Ever notice that when you yawn, your dog often yawns? With these yawns–often called contagious yawns–dogs show that they understand how you’re feeling. That’s empathy–and just one of the many wonders of the magical dog-child connection.

It’s pretty common to see humans yawn when they see each other yawn–especially humans who have strong bonds. But a study in Plos One found that dogs do this, too. Earlier, researchers believed that dogs yawn when they feel stress. Not so, says this study. It’s all about empathy. And dogs are more likely to yawn after seeing someone they’re bonded with yawn. They’re less likely to yawn along with strangers.

What’s called “contagious yawning,” or yawning that spreads from one being to another–plays a role in communication and social interactions. In other words, dogs who yawn in response to your yawns are social creatures who want to connect with you!

What’s more, dogs can teach kids empathy, says Susan Newmann, Ph.D., social psychologist and author of “Little Things Long Remembered: Making Your Children Feel Special Every Day.” Kids often feel empathy when their dogs or pups aren’t feeling well.

Next time you yawn, and your dog yawns, too, remember that he or she is “feeling” for you and be sure to give him or her a big hug!

For more fun dog facts for kids, you can check out Michael’s YouTube channel here: Fun Dog Facts for Kids on Michael’s YouTube Channel. In fact, here’s one of our favorites that shows just how heroic–and empathic–dogs can be:  Heroic Dog Story By Michael, Age 5