A survey of 2,000 cat and dog owners revealed that nearly half (43%) believe their pet understands them, with 27% even thinking they talk back.
The primary ways animals communicate were found to be making noises (61%), body posture (51%) and tail position (49%).
The study found a confident 95% of owners believe they can understand their pet’s body language, while 90% claim they know what their verbal communication means.
However, the research commissioned by pet DNA testing service Wisdom Panel, discovered that despite this confidence, 55% confessed they have struggled to understand what their dog or cat is trying to say, leading to frustration (23%) and concern (22%).
Over half (56%) believe if their pet paws at them they want attention, while 52% think a lick is a sign of affection and 40% said when they hide it means they’re scared.
Clinical animal behaviourist, dog trainer and author, Karen Wild says: “Dogs and cats clearly show us how they are feeling, but we need to learn what these signals are. We often look at one small part such as their tail, but their face, ears, head and body movements are all very telling.
“When a dog rolls onto its back, it could be that they are overwhelmed, the best way to tell is to stop petting them – if they stand up, it’s likely they weren’t feeling relaxed at all. Giving them a chance to show you if they want more interaction is critical to understanding them.”
“Cats use slightly different expressions, when their whiskers are relaxed they will point straight out, but when stressed they can spread apart, point forward, or may tightly bunch together and flatten against the cat’s face.”
Three quarters of pet owners admit to speaking out loud to their pets often, engaging in an average of six conversations a day. Popular topics include the weather (40%), what to have for dinner (33%) and discussing their day at work (26%).
Almost half (46%) agreed that communication between them and their four-legged friend has strengthened their bond, with 36% confessing there are some days they’d rather talk to their pet than another human.
While 15% have been keen to find out more about their pet’s body language, they have visited an animal expert to decipher it, while 26% have sought answers online. More specifically, 43% believe there are certain things only they and their household can understand when it comes to their pet’s interactions.
Karen added: “The more we can read signals from our pets, the more they will learn to trust that we are listening and understanding them, resulting in a stronger bond. Even though they may not understand the words, talking to pets is enriching as they can hear our tone of voice and pitch”
The OnePoll survey revealed that 48% of pet owners believe their pets can sense sadness, while 45% think their pets respond to their stress or anxiety.
Dr Cathryn Mellersh, principal investigator of the canine genetics centre at The University of Cambridge Veterinary School, working with Wisdom Panel, stated: “Dogs were the first species to be domesticated and have evolved alongside humans. They read our body language, show empathy when we’re upset, and often prefer the company of a person over their own species – all testament to how intertwined we are.”
She further explained: “Different breeds exhibit quite different behaviours, just as DNA influences what they look like and the diseases that they might develop. Their genes also play a large role in their behaviours too.”
While 58% of pet owners aren’t aware of DNA testing, Dr Mellersh believes that these insights can help you learn even more about your pet’s behaviour, allowing you to make more informed decisions about their care and training.
She concluded: “By understanding their breed mix, health, traits, behaviours and relatives on a deeper level, owners are able to boost the bond they have with their pet.”
