Humans have formed an unusual bond with some animals. This bond is the product of years of co-evolution that has fostered a deep, non-verbal understanding between us and our pets. We share our lives, our homes, and oftentimes, our emotions with these animals. The fact that two-thirds of American families choose to keep a pet is a testament to this human-animal relationship.
Some studies even show how transformative keeping a pet can be for someone with psychological difficulties. For example, one study participant reported that her dog was able to sense her distress while she cried, and chose to lie next to her and “lick her tears.”
Dogs and cats are the most popular pets in the United States, with dogs slightly ahead of cats in popularity. This preference for dogs over cats is often attributed to the unconditional love and companionship that dogs provide, in line with the mental health benefits they provide, such as encouraging physical activity and time outdoors for their owners. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their stress-reducing qualities, offering a different kind of companionship that many find equally rewarding.
Recognizing and responding to these unique traits in our pets is key to strengthening our bond with them.
Your dog needs a more emphatic communication style
Dog owners sometimes claim that their dogs understand human speech. This isn’t completely against the rule, but science tells us that it’s probably not the words they understand, but the feelings behind them.
2020 study published in Frontiers in psychology She found that dogs can pick up on and share the emotions of their human partners, especially if they have a long, close relationship. The study measured heart rate variability in dogs and their owners, and found that they synchronized under stressful conditions. This suggests that dogs can empathize with humans and vice versa.
According to the study, dogs can perceive and respond to the emotional states of their human partners using various cues such as:
- face features
- body language
- voice
- touches
When talking to your dog, you should try to use these cues to communicate your feelings clearly and consistently. For example, you can smile and use a high-pitched voice when you praise your dog, or frown and use a low-pitched voice when you express displeasure. You can also use physical contact, such as petting, hugging, or stroking, to express affection or comfort your dog. By being more assertive, you can help your dog understand your intentions and expectations, and strengthen your relationship with him.
Cats respond best to imitation
Unlike dogs, cats are more subtle in their emotional expressions, and may not always show clear signs of distress or happiness. So, you shouldn’t expect your cat to react the same way your dog does to your emotional cues, or to show the same emotions that you do.
Cats have their own unique personalities and preferences, and may not always want to interact with you or follow your commands. By respecting your cat’s independence and individuality, you can help your cat develop a positive and trusting relationship with you.
A 2021 review of quantitative studies found that cats can use some of the same signals they use with other cats when interacting with humans, such as:
- Raising their tails to an upright position is a sign of friendly intentions
- Rubbing the head to distinguish a person by his scent
- Close their eyes slowly to indicate relaxation and confidence
- Meows and purrs to get attention or food
Interestingly, cats may talk to humans more frequently than other cats, and their calls may vary in pitch and intensity to convey different messages. Cats may also modify their behavior according to the human’s mood, personality, and preferences. For example, cats may talk and rub more at a depressed owner, or initiate more interactions with a female or elderly owner.
When talking to your cat, you should try to pay attention to these cues and respond accordingly. For example:
- Flash back slowly to show your cat that you trust him
- Use a soft voice and gentle touch to calm your cat
- Raise your eyebrows or tilt your head to express curiosity or interest
Conclusion
Dogs and cats interact with humans in their own unique ways, reflecting their evolutionary backgrounds. Cats, in general, are aloof, independent, and not easily swayed by our displays of affection, while dogs are very receptive to affirming communication. Understanding these differences and responding appropriately is vital in forming stronger bonds with our pets. Remember that communicating effectively with animals can sometimes be a long process, but it provides rewarding companionship and a wonderful window into their pure, unspoken world.
Many pet owners have experienced moments of frustration when trying to communicate with their beloved dog or cat. Breaking the “human-animal language barrier” is essential for building a strong bond with your pet and effectively training them. Understanding your pet’s behavior, body language, and vocalizations can improve communication and create a harmonious relationship. With the right approach and techniques, you can bridge the gap between human and animal communication, leading to a deeper understanding and connection with your furry friend. In this article, we will explore how to break the “human-animal language barrier” with your dog or cat.