Going Over 10 Fun Facts About Our Furry Four-Legged Friends In Honor Of National Dog Day
National Dog Day (August 26th) is the perfect time to celebrate our loyal companions who bring joy, comfort, and love into our lives. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or just a canine enthusiast, here are ten fun facts about dogs that might surprise you!
Dog smelling
1.Dogs Have An Incredible Sense of Smell
Dogs’ sense of smell is up to 100,000 times better than humans. They have up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to about six million in humans. This powerful sense of smell is why dogs are often used in roles like search and rescue, detecting explosives, and even sniffing out diseases like cancer.
2.The “Doggie Paddle” Is Instinctual
You might think you need to teach your dog to swim, but many dogs instinctively know how to perform the “doggie paddle.” While not all dogs are natural swimmers, those who are will typically start paddling as soon as they hit the water.
Dogs understand words & gestures
3.Dogs Can Understand Up To 250 Words And Gestures
Dogs are smarter than we often give them credit for. Studies from the American Psychological Association have shown that the average dog can understand about 165 words, while the most intelligent dogs can learn up to 250 words and gestures. This makes them as smart as a two-year-old child.
4.Dogs Dream Just Like Humans
Ever noticed your dog twitching or moving in their sleep? Dogs experience REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, the same stage of sleep where humans dream. So, when your dog is twitching or moving its paws in its sleep, it’s likely dreaming about chasing squirrels or playing fetch.
A dog’s nose print is unique
5.A Dog’s Nose Print Is Unique
Just like human fingerprints, a dog’s nose print is unique to each dog. Some kennels and shelters even use nose prints to identify dogs. The bumps, ridges, and creases on their noses form patterns that are distinctive and can be used for identification.
6.Dogs Have Three Eyelids
Dogs have an extra eyelid known as the “haw” or nictitating membrane. This third eyelid helps keep their eyes moist and protected from dirt and debris. It also plays a role in their overall eye health.
7.Dogs Can “See” In the Dark
Dogs have a special layer of cells in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum, which reflects light and allows them to see better in low light. This is why dogs’ eyes often appear to glow in the dark or when caught in a flash of light.
A Basenji breed
8.The Basenji is Known as the “Barkless Dog”
Unlike most dogs, the Basenji doesn’t bark. Instead, it makes a unique sound known as a “baroo,” which is a sort of yodel. This breed is known for its quiet nature, making it an excellent choice for people who prefer a quieter canine companion.
9.The World’s Oldest Dog Lived To Be 29 Years Old
The oldest dog on record was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey, who lived to be 29 years and 5 months old. Bluey worked on a cattle farm in Australia and was put to sleep in 1939. This incredible lifespan is far beyond the average 10-13 years most dogs live.
10.Dogs Can Be Left- or Right-Pawed
Just like humans are left- or right-handed, dogs can be left- or right-pawed. You can find out which paw your dog prefers by observing which paw it uses first when it starts to walk, fetch, or shake hands.
Celebrate National Dog Day
Whether you’re giving your dog some extra belly rubs, taking them on a special outing, or sharing these fun facts with fellow dog lovers, National Dog Day is all about appreciating the dogs in our lives. They bring us so much joy, and it’s the least we can do to give them a day dedicated to celebrating their awesomeness!
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