Start typing “dog shares...” into a search engine and instant cuteness results. In one clip, a yellow Labrador brings its toys to the fence to share with the neighbor dog.
The clips are charming, but are the animals actually sharing? Is it a behavior that animals even know?
Through observation, scientists have found examples of sharing in the animal world. Often, it’s based on reciprocity, which means there could be a future expectation the giver will one day be the receiver.
Animals May Be Altruistic
Sharing is considered an altruistic behavior. Altruism is an action that benefits the recipient but not the giver.
