I had long ago gotten tired of tripping over our dog when it was time to feed him. So rather than have him harassing us, he now sits quietly next to his bowl while we fetch his food. Being a Labrador retriever he is prone to fits of exuberance, though usually he can sit still long enough to earn his food. Last night he was particularly good at waiting, and I felt he needed to know that.
I began to heavily praise him for his efforts and as I did, the idea popped into my head that his performance had earned him an extra doggie treat. Well the next thing I know, the dog is all over Kelly as she put clothes in the clothes dryer, which just happens to be directly below where we keep the dog treats! He was in the sitting position facing her, with his ears perked up, exactly like he does when he’s expecting a treat. It was enough to make Kelly burst out laughing but it left me scratching my head.
We regularly move clothes into and out of the dryer and usually the dog couldn’t care less. Why the sudden interest? Also, he had just been fed a full meal. While sometimes after he eats he wanders below the dinner table for small scraps, it was quite unusual for him to be begging for a treat right after being fed. I had never seen him beg like that except after he’s had a walk, when he expects he will be rewarded with a treat.
It made me go hmmmm. Was this another telepathic thought I occasionally broadcast, like the others I’ve documented here? Did the dog somehow pick this up? Or (even more amusing to ponder) did that thought originate with my conniving dog and somehow get picked up by me? Or is it mere coincidence?
I can’t say I always know what the dog is thinking: that would certainly be a useful skill! It wouldn’t surprise me if the human-pet bond is deeper and far more complex than we acknowledge.
Perhaps Rupert Sheldrake is on to something after all with his pet psi experiments.
Update: I’m pretty sure I blurted out my intention of giving my dog a treat while he was eating, so there’s no mystery here.