Saturday, April 25, 2009

Part 3: How Dogs Think - book: More Interesting Facts


As I continue to thoroughly enjoy reading "How Dogs think" by Stanley Coren (I recommend it), here are some other things that struck me as very interesting:
1) A DOG'S PAWS ARE SENSITIVE - in the space between the pads on their feet are sensitive nerve endings. That's why dogs don't like getting their feet wiped.
2) DOG'S BIG WHISKERS "VIBRISSAE" - play important parts- Don't cut them! They are very sensitive and register air currents; helps dogs sense near objects (like walls or chairs because of air movement). Very helpful for dogs with bad vision.
3) PERSONALITY DIFFERENCES Male vs. Female: Male dogs were more likely to show dominance over owner; were more playful; more active; territorial; and more likely to snap at children. Females: Easier to housebreak; better at obedience; demand more affection.
4) BREEDS AND LEARNING: A fascinating study with 56 breeds and 199 judges ranked top 3 Most Trainable: Border Collie, Poodle and German Shepherd. Least Trainable: Dandie Dinmont Terrier; Petit Basset Griffon and Vendeen. (I never heard of any of these 3!)
(PHOTO: Franklin and Dolly in a Time-Out!)
5) TIME OUTS WORK: If your dog mis-behaves, put them in a room alone and don't let them out until they stop. If barking say "NO!" and when quiet for 30 seconds, then let out. Dogs WANT to be around people or animals. They don't like being alone.
6) DOGS TRAIN DOGS - If you have an older dog and get a younger dog, the pup will learn from the older dog. It's a fact.
7) DOG INTELLIGENCE - Estimated between a 2 and 4 year old child.
These are highlights, so BUY the book "How Dogs Think" by Stanley Coren. It's great!

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