Humanizing dogs is a practice that is as common as it is harmful. And although great advances have been made in understanding how canine learning works, dogs are often trained ignoring basic aspects of their nature. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers of humanizing dogs, as going beyond certain limits can be dangerous.

Therefore, in this article we want to talk about the risks of the so-called anthropomorphization, which involves treating dogs based on human expectations, principles, and behaviors.

What is dog humanization?

Humanizing dogs (or any other animal) consists of seeing them as if they were people.

Some people try to see in their pets gestures, preferences, or attitudes that are only in accordance with human behaviors, thus misrepresenting animal instincts.

Humanizing pets has nothing to do with giving affection. You can love a dog, cat, etc. very much, take care of it as it deserves, and take it into account when choosing a vacation destination so that it can go with you, for example. What is not appropriate is to treat it as if it were a small child.

Attitudes that indicate that you are humanizing your dog

Some of the behaviors performed by people who humanize their dog are:

• They allow him to sit at the table to eat with the rest of the people.
• They offer him human food.
• They always dress the animal, regardless of whether it is cold or not.
• They spend a lot of money on treats for the animal.
• The animal is allowed to occupy more space in the resting area (sofa or bed), putting its comfort above its personal comfort.
• It is treated like a baby.

Dangers of humanizing dogs

When dogs are given supposed needs that are inherent to people and not to them, their essence is misunderstood and their importance is reduced to things that are really important for these animals, taking into account their nature.

Of course, the dog can be seen as another member of the family, but a different member, with its own needs.

Therefore, there are many dangers in humanizing dogs.

Identity

Dogs build their identity based on their physical and social environment. That is why we insist on the importance of good socialization. Socialization is essential to learning basic codes of behavior with other dogs and humans.

During the first four months, the dog learns, along with his mother and the other dogs in the litter, what play, exploration, and other characteristics define him as a dog.

But it is in life with humans that many of these behaviors are repressed, rejected, or even punished, without understanding that they just need to be channeled.

Dogs also need to learn to manage their emotions, and for that, humans must identify and satisfy their needs without taking away their canine nature.

They do not know the rules

A dog must be educated in order to have a proper coexistence. The animal must know that there are attitudes that it cannot have, such as biting everything or urinating where it wants.

Humanized dogs do not know the limits, because the person in charge of showing them has overlooked them. Therefore, behavioral problems are common in them.

In addition, it must be taken into account that the way to educate a dog is not the same as when educating a child. The teachings of the animals must be oriented to their capacities so that they can assimilate them.

Aggressiveness and destructiveness

Derived from the previous point, one of the most serious dangers of humanizing dogs is the development of aggressive and destructive behaviors.

Not knowing hierarchies, it can also become a dominant dog.

Separation anxiety

Pets may develop separation anxiety if they are humanized.

If most of the time is spent with the animal from the moment it arrives in the person's life, that animal will not know what loneliness is.

When there is a separation, the dog will not know how to manage being away from its owner, which will lead to behaviors derived from this problem: barking, biting, urinating where it should not, etc.

Insecurity and distrust

Another danger of humanizing dogs is that they become insecure and distrustful.

Possibly, there will come a time when he will not obey his owner and will not know how to relate to other dogs.

Anxiety and frustration

Animals are driven by instincts, following their own nature.

If we try to change it, the dog may begin to suffer from anxiety and frustration, leading to illness or behavioral problems.

Let's look at a simple example: dressing dogs. In winter, when it is cold, it is logical to want to keep our pets warm, especially when it comes to small breed dogs.

However, what does it do for your little dog to wear a dress in summer? It does nothing for her, except discomfort and warmth. It is the person who puts that dress on her who finds "benefit" from that practice, seeing her pet very adorable.

Health problems due to lack of nutrients

When you feed your pet the food you eat, you may not only be making a mistake by feeding toxic food to your dog.

You may also (and even if you avoid those that are harmful to his health) not be giving him all the nutrients he needs.

Dangers of humanizing dogs for people

The dangers of humanizing dogs are not just for the animals.

People also suffer the consequences of having humanized their pets.

For example, they may develop a disorder known as petophilia, the inordinate love for pets. This leads the person to totally condition his or her life, putting the pet's needs above his or her own.

Remember that you can love your pet unconditionally, but that should not imply that you forget that it is an animal.

How many of us have had the experience that when we come home from work, our dogs happily approach us and almost always the first thing they do is sit at our feet? In this case, we will show what it means that they sleep on our feet and why dogs do this action so much.

