Dogs are truly remarkable companions! They possess characterful personalities, which makes it clear why they were named "man's best friend." Not only do these loyal pals bring joy and solace to their owners, but they also offer a sense of security.
With this in mind, it is easy to comprehend why people have plenty of questions about them –particularly when unique behaviors or traits appear. Here at All American Pet Resorts, your all-inclusive, luxurious dog boarding and daycare service provider, we’ve heard our fair share! Here are some of the most common (and unique) questions about dogs:
- Are Dogs Ticklish?
- Are Dogs Color Blind?
- Do Dogs Dream?
- Do Dogs Smile?
- Do Dogs Cry?
- Do Dogs Sweat?
- Do Dogs Get Anxiety?
In this blog, our pet experts aim to provide some insight into these questions! We know a lot about these furry friends and would love nothing more than to help satisfy your curiosity.
1. Are Dogs Ticklish?
Yes, dogs can be ticklish! Many pet owners have noticed that their furry friends respond to certain areas of their bodies being touched in a particular way. This response is known as gargalesis or “the tickle response,” and it's not just limited to humans. Dogs can experience this sensation too! When your pup is tickled, it may start twitching involuntarily or make a sound that sounds like laughing.
Trying to see if your dog is ticklish? Try their chest, belly, behind their ears, or even the bottom of their feet! Be gentle, and be sure to monitor your pup's reaction. If they show signs of discomfort, it's best to stop tickling them immediately.
2. Are Dogs Color Blind?
Many people assume that dogs are color blind, due to the similar range of vision between humans and dogs. However, this is not the case. While they may not see all the same colors we do, dogs can actually see some colors – specifically blues and yellows. This means that objects that have different shades of blues and yellows will be distinctively visible to a dog's eyes. Dogs don't have as wide a range of vision as humans, but this does not mean they are completely unable to differentiate colors.
3. Do Dogs Dream?
Yes, dogs do dream. Just like humans, dogs enter different stages of sleep and experience REM cycles. During this stage of sleep, the brain is active and your pup may exhibit physical signs of dreaming, such as twitching or making noises.
What do they dream about? Who knows for sure? Researchers have speculated that dogs may dream about their day-to-day activities or even events from long ago. This could include anything from chasing critters to even playing fetch with you! But, just like humans, dogs can also have nightmares and not-so-fun dreams.
4. Do Dogs Smile?
Yes, dogs do smile! Dogs smile when they are happy, relaxed, and content. You may see your pup baring its teeth in a wide grin with eyes closed as if they were laughing. This type of behavior is known as the “submissive smile” and is usually seen when your pup is greeting someone or being petted.
Dogs are very expressive creatures, and they use facial expressions as a way to communicate with their humans! In addition to smiling, dogs also use expressions such as:
- Furrowing their brows
- Wrinkling their nose
- Lowering their ears
- Squinting their eyes
- Tucking their tail
5. Do Dogs Cry?
Without a doubt! Though dogs don't shed tears in the volume humans do, or because they’re sad, they still show signs of crying. A study published in Current Biology suggests that when dog owners reunite with their pooch after some time apart, the pup may even produce what we'd consider 'tears.' It's clear that canines are capable of feeling deep emotions, like happy tears, just like us.
6. Do Dogs Sweat?
Sweating is an efficient way for humans to regulate their temperature, but dogs mainly use panting instead. Although our furry friends have sweat glands in the bottoms of their feet, they don't perspire nearly as heavily as we do! In comparison, we lose much more moisture through sweating than canines ever could while panting.
7. Do Dogs Get Anxiety?
Dogs can suffer from anxiety like humans, most commonly while traveling, during storms, and when left alone. Dogs who experience anxiety can show signs such as:
- Drooling
- Panting
- Restlessness
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Whining or barking
- Excessive yawning
Exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce the impact anxiety has on your pup, but while you may recognize the signs of anxiety, it can be difficult to determine its root cause. If you think your four-legged friend might be struggling with this issue, seek help from a professional veterinarian as soon as possible!
Trust Your Pup with Our Dog Experts
At All American Pet Resorts, we don't only know a lot about dogs, but we love taking care of them! Our canine experts have the expertise and experience to ensure that your pup is comfortable, safe, and having fun while they stay at our state-of-the-art dog hotels. The comfort of your pet is our top priority!
Whether you are looking for a reliable overnight boarding alternative to curb your dog's travel anxiety or a place for your pup to spend some time during the day showing off that smile, you can trust us to provide exceptional services. We look forward to meeting you and your four-legged friend!
Find your local All American Pet Resorts for more information about our dog boarding and daycare services!
