How long can dogs live? Can they really be happy living in an apartment? Do they feel emotions? Here are 10 things you didn't know about dogs.
1. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell—and it isn't dependent on the breed type
Dogs have around 300 million olfactory receptors, compared to only 6 million in humans. This asset gives them the ability to sniff traces, but also to detect medical conditions, or to find missing people.
Contrary to popular belief, this talent is not dependent on the breed! A study from Hungary revealed that the ability to cooperate played a crucial role. Border Collies, for example, are excellent with it comes to olfactory tests without being traditionally used for that. Their willingness to interact with humans makes all the difference.
You might find this Yummypets article interesting: 8 Things dogs can smell that humans can't
2. Dogs can live in apartments—as long as they're stimulated throughout the day
A dog can be happy in an apartment, as long as they receive enough attention and have enough stimulating outings. It is not the size of your home that is important, but the time and the quality of the interactions you provide your dog.
Keep in mind that a backyard does not replace a walk. Dogs need to sniff new odors, explore their environment, and meet with other dogs. Regular walks are essential for their well-being, no matter where you live.
3. Your dog can feel your stress
British research shows that dogs are capable of detecting the odor of stress in humans. During their experiments, dogs exposed to these odors reacted in a careful and anxious way, as if they "felt" what their human was living through.
This confirms what many pet parents assumed: their emotions influence the behavior of their dog, much more than we think.
4. Destructive behavior? It's not (necessarily) naughtiness
When your dog chews on your furniture or destroys your pillows, they are not seeking revenge or testing your limits. This type of behavior is often the sign of discomfort or unhappiness: boredom, anxiety, or frustration.
These are signs that should be taken seriously. If your dog destroys your belongings, barks, compulsively licks themselves or seems sluggish, a behavior consultation can be beneficial.
5. Yes, your dog can go on hikes with you (with a few precautions)
Going for a long walk in the nature with your dog is an excellent idea—as long as you adapt the walk to their capabilities.
Think about consulting the rules of the protected zones as the regional natural parks. It is sometimes forbidden for dogs to go or it is required for them to be on a leash.
Don't forget: hydration and rest are important for your dog, just like us!
6. Some dogs go to the hospital to soothe patients
Animal mediation is more and more used in hospitals, senior homes, or even school. English Setter Snoopy, for example, works at the Institut Curie, where he interacts with patients and caregivers. Through simple exercises based on positive reinforcement (such as resting his head on your lap), these dogs offer a moment of comfort and soothing in often stressful environments.
7. No, dogs aren't naturally aggressive
A dogs that bites or growls does not do so without reason. This can be caused by fear, pain, a past trauma, or stress that was not handled well. Aggressiveness is a means of communication when faced with a situation that your dog is not handling well.
Understanding the origin of this behavior is essential. Contrary to what one might think, a dog that bites is not necessarily dangerous for life. With adapted accompaniment, most can get balanced again.
8. Some dogs are "fashion icons"
"Designer dogs", like the Labradoodle (a cross between a Labrador and Poodle), is the most popular. However, behind these crosses, hides sometimes health concerns: reducing inbreeding and hence genetic disease.
But be careful, these dogs, while often cute, also have specific needs when it comes to grooming, physical exercise, and mental stimulation.
9. Their average lifespan highly depends on their breed
A British study revealed that they average lifespan of a dog is 11.23 years. But this number varies depending on the sex, sterilization, and above all the breed.
The Jack Russell Terrier and Yorkshire Terriers live on average more than 12 years. While the French Bulldog, because of their respiratory fragilities, have an average lifespan of around 4.5 years.
Spaying and neutering also have a positive impact on longevity, according to researchers.
This Yummypets article might also interest you: Calculate the age of your pet in human years
10. Dogs were the very first domesticated animal
Before the cat, sheep or goat, the dog was the first companion for humans, around 30,000 to 40,000 years ago.
Fossil remains prove their presence at the sides of hunter-gatherers in Eurasia. Were they already dogs or tamed wolves? The debate is still open but one thing is for sure: their alliance is as old as human history.
Whether they live in the city or in the countryside, or whether they are active or a homebody, dogs are not just pets: they are sensitive and intelligent beings that are profoundly linked to humans for millions of years now.
