Dogs are man's best friend thanks to bonding hormone, research shows
by Ian Sample, science editor from on (#76TS)
Scientists have found that dogs and owners experience surges in oxytocin, a hormone responsible for maternal caring, when they look into each other's eyes
A rush of hormone that helps people bond could explain why humans and dogs have been best friends for thousands of years, say researchers in Japan.
The scientists found that dog owners experienced a surge of oxytocin when their pets gazed into their eyes, a dramatic effect that was mirrored in the animals themselves.
