The Surprising Emotional Intelligence of Dogs: 5 times they Understood and Responded to Human Feelings

Dogs seem to possess a depth of emotional intelligence, especially when it comes to their favorite humans. From wagging tails to comforting snuggles, they exhibit behaviors that suggest an understanding of human emotions. Researchers have looked into this and propose that dogs experience a spectrum of emotions similar to our own – love, joy, fear, sadness, and even anger. But what sets them apart is their remarkable ability to not only sense the emotions of humans but also respond to subtle cues in their environment.

1. In Mourning

Source: @MajicallyNews/Youtube

After a pup named Angel passed away, her family held a small funeral for her. They made sure to invite all of her friends in both human and four-legged form. The memorial service brought her brother, Odin, to tears. The pitbull sat and visibly mourned the loss of his sister and best friend. He walked up to her picture several times and cried throughout the service.

2. Reunited

Source: Daily Mail/Youtube

When Cemal Senturk was rushed away in an ambulance, Boncuk ran after the vehicle, not understanding why her human was being taken away but knowing something was wrong. For a few days, the pup would make daily visits to the facility running from home and her pet-sitter to find her dad. Every day, she came at 9 am and left at dark, never entering but always poking her head in. Finally, she was reunited with her dad and immediately began jumping for joy.

3. Soon-to-be Mom’s New Cuddle Buddy

Source: @sapphie_the_pomsky/Youtube

Sapphie the Pomsky used to be super cuddly with her dad until she found out her mom was pregnant. Ever since, she never misses the chance to cuddle on her mom’s belly. Sometimes, she even rests her paw on her growing sibling!

4. Panic Attack Help

Source: Daily Mail/Youtube

In Ohio, a person caught their beloved dog on camera responding to a crisis. The dog’s parent began pacing back and forth, covering their face with their hands. It was the beginning of a panic attack. As the human paced, their dog ran over and immediately offered Support. The pup jumped up and helped their human to the ground, cuddling them and helping them move through the panic. After a few moments, the dog parent can be seen much more relaxed.

5. Baby Woes

Source: Life with Malamutes/Youtube

Baby Nathan said hello as his Golden Retriever brother came into the room. But, he quickly fell into tears when the wet pup sat on his foot and bonked him in the face. Buddy, the dog, immediately felt sorry and rolled away from Baby Nathan. Then, Buddy got up and “said” sorry by gently approaching the baby. Soon, they made up and were back on good terms!

The emotional intelligence of dogs reveals the deep connection that canines and humans seem to have. Their keen observations, sensitivity to body language, and attentiveness to vocal cues reveal a remarkable capacity to connect with us on an emotional level. The next time a dog greets you with a wagging tail or a wiggling body, know that a vast landscape of emotions lies beneath.

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to only adopt instead of shopping. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

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