Whether it is because we like to sleep with our dog or because our dog comes to us, there are some reasons that we will show you below and explain in detail why dogs feel comfortable sleeping on our feet.

Why does my dog lie on my feet?

To go into details, we first have to know the natural characteristics of dogs as a species, as this will explain some of the usual behaviors. The first thing is that dogs are pack animals, that is to say, they are very sociable animals and they establish a close bond with those they consider part of their pack, in addition to the fact that they provide food, affection, and company.

Now, there is no single reason why our dog lies on our feet and stares at us, it will depend mainly on his body language and the context that surrounds him.

Since an action of a dog, depending on all these factors, can have diverse and multiple interpretations, we must observe and inquire about its body language and its context to be able to understand more precisely why it performs a certain action.

When a dog lies down on our feet, they simulate a usual pack behavior of dogs, since the threats when another member rests, some stay awake in order to protect him. Since while sleeping there is a state of vulnerability.

This also indicates that he not only considers us a member of the pack, but that he is showing us his affection and love because he is taking care of us. It often happens because the man in his daily activities spends hours away from the house while he comes home, so the dog wants to share as much time with us as possible and dedicate every moment we are there to share.

What can I do to prevent the dog from sleeping on my feet?

In the case that the dog has bought his house or built his bed, it can generate some conflict since the dog will prefer to sleep on our feet than on his bed. If this is the case, the recommendation for the dog to sleep in his bed is to leave him a piece of our clothes, so that the smell makes him feel that he is next to us and he can sleep peacefully.

We can also use rewards or dog cookies to direct the dog's attention to the bed and accompany him if it is difficult for him to sleep in that place. Taking into account that the dog is an animal of habits, you will have to do this process for at least several weeks, and then you will see that the dog will be comfortable with his bed.

We must also check that the bed is comfortable enough for the dog, because if it is not, obviously the dog would prefer the best place to sleep. So in this case, we must pad his bed much better so that he can sleep much more comfortably.

We must also take into account that, in the case of the winter season, he must have his bed with good quilts so that he can withstand the cold. With these solutions and habituating him, he will be comfortable in his bed to sleep peacefully.

Myths about dogs sleeping close to you

First of all, we will talk about a myth that has been disproved, which refers to the dog that sleeps on its guardian's feet out of a sense of dominance, which means that the dog is imposing itself on its guardian.

This is completely false because dominance happens between members of the same species, that is to say, that it can only happen between dogs. This, on many occasions, has caused behavioral problems since these actions are repressed as if they were an aspect of dominance affecting the dog's personality and character.

Another myth is that they give rise to diseases, but this is actually false, as long as they have the corresponding hygiene, vaccinations, and pertinent care.

Is it comfortable for my dog to sleep at my feet? Why does he do it?

Generally, dogs sleep on your feet because it is a demonstration of affection and a lot of protection. That is to say, he feels that you are really taking care of him. He also feels that you are a great team, and it is a mutual demonstration.

Regarding if it is comfortable for them, yes it is. They can spend a long time sleeping there because they feel protected. They are also capable of ignoring a big bed for the sake of being at your feet.

Why does my dog sleep on my shoes?

It is a sign that he wants to feel safe and that is the place to get it. Basically, he can feel nervous in a moment and that is why he comes to sleep in your shoes. He feels that you can really provide him with protection and security, and that's why he does it.

Why does my dog lie on my clothes?

It is important to know that the canine may be going through a moment of anxiety and restlessness and that our clothes are a way to reach calm. Since the clothes we wear carry our scent, and so they feel much closer to us, somehow they feel safer.

Pomeranians, also known as German Spitz or Pomeranian Lulu, are known to be very active and intelligent dogs, capable of excelling in different disciplines such as obedience and Agility.

They are very popular animals, given their great temperament and ability to coexist with children, as long as they are well socialized. At the same time, due to their small size, they are ideal dogs for life in an apartment. This makes many people wonder if these dogs are hypoallergenic or not.

Pomeranians are not hypoallergenic dogs because they shed their hair frequently. Thus, they promote the dissemination in the home of the salivary proteins "Can f1" and "Can f2" that we can find in the animal's dander and that cause an allergic reaction.

However, if you have recently adopted a Pomeranian dog, this does not mean that there are no ways to alleviate allergy symptoms.

