Swedish researchers have identified five genes in dogs that are responsible for the ability to contact a person, writes the journal Scientific Reports.

Scientists came to such conclusions as a result of an experiment during which 437 Beagle dogs had to open a container with a treat. The researchers wanted to know if the animals would seek help from a stranger who was also in the room.As a result of the experiment, 95 dogs were selected that were most prone to interacting with humans, and 95 individuals that showed independence and did not ask for help. The scientists took DNA samples from the animals to analyze and compare individual genetic sequences specific to each of the two groups of dogs.As a result, the researchers were able to identify five genes that may be responsible for the relationship between dogs and humans. At the same time, four of them are related to humans - in particular, mutations in these genes increase the risk of developing social disorders, including autism.
Scientists emphasize that the contribution of genetics to the friendly behavior of dogs is about 30%, but other factors, including upbringing, also influence animals.