Paws for thought: dogs may be able to figure out human intentions

[Judi Lynn]

Canines seem to understand whether actions are deliberate or accidental, ‘theory of mind’ study suggests

Nicola Davis Science correspondent
@NicolaKSDavis
Wed 1 Sep 2021 05.00 EDT

From a canny look to a quizzical grumble, dogs have long conveyed the impression they know more about what their owners are up to than what might be expected. Now researchers have found fresh evidence of canine savviness, revealing dogs seem to be able to tell whether human actions are deliberate or accidental.

While theory of mind – the ability to attribute thoughts to others and to recognise that can result in certain behaviours – is often thought to be uniquely human, the study suggests at least some elements may be common to canines.

“Our findings provide important initial evidence that dogs may have at least one aspect of theory of mind: the capacity to recognise intention-in-action,” the authors write, noting among other animals to show such an ability are chimpanzees, African grey parrots and horses.

Previous research has suggested dogs can track human attention to decide when to snaffle food, and respond to pointing gestures. Additionally, many dogs get excited over certain cues that may hint at a forthcoming action – such as when a leash is picked up. However, experts say it was unclear whether dogs really grasp the notion of human intention.

More:
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/sep/01/german-scientists-find-fresh-evidence-of-canine-intelligence

[brush]

1. The last two sentences seem to contradict each other.

IMO it's pretty obvious dogs respond to human actions and words...like, as said, picking up a lease. Dogs who've experience the beach also get excite at a mention of the phrase "let's go to the beach."

Make up your minds, researchers.

[Phoenix61]

2. Of course they do.

Anyone who has had a dog has, sadly, hurt them accidentally. Whether it was their tail caught under the rocking chair or a misplaced foot in the dark it happens. A dog responds much differently to that than being intentionally hurt.

[Lulu KC]

4. Yes! So quick to forgive

after the apology. Same with my cat, though of course I have to chase her down to apologize, after she deems me worthy of further interaction.

[Duppers]

5. They understand apologies too.

🐕

[Lulu KC]

3. I'm a little slow

but I think I'm finally catching on that every single research study says words to the effect of, "results are inconclusive and further research is required." This is to leave the door open for future funding.

Having said that, this is an interesting thing to read. I need to reread this tomorrow after some coffee to pick up the subtleties.

My dog can tell by the types of hygiene I perform and clothes I'm putting on whether it's likely or not that she'll get to go with me where I'm going. Once she sees me putting on clothes for a meeting, with a jacket, she runs under the bed because she knows she'll be left behind.