In the following article, we hope to help you better understand what allergies are and if there really are hypoallergenic breeds, as well as preventive measures you can take at home to avoid reactions.

What should I know about Pomeranian dogs?

Pomeranian or German Spitz dogs, also known as Pomeranian Lulu and Pomeranian Boo, are small breed dogs. According to the standard established by the American Kennel Club, Pomeranian dogs measure on average between 15 and 18 cm, weighing between 1.5 and 3 kg.

The Pomeranian Lulu is the version that corresponds to the breed standard, it is characterized by a fox-like face (with an elongated muzzle).

The Pomeranian Boo, on the other hand, is characterized by a bear-like face (the shorter muzzle and rounder cheeks give it the appearance of a teddy bear).

When it comes to the Boo Pomeranian, or bear-faced, it must be taken into consideration that, due to their reduced anatomical structure, they are predisposed to suffer from respiratory problems in the same way as brachiocephalic breeds.

Another problem is caused by the small size of the skull, which is not able to accommodate the brain. This causes a condition known as Chiari malformation, where the brain presses against the walls of the skull. This is a very painful condition for the animal and can lead to paralysis.

Generally, in terms of size, there are several types, such as the toy or the teacup-sized Pomeranian. Both types do not exist as such, since the official standard only recognizes one breed, the Pomeranian. However, these terms are typically used to describe dogs that are smaller than average.

As for the coat, it is characterized by being long, and at the same time, it has an undercoat. Because of this, Pomeranian dogs moult relatively frequently throughout the year. Also, during seasonal changes (twice a year), they moult abundantly.

As for colors, the coats recognized by the standard are the following: black, black and tan, blue, blue and tan, blue merle, blue sable (sable color is a light yellowish-tan tone), chocolate, chocolate and tan, cream, cream sable, orange, orange sable, red, red sable, white, white sable, beaver (beaver) and tricolor.

They are very intelligent and relatively active dogs. Despite their small size, they excel in canine activities such as agility and obedience competitions. They have an average life expectancy of between 12 and 16 years.

They are animals that stand out for being very affectionate with their families, being good at interacting with other dogs and dealing with small children.

What causes allergies in humans from dogs?

In the case of animals, it is the salivary proteins Can f1 and Can f2 that trigger such an allergic reaction in a person.

However, there are numerous substances capable of triggering an allergic response.

Sometimes, the reaction does not occur in response to the specific protein of the animal but to substances of a different nature that the animal has attached to its coat or paws.

How do allergic reactions occur?

For an allergic reaction to occur, the organism must first be "sensitized," i.e., it must be exposed to the allergen for the first time.

The organism becomes "hypersensitized," i.e., once it comes into contact with the same allergen a second time, its immune system will trigger an excessive response to it.

Thus, the typical picture of an allergic reaction appears, where we can find the following symptoms: Milder symptoms, such as hives or nasal congestion, may be present, as may more severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, nausea, swelling of the face, and/or loss of consciousness.

This excessive response is characterized by a huge production of a specific type of immunoglobulin, IgE. An antibody (immune system protein) that the body produces to fight antigens such as bacteria, viruses, and allergens.

Are there really hypoallergenic dogs, and what does the science say?

A study comparing breeds of animals considered 'hypoallergenic' with 'non-hypoallergenic' breeds found that the "hypoallergenic" breeds had higher concentrations of Can f1 proteins in their hair. This study questions the existence of hypoallergenic breeds and the concept of a "hypoallergenic breed".

Throughout the research, the scientists wondered if there were certain habits that may have influenced the results obtained, since in some of the homes with "hypoallergenic" dogs, the levels of allergens in the environment were lower.

The type and frequency of household cleaning is one of the factors considered. It is possible that those households with "hypoallergenic" breeds had other types of routines.

It may be that these routines were performed more thoroughly and more frequently, given the clinical history of their inhabitants, where allergic reactions are frequent.

In turn, they found a lower concentration of allergens, both in the ambient air and in the hair, in those animals that had been spayed or neutered. Although the cause is not yet known, it is thought that it may be because they have different daily activity habits.

Why is the Pomeranian not a breed of dog considered hypoallergenic?

The Pomeranian is not considered a hypoallergenic dog, primarily for the following reasons. Firstly, it is questionable whether hypoallergenic dog breeds as such really exist, and secondly, Pomeranian dogs meet two of the basic requirements that scientists determine to be influential:

• On the one hand, they are obviously dogs. Therefore, they are going to produce in their saliva the allergens.
• On the other hand, they shed their fur considerably during seasonal changes. This means that the levels of allergens present in the environment are higher.

