When you need this

Pets start conversations. Someone walks a dog past you and you want to say something nice; a neighbor asks what breed your cat is; you need a friend to feed your fish while you're on vacation. These phrases cover the small talk and the favors.

Two habits make pet talk go well. Ask before you touch someone's animal ("Is it okay if I pet him?"), because not every dog likes strangers. And use he or she, not it, for someone else's pet. Owners notice, and it makes you sound friendly.

Phrases

asking permission before you touch a dog or cat

the first question most people ask about a pet

asking what type of dog or cat it is

checking before you get close

a common follow-up, especially for puppies and kittens

the pet was adopted from a shelter

you prefer cats to dogs

a reason you can't get close

asking a favor while you're away

take care of someone's animal while they're gone

he knows not to go to the bathroom inside

he's friendly with other animals

Say it out loud

Tap a sentence to hear it. Say it after the voice.

Practice · 3 min

Say the line that fits. Situation on the left, one natural line on the right.

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Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.