The typical puppy dog eyes that melt our hearts have been found to have a significant impact on our bodies. Researchers have discovered that this gaze triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin, both in humans and dogs. Scientists at Azabu University in Kanagawa, Japan, led by Miho Nagasawa, investigated whether the eye contact between dogs and their owners, similar to that between a mother and child, leads to increased oxytocin levels. The researchers left dogs alone with their owners for 30 minutes, recording their behavior and the frequency and duration of eye contact. Before and after the experiment, both the dogs and their owners provided urine samples, which were analyzed for oxytocin levels. The results showed that the longer and more frequent the eye contact, the higher the oxytocin levels in both the dogs and their owners.
The study suggests that humans can feel a similar affection for their dogs as they do for family members, as eye contact activates the oxytocin system. This is supported by an earlier study that found the same areas of the brain were activated when humans looked at pictures of their children or dogs. The researchers also found that a small dose of oxytocin sprayed under the noses of some female dogs before they entered the room with their owners resulted in even more prolonged eye contact and increased oxytocin levels in both the dogs and their owners. The researchers believe that this feedback loop strengthens the bond between dogs and humans, as the longer they look at each other, the higher the hormone levels, and the stronger the connection.
The researchers suggest that this eye contact may have played a crucial role in the development of the close relationship between dogs and humans over time. Dogs learned to communicate their social bond in this way, promoting the co-evolution of both partners. The study highlights the importance of the bond between dogs and humans and the role that oxytocin plays in strengthening this connection.
