Pet homeowners satisfied they will ‘speak’ to their animals – and that they speak again

A survey of 2,000 cat and dog owners revealed that nearly half (43%) believe their pet understands them – and 27% reckon they talk back.

The top ways pets were found to communicate were by making (61%), body posture (51%) and tail position (49%). They also show their understanding by perking up their ears (57%), responding to commands (55%) and wagging their tails (51%).

A whopping 72% admit to regularly speaking out loud to their pets, averaging six conversations a day. With 36% confessing there are some days they’d rather chat with their pet than another human.

Almost half (46%) agreed that communication with their four-legged friend has strengthened their bond and a confident 9 in 10 believe they can understand their pet’s body language and know what their verbal communication means.

However, the study commissioned by pet DNA testing service Wisdom Panel, found that 55% did struggle to understand what their dog or cat is trying to say, which at time leaves them worried.

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.”

While 15% have been keen to learn more about their pet’s body language and have consulted an animal expert to decipher it, 26% have sought answers online.

Karen further 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 grasp the words, conversing with pets is enriching as they can detect our tone of voice and pitch.”

A survey conducted by OnePoll found that 48% of respondents believe their pet can sense the emotion of sadness, while 45% think they 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.”

“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 are unaware 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.”