Research shows that dogs cry when they see their owners

Tears of joy. Fast wagging tails, jumping in the air and uncontrollable licking: every dog ​​owner regularly experiences this joyous reunion with their pet after a few hours of separation. But this list of highly demonstrative behaviors also includes a very sensible sign. Dogs According to a study published Monday, Aug. 22 in the journal, they produce tears when they find their master. Current Biology.

“We’ve never heard of pets shedding tears in happy situations like being reunited with their owner.” Takefumi Kikusui of Asabu University in Japan, one of the study’s authors, said in a statement, citing the possibility. “World Premiere”.

The scientists measured the amount of tears produced using a widely used test called the Schirmer test (which consists of a strip placed under the eyelid). They took as a point of comparison the baseline when the dog was in its usual environment, in the presence of its owner.

After five to seven hours of separation, the amount of tears increased “especially” Within five minutes of reuniting the dog with its owner. The amount of tears a dog shed when reunited with its owner was greater than with another person.

According to researchers, this tear production is linked to the presence of oxytocin, nicknamed the “love hormone.” Domesticated like other animals, dogs developed specific communication skills over time. Eye contact plays a role in building a relationship between a dog and its handler.