Interesting Dog Facts

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This forum is based on interesting facts concerning dogs. Anyone is welcome to add comments or facts and we can all learn more about dogs!

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DOG DO NOT UNDERSTAND HUMAN SPEECH

According to the Journal of Science, dogs have the capacity to conprehend human speech. We can now compare dogs to the intelligence level of a two to three year old child. Because of recent studies, dogs join chimpanzees, gorillas, oranutans, African grey parrots and dolphin on the list of animals eroding the belief that only humans have the capacity for language.

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DOGS EAT GRASS BECAUSE THEIR STOMACHS ARE UPSET

The theory is that if dogs eat grass, they will vomit so when they have upset stomachs they assist themselves by eating grass until they purge. The fact is, however, that some dogs eat grass with no ill effects.

Some theories suggest that dogs eat grass because they are seeking some lacking nutritional need; some say dogs just like the taste. The truth is, no one really knows. My dog loves to eat grass. I think she is just adding a bit of salad to her diet!

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A DOG'S MOUTH IS CLEANER THAN A HUMANS

It was once believed that a dog's saliva was an antiseptic and even possibly had healing powers. All you have to do is watch where a dog licks and what they put in their mouth for this belief to go out the window.

Though it can kill some bacteria, a dog's saliva contains a wide range of bacteria that can case infections, especially in people with low immune systems.

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WHY DO DOGS HOWL?

Dogs that are left alone for long periods howl because they are lonely. The purpose of the howl in the wild, is to gather the pack so that they can face impending danger together. The group howl is also a type of bonding experience.

[Keith]

Hi Kris,

Great meeting you finally. My husky/border collie mix (sheer speculation based on looks and manner) likes to howl or sing as a form of communication. I've heard that Huskies howl more than other breeds. Ever heard that? Or he may have picked up the habit during his first few ears when he lived at the end of a 3 foot chain.

cheers, Keith

[Howling Success K9 Services]

Huskies are a Northern breed, therefore they do howl more than other breeds. Depending on how much Husky your boy has, I am sure you have also noticed they don't bark as much as other dogs and tend to have a "woo woo" sound to communicate. Some Huskies bark, but they prefer to "talk" and howl. All Northern breeds are like this.

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IS TOUCHING A DOG IMPORTANT?

Studies show that a lovingly handled dog is a healthier dog. The touch of the human hand improves the functions of virtually all the sustaining systems: respiratory, circulatory, digestive and so on. In new born puppies. a frequently petted puppy is not only healthier and happier, but also better behaved. Dogs like humans, find solace in touching another living being, which is another reason why they get along so well together.
Just remember when you are training a dog and want them to listen, use verbal praise rather than touch because touching is a distraction and will make it harder for your dog to concentrate. Wait until they have completed the command and then give a slight pet for affirmation. At the end of the session is when you pour on the physical praise!