This is an interesting topic. It is clear that animals think, feel, and reason. They know when it is time for a walk, and they also know when you try to cut the walk short. But they do not think in words. We can’t understand this because we DO think in words, at least on the surface.
I agree with you, and a non-word based thought pattern is had to get one’s mind around. My lab’s obsession with balls, desire to go to the park, wanting to be fed at meal time are powerful, even obsessive drives. But how she thinks about them is a complete mystery
My dogs know when I am supposed to be home from work. If perchance I am not on time they become very agitated and run from door to door looking for me.