Talking the dog

Dr Dolittle may have been on to something, if the latest canine research proves correct

Research suggests that dogs have learned to listen, even if it's not sure they understand. Photo: Delores Johnson / The National

This may come as a relief for people who talk to their pets. Scientists from the University of Sussex say that dogs process the words spoken to them in much the same way as humans do, using the same part of the brain. While this doesn't mean that they actually understand what you are saying, it does mean that they are at least paying attention when you speak.

The researchers believe this is connected to the domestication process, where “listening” to humans gave them an evolutionary edge. However, questions remain. For example, in the UAE where dozens of languages are spoken, can Rover comprehend us equally? Do Irish Wolfhounds, French Poodles, Great Danes and Japanese Spitzes need owners of matching nationalities?

There appears to be no equivalent research into cats – although we’re pretty sure that even if they could understand us, they would still ignore us until there’s something in it for them.