It sounds trivial to say it, but dogs and cats are very different animals. The experience of living with individuals of these two species is not the same in many ways. I know I am generalizing here and ignoring the many exceptions, but the typical cat is more independent that the typical dog, and usually more aloof. (Again, I know there are dogs who lean towards the standoff-ish, and cats who are clingy and constantly affectionate, but that’s not the most common way for members of those species to be. Think of it this way—it remains true that men are generally taller than women even though there are certainly individual women who are taller than individual men.)
My point here, and I’m sure you’re glad I’m getting to it, is that if someone has experience with cats, they may acquire perspectives and skills that are different from those acquired by people who spend all of their time with dogs. (It should go without saying that I have no problem with anyone spending all of their time with dogs!) Those skills and perspectives can be very useful with certain dogs, though I’m not necessarily referring to dogs who are more cat-lie in any way.
The dogs who benefit most from the knowledge of cat-savvy people are those who are shy, fearful or nervous. People who know cats well are completely on board with the fact that you can’t push or force a cat to be social with you. (It’s unwise to push or force a dog, either, by the way, but many dogs are easier to convince to engage with us than cats are.)
With cats, it is always wise to take it slow, let them come to you and ignore them until they show an interest in you. That is also true of fearful dogs, but many people who come into contact with a dog who is afraid try to cajole the dog into approaching, or try to lure the dog with toys or treats. People with cat experience are far less likely to try to take shortcuts like this, to the benefit of the dog in question. Cat-savvy people are used to the idea that you have to accept the animal on his own terms and to be patient. To be fair, many dog lovers also know this really well, but I find that it is almost universal among people who have spent a significant amount of time with their feline friends.
I was recently reminded of the wonderful way that many cat lovers have with shy, nervous or fearful dogs when my friend Betsy came over while I was watching a dog of that description. I told her that the dog was very sweet, though easily scared by new people, and that the best thing to do was to toss her some treats and then ignore her. Betsy did exactly that, and within minutes, I took this picture of a very happy dog (the lean one on the left with a tail wagging fast enough to look blurry) enjoying her new human friend. Throughout their initial interaction, Betsy always let the dog control the pace of their progress. She never pushed too hard to pet the dog or encouraged the dog to approach. She just waited and let the dog do what felt comfortable.
Do you have cat experience that has helped you in your interactions with dogs?
via The Bark http://ift.tt/2xAeJaW
The scientific interest in studying canine cognition has led to the development of a slew of test protocols—some uniquely designed for dogs and others modified from the field of comparative psychology. Many of them employ visual tasks to test dogs’ capabilities. In order to succeed with touch screens, at discriminating fine details in tests of their abilities to follow gazes or gestures, to understand object permanence, to identify faces or facial expressions, their visual perception is part of the equation. However, most of the studies are designed based on human, rather than canine, visual perception.
Canine vision differs from humans in a number of ways. Their ability to perceive a range of color hues is not as good as people’s ability, nor is their ability to distinguish levels of brightness or their visual acuity. Dogs are sensitive to higher flicker rates than people are, which can affect any studies that use moving items on computers or on televisions. There is evidence that dog vision is even more sensitive to movement than human vision.
Since visual perception abilities are not consistently accounted for in many studies with dogs, it is hard to know whether the test protocols are accurately assessing canine cognition. The results may be affected by visual capabilities instead. Researchers recently tested the hypothesis that visual perceptual differences between dogs and people could affect the performance in visually-based tasks using a free online tool (http://dog-vision.com) that converts images to settings that match what humans or dogs can see best. They report their results in the study “Do you see what I see? The difference between dog and human visual perception may affect the outcome of experiments”.
The test subjects in the study were humans, and they were asked to decide which side was indicated by a person in a series of photos. The photos showed a woman indicating a direction (right or left) by either pointing that way with her arm extended, by turning her head or by moving the gaze of her eyes in that direction without moving her head. People were tested with photos in their original form (set for human vision) and in a form altered for canine vision.
Participants in the study could correctly choose the direction of all three sorts of cues in the unaltered (human vision setting) photos. In the photos that were altered to the dog-vision setting, they could identify the cues in the pointing with extended arm and with the head turn quite well. However, their performance dropped considerably when asked the direction indicated by the gaze of the woman’s eyes in the dog-vision setting.
