Are you a proud pet owner trying to speak Korean in your daily routine? 🐶🐱 Whether you're feeding your cat, taking your dog on a walk, or chatting with other pet lovers at the park, knowing the right phrases in Korean can make a huge difference.
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In this guide, you'll learn essential Korean expressions for feeding, playing, walking, and everyday pet communication. It's designed for beginners and self-learners who love animals and want to connect in Korean naturally and confidently.
🍽️ Feeding Time Talk
Feeding your pet is one of the most loving and essential daily routines. If you're in Korea or speaking Korean with locals, it's super useful to know how to describe feeding times in Korean.
“먹었어요?” (meogeosseoyo?) means “Did [your pet] eat?” It’s a basic question that Korean pet owners often ask their animals or other pet parents. You’ll hear this a lot during casual walks or vet visits.
Another common phrase is “밥 줬어요” (bap jwosseoyo), which means “I gave [them] food.” In Korea, “밥” (bap) doesn’t only mean rice—it refers to a meal in general, even for pets!
If you're giving treats, you can say “간식 줄게요” (gansik julgeyo) meaning “I’ll give you a treat.” Koreans often treat their pets like kids, so sweet talk is very common. 😄
When it's time to feed, one phrase I use often is “밥 먹자!” (bap meokja!) which means “Let’s eat!” — You can say it with a cheerful tone and pets often respond happily to it!
If you're at the vet or with a pet sitter, you might hear “사료 먹어요” (saryo meogeoyo), meaning “[They] eat dry food.” 사료 (saryo) specifically refers to kibble or packaged pet food.
For wet food, Koreans say “습식 사료” (seupsik saryo), which means “wet food.” You can also specify the brand or amount, especially if you're writing feeding instructions.
If your pet didn’t eat, the phrase “밥 안 먹었어요” (bap an meogeosseoyo) means “They didn’t eat.” This can be important to mention to the vet.
Sometimes, you'll want to say when your pet usually eats. Try: “보통 아침 9시에 먹어요” (botong achim ahopsie meogeoyo) — “Usually eats at 9 AM.” Time expressions help with scheduling.
Portion control is important, so you can say “많이 주지 마세요” (mani juji maseyo), meaning “Don’t give too much.” This is useful for pet sitters or groomers too.
In my experience, using cute tones and repetitive phrases really helps. I always say “간식?” (gansik?) in a high-pitched voice, and my dog runs to me instantly. 😆
Food-related phrases build emotional bonding. Some people even say “엄마가 밥 줄게~” (eommaga bap julge~) — “Mommy will give you food~” showing affection through language.
Want to ask someone else if they feed pets at certain times? Try “언제 밥 줘요?” (eonje bap jwoyo?) — “When do you give food?”
If you're feeding a friend’s dog, always confirm: “이거 먹여도 돼요?” (igeo meogyeodo dwaeyo?) — “Is it okay to feed this?”
And if your pet loves a certain brand, you can say “이 사료 좋아해요” (i saryo joahaeyo) — “They like this food.”
📋 Pet Feeding Phrases Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 밥 줬어요 | bap jwosseoyo | I gave [them] food |
| 간식 줄게요 | gansik julgeyo | I'll give a treat |
| 사료 먹어요 | saryo meogeoyo | Eats dry food |
| 밥 안 먹었어요 | bap an meogeosseoyo | Didn’t eat |
| 많이 주지 마세요 | mani juji maseyo | Don’t give too much |
Feeding time is a perfect chance to speak Korean naturally to your pet. It’s also one of the easiest areas to practice your pronunciation and tone!
🐕 Playing with Your Pet
Playing is a key part of your pet’s emotional and physical well-being, and it’s also a perfect chance to speak Korean naturally while bonding with them. Let’s explore useful phrases and vocabulary you can use during playtime!
One of the most popular expressions is “놀자!” (nolja!), which means “Let’s play!” It's simple and energetic — perfect for play sessions with dogs or cats. Use it with a happy tone!
If you’re playing fetch, say “가져와!” (gajyeowa!), meaning “Bring it!” or “Fetch!” This is one of the most common dog training commands in Korean homes.
Want to encourage your pet to run? Try “뛰어!” (ttwieo!) which means “Run!” or “Jump!” It’s great for active pets at the park.
When using a toy, say “장난감이야!” (jangnanggam-iya!) meaning “It’s a toy!” It adds excitement and helps reinforce object recognition.
