University of Arizona researchers study human-pet communication

Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed AURAL-Pet, a system designed to record and classify how people communicate with their dogs and cats in daily life. The study, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, analyzed 5,072 recordings from 240 individuals to move beyond self-reported data and observe real-world interactions.

The tool tracks 30 variables, including vocal tone and whether the owner treats the pet as a confidant. Common behaviors identified include narrating daily actions, commenting on animal behavior, or sharing future plans. Scientists are investigating whether these specific communication styles correlate with improved mental health and well-being for both humans and animals.

While the study does not claim that talking to pets inherently improves mental health, it explores the role of anthropomorphism—attributing human thoughts or emotions to animals. Previous research suggests that such interactions can act as an ‘emotional buffer,’ potentially reducing anxiety and stimulating oxytocin release in both species.