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The tears help foster a stronger connection between people and pets
Dogs are capable of 'crying happy tears' when their owners come home, a new study has found.
According to researchers from Azabu University in Japan, our furry friends experience such an overflow of oxytocin (the love hormone) when they reunite with their owners that it causes tears to fill their eyes. We know that dogs feel basic emotions such as love, suspicion, joy, anger and fear, but these findings reveal canine emotion in a new light.
As part of the study, researchers first measured the tear volume of dogs before and after they were reunited with their owners. They also tested this on a familiar non-owner (such as a family friend) after they had been separated for more than five hours. The team also added oxytocin to the eyes of the dogs they were studying, and saw their eyes fill up with tears too.
The main findings were:
- Dogs have more tears in their eyes than normal when reunited with their owners
- The tears help foster a stronger connection between people and pets
- The release of oxytocin can cause the tears to well up
Professor Takefumi Kikusui, who found his poodle crying happy tears after giving birth, told the Mail Online: "We had never heard of the discovery that animals shed tears in joyful situations, such as reuniting with their owners, and we were all excited that this would be a world first!
"Dogs have become a partner of humans, and we can form bonds. In this process, it is possible that the dogs that show teary eyes during interaction with the owner would be cared for by the owner more."
While the study found that dogs can cry when they are happy, scientists are now investigating whether time apart is also connected to negative emotions.
23 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
Great For Chewing — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG - Tires - Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers - For Medium/Large Dogs
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
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Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Rope Ring Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Beco Pets Hemp Rope Jungle Ring Tough Dog Toy
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
Tough Material — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Planet Ball Blue
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Great For Swimmers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.
Best For Snack Time — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Pet-Fun Medium Mango - Safe Fun Durable Rubber Dog Chew Toy for Boredom, Virtually Indestructible Treat Dispenser, Long-Lasting Slow Feeder, Tough Strong Teething Toy for Medium/Small Dogs
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
Ideal For Playing Catch — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Football Dog Toy
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.
Chewable Stick — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
GoodWood Chewable Stick Coffee Tree Wood Small
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Best Squeaking Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Donut Dog Toy
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
Fun Crab Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Beco Pets Rough & Tough Crab Recycled Polyester Dog Toy
With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.
Ideal For Playing Fetch — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball
This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Bone Chew Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
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This knotted dog bone, complete with a tasty chicken flavour, will help to prevent boredom. Tested to withstand aggressive chewing, it ensures the gums and teeth of your dog stay healthy with every bite.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.
Great For Puppies — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise.
Great For Heavy Chewers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
KONG KONG - Jump'N Jack - Durable Rubber Dog Toy
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
Onion Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £4.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
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