Can We Tell Time?

Dear Mr. Smart T. Pants:

When I come home from work, my dog is waiting for me right by the door or in the window. How does he do it? Can he tell time?

Wondering in Chadds Ford

Dear Wondering:

First I have to say we dogs do miss our humans when they are gone. But while I would like to tell you, “Yes, we can tell time”, there are other reasons for why we know when you are coming home.

Dogs are excellent observers both of your routine and of environmental cues. For example, your car may make a certain sound that would alert your dog to your impending arrival. Or we know that when the sun reaches a certain spot, you will be home soon. At our house I know when Dog Dad starts moving around in the kitchen, Dog Mom will be coming home soon and I assume my post in the window. There are a few other theories, but I do have to keep some of the mystery.

But no matter why we do it or how bad your day has been, remember behind that door is someone who is SO excited to see you. Enjoy!

Mr. Smart T. Pants