Usually we talk to our animals in human language and often they also know roughly what we are saying based on the tone in which we speak. But did you know that your cat or dog also talks to you in its own way? Read on to discover how your four-legged friend communicates with you.
Talking dogs
Dogs use their mouths to communicate. Not just by barking or growling; the lips and teeth also play a big role. An aggressive or frightened dog curls up his lips to show his teeth. Nice to know: a dog can 'smile' at its owner! He then sits quietly, panting and with his mouth half open and a hanging tongue. The tongue can also act as a sedative. If a dog is not comfortable, he will try to calm the situation by, for example, licking your face or hands.
Ears aren't just for hearing
Your cat's ears speak volumes about his state of mind. If your cat is curious, his ears are forward. Dogs also react that way to something interesting. If your dog is feeling anxious or submissive, he will lay his ears flat against his head. Cats do this too.
Wagging tails and friendly question marks
Dominant dogs hold their tails swishing up, while relaxed dogs hold their tails in a relaxed U-shape. When a dog is excited, it splashes all over his body. His ears and body are relaxed, he has a laid-back, non-gazing look, and his tail swings happily back and forth.
A cat can tell anyone from afar with its tail whether you can come closer or not. Is a cat happy to see you or curious? Its tail then shoots upright in the air. When your cat is feeling relaxed and happy, his tail will be upright and the tip will curl down like a U or question mark.
