Well, as a dog owner myself, I can share my personal experiences and observations on this topic. Dogs, unlike humans, do not have a concept of names as we understand them. They do not think of themselves in terms of a specific word or sound that represents their identity. Instead, dogs have a strong sense of self and recognize themselves through their own instincts, behaviors, and physical characteristics.
When it comes to names, dogs primarily respond to the sound and tone of their name rather than understanding the actual meaning behind it. They learn to associate the sound of their name with certain outcomes or actions. For example, when I call my dog’s name, he knows it’s time for a walk or to come to me for a treat. But I don’t believe he thinks of his name as a label for himself.
Dogs are highly perceptive animals and they recognize individuals based on appearance, sound, and smell. They can differentiate between their human family members, other dogs, and even familiar objects or places. This recognition is not based on language or names, but rather on their sensory perception.
For instance, my dog knows the sound of my voice and can distinguish it from others. He can also recognize me by my physical appearance, body language, and scent. Similarly, he recognizes other dogs he regularly interacts with based on their distinct smells and appearances.
In my opinion, dogs form their sense of identity and recognize others through a combination of sensory cues, instinctual behaviors, and learned associations. Names, as we understand them, are not a part of their cognitive framework. They respond to the sounds and tones associated with their name, but it is more about the communication and connection they have with their human companions rather than a true understanding of a name as a label.
While dogs may not have a concept of names for themselves, they still have a strong sense of self and can recognize individuals through various sensory cues. Their understanding of the world and their place in it is shaped by their instincts, learned behaviors, and the relationships they form with their human and animal companions.