I’m a proud dog mama of two adorable Maltese pups. I may be a bit biased, but if I do say so myself, they are two of the cutest fur babies to ever walk the planet. Note that I refer to them as “the babies,” and anyone who knows me knows that’s because it simply reflects their youthful, playful, and loving personalities. If you feel the same way about your own pup (or pups), you understand that no matter their age, they will always be babies in your eyes. As a matter of fact, talking baby talk to your dog can make you happier and healthier, according to science. Read on to learn more, and next, check out The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.
It’s extremely common for many pet parents to talk “baby talk” to their fur babies on the regular, just like I do. According to ScienceDaily, a previous study revealed that dogs eagerly respond to infant-directed speech. Speaking to them in such a way can potentially strengthen the bond you have together. Talking to an infant strengthens the parent/child bond, and it enhances the bond with your furry friends, too. Alex Benjamin and Katie Slocombe, researchers from the University of York in the United Kingdom, performed a study that found this all to be true.
Slocombe says, “A special speech register, known as infant-directed speech, is thought to aid language acquisition and improve the way a human baby bonds with an adult.” She goes on to say, “This form of speech is known to share some similarities with the way in which humans talk to their pet dogs, known as dog-directed speech.”
Many pet parents can totally relate to the study’s findings. When you talk baby talk to your dog, they likely respond immediately with tons of kisses, loving stares, much tail wagging, and incredibly cute poses. (Cue the “awes!”)
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Your pups aren’t the only ones who benefit from sweet chatter. According to veterinarian and animal behaviorist Dr. Elfenbein (via PetMD), speaking to your pets is so beneficial to your own physical and mental well-being. A previous study found that having a convo with your furry friend could help fight loneliness (via Country Living).
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In addition, Hal Herzog, an anthrozoologist and professor of psychology says (via The Atlantic), “They give us a lot back! When you talk to them, they respond. Your dog might cock his head, give you a sort of quizzical look, like, Huh? I say ‘Do you wanna go outside?’ and my cat will come up to me and she’ll meow. I don’t think she’s processing words the same way we process words, but we have this communication system based on language.”
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Animal Channel notes that pet companionship is an integral part of human life, and they point out that it’s so beneficial to talk to your pet. After all, your best furry friend is one who likely relieves your anxieties, helps you de-stress, and just seems to make everything better after snuggling up and having a one-on-one with them. Your best fluff is never judgemental, nor will they interject their opinions on your decisions.
For these reasons and so many more, we should all continue talking baby talk to our fur babies, because they love it … and so do we!
For more mind and body news, check out Get Rid Of Bat Wings With This 10-Minute Daily Workout and Shrink Belly Fat Faster With These Walking Workouts, Trainer Says.
Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is the Mind + Body Deputy Editor of Eat This, Not That!, overseeing the M+B channel and delivering compelling fitness, wellness, and self-care topics to readers. Read more
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