A captivating study released on October 1st in PLOS Biology sheds light on the fascinating ways humans interact with their dogs.
Led by Eloïse Déaux and her research team at the University of Geneva, the investigation highlights a significant finding: when talking to dogs, people instinctively modify their speech patterns.
This change, which involves speaking more slowly, appears to help dogs understand verbal commands more easily.
Speech Modifications in Human-Dog Interactions
While dogs can’t speak our language, they are remarkably responsive to a range of vocal signals.
The researchers analyzed the vocal behaviors of 30 dogs and explored recordings of conversations among 27 humans speaking five different languages.
They also examined interactions between 22 people and dogs in the same languages.
To deepen their understanding of interspecies communication, the team employed electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor the brain activity of both humans and dogs as they heard speech.
One of the standout findings of the study was the difference in speech rates.
Humans generally articulate around four syllables per second, whereas dogs express themselves through their barks, growls, and whines at a rate of about two vocalizations per second.
However, when humans engage in conversation with dogs, they tend to slow down their speaking pace to approximately three syllables per second.
EEG readings revealed that dogs process speech mainly using slow delta wave rhythms, while humans utilize faster theta waves.
This suggests that each species has evolved its own unique way of interpreting vocal sounds.
By adjusting their speech tempo, humans may foster a stronger connection with their canine companions.
The Complexity of Communication
Moreover, the researchers emphasized that dogs use both the meaning of words and the tone of voice to grasp what we’re saying, contradicting earlier beliefs that they rely solely on one aspect.
This nuanced understanding of communication highlights the complexity of the bond shared between humans and their furry friends.
Ultimately, the study not only enriches our knowledge of canine cognition but also underscores the importance of how we express ourselves to connect with our beloved pets.
Source: ScienceDaily