It is true that not only the level of shedding is a determining factor, but also the animal's dander levels, as well as its daily habits, for example, if it likes to lick itself frequently.

However, if we have a series of factors that are difficult to manage, such as dander secretion, and we add frequent shedding, we generate an environment with a high load of allergens.

All this makes the Pomeranian not the best choice for a person suffering from allergies. However, just because it is not the best choice does not mean that it is impossible to live with this type of animal. It all depends on the case and the measures we are willing to take.

Can a person with allergies live with a Pomeranian dog?

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, it is possible that you have adopted a Pomeranian dog, or mongrel, and you need to know if you can live with the animal, because you do not want to give your new pet for adoption.

The definitive answer to this question can only be given by the doctor handling your case. This professional will know exactly what levels you can tolerate.

However, as the referenced article showed, many owners acquire dogs of 'hypoallergenic' breeds thinking that with them they will not suffer allergic conditions.

In spite of this, thanks to the study, we obtained an important fact: although there were no differences in the level of allergens in the coat between the different breeds, there were differences in the environment for some of them.

It is difficult to explain the exact reason for this difference, as even the scientists themselves need to continue their research.

However, the results obtained suggest that if we establish a good hygiene routine, it would be possible to coexist with such animals.

In any case, as we mentioned at the beginning, the professional in charge of your case will be in charge of determining whether or not you can live with such an animal.

How can I reduce my dogs allergens at home?

If you suffer from allergic reactions and you live with a Pomeranian dog, here are some recommendations that can help you with your allergic reactions.

• Brush the dog outside the home every day. This is an effective measure to get rid of excess allergens accumulated in the coat.
• Clean the coat and paws regularly with a towel and a little water. Especially after a walk. This method allows us to remove any allergens that may have remained adhered to our animal.
• Let the dog sleep in a different room. Sleeping with your pet is a very high risk for any allergic person, since you do not give your body the opportunity to recover. It is recommended, in turn, to install an air purifier in the room.
• Cover the surfaces of your furniture. Or, teach them to use only their bed. This way, you avoid having to deep clean all the furniture constantly.
• Avoid licking. The proteins that cause allergies are synthesized in the animal's saliva. Many times, animals lick themselves out of boredom, for hygiene reasons and, sometimes, due to an allergy. By offering our Pomeranian a greater variety of toys to entertain him, we can avoid certain situations, such as those caused by boredom. If they continue with the habit of licking themselves, it may be necessary to visit the veterinarian to determine if they suffer from some type of allergy.
• Get a cleaning robot. Robots reduce the workload, since you can program them to clean the house daily and even several times a day. This reduces the amount of allergens and hairs in the environment considerably.

Final considerations

Although current studies rule out the existence of truly hypoallergenic breeds, they still do not have a clear answer.

One of the important conclusions we draw from such research is that home hygiene routines and habits play a very important role.

This opens the possibility of being able to keep breeds considered as not "hypoallergenic" as pets at home, among them the Pomeranian, as long as we respect the necessary hygienic measures.

We hope you found this article useful. Please do not hesitate to share it through your social networks.

Is it common for dogs to lick their own or another dog's pee? Yes. A dog licking its pee or another dog's pee is completely normal in the animal world. It is part of their behavior, and urine is a great communication tool that not only allows them to leave a trail but also communicates a lot of information to other members of their species.

Whether or not you should be concerned will depend on how often he does it, the age of your dog and where he licks the urine, for example, inside or outside the house.

Why does my dog lick other dogs pee?

Dog pee has several components, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, ammonia, urea, uric acid, creatinine, magnesium, and calcium. But what most owners don't think about is that urine is the body's liquid waste, so it can also contain traces of different elements, such as salts, electrolytes, carbohydrates, fatty acids, enzymes, hormones, traces of blood if the dog is in heat, drugs if she is on medication, and, as in people, urine is affected by diet.

Not all urine is the same. What it contains is going to depend on the particular dog that has urinated, and of course, this can vary from dog to dog, but also within the same animal throughout the day. Just like people, pee can tell a story about an individual dog and give a picture of its health.

A dog's ability to detect different components in pee is so powerful that it can tell if the dog that peed is sick, in heat, etc. If you have experienced your dog licking pee, you will have seen that he is very selective about which pee he chooses to lick, and this is due to the different compositions of the expelled pee, which then attracts your dog or the next dog that passes by.

