A survey of 2,000 cat and dog owners revealed that nearly half believe their pet understands them, with 27 per cent even suggesting their pets talk back.
A confident 95 per cent of respondents believe they can interpret their pet’s body language, while 90 per cent claim to understand their verbal communication.
A significant 72 per cent of people often converse with their pets, averaging six chats daily. According to the study common subjects include the weather, meal plans and sharing workday experiences.
And almost half agreed that communication has bolstered their bond with their four-legged companions, while a third confessed there are days when they prefer their pet’s company over human interaction.
However, the study commissioned by pet DNA testing service Wisdom Panel found that 55 per cent confessed to struggling to comprehend what their dog or cat is trying to convey, leading to feelings of frustration (23 per cent) and worry (22 per cent).
Over half (56 per cent) think that if their pet paws at them, it’s a call for attention, while 52 per cent interpret a lick as a sign of affection, and 40% believe hiding indicates fear.
Clinical animal behaviourist, dog trainer and author, Karen Wild advises: “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.”
Interestingly, 43 per cent believe that only members of their household can truly understand their pet’s unique interactions.
But despite these, some pet owners have had to sought advice elsewhere to understand what they might be feeling. 15 per cent have sought an animal expert’s help to interpret their pet’s body language and 26 per cent have turned to online resources for answers.
Karen further explained: “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.”
According to a survey conducted via OnePoll, 48 per cent of participants believe their pet can detect feelings of sadness, while 45% think their pets respond to their stress or anxiety.
Dr Cathryn Mellersh, who leads the canine genetics centre at The University of Cambridge Veterinary School and collaborates 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.”
“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 per cent of pet owners aren’t aware of DNA testing, the insights can help you learn even more about the way your pet behaves, allowing you to make more informed decisions about their care and training.”
“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.”