You can praise your pet by saying “잘했어!” (jalhaesseo!) — “Good job!” or “Well done!” Reinforcing good behavior is as important in Korea as it is anywhere else.
To tell your pet to wait or stay, say “기다려” (gidar-ryeo). It’s used often when playing games with turns or during training.
If your dog loves tug-of-war, say “당겨봐!” (dang-gyeobwa!) meaning “Pull it!” It’s fun and teaches interactive commands.
Many pets get too excited during play. If that happens, say “진정해” (jinjeonghae) — “Calm down.” It’s polite and often used even for people.
Another fun command is “굴러!” (gulleo!) — “Roll over!” Great for trick training and bonding through fun activities.
If your pet doesn’t respond, you can say “이거 봐!” (igeo bwa!) — “Look at this!” to grab their attention.
You may hear Korean pet owners say “신났어?” (sinnasseo?) — “Are you excited?” It’s playful and adds emotional bonding during interaction.
To end playtime, try “그만 놀자” (geuman nolja) — “Let’s stop playing.” Say it gently to let your pet wind down.
If you want to ask someone else, say “이 장난감 좋아해요?” (i jangnanggam joahaeyo?) — “Does your pet like this toy?” Great for sharing tips with other pet parents.
My dog loves when I say “공놀이 하자!” (gongnori haja!) — “Let’s play with the ball!” It became our daily phrase.
Want to play hide-and-seek? Say “찾아봐!” (chajabwa!) — “Find it!” Use it when hiding treats or toys.
Lastly, don’t forget praise phrases like “착하지~” (chakaji~) — “You’re being so good~” It builds trust and joy during interaction.
📋 Pet Playtime Vocabulary Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 놀자! | nolja! | Let’s play! |
| 가져와! | gajyeowa! | Fetch / Bring it |
| 장난감이야 | jangnanggam-iya | It’s a toy! |
| 잘했어! | jalhaesseo! | Good job! |
| 기다려 | gidar-ryeo | Wait / Stay |
Playtime is a joyful way to use Korean daily. You’ll find these expressions help you feel more natural and connect deeper with your pet!
🚶 Walking Your Pet in Korean
Walking your dog or pet is a great way to practice Korean outside. In Korea, many pet owners live in apartments, so walks are a vital part of their pets’ daily routine. Let’s learn how to talk about pet walks in Korean!
To begin a walk, say “산책 가자!” (sanchaek gaja!) — “Let’s go for a walk!” It’s one of the most commonly used phrases for dogs in Korean households.
When you’re putting on a leash, use “목줄 하자” (mokjul haja) — “Let’s put on the leash.” 목줄 means leash or collar.
If your pet gets excited, say “기다려” (gidaryeo) — “Wait” to calm them before heading out. This command is useful for safety at doors or crosswalks.
Outside, you can say “좋아?” (joa?) — “Do you like it?” Koreans often talk to their pets casually, as if talking to a friend.
If your pet needs to go potty, say “쉬해” (swihae) — a soft command meaning “Go pee.” Korean pet owners use this word as a gentle bathroom cue.
When encouraging movement, use “가자” (gaja) — “Let’s go.” You’ll hear this a lot from Korean dog walkers.
If your pet is sniffing around too long, you can say “그만 해” (geuman hae) — “Stop it” or “Enough.” It’s firm but common.
When meeting another pet, you can say to the owner: “친하게 지낼 수 있을까요?” (chinage jinael su isseulkkayo?) — “Can they get along?”
To describe the walk, say “산책 잘했어” (sanchaek jalhaesseo) — “Nice walk” or “You did well.” It’s a way of praising your pet afterward.
If your pet doesn’t want to walk, say “왜 멈췄어?” (wae meomchwosseo?) — “Why did you stop?” It's playful and common in conversations with pets.
Use “조심해” (josimhae) — “Be careful” when crossing the road or encountering bikes. Koreans often use this with both people and pets.
If your pet walks too fast, say “천천히 가” (cheoncheonhi ga) — “Go slowly.” This keeps the pace relaxed and safe.
Finally, to express fun, say “재밌었지?” (jaemisseotji?) — “That was fun, right?” A perfect phrase to wrap up the walk with love.
📋 Pet Walking Vocabulary Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 산책 가자! | sanchaek gaja! | Let’s go for a walk! |
| 쉬해 | swihae | Go pee |
| 기다려 | gidaryeo | Wait |
| 가자 | gaja | Let’s go |
| 조심해 | josimhae | Be careful |
Walks are a beautiful time for bonding and language learning. These phrases will help make your pet’s walk safer, happier, and more Korean-friendly!