Why did my dog suddenly start licking pee?

This can depend on a variety of factors, but let's look at some of the main reasons. In the end, you are the one who knows your dog, and you will figure out what fits your particular situation to determine if you need to make any small changes or if you need to talk to a veterinarian. Always do your research before you medicate, and only do so if necessary. In many cases, dogs' long-term health suffers because of medicine that is administered "just in case," rather than a more holistic and moderate approach to treating the problems that arise.

Pheromones

They are in the pee, and these chemicals naturally elicit a social response in the dog that smells them. They are a method of communication with other animals of the same species. Animals detect pheromones with their sense of smell, and if you've ever seen your dog licking urine and he freezes for a second with his tongue out - known as a Flehmen response - it means he's soaking up all the juicy details of the message. Animal pheromones can communicate everything: danger signals, alarm calls, territory or route markers, sexual traits such as willingness to mate, physical or health status, and predator or prey information. Even if a dog lives in a comfortable home, this type of communication still exists and is part of its natural survival instinct. So if you notice that your dog suddenly starts licking urine, it may be due to pheromones. Don't think too much about it, nature takes its course, and your dog is going to enjoy some much needed communication with his own tribe!

Digestive enzymes

They are excreted in the pee, and when the dog selects one type over another, it may simply mean that it is an innate survival tactic to diversify the range of gut bacteria critical to his health. This is more prevalent in dogs that eat the same diet every day. Their microbiome range of beneficial gut bacteria is limited to what the owner chooses to feed them. A dog may need to seek out live food sources to diversify the gut bacteria essential for good immune health and to help with stomach pH.

Glucose

In dogs on a dry food diet, which is full of by-products and carbohydrates, these "foods" are converted to sugars, which are present in a dog's urine in the form of glucose. Even if a dog's kidneys are healthy, with the amount of dry food consumed, there are going to be traces of glucose in the urine, which can then attract other dogs to lick it up. Since dogs can sense everything from urine, it may be that the dog that urinated earlier has glycosuria, high blood sugar levels, or diabetes, so the glucose levels expelled would be higher than normal, and sweet pee is attractive for dogs to eagerly take.

Dehydration

Most dogs that eat balanced food do not get enough water in their diet, so it could be that while out walking, especially on warm or hot days, certain dog pee will appear on cue to quench their thirst. It is unlikely that the pee intake is due to dehydration, as most dogs would drink from another source if it is within reach. If your dog is very thirsty, be sure to always carry water with you when out walking.

Behavior

The question is whether you noticed any drastic changes in your dog's behavior that are unusual for him.

Some of the easiest problems to solve are when a dog urinates inside the house environment and then licks its own pee. This is going to depend on a couple of things, such as whether it is an adult dog or a puppy, or if it is an untrained senior dog. It's quite natural for this to happen since they resort to denning behavior. Train your puppy and retrain older dogs with positive reinforcement techniques only. If you challenge him, you will cause him more emotional damage in the long run. Don't make it a big deal, but when you go out with your dog, congratulate him and give him a small reward with a natural snack to show him he did a good job. Be consistent with training until your dog learns. Consider shortening the time between walks so that your dog has more opportunities to go out rather than having to hold on all day while desperately waiting for you to take him out.

Just think, you could be the problem. Unfortunately, many pet owners do not establish a routine with regular schedules for their dog and do not allocate enough time for him to be outside and go to the bathroom as he should many times. If day to day, your dog has no idea when it is time to go to the bathroom and eat. They are trying to make the best of a bad situation that you created. If this is the case, they prioritize their self-protection. For a dog to be forced to relieve himself inside the house goes against all his natural instincts, and licking his own urine becomes a mechanism to hide the evidence. Think about how many times a day you go to the bathroom and start calculating that your dog has to match that amount. Or, at the very least, schedule times for him to go to the bathroom throughout the day so he knows when it's time for walks.

Older dogs

Just like people, dogs age and experience body changes. In many older dogs, the problem may be related to the amount of time they have to wait between walks. Or it may be the onset of incontinence. Your adult dog may have a weaker bladder, which is why he leaks drops of pee when he changes position and, because he knows he is doing so within his area of refuge, he tries to lick it up, resorting to his innate behavior.

