In a recent LinkedIn post, Choo Ann NGOH playfully explores the age-old adage “curiosity killed the cat” and extends the thought to canine companions, weaving in personal anecdotes about pet ownership and language. The post, which uses humor and relatable experiences, prompts reflection on animal behavior and the nuances of communication, even across species.
NGOH begins by questioning the proverb’s implications for other animals, specifically dogs, setting a lighthearted yet inquisitive tone. The author then shares a personal story about their experience with German Spitz dogs, highlighting a humorous language barrier.
“Unfortunately, neither my family nor me spoke a single word in German.”
This anecdote serves as a bridge to discuss the author’s subsequent decision to adopt a Japanese Spitz, a breed that, while not German, offered a different kind of familiarity through Japanese culture, which NGOH humorously contrasts with their limited German vocabulary.
The Nuances of ‘Knowing’ a Language
Choo Ann NGOH further delves into the concept of language proficiency, distinguishing between knowing a few words and being able to converse. The author playfully lists words like “German sausage,” “sushi,” “wasabi,” and “French fries” as evidence of knowing “at least 3 foreign languages.” However, NGOH quickly qualifies this, questioning the true meaning of knowing a language.
“Then again, knowing is NOT the same as being able to converse. Is it?”
This reflection prompts readers to consider their own experiences with language and the various levels of understanding and fluency.
Curiosity and Consequences: Dogs vs. Cats
The latter part of NGOH’s post circles back to the initial theme of curiosity, this time through a specific anecdote involving their dog. The author recounts an instance where their dog was caught venturing into an area that was strictly off-limits, a behavior that mirrors the “curiosity” often associated with cats.
“He was caught red-handed (or red-pawed?) going upstairs when he was clearly told upstairs is strictly out of bounds.”
This observation leads NGOH to ponder why cats are proverbially punished for their curiosity, while dogs, in this instance, seem to get away with it. This thought-provoking question invites discussion on perceived differences in animal behavior and how humans interpret and react to them. NGOH’s engaging narrative style and use of emojis encourage interaction and sharing of personal experiences from the audience.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Choo Ann NGOH on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 4, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →