Endocrine Regulations in Human–Dog Coexistence through Domestication

Publication date: Available online 23 October 2019Source: Trends in Endocrinology & MetabolismAuthor(s): Takefumi Kikusui, Miho Nagasawa, Kensaku Nomoto, Sayaka Kuse-Arata, Kazutaka MogiEndocrine system regulation is important for the maintenance of homeostasis; it controls hormonal functions in complex physiology and behavior and adaptations to social environments. Evidence indicates that for more than 35 000 years, dogs (Canis familiaris) have been domesticated through living with humans. For example, they have acquired human-like social skills, such as eye gazing and pointing gestures. These unique behaviors are, at least partially, regulated by hormones and are thought to have been genetically altered throughout domestication. Glucocorticoids affect social tolerance, while oxytocin facilitates social coordination and familiarity between individuals. We review historical and recent literature to facilitate an understanding of the roles of glucocorticoid and oxytocin functions in the human–canine coexistence dynamic established during domestication.
Source: Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism - Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research