Ever wonder if your dog truly knows it’s you when you speak? A few new studies suggest the answer is yes, and the science behind it is pretty fascinating.

Researchers at the University of Sussex found that dogs can recognize words even when spoken by different people. That means they aren’t just responding to tone or pitch. They’re actually processing the sound of speech in a more advanced way than scientists once believed.

In another study from Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary, 28 dogs were tested with their owners’ voices versus strangers’ voices. Most of the dogs found their owners simply by sound, even when the scent didn’t match.

Meet Watson, the 8-pound bundle of charm who’s been lighting up Anita’s life for the past 10 years. As her very first dog, Watson set the bar high. He’s fearless, lovable, and somehow manages to brighten the day of every stranger he meets. Whether he's strutting through the neighborhood or posing for impromptu fan photos, Watson brings smiles wherever he goes.

People don’t just pass by him, they always stop to pet him, say hi, and snap a pic. His joy is contagious, and his curiosity makes him the perfect partner for any adventure. Anita says she got lucky with Watson, but it sounds like everyone who meets him does, too.

Thank you to our reader, Anita, for sending in a picture of Watson. Give your pup the spotlight by submitting them for the dog of the day!

Thank you to Money for partnering with us!

Here’s the fun trick: you can try a mini-experiment at home.

• Record your voice and play it back. See how your pup reacts.

• Hide in another room and call their name. Does your dog find you?

• Play a recording from a different spot. Does your dog get tricked?

Turns out, your dog may know you better by voice than you thought.

Stitcher, Minnie, & Finnegan 🐾

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