If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why your dog does what they do — especially when they seem to make surprising, thoughtful, frustrating, or downright quirky choices — even as you wonder what’s gotten into them, you’ve probably brushed up against this question:

Does my dog have free will?

It’s a big question — with answers that span science, philosophy, and how we think about agency, learning, and love.

Have you ever looked at your dog mid-play and thought: They’re laughing at me?

I have.

It’s a strange and lovely moment — that sideways glance, the breathy huff, the joy in their eyes. It feels like they’re in on a joke with you.

Not just reacting. Not just playing. But sharing.

It turns out… maybe they are.

I hear it all the time — in fact, I’ve thought it myself:

“It’s just her instinct to protect me.”

“He has a strong prey drive.”

“She’s anxious — it’s just how she’s wired.”

These phrases sound reasonable, even scientific. They give us something to say when behaviour feels overwhelming or inexplicable. And yet, if I’ve learned anything from studying behaviour deeply, it’s this: the moment we stop asking why, we lose our best chance to understand and connect.

When your dog gives you that look before stealing a sock (you know the one), or your parrot starts dancing when music plays, it’s hard not to wonder: do they know what they’re doing? Are animals just reacting, or is there something more going on in their minds?