Scientific Study Proves Dogs Know What Humans Are Telling Them

As an Animal Communicator, my practice is based on the knowledge that animals understand humans’ words and intonations.  It’s validating when science validates what I’ve intuitively known. 

The Family Dog Project. located in Budapest, Hungary recently released a scientific study that shows how a dog’s brain responds to human speech and understand what the tone of your voice is communicating.

Scientists used dogs trained to lie still in a MRI machine so their brains could be studied while responding to human words and the intonation of those words. The study concluded that dogs and humans use the same part of the brain to process speech and speech recognition.

According to Science News, “Dogs process speech much like people do, a new study finds. Meaningful words like “good boy” activate the left side of a dog’s brain regardless of the tone of voice used, while a region on the right side of the brain responds to intonation.”

This video from the Family Dog Project explains how dogs respond to human speech and speech recognition.

The scientists behind this study also conclude that other animals, like cats, understand humans in the same way as dogs do. 

So the next time you strike up a conversation with your pets, keep in mind that they know what you are saying and understand what the tone of your voice is conveying.  

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About Me

Hi! I’m Cathy “Cat” Malkin

My mission is to help you and your animal find calm, trust, and a deeper understanding together.

I believe that animals are powerful teachers, healers, and guides. For over 30 years, I’ve been a trusted guide for pet parents and their pets. As an Animal Communicator, Animal Reiki Master and Practitioner, Pet Parenting Specialist, and Pet Anxiety Expert, I bring a unique blend of professional training and deep intuition to my practice, supporting pet parents in their relationships with their animal family.

My Master’s degree in Counseling and Education has given me the tools to support you and your pet together through every stage of their life and beyond, from welcoming your new companion, chronic illness, the dying process, navigating grief, to connecting with a pet who has passed on.

My practice includes my global Pet Meditation Circle membership. In this safe community, you and your pet share in guided meditations, enriching your bond while creating a loving space of peaceful heart connection.

Nurture Your Connection with Animals

JOIN OUR ANIMAL MUSE NEWSLETTER to receive uplifting animal wisdom and stories, event news, chat Pawties, and special offers that celebrate the deep bond between you and your animal companions.

    Ultimate Pet
    Meditation Guide

    Download your guide to a calmer pet and receive the Animal Muse Newsletter.

    (I never sell, rent or share your info.)

    Recent Posts

    cathy image for contact popup

    Contact Me

    I look forward to hearing from you. 

    5 animal Communication Tips for Pet Parents

    Help Your Pet Live Their Best Life