6 Facts About Dogs Every Dog Lover Should Know

Dogs, apart from all other animals, are probably the best companions to have in life. They are loyal and will protect and love their owners until their last breaths. So, with so much love and devotion coming from these furry, lovable creatures, it is only proper that owners understand them and know them better. Here are 6 facts about them that every dog owner should know.

1. Dogs find it hard to leave their owner’s side

Dogs, who find it hard to leave the presence of their owners, because this is where they get their security, comfort and motivation. They are also social creatures that need people or other animals around them to keep them company. They should not be left alone because they tend to suffer from separation anxiety and possibly, depression. They need to spend quality time with their owners every day.

2. Dogs want to make their owners happy

Dogs naturally want to make their owners happy. They try to do different tricks and challenges to impress them. They also change their behavior when they have to, to keep them pleased. The bond that an owner and a dog share is very special, indeed.

3. Dogs can be aggressive when afraid

Usually, when dogs feel threatened or afraid, they tend to flee. But, if they cannot escape the threat, they are more likely to get into the aggressive mode, hoping the threat would go away. The reason behind this kind of behavior is the lack of socialization during the dog’s developmental years. Another reason may be that owners implement punishment-based techniques, making it even worse for a fear aggressive dog.

4. Dogs can reduce stress

Playing or petting dogs are a great way to relieve stress. These actions increase the hormone oxytocin, which is a hormone that reduces stress levels. It also decreases cortisol, which is the hormone responsible for creating stress. When stress is decreased, the human body benefits from it physically. It can lower blood pressure levels and helps you become fitter, when you are motivated to walk the dog. The emotional bond that an owner shares with the dog also helps reduce stress and effectively lowers heart rate.

5. Dogs have a shorter lifespan compared to humans

Sadly, dogs cannot reach a ripe old age of 100 years old, unlike humans who possibly can. They are more likely to reach just the age of 10-20 years. Research shows that larger dogs have a shorter lifespan compared to smaller dogs. Also, inbred dogs, compared to cross-bred ones, are reported to have shorter life spans too. This is because inbred dogs have the risk of carrying genes with illnesses that may lead to an early death. Having an idea of the expected lifespan of a dog, will help owners maximize their time spent with them and help them plan the best care for their furry companions.

6. Dogs love food, but it does not equate love

Dogs love to eat as much as humans do, too. It is best that the appropriate kind of food is given to them. Remember that the food you provide will greatly affect their overall health. Be careful with feeding them human food, too. Some food items may be harmful and toxic for dogs and may even cause death. And never forget that food does not equate love for them, but bonding does.

Having a dog to take care of, is a great experience. Understanding them better and giving them their needs makes you a hero in their eyes.