Animals That Connect Instantly With Humans
Dogs Not that it's any surprise, but dogs are definitely capable of bonding with humans. And we have a long history with them that helps explain why. It can depend on the personality of the dog, though, when it comes to how much they're likely to bond.
Cats Humans have a super long relationship with cats as well, which has led to a pretty tight bond. "One of our most ancient animal relationships has resulted in evolutionary continuity and relational familiarity, which leads us to be able to understand each other and increase empathy and emotional sensitivity," Philip Tedeschi, human-animal connection expert for Rover.com, tells Bustle.
Chicken Even if you haven't looked deeply into a chicken's eyes, if you were to do so, you might feel a connection. Because believe it or not, these guys are way smarter, more emotional, and cognitively complex than we give them credit for.
Pigs While they might not spring to mind as an animal humans would be able to connect with, that doesn't mean we should underestimate pigs.
Horses Research shows that horses have a strong capacity to recognize human emotions and positive and negative facial expressions. They are particularly sensitive to anxiety and stress. And they can pick up on our emotions, as a result.
Rabbits Rabbits have been bred over the years to highlight the more friendly aspects of their nature, and to accept human handling and enjoy contact with humans, Van Every says. It may take time to connect with a specific rabbit, if you were to get one as a pet. So keep in mind that it's a process.
Rats Rats are also down for some human companionship, if you handle them with care. Domestic rats are extremely social and very intelligent. With the capacity for complex learning and a desire to interact with others, which they are willing to extend to humans.
Parrots Birds in the parrot family are very social, adaptable, and highly intelligent. So if you were to hang out with someone's pet parakeet — or another bird in the parrot family — you might feel a connection..
Llamas Since they're herd animals, llamas and alpacas tend to enjoy companionship. And like equines, have developed a capacity to learn and follow guidance from humans.