Humans Bond with Dogs and Babies Through Sustained Eye Contact

SagamiHara: You know how we often feel a special connection with our dogs? Well, there’s some science behind it! Researchers found that when dogs look into our eyes, it triggers a hormonal response similar to what happens between mothers and their babies. This bond has been around for thousands of years, and it’s fascinating to think about how dogs became our companions.

The study, led by Takefumi Kikusui, a dog lover and animal behaviorist, shows that eye contact is key in human communication. It helps us understand each other better and builds strong relationships. Kikusui explains that mutual gaze is a fundamental part of how we connect with others, especially between a mother and her child.

In the study, Kikusui and his team observed 27 dog owners and some wolf owners. They collected urine samples before and after the owners interacted with their pets for half an hour, focusing on eye contact. The results were pretty amazing! Dogs that gazed into their owners’ eyes had a 130% increase in oxytocin, while the humans saw a whopping 300% rise. Wolves, on the other hand, didn’t show the same interest in eye contact.

In another part of the study, they gave some female dogs a nasal spray of oxytocin before interacting with their owners. Those dogs spent 150% more time gazing into their owners’ eyes, leading to a 300% spike in the owners’ oxytocin levels. It seems that this bond is even stronger in female dogs, possibly due to oxytocin’s role in reproduction.

Kikusui believes this feedback loop is crucial for our well-being. It not only helps us feel close to our furry friends but also reduces stress, which is great for our health. So, the next time you lock eyes with your dog, remember, it’s more than just a cute moment; it’s a deep connection that’s been evolving for ages!