An underlying health problem

See if your dog is peeing more than usual or licking other dogs' pee more frequently. If this is part of the problem, then there may be an underlying illness. If you know that everything else is the same, such as his walking schedule, diet, etc., talk to your veterinarian. Some common diseases related to excessive pee intake are as follows (not an exhaustive list).

Urinary tract infections Bladder diseases Cushing's syndrome Cognitive dysfunction Dementia Kidney diseases Liver disease Diabetes

Mating

Male dogs often lick up more pee than female dogs, especially if a female dog expelled pheromone-filled urine to show that she is in heat. Males identify these signals and the scent.

Emotional stressors

Dogs that suffer from anxiety, fear, or have a nervous personality often pee more or have small accidents depending on the situation they are in. When this happens, your reaction can either help or worsen their behavior. If you get angry, you are likely to encourage a negative reaction and more frequent peeing behavior. Whereas if you deal with the situation more kindly and understandingly, you help your dog calm down and reduce the need to lick his own pee.

Is it dangerous for my dog to lick other dogs' pee?

Really not. He will be alright, much like if a dog eats another dog's poop. Even while there is a slight possibility that he could get a parasite of some sort, the probability is negligible.

Dogs have ancestral digestive systems, which is why they have the ability to process higher microbial activity than humans, which is why they can eat raw meat and bones, eat spoiled food, lick pee, and eat poop without getting sick. It is also part of their survival instinct and is what they learn as sheltering behavior. Dogs are more protected against pathogens and bacteria than many pharmaceutical companies would like you to believe.

If you are concerned about parasites, a simple technique is to always have an alternative water pot in your home that you replace often and that has a little apple cider vinegar in it. Your dog will naturally select this water when he needs the apple cider vinegar to help keep his stomach at the optimum pH to prevent parasites.

High temperatures greatly affect the welfare of dogs. Here we explain how to keep dogs cool in summer and give you some tips to prevent heat stroke in dogs.

Having a pet at home is a task that requires great responsibility. At all times, we must make sure that the animal feels comfortable and at ease. There are times of the year when this may have to be more evident. Dogs in summer, for example, need a series of cares to feel cooler.

Why is it important to keep dogs cool in the summer?

Just as humans suffer when the heat becomes suffocating, pets also have a hard time. Unfortunately, they don't have the ability to buy a fan, plug it in, and get in front of it. Nor do they have it as easy as some people to go to the beach or the pool (although there are pools for dogs).

They can't even get fresh water to drink on their own.

All this has to be taken care of by their humans, and you should know that it is essential to take care of any detail that has to do with protecting your pet from the summer heat.

This will prevent the dog from dehydration, sunstroke, sunburn or the worst: heat stroke in dogs, which could end the life of your pet.

In addition, heat can affect your dog's appetite as well as his sleep, which can trigger other problems as well.

So you already know that it is essential to cool your dog in the summer. Let's see now how you can do it.

Tips to keep dogs cool in the summer

Here are some tips to help your dog stay as cool as possible when the weather gets hot.

1. Hydration

Your dog should have access to clean, fresh water 24 hours a day. Ideally, if the house you live in is large, you should have several water troughs available during the summer.

These should be in the shade, and you should check regularly that they are not empty.

In addition, the water will heat up very easily, which may cause the animal to stop drinking. For this reason, you can include an ice cube in its dish, so that it dissolves and the liquid stays cooler for a longer period of time. (How to Get Your Dog to Drink More Water)

Additionally, you should remember that it is more important than ever to take a portable drinking bowl with you when you go out for a walk.

2. Keep your dog out of the sun

The dog should always have a cool place to go when it is very hot. You should take this into account, especially if it is a dog that lives outdoors.

Whenever possible, consider bringing him indoors, at least during the hottest hours of the day.

3. Keep the house Cool

When your dog is at home, don't deprive him of air conditioning or fans. It is true that, just like us, it is not convenient for them to be directly exposed to the air stream.

However, your pet will know how to place itself at the precise point where it feels comfortable with it.

4. Wet him

If it is very hot, a simple way to cool your dog in the summer is to wet your hands and rub them on his head, neck, and trunk.

If you have a terrace or garden, don't hesitate to put a small pool for him to play in and get wet if he feels like it. Or if you have a hose, you can cool him with it.

5. Summer cut

Some dogs have a lot of hair, and this can make them hotter in summer. However, when cutting their hair, it is not necessary to shave it completely. It is best to leave about two or three centimeters of hair to protect the skin from the radiation of the sun's rays and avoid heat stroke in dogs. It is preferable to shave the hair on the belly to make them feel cooler.

