Dogs Are Talking
One of my loves in life is observing everything going on around me. Whether I am taking a walk for exercise, sitting in a nearby park, enjoying a lovely cappuccino in a local cafe, watching the way people interact with their children or dogs always piques my curiosity. Daily, I wonder why so many people have dogs or cats but continue to mistreat them. Often, I would love to inquire as to why any of them have pets at all. Over the past few months, I have met people who adore their animals and it’s evident when I see them walking. Many place their animals first, even before themselves. Animals should never be a chain and ball around someone’s neck, but a lovely mate.
Dogs have long been celebrated for their loyalty and companionship, but their capacity for understanding, empathy, and social interaction often rivals and sometimes surpasses that of humans. I am fascinated by the world of canine cognition, uncovering the ways dogs communicate, problem solve, and form strong bonds with people and other animals. Just like people, dogs can have different personalities and they may become vicious or overprotective, controlling, or just unfriendly. I admire the way dogs in my neighbourhood remember me and usually drag or force their owners toward me. Maybe it’s because I always have delicious treats in my backpack, or they can sense my kindness. Many owners have approached me on the streets and shared how their dog isn’t usually friendly with strangers. Much like their owners, I must admit. My partner says that dogs, small or large are drawn to me because they believe I am a little stuffed toy that feeds them treats. Nevertheless, they always seem to remember me and so do their owners.
As a young boy, I was taught that man’s best friend is a dog, but I wonder in dog language if many of them would consider some humans as a dog’s best friend. I doubt they would. If you watch people walking their dogs, it’s obvious that many animals are mistreated by their owners. Many dogs are dragged around by their leash and not allowed to take the time to explore, sniff the grass, or stop to take a pee. Many dogs and cats seem to be intuitive about who is a nice person and who isn’t. Lessons in Life have shown me that most dogs and cats are friendlier and more honest than the person dragging them along the streets while chatting or staring at their mobile devices. Often the dogs I see are whining or trying to get their owner’s attention without much success. What would it be like if dogs had the power to adopt their carer? Do you think they would be as cruel as many owners?
Research tells us that dogs respond much like human infants in understanding language. It could be a combination of learned vocabulary, observed body language, and tone. Through repetition, dogs and babies associate certain words with certain objects or actions. Just like most humans, we can tell by someone’s body language, facial expression, and the tone of their voice if they are nice, rude, a narcissist, or just your everyday asshole. Many experts believe that dogs can understand what people say, learning the meaning of many different words. Perhaps it’s more about how people say things. Whether words or orders are seen as love or hate, animals learn the differences.
Is it possible to understand what dogs and cats are saying to us? Well, canine vocal sounds are usually the simplest of the clues humans can utilise to decide what a dog may be trying to tell you. For example, whining in a high-pitched soft sound can be heard from a dog that is in pain, anxious, frustrated, or seeking attention when a bark has been discouraged by their owner. Also, a bark, depending on the frequency, volume, and duration can be used as an alert to announce to you that an evil UPS or Postal person is coming to the door, or to express excitement accompanied by a tail wag and a grin, and as a sound of aggression when it’s low pitched, like a growl. Remember, a whine and a whimper can sound the same to the human ear. The most common words dogs will respond to is their name, as well as commands like sit, come, down, stay, wait, no, okay, and stop. Many get excited when you prepare to take them for a walk in the park. Some dogs will grab their leash to show they are ready for an adventure to explore.
Dogs have long been celebrated for their loyalty and companionship, but their capacity for understanding, empathy, and social interaction often rivals — and sometimes surpasses — that of humans. This blog takes a closer look into the world of canine cognition, uncovering the ways dogs communicate, problem-solve, and form deep, meaningful bonds with people and other animals. The extraordinary abilities of dogs, whose friendly and social nature continues to amaze and endear them to us, proving time and again they truly are man’s best friend.
Dogs are incredibly smart animals with a deep capacity for forming bonds and understanding emotions. When faced with mean or abusive owners, dogs often experience a range of emotions and behavioural responses. They may feel fear, anxiety, and confusion, struggling to understand why they are being treated harshly. This can lead to a state of constant stress, manifesting in behaviours such as cowering, submissiveness, aggression, or even withdrawal. Despite this, dogs are known for their remarkable loyalty and resilience. Many will continue to seek approval and affection from their mean owners, hoping for positive interactions and showing signs of forgiveness. However, prolonged mistreatment can severely damage a dog’s emotional well-being, potentially leading to long-term psychological and behavioural issues.
Dog owners need to provide a loving, nurturing environment where their pets feel safe and valued. Understanding and empathy can go a long way in fostering a healthy, happy relationship between dogs and their human companions. If you suspect a dog is being mistreated, it’s important to seek help from animal welfare organizations to ensure the dog’s safety and well-being.
When I was 5 years old, my aunt had a beautiful golden cocker spaniel named Sally Ann. We fell in love immediately and I always got excited when my mother would leave me with her sister for a weekend or sometimes for a week. She was my favourite aunt and every night I would wish that she was my mother. After all she had been taking care of me for many years. Sally Ann and I would chase each other, play catch, roll around in the grass, and enjoy eating and sleeping together in her little house in the backyard. She was my pal; we were true friends. When Sally Ann died, I was devastated and made a promise to myself to never own a dog. I became an anti-dog person until I visited Melbourne, Australia, and met the most adorable little puppy named Anky. He was a fox terrier cross and was born into this world fully endowed with the most beautiful nature. We instantly connected. He died when he was 18 years old. Three years ago, I was introduced to Snowy and Lulu, both beautiful blue healers who adopted me after my first visit. They showed me so much love and compassion and were always excited when I would visit their home. By the way, it was also fun to spend time with their owners too. The two beautiful dogs loved me unconditionally and I still have lovely dreams about them waking me up so I can be on time for appointments.
So, in all honesty, what would your dog say about you to their friends when you aren’t listening? Would they say how loving you are or share how you treat them? If dogs are our best friends, shouldn’t we try to be their best friends too?
