Dustin Hoffman has developed such close bonds with his pet dogs that he takes the furry friends to bed with him.

The acting legend credits his relationships with his pet pooches for helping him understand what "kind of animal" he is. He believes in rewarding them for their companionship with healthy doses of affection, reports Ireland Online.

"The first time I realised what kind of animal I was, through my first dog...(and) by talking to my dogs, playing and petting and taking them to bed. We have a tactile connection, a non-verbal communication," the actor said.