The results of this study suggest that differing visual capabilities may affect performance in visual tasks. The researchers acknowledge that this study only shows that human performance is influenced when visual tasks are designed for the other species, but it is likely that dogs are similarly affected. Though many experiments that do not account for vision differences between dogs and humans have still revealed intriguing canine capabilities, future research could benefit from doing so. It is likely that researchers could increase the number of unambiguous results and also eliminate the hassle of a large drop-out rate of subjects who do not meet preliminary criteria for inclusion in the study. Potentially challenging visual presentations are a problem in canine studies, and avoiding them will help scientists conduct better research.
via The Bark http://ift.tt/2x8rYSq
Every dog has its day, and 7 of the nation’s bravest dogs are hoping that day will come for them on September 16 at the American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, presented by the Lois Pope LIFE Foundation. These dogs are all competing for the honor of being named 2017’s American Hero Dog, the highest honor a dog can receive.
Dog lovers across the country visited http://ift.tt/QHTBD5 and voted once per day for their favorite dogs in each of seven categories. The 21 semifinalists (the top three in each category) were chosen through the first round of voting, which ended May 3. A second round, featuring a combination of public and celebrity voting, narrowed the field even further to the seven category finalists. The final round of public voting is now taking place until August 30, 2017 at http://ift.tt/QHTBD5.
The winning dog in each category will be flown to Los Angeles and celebrated at a red carpet, star-studded awards gala on September 16, when this year’s American Hero Dog will be revealed. The sixth annual Hero Dog Awards will be hosted by James Denton and Beth Stern and will air nationwide as a two-hour special on Hallmark Channel this fall.
The seven categories for 2017 are:
1. Law Enforcement/Arson Dogs, sponsored by the K-9 Courage Program™ from Zoetis
2. Military Dogs, sponsored by the K-9 Courage Program from Zoetis and the Lois Pope LIFE Foundation
3. Therapy Dogs, sponsored by Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food, the official pet food of the 2017 Hero Dog Awards
4. Service Dogs, sponsored by Modern Dog magazine
5. Emerging Hero Dogs, a category that pays tribute to ordinary dogs who do extraordinary things, sponsored by Merial, maker of NexGard® (afoxolaner) Chewables
6. Search and Rescue Dogs
7. Guide/Hearing Dogs.
Winners in each category will earn $2,500 for their designated charity partner and the overall winner’s charity partner will win an additional $5,000 prize. Each charity partner is dedicated to celebrating the role of working dogs in our lives, and like American Humane, celebrates the importance of the human-animal bond.
For more information visit http://ift.tt/QHTBD5
via Modern Dog Magazine Home http://ift.tt/2iJoqjQ
Dogs bark for a reason, although we don’t always appreciate their motives. A dog may bark to say he’s alarmed, frustrated, scared, happy, protective or excited. Some breeds, such as those in the Herding and Terrier groups, are notably vocal. Others, like the Basenji, are especially noiseless. And while there are no dogs that don’t bark, let’s hear from five generally less barky breeds. No guarantee given: All dogs are individuals and some love to prove generalities wrong!
Whippet
Whippets are known to be less barky! Photography courtesy Mary Huff, tailsindesign.com.
Extraordinarily speedy and yet cuddly as kittens, we Whippets are gracious, gentle and appreciative of a quiet environment. We’re small sighthounds with ancient origins. Over time, we became companions (and an economical race horse of sorts!) to the British working class. We could race up to 35 mph, and help keep food on the table. Today, we’re calm on the inside, exuberant on the outside. Natural athletes, we enjoy lure coursing, agility and running for the pure joy of running. Although we’re capable of barking, we rarely bother. Indoors or out, if you’re looking for an alarm dog, keep looking! We Whippets aim to keep the peace. Well, maybe not with rabbits, but that’s a different story….
Gordon Setter
Irish Setters aren’t the only Setter dogs who have a reputation for being quiet. Photography courtesy courtesy Barb Meining DVM and Mary Ann Leonard.
I lobbied hard for this spot. The Irish Setter almost always wins the “quiet Setter” spot, but maybe that’s because they’re so well-known? I’m not typically on the “dogs that don’t bark” list since I do have a watchdog gene. I’m energetic and aware, but usually not inclined to uncalled-for barking. I was developed to find quarry, pursuing pheasant and quail. No good comes from barking all day when hunting, of course. The Gordon in my name nods to the 4th Duke of Gordon, the Cock o’ the North. Although my ancestors existed before the Duke, we bear his name since he helped establish my breed in Scotland. Today, if I’m well exercised and included in your daily life, I’ll likely only bark when necessary. But yes, I prefer my own interpretation of “necessary.”
English Toy Spaniel
English Toy Spaniels, and their cousins, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are pretty quiet. Photography courtesy Sharon Wagner.
