Can Your Dog Catch Your Yawn?

Can Your Dog Catch Your Yawn? Science Says Yes—And It’s All About Connection 🐶💤

Have you ever yawned and noticed your dog yawned right after you? You’re not imagining things. Research shows that dogs can “catch” human yawns—a behavior once thought to be uniquely human or limited to primates. But what’s even more fascinating? This quirky canine habit might actually be a sign of empathy.

The Yawning Contagion: What Is It?

Contagious yawning happens when seeing or hearing someone yawn triggers a yawn in you. It’s common among humans and is believed to be linked to emotional closeness and empathy. Studies have found that dogs also experience this phenomenon—especially with people they know and trust.

In a study published in Biology Letters, researchers found that dogs were more likely to yawn after watching their owners yawn than when seeing a stranger do it. This suggests that the connection between dogs and their humans goes deeper than obedience or affection—it might reflect an emotional attunement.

What It Says About Your Relationship

If your pup yawns after you do, it’s not just a coincidence—it may be their way of showing social bonding. Just like how dogs pick up on our moods, routines, and tone of voice, they’re also tuned into our behaviors in subtle ways. A shared yawn could be their version of saying, “I see you. I’m with you.”

Other Signs Your Dog Feels Emotionally Connected

Contagious yawning is just one small sign of how bonded your dog is to you. Here are a few more:

• They follow you from room to room (even the bathroom!)

• They check in with you during walks or playtime

• They respond to your emotions—getting excited when you’re happy or staying close when you’re sad

• They make eye contact and seek your attention

So the Next Time You Yawn…

…take a peek at your pup. If you notice a yawn a few seconds later, smile—it’s just one more way your dog is saying, “I get you.”