🗣️ Basic Commands & Reactions
Basic commands are essential when communicating with your pet in Korean. Whether you're giving directions or praising good behavior, knowing these phrases will help build a stronger relationship and make daily routines smoother. Let's learn how to talk to your pet clearly and kindly in Korean!
One of the most basic commands is “앉아” (anja) — “Sit.” This is widely used and often the first command dogs learn. Say it firmly but kindly.
To tell your pet to lie down, say “엎드려” (eopdeuryeo). This is useful for calming excited pets or preparing for grooming or a walk.
Want your dog to stay in place? Use “기다려” (gidaryeo) — “Wait.” It’s helpful during feeding, walking, or at the vet.
If your pet is being too energetic, gently say “그만” (geuman) — “Stop.” This is short but effective for ending an action.
When asking your pet to come to you, use “이리 와” (iri wa) — “Come here.” Say it with a welcoming tone!
“Good job!” is “잘했어!” (jalhaesseo!). It’s a warm expression to praise your pet for obeying commands or showing good behavior.
To ask your pet to be quiet, say “조용히 해” (joyonghi hae). Use it gently but with clear tone, especially when barking is excessive.
When calling attention, say “봐봐” (bwabwa) — “Look!” This is great when showing a toy or giving a command.
Encouraging commands are also common. Try “가자” (gaja) — “Let’s go,” which is often used before walks or play.
If your pet is anxious, you can say “괜찮아” (gwaenchana) — “It’s okay.” This is soothing and commonly used by Korean pet owners during vet visits.
Want to compliment your pet? Say “착하지~” (chakaji~) — “You’re being good~.” It’s a loving way to show approval.
If your pet follows directions well, you can tell others: “말 잘 들어요” (mal jal deureoyo) — “They listen well.”
If they don’t listen, say “말 안 들어요” (mal an deureoyo) — “They don’t listen.” It’s often said with a smile.
To encourage repetition, you can say “한 번 더!” (han beon deo!) — “One more time!” It’s great for tricks and training games.
Try to use consistent tones and body gestures with these phrases to help your pet understand. Many Korean pet owners use a soft, cheerful voice when training to keep the interaction positive and engaging.
📋 Basic Command & Reaction Vocabulary Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 앉아 | anja | Sit |
| 엎드려 | eopdeuryeo | Lie down |
| 기다려 | gidaryeo | Wait |
| 이리 와 | iri wa | Come here |
| 잘했어! | jalhaesseo! | Good job! |
Mastering these everyday Korean commands will help you feel more confident as a pet parent in Korea. Your pet will respond better, and locals will love hearing how naturally you speak to animals in Korean!
🐕🦺 Small Talk With Other Pet Owners
When you’re walking your pet in Korea, it's very common to run into other pet owners. Whether at the park, on a sidewalk, or at the vet, basic small talk in Korean helps you connect with locals and share pet stories.
To say hello politely, use “안녕하세요” (annyeonghaseyo). You can follow up with a friendly compliment like “강아지 너무 귀여워요” (gangaji neomu gwiyeowoyo) — “Your dog is so cute.”
If you want to ask the breed, say “무슨 종이에요?” (museun jong-ieyo?) — “What breed is it?” This is a common first question among pet owners.
To ask the pet’s name, say “이름이 뭐예요?” (ireumi mwoyeyo?) — “What’s their name?” Use “걔” (gyae) as a casual way to refer to pets.
Many Koreans ask about the age: “몇 살이에요?” (myeot sal-ieyo?) — “How old is [your dog/cat]?”
To say “He’s friendly,” use “순해요” (soonhaeyo). If the pet is shy, say “조금 낯을 가려요” (jogeum nat-eul garyeoyo) — “They’re a bit shy.”
You can ask: “산책 자주 해요?” (sanchaek jaju haeyo?) — “Do you walk often?” It opens up casual conversation about routines.
To describe your own pet, say “얘는 장난꾸러기예요” (yaeneun jangnankkureogiyeyo) — “He’s a troublemaker.” It often makes people smile.
Want to ask where they got the dog? Say “어디서 입양하셨어요?” (eodiseo ibyang hasyeosseoyo?) — “Where did you adopt him/her?”
You may also hear compliments like “털이 너무 예뻐요” (teori neomu yeppeoyo) — “Their fur is so pretty.” Feel free to return the compliment!
