh. k.

Answer 2

Because dogs have no idea what yawning really is and they don't know what they're doing when they yawn. Dogs basically think that you're just opening your mouth. It means nothing to them.