The care of the coat in summer also includes a deeper and regular brushing. This way, we will be able to remove dead hair and knots that do not allow the skin to breathe. If the dog has a lot of hair and is bathed in the sea or in the swimming pool, it is necessary to rinse it well afterwards with fresh water.

6. Breathable dog beds

During the summer months, many dogs choose to sleep on the floor. This may be because the bed is too hot for them.

However, you could help him by opting for beds that help disperse heat, such as those made with breathable materials or those that are slightly raised off the ground.

7. Cooling mats

Cooling mats are also available on the market. These are a kind of small mat or thin mattress, inside which there is a cooling gel that is activated on contact with the animal's body.

They are ideal for cooling the dog in the summer but can also be used to cool the cat, for example.

In addition, they can also be a solution to put on your pet's mattress if you do not have the possibility of buying a cooler bed.

8. Doggie ice cream

Sugar, chocolate and other ingredients that are usually included in the ice creams we eat are highly harmful to our dogs. For this reason, you should not offer them to him, not even to try them.

However, you can make them some homemade ones. For example, get the molds or simply an ice cube tray and make some with unsalted chicken broth. Yes, they may not appeal to you at all, but your pet will love them.

9. Avoid the hottest hours of the day

Dogs need to go out every day to walk and relieve themselves. In summer, it is best to avoid the hottest hours of the day. The best option is to go out early in the morning and late in the day. During these outings, it is preferable that they do not do too much physical exercise and that the walks are not too long. Puppies and older dogs also need more protection from the sun.

In addition, we must be careful not to walk with the dog on pavements that are too hot since we can hurt the animal's paws. If it is very hot, we can carry water to hydrate the dog during the walk and keep it cool at all times. And before leaving the house, we should wet the head, trunk, and paws with water to reduce the body temperature.

10. Food in the cooler hours

As is often the case with many people, excessive heat can cause dogs to lose their appetite a little. Both dogs and people like to eat much more fresh food. Do not eat in abundance and do it in those hours where temperatures are milder.

As far as possible, it is necessary to adapt the meals of the animal to the coolest time of the day. In addition, it is preferable that the place where it is going to eat is also a cool space in the house away from the sun.

By following these recommendations, our dog will be able to enjoy the summer and the good temperatures. The most important recommendations are to always keep him fresh and hydrated, to take care of his feeding, and to avoid the sun, which can affect his skin. In this way, we will avoid the dog suffering a heat stroke that could put his life at risk.

If you like running with your dog, you will love Canicross. It is a very fun sport that has become fashionable in recent times. Running with your dog will strengthen your bond with him while also providing physical exercise.

Canicross is here to stay. Whether as a hobby, for the simple pleasure of running, or as a competitive sport, it is an excellent activity for your dog and for you.

What is Canicross?

Canicross history

What are the benefits of Canicross?

• Bones, ligaments, and joints. To run with your dog, it is important that you both get in shape progressively. Soft grounds reduce the impact on bones, ligaments, and joints. It is very important to train intelligently in order to be in perfect physical shape and avoid injuries.
• Cardiovascular system. Canicross stimulates the cardiovascular system, so your heart, lungs, and circulatory system will work better.
• You will sleep better. Both you and your dog will come back tired and very happy. Your dog will be less nervous and you will both sleep soundly. So it is the ideal sport for hyperactive dogs.
• Better bonding with your dog. Your dog will learn to listen to you. Dogs like to have something to do, be rewarded, and feel they have a role in the pack. They are made to work. With Canicross, you will satisfy this need and strengthen the relationship you have with your dog.
• Mood. With exercise, your mood, your confidence, and your ability to concentrate will improve. Your dog will also feel better and happier. A good physical condition is essential for a long and healthy life.
• An alternative to walking. Canicross can be an alternative to daily walks. Of course, it is also necessary to take a leisurely walk and relax. But once in a while, it's good to break the routine. A 20-minute session of Canicross and you and your dogs will go home tired and satisfied.

Can any dog do Canicross?

• Sled dogs, such as Malamutes or Huskies.
• Large hunting dogs, such as the Braco.
• Border Collie
• German Shepherd
• Belgian Shepherd
• Labrador Retriever
• Airedale Terrier
• Jack Russell Terrier

What equipment do I need to do Canicross?

Harness

Leash

Belt

Running shoes

Clothing

How can I train my dog for Canicross?