If your pets get along, you can suggest: “같이 놀게 해요” (gachi nolge haeyo) — “Let’s let them play together.”
To say goodbye, you can say “안녕히 가세요” (annyeonghi gaseyo) — “Goodbye” or just wave and say “다음에 또 봐요” (daeume tto bwayo) — “See you next time.”
In my experience, simple pet-related phrases have started so many friendly chats during walks. Don’t worry about being perfect — Koreans will love the effort you put into talking about your furry friend! 🐶
📋 Pet Owner Small Talk Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 이름이 뭐예요? | ireumi mwoyeyo? | What’s their name? |
| 몇 살이에요? | myeot sal-ieyo? | How old are they? |
| 강아지 너무 귀여워요 | gangaji neomu gwiyeowoyo | Your dog is so cute |
| 같이 놀게 해요 | gachi nolge haeyo | Let them play together |
| 다음에 또 봐요 | daeume tto bwayo | See you next time |
Small talk with other pet owners may seem small, but it leads to new friendships and shared joy. These simple phrases will help you connect while showing your Korean skills naturally.
🎎 Korean Culture Around Pets
In Korea, pet ownership has grown rapidly over the last two decades. As of 2025, nearly 1 in 4 households owns a pet, most commonly a dog or a cat. But owning a pet in Korea comes with cultural expectations and social norms that may surprise visitors and expats.
For starters, cleanliness and quietness are highly valued in Korean neighborhoods. Barking dogs or messy walks can quickly lead to complaints, especially in apartment buildings. Many owners train their dogs early using commands like “조용히 해” (joyonghi hae) — “Be quiet.”
Because most people live in high-rise apartments, outdoor spaces are limited. That’s why many Koreans walk their dogs in nearby parks or along riverside paths. You’ll often see dogs wearing clothes or even shoes, especially in winter.
Pet cafes have become a trend — spaces where people can interact with cats or dogs while enjoying drinks. You’ll find signs like “반려동물 환영” (banryeodongmul hwanyeong) — “Pets Welcome” at such places.
In public transport, only small pets in carriers are allowed. On the subway, people say “이동가방 있어요?” (idong gabang isseoyo?) — “Do you have a pet carrier?” to check for compliance.
Korea also has strict leash laws. Most public areas require pets to be on a leash. Signs that say “반드시 목줄 착용” (bandeusi mokjul chakyong) — “Leash required” are common in parks.
Many Koreans see pets as family members. It’s common to hear someone refer to their dog as “우리 아가” (uri aga) — “our baby.” This reflects a deep emotional connection.
However, not everyone is used to pets in public. Elderly Koreans or non-pet owners may feel uncomfortable if a dog jumps or comes too close. It’s polite to say “괜찮아요, 안 물어요” (gwaenchanayo, an mureoyo) — “It’s okay, he doesn’t bite.”
Vaccination and registration are mandatory for dogs. Owners receive a registration tag that must be attached to the collar. Losing this tag may result in a fine.
Koreans love posting pet pictures on social media, often with captions like “오늘도 귀여움 한도 초과” (oneuldo gwiyeoum hando chogwa) — “Too cute again today!”
One thing I noticed living here is how well-groomed pets are. Grooming salons, pet spas, and even doggy dental care are part of many Koreans’ routine pet care.
In rural areas, attitudes may differ. Dogs are more commonly kept outside, and the idea of “indoor pets” may still be considered unusual by older generations.
Overall, Korean pet culture blends modern luxury with deep affection, all while respecting public harmony. If you understand the expectations, owning a pet in Korea can be a joyful experience.
📋 Korean Pet Culture Vocabulary Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 반려동물 | banryeodongmul | companion animal / pet |
| 목줄 착용 | mokjul chakyong | wearing a leash |
| 이동가방 | idong gabang | pet carrier |
| 우리 아가 | uri aga | our baby |
| 귀여움 한도 초과 | gwiyeoum hando chogwa | too cute to handle |
Learning these cultural elements doesn’t just help you fit in — it shows deep respect for Korean society and a sincere love for your pet. 🐕🦺
📌 FAQ: Korean for Pet Owners
Q1. How do I say “Time to eat!” to my pet in Korean?
A1. You can say “밥 먹자!” (bap meokja!) – it means “Let’s eat!” in a friendly way.
Q2. What’s a cute way to call my pet over?
A2. Try saying “이리 와~” (iri wa~) – it’s like saying “Come here~” sweetly.
Q3. How do I say “Do you want to play?” in Korean?
