Do you think you know everything about dogs? Think again. Although these loyal companions have stood by man’s side for centuries, there are still numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding them. In this Supercurious article, we will dismantle some of the most common beliefs and reveal the truth behind the myths about dogs. From their supposed infallible vision to their food preferences, you’ll discover surprising and fascinating information that will change your perspective on these adorable animals. So get ready to separate fact from fiction and discover the true canine nature.
10 myths about dogs that we should forget
Before we begin, we would like to leave you these dog phrases. We are sure that you will find the best one to dedicate to your beautiful friend.
1. Dogs only see in black and white.
One of the most popular fables about dogs is that they are only capable of see the world in black and white. But the truth is that, although they cannot appreciate a wide range of colors, as we humans do, they do capture some shades such as yellows, blues and violets.
What differentiates our vision from that of canines is that, inside our eyeballs, there is a fovea, which is a small depression in the retina. This gives us greater visual sensitivity to colors.
2. They eat grass when they are sick.
Another of the myths about dogs that you should stop believing is that they gobble up grass and any other type of grass when they are sick. As is commonly thought, they do it to purge the body of what causes them harm. However, it is quite a misconception.
The truth is that it is only one of the curiosities of dogs, since they do it occasionally for various reasons. Sometimes it is due to a condition called pica, which encourages them to consume this class of vegetables to receive nutritional contributions that they may be needing.
3. If their noses are wet, they are healthy.
If your noses are wet, dry, or a bit of both, or if they are rather cold or sometimes warm, These are characteristics that have nothing to do with the health of your dog.. Their bodies, like ours, react to climate changes, rhythms of life, among other elements.
To keep things simple, if we run or move briskly on a hot day, we may stimulate sweating. The same goes for hounds. Their temperature and humidity of their noses varies according to the circumstances in which they are found.
4. When they shake their tails it means happiness
Don’t let your heart break! Because it is one of the myths about dogs that is not entirely false. It is a fact that dogs communicate by dancing their tails. Of course they can manifest happiness through them, but it is also true that some movements can express feelings opposite to joy.
If your dog swings his back in conjunction with his tail, this is a sure sign that he is happy. And if he doesn’t move at all, it may mean that he is relaxed.
But when should we be alert? If you are near a hound you are not familiar with, pay attention if its tail remains upright and wags slowly. It means you have to keep your distance. Even more cautious if his tail is down and he wags energetically. This could warn you that he is about to run and attack.
5. Large breeds are longer-lived
Sadly, it is one of the myths about dogs, which is the complete opposite. Actually, the largest breeds are the ones with the least life expectancy. Small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, have an average life of about 14 to 15 years. Instead, “giant” breeds like the Saint Bernard, can live between 5 to 8 years.
This is because hounds of this type grow much faster and age faster than smaller dogs. The IGF-1 hormone or growth factor 1 is responsible for the early death of these animals.
Well, although it is present in all races, larger dogs contain it in higher levels. Therefore, it increases the risks of dying from diseases related to aging, such as cancer or cardiovascular problems.
6. You should wake them up if they have a nightmare.
Whether or not dogs dream is a topic we have debated forever. However, it has not yet been confirmed or disproved with reliable tests. We can only assume that they are capable of dreaming.
For this very reason, when our pets shake and whimper in their sleep, we think they are having nightmares. And therefore, our immediate reaction is usually to wake them up. However, interrupting what is probably just a reaction to deep sleep, it can be harmful to them.
Waking them so abruptly causes them stress and confusion, which is not good for both their physical and mental health.
7. They appreciate hugs
Dogs optimally capture our displays of affection. But in some cases, this is not always the case. Sometimes dogs can have strange behaviors.
For dogs, the act of hugging could mean domination. When our arms completely encircle their bodies, they may feel anxious and confused, wondering if they have done wrong. That is why it is one of the myths about dogs that must be questioned.
Although not all dogs react the same, there are furry dogs that do understand that hugs They are one of our many displays of love for them. If you want to know if your pet sees it this way, just look at his body language: does he look nervous or calm when you do it?
8. One human year is seven dog years
How many years is equal to a dog year? It is one of the most widespread myths about dogs. However, the reality is very different from what is said. In that sense, dogs age faster than humans, so they do not live the same amount of time as a person.
However, the calculation of the age is carried out from intrinsic factors of the dogs. For example, if they are purebred, or mixed breed, or if they are large or small dogs.
9. Myths about sleeping with dogs
There is a belief that allowing a dog to sleep on the bed encourages dominant or leadership behaviors. Some people believe that if a dog shares a bed with its owner, it could lead to the dog assuming a dominance role or becoming disobedient.
However, leadership behavior in dogs is determined by interaction, education, and hierarchy. established in its relationship with humans. Allowing a dog to sleep in the bed does not necessarily imply a change in power dynamics. You can even dream of dogs
10. Aggressive dogs are of certain breeds
One of the most widespread dog myths is that certain breeds are inherently aggressive. However, the aggressiveness in the dogs It is not determined solely by your race. A dog’s personality and behavior are influenced by various factors, such as genetics, socialization, upbringing and the environment in which they develop.
It is important to remember that any dog, regardless of breed, can become aggressive if not provided with proper upbringing, socialization, and a safe and nurturing environment. That is why it is good to know the most affectionate dog breeds.
Have you believed in some of these myths about dogs? If you know of others, share them with us! Maybe they will help the Supercurious community to better understand these charming animals.