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Most of us can tell if a person is up to something.
Lack of eye contact, evasive answers, a subtle grin and other body language give us clues about a someone’s real intentions. (In this case, watch out!)
But can dogs tell if humans are up to something? Can they read our intentions? Are they capable of being canine “B.S. Detectors” of sorts?
New research suggests the answer may be “yes.”
German researchers recently conducted a study with 51 dogs on how they reacted to food being withheld from them. Sometimes the food was withheld intentionally. Sometimes the food was withheld accidentally.
Here’s how the experiment worked:
People were put inside transparent boxes with holes cut into them so they could feed the dogs food. Sometimes the people faked being clumsy and “dropped” the food inside the box where the dogs couldn’t get it. Other times they teased the dogs while they intentionally withheld the food. The people would put the food through the hole and then quickly take it back. Or they would act like were trying to give the dog food but the hole was “blocked.”
The dogs’ behavior was observed, especially their tails, which any dog owner knows is a major way they communicate and express emotion. What did the scientists notice?
The dogs acted differently with the “clumsy” than the “teasing.” They basically were more patient with the clumsy person. They seemed to think the person was willing to give them the food but it accidentally got dropped. Conversely, when the food was taken away, the dogs acted as if they were being forbidden food. They seemed to think the person wasn’t willing to give them the food in the first place.
Researchers believe this may show that dogs not only interpret human actions, but may be able to interpret the intention behind our actions. That means they are more attuned to our behavior that we thought!
It’s unclear if cats can do the same. But as many cat owners know, they have an uncanny ability to disappear when you’re planning to give them a bath, no matter how sweet your “Here kitty, kitty” call sounds.
You can read more details about this fascinating study here and see photos on how the experiment was conducted.
In the meantime, just to be safe, be honest with your dog.
And if you do lie to them, assume they can tell.
Until Next Time,
Hugs and Pug Kisses,
Candy
Sources and Links:
Dogs know whether human actions are intentional, study says – UPI.com
Theory of Mind: Dogs Can Understand Human Intentions (scitechdaily.com)
Clever canines: can dogs really tell when you’re being unkind? | Dogs | The Guardian