• If you are not used to running together, both you and your dog need to improve your fitness. Don't try to run long distances the first few days.
• Start with a light workout and teach him the commands. Increase the intensity gradually, taking care not to overwork them, especially when their joints and bones are forming.
• Consult your veterinarian before practicing this sport and follow his recommendations.
• The main risk for your dog in a race is dehydration, so make sure you have water and a container to carry it during the race.
• Avoid running in high temperatures.

The commands my dog must learn to do Canicross and how to teach them to him

• Go right: Gee
• Go left: Haw
• Forward: Forward
• Ignore go forward: On by
• Use more pulling force to pull: Hike on
• Accelerate or start: Let's go
• Slow down: Steady/Easy
• Stand still looking ahead: Stand /Line Out/Whoa

What is a Canicross race like?

• Age of the runners.
• Sex of the runners.
• Size of the dogs.
• Distance of the race.

Conclusions

• Canicross is a cross-country race with dogs.
• It is an excellent way to get physical exercise.
• It also provides your dog with mental stimulation.
• Canicross has many benefits for your dog and for you.
• It is advisable to have a medical check-up and take your dog to the vet before starting to compete.
• Canicross can be done with any dog, although some breeds are more suitable than others.
• It is not recommended for brachycephalic dogs.
• It is important that you use a belt that distributes the load, a leash with cushioning, and a specific harness for Canicross.
• Start training gently and gradually increase the time and intensity.
• Teach your dog the directional commands before starting to compete.

Dogs sense that there is a threat nearby when they hear the siren of an ambulance.

It is very likely that many people have witnessed the moment when an ambulance passes by with the siren activated and the dogs, for some reason, begin to howl loudly. Some believe that it is due to the pain they feel because of the sensitivity of their ears, but in reality it is not so. This is related to the ancestors of the canines.

According to experts, there are several explanations why dogs howl at sirens. One is because they mistake the noise for other howls and take it as a signal for help from another dog, as happens with wolves, who howl when a member of the pack moves away from the group so it can find its way back.

Why do dogs howl at sirens?

1. The first theory would be that dogs mistake the sound of sirens for howls from other dogs, in the same way that wolves howl when another member of the pack wanders away from the group so that they can find their way back. What would happen to the dogs is that they would believe that the police or ambulance siren would be another dog trying to communicate with them.

2. The second possibility is that they detect a threat, i.e., they don't know that sound and howl to alert their owner that something is going on around them, so that they are forewarned. When the ambulance has passed, the dog will believe that the threat has gone away, will stop howling, and will continue calmly.

3. Contrary to what is believed, the sound of sirens does not hurt the ears of our dogs because, if it were so, they would hide and get nervous, as it happens when firecrackers sound.

4. Finally, if the dog's howling is persistent and occurs even when no siren is heard, it may be because the animal is feeling anxious about separation from the owner or is feeling bad. In that case, you should consider taking him to the veterinarian.

My dog ​​keeps howling - what to do?

When your dog howls, always try to understand the cause of the howling. If you can't see the exact reason right away, check if your four-legged friend could be in pain, scared or uncomfortable for some other reason. If this is the case, try to help him and work on the causes.

If your dog is fine, there can be several reasons for his behavior. Most of the time, it is either dominance behavior or the desire for attention.

If your dog is howling to get your attention, you would do well to let him howl for a while without giving him any attention. You can also send him to his basket and move away until he stops howling. If he stops for a while, call him to you, play a round or praise him. This will teach the dog that howling is the wrong way to get attention.

If you don't understand exactly where the howling is coming from, quickly consult a dog trainer. That way, you can work on the cause of the yowling before it becomes an annoying habit.

Read also: How to train a dog to not bark at night

Now what does the howling have to do with the moon?

Nothing. The myth that wolves howl at the moon is more due to the habit of wolves to howl, especially often at night from a vantage point, resting their heads on their necks. The latter helps to get more air and makes the howl audible over greater distances. From the outside, it then looks as if the wolf howls at the moon. Numerous myths around the wolf and its representation in connection with witchcraft and sorcery have probably contributed their part.

Conclusion

Dogs howl for a variety of reasons. These can be positive or negative. Always look at the big picture to understand why your dog is howling.

If you want to break your dog's howling habit, it's best to start as early as possible and, if in doubt, consult an experienced dog trainer.

Always rule out the possibility that the howling has medical reasons.