Iuliia Khabibullina / Shutterstock A new study suggests dogs really do communicate with their owners. Researchers identified 19 different gestures and what they could mean. The commands were grouped into four categories: "give me food or drink," "open the door," "fetch my toy or bone," and "scratch me." The researchers said this mutual understanding could be another reason why man and dog have such a strong bond. Dog owners are often adamant they know their faithful friend is telling them something.