- Dogs that received oxytocin spent longer near their owner compared to dogs that received a control.
- Variation in the golden retrievers oxytocin receptor gene (19131A/G SNP) was found.
- The different genotypes varied in their contact-seeking behaviours. Regardless of oxytocin administration, heterozygotes looked earlier at the experimenter compared to the other genotypes while A homozygotes made physical contact with their owners sooner than other genotypes.
- The different genotypes reacted differently to the administration of oxytocin. Homozygotes, especially A homozygotes, approached the experimenter sooner, while heterozygotes took longer to approach the experimenter after oxytocin administration.
The treatment had a significant effect on the duration dogs spent near the owner (F(1,105)=4.467, P= 0.037))
The genotype significantly affected the latency of looking at the experimenter (F(2,105)=3.339, P=0.039).
The genotype significantly affected the latency of physical contact with the owner (F(2,113)=5.232. P=0.007).
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Last updated:
07/27/16