Neurobiologists have explained why dogs make sure to shake off after bathing
When your dog makes a fountain of spray around you after a bath, it's not just a fun trick.
A team of neuroscientists from Harvard Medical School has finally figured out the neural mechanism behind this unique ability of furry animals to get rid of moisture.
In their study, published in the journal Science, the scientists applied oil to the necks of mice and observed the response of their mechanosensitive neurons. Yes, you heard right - mice! It turns out that these little rodents also know how to shake themselves off like miniature dogs when they get wet.
Previous studies and observations have shown that animals like dogs and bears shake off in a special wave-like manner, effectively shovelling water off their fur. However, the neural mechanism of this behaviour has remained a mystery.
To unravel it, scientists conducted experiments by applying different stimuli to the backs and necks of mice. They found that in addition to water, the mice responded to air currents and oil applied to the back of their necks. Oil was used as an irritant in subsequent experiments.
Suspecting that shaking off was related to mechanosensitivity rather than a response to temperature change, the team switched off the Piezo2 gene, known for its role in touch, in the test mice. The result was impressive: the mice stopped shaking. So it really is about the sense of touch!
Next, the scientists studied the response of three types of mechanoreceptors by stimulating the mice with oil. One of the receptors, called C-LTMRs, consistently caused jerking when stimulated. Removing this receptor significantly reduced this response, confirming its key role.
The researchers eventually mapped the pathway of sensory signals from the skin to the spinal cord and then to the brain. This allowed them to fully uncover the neural mechanisms underlying what the team called "wet dog dancing."
So the next time your four-legged friend gives you a "shower" after a walk in the rain, know that it's not just a prank, but a complex neural process that helps him dry off quickly.
And it might be worth stepping aside to avoid becoming part of this science experiment!