How Well Do You Know Your Dog?

• From their unparalleled roles as military animals to their place in our hearts as beloved pets, dogs have established a special place in society.
• A dog’s sense of smell also acts as a compass.
• Dogs have an impeccable talent for sensing emotions.

Dogs, referred to as “man’s best friend”, have been our loyal companions for thousands of years. From their unparalleled roles as military animals to their place in our hearts as beloved pets, dogs have established a special place in society. Their intelligence, affectionate nature and various breeds have made them an important aspect of our existence. When it comes to how dogs perceive the world, one of the intriguing aspects is their vision. Even more, human food may not taste the same to them. For instance, what may taste sweet to us, may taste bitter to dogs. Here are some fascinating facts about our pets that may leave you thinking for a while:

1. Dogs see colors differently

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are three visual cones in humans, whereas dogs have only the two types which can detect blue and yellow as reported by VCA animal hospitals. Hence, many shades appear different to canines. According to the American Kennel Club, dogs may see a red ball as brown.

2. Secret behind their wet noses

The glands inside a dog’s nose secrete a thin, watery material that keeps the dog cool. It is similar to how human sweat glands regulate the temperature of human bodies. Dogs too release heat through their foot pads and by panting, but their nasal passage works as a cooling mechanism.

3. They can sniff directions

A dog’s sense of smell also acts as a compass. They can trace human scent and follow the direction in which their human friend has gone. According to research, their sense of smell is so sensitive that they can figure the difference in scent intensity within five footsteps of the track layer.

4. Dogs taste differently as compared to humans

Dogs have different taste buds which is why what may taste sweet to humans could be bitter to them. Hence, your furry friend may reject some of the sweet treats that you offer them.

5. Dogs can small stress

Dogs have an impeccable talent for sensing emotions. According to a study, they can tell the difference between clothing samples taken from people when they are stressed and when they are calm. The researchers collected these samples from the same person during two different emotional states and the dogs were able to identify which sample came from the stressed emotion.