There are numerous interesting things about pets that you may not know. But knowing what makes them tick can help you improve their lives, behaviors, and personalities. The facts we will share in this article may vary, depending on the type of pup you own. However, we have put together some interesting pieces so you can know more about your pet.
Dogs See More Colors, Not Just White and Black
If you think your pup sees only shades of white, gray, and black, then you thought wrong! They have nerve cells in their eyes – ocular cones and ocular rods, which can perceive color and detect light respectively.
Humans also have nerve cells, but they can sense more colors than dogs. Your pup can see only 3 color shades – yellow, blue, and blue-violet. If an object has a shade of green or red, the dog will see it as a shade of gray.
Here’s the interesting part. Dogs may have fewer ocular cones, but their rods are almost triple. This implies that their eyes are incredibly keen on the motion. They also see better than humans under low light.
Expose Them to Strangers at An Early Age
You may think this is a bad idea but socializing your pup is a critical part of dog training. Experts recommend introducing your pet to at least 100 strangers when they start living in your home. These strangers should be of different shapes, sizes, and ages.
Socializing your dog helps them become less fearful around strangers. They won’t bark unnecessarily or become aggressive except the stranger wants to burgle your home or hurt you. This training should include familiarizing them with items like hats, sunglasses, and other accessories.
Your Pup’s Temperature is Higher Than Yours
If your temperature is up to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, it is a sign of fever, but this is normal for your dog. Their average temperature ranges between 99- and 102-degrees Fahrenheit. So if you suspect your pup has a fever, don’t judge by touching its coat. Instead, check whether the nose is dry and hot. Also, check for reduced appetite or energy, vomiting, or red eyes.
They Sweat on Their Paws
If your dog’s paws smell like corn, it’s because they sweat through the pads under their paws. When bacteria and sweat accumulate on their legs, they release a unique smell. You need to clean the paws regularly because they are quite sensitive. When the paws are dirty, you may not see abrasions or cuts, which makes it difficult to know when you should visit the vet.
You can use a moist wipe to clean the paws but ensure that the product does not contain harmful compounds like alcohol. It may be friendly to human skin but toxic to dogs. If a moist wipe does not clean the paws properly, take your pet to the bath and wash with water and pet-friendly soap. Afterward, use a clean towel to dry gently.
Food Allergies Aren’t That Common
Companies that produce dog food may tell you that pups are intolerant to certain ingredients. But food allergies aren’t so common in dogs. You may have also heard that dogs need grain-free food, but they are more allergic to protein than grain.
The culprits of food allergies in pups are eggs, dairy, beef, and chicken. You can check out https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diet-nutrition/food-allergies-dogs to read more about allergies in dogs.
A Smelly Breath Is Abnormal
If your dog’s breath stinks, it is not normal. Just like in humans, a bad breath is an indication of bacteria build-up. If this smell becomes terrible, you should take your pet for an oral check-up. It’s also possible that something is going wrong inside their lungs or gut. However, the commonest cause of bad breath is gum disease.
If the vet discovers that the problem is from the gut, you need to change your pet’s diet. The vet may clean the dog’s teeth professionally, but you still need to observe certain measures. You can get your pet some treats or chew toys that encourage good breath. You should also brush their teeth daily with appropriate toothpaste.
Dogs Love Going Out
Dogs are energetic animals. History shows that they were used for hunting and following trails because of their natural energy. When you keep them indoors, the energy is unused, and this is not good for your pet.
You should make sure that your pup runs around or goes out for a walk regularly. They derive mental stimulation just by walking because it allows them to stop, pee, investigate, and meet other people and other pets. They may not get this experience by walking in your backyard, so you need to take them out more often.
A Breed That Does Not Bark May Have a Speaking Alternative
Some breeds do not bark, which is good if you live in an apartment that requires some form of decorum. The Basenjis, a popular African breed, is also known as a bark-less breed. It does not make a barking noise like other breeds; rather, it makes a yodeling sound like a chortle or cooing bird.
Although Basenjis are hunting dogs, they have an unparalleled intelligence and sweet demeanor. You can click on this link to learn more about the Basenji and other dog breeds.
Conclusion
Dogs are interesting creatures, and they enjoy spending time with their human owners. In this article, we shared some facts you should know about your furry friend. We hope this helps you to love them better and appreciate their companionship more.