Five Things You Didn’t Know About Your Dog

Dogs have been loyal companions to humans for centuries, bringing joy, laughter, and unconditional love into our lives. Beyond their wagging tails and floppy ears, there's a world of fascinating facts about our best friends. In this blog article, we'll delve into five fun and surprising facts that highlight the unique and endearing qualities of our best friends.

1. Dogs have a dominant hand (or paw): This can be observed when a dog performs tasks that involve their paws. For example, notice which paw a dog chooses to take a step down or upstairs with first, or observe how a dog holds its chew toy or bully stick. Interestingly, studies have shown that there is some paw preference in dogs, with a majority being right-pawed. However, the degree of paw preference can vary among individual dogs, and some may show a stronger preference for their left paw.

2. Dogs experience restlessness over their humans: Dogs are highly intuitive animals that can sense changes in their environment and pick up on human emotions. Dogs often exhibit behaviors like restlessness or attention-seeking if they sense something unusual or if their routine is disrupted. Their loyalty and attachment to their owners are evident through behaviors like staying close and seeking comfort.

3. Dogs can help your gut health: Being around a dog's microbiome can positively impact human health in various ways. Exposure to the diverse microorganisms found in a dog's environment may boost the human immune system, reduce stress levels, and enhance mood through the release of endorphins and oxytocin. The unique microbiota of dogs contributes to microbial diversity within the household, supporting a healthy gut and digestion.

4. Dogs judge us: Dogs, with their sharp observational skills and ability to read human body language and emotions, may appear to "judge" us based on our actions and behaviors. Their social intelligence allows them to form opinions about their human companions, interpreting cues such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. However, it's crucial to note that a dog's perception is rooted in their instincts and experiences rather than a moral judgment.

5. Dogs know when you will be home: Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, even from a considerable distance. Research suggests that dogs may recognize and differentiate human scents left on clothes and belongings lingering in the home environment. They can detect changes in the intensity and composition of these scents, allowing them to anticipate the return of their owners. The scent-based recognition system is a testament to the incredible bond and sensory capabilities that define the special relationship between dogs and their human companions.

Dogs enrich our lives in countless ways, and these fun facts only scratch the surface of their fascinating nature. From their extraordinary sense of smell to the positive impacts on our health, our canine friends continue to amaze us. The next time you're with your best friend, take a moment to appreciate the unique qualities that make dogs not just pets but cherished members of our families.