What Dogs Can Teach Us About Authenticity

Dogs have a way of moving through the world that feels uncomplicated. Occasionally, their enthusiasm might seem overzealous (all squirrels don't require a full investigation), yet there’s something to admire in their unapologetic sincerity.

Raw instinct? Perhaps, but I think that dogs show us that authenticity isn’t necessarily as elusive as we make it.

For example, dogs provide an unambiguous example of communication. When faced with a delivery at the front door or the sound of a vacuum, their reactions are immediate and clear. Their outward expressions align perfectly with their internal responses, leaving no room for confusion about their emotional or physical state.

In contrast, human communication is often layered with subtleties, shaped by intent, social norms, or unspoken expectations. This complexity can obscure meaning, leading to misinterpretation or a disconnect between what is felt and what is expressed.

While it would be reductive to extrapolate dogs' traits directly, they do remind us humans that being authentic is about choices and actions that stay true to who we are.