Fictions regarding Dogs
1. Large breeds live longer than small breeds of dogs.
Every species of animals has its own life span and it is difficult to deduce any direct logical or medical rationale for the same. However research has revealed that giant dog breeds suffer from more musculoskeletal diseases related to weight-bearing factors, cardiovascular diseases and tumors. In general all dogs reach their maximum longevity if good care is taken of health, along with proper diet and exercise.
In small dogs, the metabolic rate appears to be an important factor responsible for greater longevity.
The average life span for dogs is 12 years. Most live from 8 to 15 years of age; authentic records showing dogs living over 20 years of age are rare. The longest reliable age recorded for a dog is that of an Australian cattle dog in Australia, who lived up to 29 years of age.
2. Dogs can distinguish different colors like human beings.
No. dogs are unable to distinguish colors. They are color-blind. All colors to them are varying shades of grey – ranging from black to white.
3. Dogs do not dream like human beings.
Actually dogs do dream. Sometimes we hear growls, whines and muffled barks when they are sleeping. We also notice tail-wagging or the legs making running movements. This has also been noted by recording brainwave activity during quiet sleep and while dreaming.
4. There is no particular way to lift puppies.
During the first few weeks the mother carries her pups by the scruff of the neck with her mouth. Picking up the pup with one hand is awkward and hurts the pup. Similarly, the pup should never be lifted up by its front legs or be picked up under the arms like a baby. Using its tail as a handle can injure him. The best way to pick up a pup is to use both hands. Place one hand between the fore legs to support the chest and the other hand under the belly to support the hind parts. Very young children should avoid picking up a pup. Puppies of smaller breeds suffer the greatest damage when handled or lifted by small children.
5. When dogs eat their own stools, there is no cause for worry.
This vice is often noticed and is called coprophagia. Sometimes a dog, especially a puppy, may be terribly hungry and may eat whatever comes his way. Inactivity and boredom could also be a cause; this clearly shows that the dog requires more exercise.
Deficiency of digestive enzymes, minerals or trace elements could also lead to this bad habit. Whatever the cause, this repulsive habit has to be corrected as it could lead to worm infestation if the stools of another dog are eaten. When the dog or puppy is caught in the act, an immediate, emphatic NO and a jerk of the leash will stop the animal from doing this. The diet should be checked to see if it is balanced or needs improvement. A stool examination is also desirable to exclude the possibility of worms. Giving papain enzyme or a little cooked raw papaya in food can be helpful. Taking the veterinarian’s opinion may be essential.
Another suggestion is to pour a little kerosene oil on the dog’s stool while he is defecating, and then allow him to turn around in an attempt to eat the stools. A few trials should stop his bad habit.