7 Strange But True Things About Dogs

Dogs are considered one of the most favorite pets all over the world. They offer companionship, love, and loyalty to their owners and have been known to perform various amazing feats. Though many know a good amount about dogs, there are still some strange facts about them that dog lovers may not be aware of. This article will explore some of these oddities about your furry friends. Keep reading to learn more information!

Dogs Can Smell 40x Better Than Humans Can

Dogs have an incredible sense of smell. They can smell 40 times better than humans can. This is because dogs have more olfactory receptors in their noses than humans do. Olfactory receptors are responsible for detecting odors, and dogs have approximately 220 million of them, compared to your measly 5 million. This difference in receptor count accounts for the vast difference in your smelling ability. 

Dogs also have a more comprehensive range of smells that they can detect. They can distinguish between different odors, even if they are barely detectable to us. As a result, dogs are often used in law enforcement and search and rescue operations. Their keen sense of smell allows them to track criminals and locate missing persons. In other words, dogs aren’t just man’s best friend—they’re also an invaluable asset in the fight against crime.

Dalmatians Develop Their Spots As They Get Older

Dalmatians are born without their signature spots, but they begin to develop them as they get older. The spots result from a genetic mutation that affects how pigment is distributed in the dog’s fur. While the exact cause of the mutation is unknown, it is believed to be linked to a protein called microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, or MITF. This protein helps to control the production of melanin, which gives Dalmatians their distinctive black and white markings. 

Unfortunately, the mutation causes MITF to become overexpressed, resulting in an abundance of melanin and the formation of spots. While Dalmatians with fewer spots are typically healthier, there is no evidence that spotless dogs are at any disadvantage. Some Dalmatian breeders believe that spot absence is a sign of superior vitality. Whatever the case, one thing is certain: Dalmatians are truly unique among canine breeds, and their beautiful spots are part of what makes them so special.

Dogs Are Not Colorblind

For many years, it was believed that dogs were colorblind and could only see in shades of black and white. However, recent studies have shown that this is not the case. Dogs have a limited ability to see colors, and the colors they see are not as vivid as those seen by humans. 

Dogs are most sensitive to blue and yellow light and have difficulty distinguishing between red and green. While this may seem like a minor difference, it can be quite important when it comes to training and obedience. For example, a dog warning sign, predominantly green, may be difficult for a dog to see, but a red and yellow sign will be much easier for them to notice. Understanding how dogs see color can help us to meet their needs better and provide them with a richer quality of life.

Petting A Dog Is Good For Your Heart

A growing body of research suggests that petting a dog can benefit your heart health. For example, one study found that dog owners had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease than those who didn’t own a dog. Furthermore, another study found that dog owners had better overall cardiovascular health than those without a dog. There are several possible explanations for these findings. First, owning a dog may encourage people to be more active, which benefits heart health.

Additionally, dogs can provide social support and companionship, which can help to reduce stress levels and promote positive emotions. Finally, dogs can be an early warning system for potential health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Ultimately, there is strong evidence to suggest that petting a dog is good for your heart.

Australian Shepherd Isn’t Actually From Australia

The Australian Shepherd is a popular breed of dog known for its intelligence, loyalty, and herding abilities. However, the Australian Shepherd is not actually from Australia despite its name. The breed was developed in the United States in the 19th century, and it is thought that Spanish settlers brought over its ancestors. 

The Australian Shepherd is a versatile breed that can excel at various tasks, including herding, agility, and obedience. Today, the breed is popular with families and individuals alike, and various kennel clubs around the world recognize it. So, though it may not be from Down Under, the Australian Shepherd is a truly global breed.

All Puppies Are Born Deaf

Most people assume that all puppies are born with their hearing intact. However, this is not the case. All puppies are born deaf. It isn’t until they are around two weeks old that they begin to develop their sense of hearing. So, for the first few weeks of their lives, puppies rely on their other senses – primarily their sense of smell – to navigate the world around them. 

This is why it is so important for puppies to be exposed to a variety of new smells and experiences during this time, as it helps them to build a strong foundation for their future development. So, next time you see a cute little puppy, remember that they are still getting used to all the new sounds in the world!

Greyhounds Are The Fastest Dogs Breed

Most people are familiar with the speed of a greyhound. These dogs are famously fast and can run up to 45 miles per hour. But many people don’t know that greyhounds are not just built for speed. They are also extremely agile, and they can change direction quickly. This makes them excellent at chasing prey. 

Greyhounds have been used for hunting for centuries and are still used for this purpose in some parts of the world. Their ability to run long distances and change direction quickly make them ideal candidates for dog racing. If you’ve ever seen a greyhound race, you know that these dogs can reach impressive speeds. And if you’re looking for a dog that can keep up with you on your morning run, a greyhound may be the perfect breed for you.

Are You Surprised By The Things You Didn’t Know About Dogs?

There’s no denying that dogs are among the most popular pets worldwide. They provide us with companionship, love, and loyalty. However, there’s a lot about dogs that many people don’t know. The list above is just a few of the surprising facts about dogs. As humans learn more about their furry friends, they can better understand how to care for them and provide them with the best possible life.