When it comes to pets, dogs are probably the most loved, adored and
also the most misunderstood of all. For instance, did you know that
there are 701 pure breed dogs, or that the Border collie, Poodle and
Golden retriever are the smartest of dogs? We know that most dogs have
a superior sense of hearing and smell, but the bloodhound is so
trustworthy that it is the only dog whose evidence is admissible even
in court in the U.S.
Some dog facts are very interesting. For instance, the Great Dane is
the tallest of all dogs, while the Chihuahua is the smallest dog of
all. Dogs are generally very attached to their masters. Some are even
heroically so. Trained dogs even take care of their invalid or
handicapped masters on a daily basis. Many rescue organizations and
policing organizations use dogs as a part of their regular team. Dogs
have been used as guards, hunters, draught animals, drug and explosive
detectors, and even as weapons. In the Middle Ages, dogs wore spiky
light armors and ran into the battle grounds to attack mounted
knights.
Before purchasing any breed of dog, it is necessary to learn all the
important dog facts that pertain to that breed. Most families hurry up
and get a dog because the children have been insisting on one for so
long. Sure enough, after the dog arrives home and the initial
excitement has died down, the chore of actually taking care of the dog
and molding his character begins. This is the stage when most families
realize that their dog really is a hard bundle of work. Most owners
keep away from the long-haired variety believing that such dogs shed
profusely. Imagine their horror when they realize that it is the short
coat that sheds more profusely and needs regular care! This is just one
example of how appearances can be very deceiving and can lead you to
buy the wrong dog.
Dog facts become important when you get down to training also. Some
dogs are quick to learn, while others need more time. Most dogs respond
well to rewards and praise, while a few breeds need firm commands and
rigorous discipline. Some dogs like the Dalmatian need a lot of
exercise and are not very suitable to apartment living, while others
like the Poodle need quite a lot of grooming. Some dogs inherit certain
disorders like hip dysplasia and cataract, while others are prone to
getting fat if they are not exercised regularly.
One of the most important dog facts most overlooked by people is
that every purebred has been reared with a particular purpose in mind.
While the Apso Lhasa is a sentinel dog, the Poodle is a companion dog
and the Pointer makes a good gun dog. If you expect a breed of dog to
completely forfeit its inherent tendencies and don a new mantle, you
are asking for trouble. Never expect a Lab to guard you and don’t be
surprised if the Akita bristles with anger and ultimately attacks a
stranger. Training a dog can help you to bring some discipline and even
enhance these natural tendencies, not replace them.
Dog grooming and care also needs a good knowledge of dog facts.
While a Poodle that goes into a competition needs a particular kind of
cut, some other dogs perform better with a clipped tail. Important dog
facts also include such important information like neutering, spaying,
vaccinating and de-worming the dog at regular intervals. In a nutshell,
dog facts help one to truly appreciate the uniqueness and the mystery
of the pet that will probably be spending its entire life with you.
Dog Facts Articles
Fun Dog Facts - A number of interesting and fun dog facts.
