Can you use who with animals?

It's a bit tricky. While "who" is generally used for people, there are certain situations where you can use it for animals, especially when you want to emphasize their intelligence, individuality, or anthropomorphization.

Here's a breakdown:

When it's OK to use "who" for animals:

* Personification: When you treat an animal like a person, you can use "who." This is common in fiction or when talking about pets.

* Example: "The dog who saved the little girl from the fire is a hero."

* Emphasis on intelligence: You might use "who" to highlight an animal's intelligence or understanding.

* Example: "The chimpanzee who learned sign language was a remarkable creature."

* Specific individuals: If you're talking about a specific animal with a name, you might use "who."

* Example: "My cat, Luna, who is known for her mischievous antics, just stole my sandwich."

When it's better to use "that" or "which" for animals:

* General statements: When referring to animals in general, "that" or "which" is more common.

* Example: "The dogs that bark the loudest are usually the smallest."

* Talking about an animal's qualities: For describing an animal's physical traits or behavior, "that" or "which" is generally preferred.

* Example: "The bird that flew into my window was injured."

In summary:

While "who" is typically reserved for people, you can use it for animals in certain contexts. It's often a matter of personal preference and the specific meaning you want to convey.