Fancy some dog trivia?

Published on: Monday, January 25, 2021

By: Shirley Khong

Text Size:

Q: What human words do dogs understand?

A: The more you speak to your dog the more it will understand. Do not use long sentences but keep the words short and keep re-using these same words. So, yes, dogs do understand what you say. They can also read your facial expressions and most times even understand what you want before you even tell them.

Q: What are a couple of things a dog appreciates?

A: The two most important things to a dog are stability and safety! Give them a world they can predict so they know they are safe and a regular routine for stability. All dogs long for that

Q: My new puppy follows me everywhere and it’s very clingy.

A: Dogs are social animals and if a mama dog raised a puppy amongst its siblings, the pup would be used to a social environment and playing around. If you cannot abide by this please do find the pup another home where it can socialise happily and get yourself a tablet or a doll

Q: Why do dogs tip their head as if they are trying hard to understand you?

A: Dogs actually tip their heads so they can hear better! Their hearing n sense of smell is hundreds of times better than ours but when you are speaking they want to be able to hear you better. Just like when a human cups his ear to hear better, this is what a dog does! And at the same time they look cute too!

Q: Should I allow my nine-month retriever roam the house freely or keep him tied up. He has been toilet trained. He has a tendency to bite us hard when playing?

A: Dogs should be trained as early as 12 weeks old so nine months is a little late. However, it is never too late to train a dog.

Get your dog trained as soon as possible for the dog and everyone else’ good

Golden retrievers are generally very laid back friendly dogs and do not normally bite. Since yours does Your dog may be stressed bored unhappy and maybe even frightened! Retrievers need a lot of exercise and therefore bringing it for walks is a must to expend its energy. A young dog, especially, needs a lot of exercise!

If you cannot give the dog the time and exercise it needs it is better to find it a new owner as owning a dog is a commitment not a “when I feel like it” thing!

Q: In what way do dogs view their owners?

A: They are looking to you as their boss, to show them what to do next and to tell them what to do next. That’s it! Simple. You’re the boss!

Q: What does it mean when a dog starts breathing faster when its asleep? Is it dreaming?

A: Apparently, yes, the dog is dreaming. It can give out little barks and whines and it can be a hoot to watch but yea, dogs do dream and twitch and move during their dreams!

Q: How do I make my dog feel safe during a storm/fireworks?

A: Here are some suggestions:

bring your dog indoors
draw the shades
let it wear a fitting shirt/cape
create a safe place (small and cosy)
consider crating it during the storm
play soothing music/ have the radio on

Q: Is it true a dog never knows when it is full and just keeps eating?

A: Good question and the answer is both! Usually rescue/shelter dogs will eat and keep on eating because they worry they may not have the next meal as they have experienced hunger. Some dogs, however, eat slowly, little by little, depending on their mood. So as long as they are fed regularly and properly, there is nothing to worry about!

Q: Is it better to have one or two dogs?

A: Having one dog is great but if you can afford another dog as companion to your dog that would be perfect. When you have two dogs they provide each other with companionship and both mental and physical companionship and stimulation. All this can help with obedience issues that can happen when a dog is left alone at home. So, yes, it is usually better to let your dog have a companion.