Abstract
Objective: The present work seeks to compare the quality of life among undergraduate owners and non-owners of pet dogs. Methodology: Using psychometrics we seek to recognize possible effects generated by the interaction with estimation dogs. We used the World Health Organization quality of life analysis tool (WHOQOL-bref) in 257 undergraduates from two private institutions in the Federal District, Brazil. Results: The results show an increase in the psychological domain (95% of significance) of people who own a pet dog and higher indexes of stress indicators in people who do not acquire a dog. Our work also shows differences between men and women and adults and young people suggesting differences in the life projects pursued by each group. Conclusions: Pet dog owners present significantly higher psychological scores than non-pet owners.