A3. Say “놀고 싶어?” (nolgo sipeo?) – casual and cute for pets!
Q4. What’s the phrase for “Let’s go for a walk” in Korean?
A4. You can say “산책 가자!” (sanchaek gaja!) – your dog will love this one. 🐕🦺
Q5. How do I ask someone “Can my dog say hi?” in Korean?
A5. Try “인사해도 돼요?” (insahaedo dwaeyo?) – it’s polite and friendly.
Q6. What if I want to say “Good job!” to my dog?
A6. Say “잘했어~” (jalhaesseo~) – sounds super positive and warm!
Q7. How do I tell my pet “No” in a firm but gentle way?
A7. Say “안 돼” (an dwae) – short and clear for boundaries.
Q8. How do I say “Sit” and “Wait” in Korean?
A8. “Sit” is “앉아” (anja), and “Wait” is “기다려” (gidaryeo).
Q9. How do I ask another pet owner if I can pet their dog?
A9. Use “만져도 돼요?” (manjyeodo dwaeyo?) – it's polite and clear.
Q10. What’s a phrase to praise my pet for eating well?
A10. You can say “잘 먹었어~” (jal meogeosseo~) – “You ate well!”
Q11. How do I say “He’s excited!” in Korean?
A11. Say “신났어요!” (sinnasseoyo!) – perfect when your pet is energetic or happy.
Q12. What's a polite way to greet another dog owner?
A12. You can say “안녕하세요. 강아지 귀엽네요~” (annyeonghaseyo. gangaji gwiyeobneyo~).
Q13. How do I say “Don’t pull” on a leash walk?
A13. Try “당기지 마” (dang-giji ma) – firm and easy for leash commands.
Q14. What do Koreans usually say when their pet finishes eating?
A14. Many say “잘 먹었지?” (jal meogeotji?) like “Did you eat well?”
Q15. How do I ask “Is your dog friendly?” in Korean?
A15. Say “이 강아지 친해요?” (i gangaji chinhaeyo?) – good for new dog encounters.
Q16. What do I say to encourage my dog while walking?
A16. You can say “잘 하고 있어!” (jal hago isseo!) – “You’re doing great!”
Q17. What’s a good phrase for “Watch out” on the street?
A17. Use “조심해!” (josimhae!) when approaching cars or people.
Q18. How do I say “Do you walk your dog here often?”
A18. Say “여기 자주 산책하세요?” (yeogi jaju sanchaek haseyo?) – a great small talk starter.
Q19. How do you say “Treat” in Korean for dogs?
A19. It’s commonly “간식” (gansik) – you can say “간식 줄까?” (gansik julkka?) = “Want a treat?”
Q20. What’s a good way to wrap up a conversation with another pet owner?
A20. Try “좋은 하루 되세요~” (joeun haru doeseyo~) – “Have a nice day!”
Q21. How do I ask “Did your dog eat?” in Korean?
A21. You can say “강아지 밥 먹었어요?” (gangaji bap meogeosseoyo?)
Q22. How do I say “Let’s play ball” in Korean?
A22. Try “공놀이 하자!” (gongnori haja!) – ball play is “공놀이” (gongnori).
Q23. How do I say “Did he poop?” in Korean?
A23. You can say “응가 했어요?” (eungga haesseoyo?) – commonly used by Korean pet parents.
Q24. What’s the polite way to offer a treat to another dog?
A24. Say “간식 줘도 돼요?” (gansik jwodo dwaeyo?) – “Can I give a treat?”
Q25. How do I compliment another person’s pet?
A25. Try “정말 예뻐요” (jeongmal yeppeoyo) – “So pretty!”
Q26. How do I say “She loves walking” in Korean?
A26. You can say “산책을 정말 좋아해요” (sanchaekeul jeongmal joahaeyo)
Q27. What’s a way to ask “Is he trained?”
A27. Say “훈련됐어요?” (hunryeon dwaesseoyo?) – “Is he trained?”
Q28. How do I say “She loves people” in Korean?
A28. Try “사람을 좋아해요” (sarameul joahaeyo)
Q29. What do I say when my dog gets scared on a walk?
A29. Calmly say “괜찮아~” (gwaenchana~) – “It’s okay.”
Q30. How do I say “She’s playful” in Korean?
A30. You can say “장난꾸러기예요” (jangnankkureogiyeyo) – “She’s a little rascal!”
The content in this post is intended for educational purposes only, especially for English-speaking learners studying Korean. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed vet for any pet-related concerns.
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