Millions of pet owners are convinced their cats and dogs can talk back to them

A survey of 2,000 cat and dog owners revealed that nearly half (43%) believe their pet understands them, with 27% even thinking their pets talk back.

The primary ways animals communicate were found to be making noises (61%), body posture (51%), and tail position (49%).

Over half (56%) believe if their pet paws at them, they want attention, while 52% think a lick signifies affection and 40% said when their pets hide, it means they're scared.

However, the study commissioned by pet DNA testing service Wisdom Panel found that 55% confessed they have struggled to understand what their dog or cat is trying to say, leading to frustration (23%) and concern (22%).

Clinical animal behaviourist, dog trainer and author, Karen Wild says: " and cats clearly show us how they are feeling, but we need to learn what these signals are. We often look at one small part such as their tail, but their face, ears, head and body movements are all very telling."

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"When a dog rolls onto its back, it could be that they are overwhelmed, the best way to tell is to stop petting them - if they stand up, it's likely they weren't feeling relaxed at all. Giving them a chance to show you if they want more interaction is critical to understanding them."

"Cats use slightly different expressions, when their whiskers are relaxed they will point straight out, but when stressed they can spread apart, point forward, or may tightly bunch together and flatten against the cat's face."

A whopping 72% of pet owners admit to regularly speaking out loud to their furry friends, averaging six conversations a day. The most popular topics include the weather (40%), what to have for dinner (33%) and discussing their day at work (26%).

Almost half (46%) agreed that communication with their four-legged friend has strengthened their bond, and 36% confessed there are some days they'd rather chat with their pet than another human.

However, while 15% have been keen to find out more about their pet's body language, they have visited an animal expert to decipher it, 26% have looked for answers online.

Karen added: "The more we can read signals from our pets, the more they will learn to trust that we are listening and understanding them, resulting in a stronger bond."

The OnePoll survey revealed that 48% of pet owners believe their furry friends can sense sadness, while 45% think their pets respond to stress or anxiety.

Dr Cathryn Mellersh, head of the canine genetics centre at The University of Cambridge Veterinary School, working with Wisdom Panel, agreed, eplaining: "Dogs were the first species to be domesticated and have evolved alongside humans."

"They read our body language, show empathy when we're upset, and often prefer the company of a person over their own species - all testament to how intertwined we are."

"Different breeds exhibit quite different behaviours, just as DNA influences what they look like and the diseases that they might develop. Their genes also play a large role in their behaviours too," she added.

"While 58% of pet owners aren't aware of DNA testing, the insights can help you learn even more about the way your pet behaves, allowing you to make more informed decisions about their care and training. By understanding their breed mix, health, traits, behaviours and relatives on a deeper level, owners are able to boost the bond they have with their pet."