Why I’m So Verbal with Dogs: The Science Behind Talking to Dogs

As a professional dog sitter and devoted mom to my beloved pup Zora, I’m first to admit it: I’m very verbal with dogs.

Not just the standard commands and praise, but full conversations, narrating activities, and treating them like the intelligent beings they are. This approach has become central to how I work and connect with dogs, and it turns out there’s solid science backing up why it works so well.

Dogs Understand More Than We Think

Recent research has revealed just how sophisticated dogs’ language comprehension really is. Dogs are able to learn up to 200 words’ meaning and they link it with the object they refer to, and they’re remarkably skilled at using human voice inflection as a social cues.

A 2024 study found that dogs respond differently to attention-getting versus neutral speech, showing that our verbal communication style genuinely matters to them.

Even more impressive, findings suggest dogs were able to understand certain words, suggesting why there’s an enhanced bond between dogs and their owners. This isn’t just about learned associations – dogs are actually processing the meaning behind our words.

Building Trust Through Talking

When I start talking to a new dog, I’m not just making noise – I’m activating powerful biological processes that strengthen our bond. Research has shown that positive interactions between humans and dogs trigger the release of oxytocin — that “bonding hormone” we humans know about well — in both the human and their pup.

The more we interact positively (including through speech) with our dogs, the stronger our bond becomes, which encourages more positive interaction. It’s a beautiful cycle that starts with something as simple as talking to your dog.

Cognitive Benefits for Our Canine Friends

Beyond bonding, verbal communication provides genuine cognitive stimulation for dogs. When we actively communicate with dogs, we’re engaging their social cognition systems. The mental exercise of processing human speech, interpreting tone, and responding appropriately helps keep dogs’ minds sharp. In that way, everybody wins!

My Approach: Narrating and Conversing

For me, being verbal with dogs means treating them like the social, intelligent beings they are. When I’m dog-sitting, I narrate what we’re doing: “Let’s go check your water bowl… looks like it needs more water!” or “I’m going to sit here and answer some emails while you get comfortable.”

With timid dogs especially, this approach works wonders. I remember working with a rescue pup who’d barely make eye contact for the first few visits. By consistently talking her through our routine – explaining when I was moving to get her leash, narrating our walk route, chatting about the weather and really just filling the space with my voice – she gradually began to relax. My voice became a source of predictability and comfort rather than uncertainty.

The key is patience and consistency. Some dogs warm up immediately to verbal interaction, while others need time to understand that your voice means safety and good things. That’s why I’m always very conscious about staying calm, upbeat and supportive – tone is just as important as the words.

The Professional Advantage

As a dog sitter, being verbal gives me a significant advantage in building quick connections with new clients. Dogs are often anxious when their parents leave, and a calm, steady stream of conversation helps establish me as a trustworthy presence. I explain what’s happening, validate their feelings (“I know you miss them, that’s totally normal. They’ll be back so soon!”), and gradually shift to more positive topics.

With Zora, our communication has evolved over nearly seven years into something truly special. She knows the difference between “don’t want to go in the yard?” and “want to go outside?” The first is our cue to hang out in the yard, while the second is a cue to go potty. She responds to conversational cues about dinner time, bedtime, and even more complex concepts like “did we just get a delivery?” And yes, she still thinks every delivery is for her and knows a Chewy box from others. This deep level of communication makes our relationship richer and more satisfying for both of us.

Getting Started: Practical Tips

If you’re not naturally chatty with your dog, but want to be, you can start small:

• Begin with narration: Describe what you’re doing as you do it. “I’m filling your food bowl” or “Let’s go check the mail together.”

• Use consistent verbal cues:* Beyond basic commands, you can develop a vocabulary around daily routines, unique to your own rituals and routines even. Dogs thrive on predictability, and in all honesty, I share that in common with them.

• Pay attention to responses: Dogs regulate their behavior according to the humans’ intentions expressed by different verbal cues. Watch how your dog reacts to different tones and adjust accordingly.

• Be patient with shy dogs: Timid dogs have an even greater need for leadership, and they take many cues on how to behave and feel from the other dogs and people around them. Your calm, consistent voice can become a source of confidence for them.

The Science of Connection

Recent research in 2024 has shown that oxytocin pathways play important roles in human-animal interactions and may contribute to some benefits of these interspecific social bonds. When we talk to our dogs – really talk to them, not just at them – we’re engaging ancient bonding mechanisms that have evolved over thousands of years of partnership. Isn’t that amazing!?

Beyond the Cute Factor

While talking to dogs might seem cute — and it is — there’s so much more to it. Neuroscience studies suggest that verbal interaction is a legitimate and beneficial form of enrichment.

For professional dog sitters like myself, being verbal isn’t just about building rapport – it’s about providing the stimulation and emotional support that dogs need, especially when they’re away from their humans.

The Final Word (… get it?!)

Every time I see a shy dog gradually start to wag their tail when I talk to them, or watch Zora cock her head thoughtfully when I’m explaining our weekend plans, I’m reminded of the power of simple conversation. We’re not just making noise – we’re strengthening bonds, providing mental stimulation, and honoring the remarkable intelligence of our canine companions.

Your dog is listening, processing, and responding in ways that science is only beginning to fully appreciate. The least we can do is give them something interesting to think about.

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If you’re looking for a dog sitter who understands the importance of verbal communication and building genuine connections with your pup, I’m your gal. Whether your dog is shy and needs extra patience or simply thrives on conversation, I bring this same thoughtful, science-backed approach to every sit. Get in touch to learn more about how I can provide the personalized care your four-legged friend deserves.