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Previous studies identified the regions of the human brain that get involved when petting a dog. Photo: Getty Brain activity of dogs and their human companions may sync when they gaze into each other’s eyes, a new study ­suggests. During social interactions between people, the activity of their neurones is known to become synchronised, especially in the frontal lobe of the brain, indicating that they are paying attention to each other.

Researchers say mutual gazing between humans and their canine pets may cause a similar synchronisation. The new study, published in the journal Advanced Science , indicates that petting leads to synchronisation in the parietal region, also involved in paying attention. As pets and their companions bond and grow more familiar, scientists say, the synchronisation may become stronger.



The study paired 10 beagles with unknown humans over five days and ­analysed EEG brain signals from both. For comparison, a control group of humans and dogs was made to stay in the same room, but not interact. “The strength of the synchronisation increases with a growing familiarity,” the study shows.

The analysis suggests that human brain activity is the leader and the dog’s signals follow. Previous studies identified human brain regions that get involved during petting. This is the first time the same activity has been found to be mirrored in a dog’s brain.

Some genetic mutations with ­similar characteristics to autism spectrum disorder can cause dogs .

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