They are known as 'man’s best friend', and new research from Italy is attempting to prove that statement has more scientific evidence to support it than we might think.
According to a study by the Royal Society Open Science, dogs can instantly mimic each other’s facial expressions, as well as that of their owners and other humans they interact with.
As part of the research, 49 dogs were filmed playing in a dog park - with their playful behaviour noted in various forms: such as when a dog keeps its mouth open and relaxed, or when it crouches on its front legs and wags its tail.
Scientists have called it "emotional contagion", which underlies a basic form of empathy with the person or animal it is imitating.
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"I think that natural conditions are extremely important if we want to reveal a phenomenon as it really is," said researcher Dr Elisabetta Palagi.
"This phenomenon is present also in humans and in other primate species."
Researchers found that canines were able to copy the facial expressions and characteristics of their pals within a split-second, which is seen as an involuntary response rather than something that is the result of training.
Dogs are also known to mimic some human traits, such as yawning, which adds to the idea they possess at least a basic level of empathy.
However, other veterinary scientists believe further research is required to know for sure whether dogs are actually able to attune to the emotional state and mindset of their furry fellows.
