Farmer Explains How Donkeys Communicate Their Emotions and Turns Out They're Adorable
What do you really know about donkeys? Did you know they're incredibly expressive creatures?
One farmer posted a YouTube clip demystifying donkeys, breaking down how communicative and friendly these barnyard animals can truly be. You might just be obsessed with donkeys after this one.
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"When a donkey feels happy, it can actually show it immediately," the video's voiceover begins. Meanwhile, we watch the cutest little donkey smiling at the camera, running alongside the farmer's tractor like it's time to play.
"Donkeys are actually very emotionally aware animals," the voiceover continues. "They can sense changes in their owner's mood and often react differently depending on how a person behaves around them."
How Do Donkeys Show Their Emotions?
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/utXVfGdCnqU
The video goes on to explain that donkeys, when raised around humans, can become extremely attached to their favorite human, often following them around and trying to interact with them from sunup to sundown.
"If they feel left out," voiceover explains, "they may gently nudge or stay close, trying to get interaction instead of staying alone. What makes them even more interesting is how expressive they are. Their facial reactions and body language often look surprisingly intentional, almost like they are trying to communicate feelings."
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However, when a donkey is feeling independent, they'll let you know! Donkeys who feel stressed or unsafe will become very stubborn, resisting any commands to move from where they're standing.
The farmer reminds us, however, that these actions and behaviors are usually tied to feelings of caution and wariness rather than anger or annoyance, so if you meet a donkey who doesn't want to move, try to remind the donkey they're safe and secure. That might just do the trick.
"They are beautiful, smart animals. Thanks for sharing," one commenter writes.
"I like to stand firmly in place when I get stressed too," another jokes.
"This animal has contributed to human progress a lot," adds another. "I love this animal."
This video is so informative, and the cute donkey visuals that showcase all these different emotions and behaviors are just too adorable. We didn't know donkeys were so precious until now! They might just be our new favorite farm animals. No wonder they made Donkey so cool in the Shrek movies!
Related: This Family's 'House Donkey' Is the Pet Trend No One Saw Coming
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This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 4:05 AM.