Yes, they do! What they do not understand is when we are joking.
Animals that are talked to often with words of praise are happier and oftentimes, can act a bit spoiled (lol). They are always being told they are special or loved so they feel that way.
Animals in not great situations that are scolded or told they are “stupid” even as a joke, are not as happy and start to have self-confidence issues. They become nervous and anxious.
The words you use when you engage with your pet affect your relationship with them and how they view themselves.
Pets often ask for more words from their guardians. Or they tell me they feel so good when their guardian (for example) says, “I Love You” or “You’re so pretty”, etc.. Then some pets talk about owners that say “You’re a bad dog (or cat)” and how much it affects them in a negative way. They are sad. Even if joking, the pet does not want to hear those words. Pet’s can’t take jokes. They are literal beings.
Joking is a big miscommunication problem between humans and animals. No jokes for them PLEASE.
A pet’s self-image and happiness are directly related to the words used to engage with the pet. Environment plays a role too but words are huge.
Lastly, since they understand what we are saying, talk to them!
*When you are going on vacation tell them and tell them when you’ll be back. Tell them who is taking care of them while you are away. Tell them:
* When you are leaving the home and when you’ll be back.
* If you are moving to a new home (with them! Never leave pets behind)
* If a new animal is joining the family
* Tell them everything! They are intuitively connected to you and they understand.
