How clearly do humans communicate with dogs through touch and movement? A new study explores how non-verbal signals influence the clarity of human–dog interactions — especially in petting, hugging, and play.
In our everyday interactions with dogs, we often assume they understand our affection — but do they always? A recent study by Elizabeth Ann Walsh and colleagues, published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, dives into the subtle world of human-dog communication and reveals that clarity in body language significantly impacts how dogs interpret human actions like play, petting, and hugging.
The study analyzed video footage of humans engaging in these behaviors with dogs, observing canine responses to different non-verbal cues. It found that dogs responded more positively and confidently when human body language was consistent, calm, and easy to interpret.
Conversely, when human signals were ambiguous — such as sudden movements, conflicting gestures, or unclear touch — dogs were more likely to show signs of stress or confusion. This highlights the critical role non-verbal communication plays in fostering trust and safety in human–dog relationships.
The researchers emphasize that training humans to be more aware of their own physical cues could improve dog welfare and enhance the human–animal bond. From playtime to cuddles, the way we physically engage with dogs matters more than we may realize.
Human-dog communication: how body language and non-verbal cues are key to clarity in dog directed play, petting and hugging behaviour by humans DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105957
