Top 10 Dog Facts That Most People Don't Know

Do you consider yourself a dog expert? Well, then, it's time to put it to the test. There are many things that everyone knows about dogs, like, for example, that they all love eating chicken. This article, however, goes through 10 facts about dogs that only true dog experts will know. So test your knowledge, and see how many of these facts you already know! 

1. Dogs have a unique nose print

If you've ever looked closely at your dog's nose, you must have noticed all the ridges and creases in them that form a pattern-like appearance. Just like human fingerprints, each dog's nose print is unique. Next time your dog chews on your socks and pretends to have nothing to do with it, remind them that their nose prints are all over the crime scene!

2. Dogs Dream Like Humans

Research Indicates that dogs have similar sleep patterns and brain activity as humans and that small breeds tend to dream more than larger ones. You may notice your dog twitching, paddling, or making sounds while asleep, indicating they are likely dreaming.

3. Dogs Can Hear Frequencies Beyond Human Capabilities

Ever notice your dog pop their head up and be on full alert even though you didn't hear a sound? That is because dogs can hear sounds at frequencies well above a human's. To put it into perspective, dogs can hear sounds at frequencies up to 65,000 Hz, whereas humans can only hear up to frequencies of 20,000 Hz. This extra range allows dogs to detect high-pitched sounds completely inaudible to humans, even at close range.

4. Dogs have an excellent memory

Dogs are certainly creatures of habit, and they build their habits from their excellent memory. They can remember specific events and experiences, such as their visits to the dog park. Notice how every time you approach your dog's favorite park, they begin to pull and clearly understand exactly where you are and where you're heading. They can recall familiar scents, places, and people, making them excellent at tasks that require memory, such as search and rescue operations.

5. Dogs Understand Human Pointing

Dogs have the ability to understand human gestures, including pointing. Studies have shown that dogs can follow human pointing gestures to locate hidden food, showcasing their ability to comprehend and respond to human cues.

6. Dogs have a "third" eyelid

Dogs have an upper lid, a lower lid, and a nictitating membrane, also known as the third eyelid or haw. The nictitating membrane helps protect their eyes and keep them moist, especially during activities like swimming.

7. Dogs use their tails for communication

Dogs communicate not only through barks and body language but also through their tails. Different tail positions and movements convey various emotions and intentions. For example, a wagging tail can signify excitement or friendliness, while a tucked tail can indicate fear or submission. Check out this page to see what different tail positions indicate.

8. Dogs Have a Unique Paw Print

Similar to nose prints, the ridges and patterns on a dog's paw pads are unique to each dog. This distinct pattern can be used for identification purposes.

9. Dogs Have an Incredible Sense of Smell

Most people know that dogs have a great sense of smell, but to what extent? Their sense of smell is estimated to be tens of thousands to 100,000 times more sensitive than humans, depending on the breed. They can detect scents and differentiate odors in ways that are beyond human comprehension.

10. Dogs Understand Human Emotions

Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions and can sense when their owners are happy, sad, or stressed. They often respond to these emotions with empathy and affection, offering comfort during difficult times. It is for this reason that dogs are among the best therapy animals!