My nickname — the comforting spaniel — sheds light on my personality. Although I appreciate plenty of activity, I’m mainly a companion breed, known for my gentleness and kindness. I’m also upbeat, affectionate and eager to please. Developed centuries ago from Toy and Spaniel breeds, I share a history with my cousin, the equally gentle and usually quiet Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Characteristically, I’m not a barky breed — how could I cuddle and comfort you if I were yipping and yapping?
Chow Chow
Portrait of a Chow Chow on a natural background. Photography by Shutterstock.
An ancient breed with a lion-like appearance, we were developed in China as all-around working dogs. We hunted, guarded, herded and pulled carts to help our families. Queen Victoria’s interest in my forefathers contributed to our admiration in England. Today, we’re dignified, noble and mostly noiseless. We’re confident, capable and loyal to our owners, but rather skeptical about the outside world. I view newcomers approaching my home with skepticism, but I don’t typically bark at any little leaf blowing by the house.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands don’t usually bark — but when they do, it will be loud! Photography courtesy Newfoundland Club of Seattle.
Ever try swimming and talking at the same time? Now you know why I’m not typically vocal while I swim! Developed to work with fisherman in ice-cold waters, I’m celebrated for my courage, amiable nature and swimming strength in the water. My feet are even webbed and my coat is water resistant. We’re normally better lifeguards than house guards; we may rush to a water rescue, but we’re more likely to welcome strangers into the house than chase them off. Now for a caveat: If we do bark, it’s going to be loud. We boys weigh about 140 pounds; the ladies about 115 pounds. We don’t bark often, but when we do, you’ll surely hear us!
What do you think? Do you know any dogs that don’t bark? What breed(s) are they?
Thumbnail: Photography courtesy Sharon Wagner.
Read more about dog barking on Dogster.com:
- Barking Dogs: 6 Dogs Who Were Bred to Bark
- Is Your Dog Barking and Annoying Your Neighbors? Here’s What to Do
- How to Teach Your Dog the “Stop Barking” Command
The post Dogs That Don’t Bark: 5 Relatively Quiet Dog Breeds appeared first on Dogster.
via Dogster http://ift.tt/2vcICAz
Do you ever look at a cute dog toy and think, “Yeah, that would last MAYBE 3 minutes with my dog, tops.” I, too, have a monster chewer who makes light work of everything placed in front of her, toy or not. I gave up buying her toys that looked nice and started going for ones that looked durable. After all, it gets tiring having to pick up the sad shreds of plastic and fur left in my dog’s wake.
Here are 7 toys guaranteed to stand up to even the most ferocious chewer.
Best for most dogs:
BACON BENEBONE
We have these strewn around the office, and I’ve never seen a dog refuse to play with this bacon-flavored bone. My dog Lady has two of these because she got them as gifts, and both are still going strong a year later. She’ll ignore most of her toys and go back to this every time for some late night loud teeth scraping, which I choose to imagine is her way of brushing her chompers before bed.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Real bacon flavor
Available in Small, Medium, and Jumbo
Made in the USA
BUY HERE, $10-18
Best for road trips:
CHEWS THE RIGHT KEY
This BARK original is made with love by the folks I work with, so of course I may be a little biased. But seriously, you guys, this thing is the key (hehe) to getting your dog to chill out somewhere by himself. It’s small enough to chuck in their overnight bag for sleepovers at Grandma’s or for trips with the family. Made with 100% nylon, it’ll be sure to please your serial gnawer.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Made with love by the humans at BARK
100% made in the USA
Bacon-scented, because why not?
BUY HERE, $12-14
Best for hungry hungry doggos:
SAFECHEW BIGGIE BONE
This isn’t your average treat-dispensing bone. You can actually bake or freeze treats for your dogs directly inside it! Imagine the tasty combos you can come up with to keep your pupper occupied year-round. And no need to worry about the cleanup: the Biggie Bone is dishwasher safe, too!
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Oven-safe to 450 degrees
Textured ends for massaging gums
Food-grade silicone
BUY HERE, $17.49
Best for mermaid dogs
TUGGO WEIGHTED EXERCISE TOY
Boasting a 10-inch hard plastic ball and 4 feet of replaceable cotton rope, the Tuggo toy is versatile and heavy duty, perfect for the kind of dog whose life goal is to be as rough as possible while playing. You can add water to the inside of the ball to make it weigh more, which is great for tiring out even the most hyper of dogs. (I’m looking at you, Lady! )
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Adjustable weight from 1 to 18 pounds
Great for playing tug-o-war
Perfect for dogs over 40 pounds
BUY HERE, $29.99
Best for dogs who love to fetch
BIONIC BALL
My dog Lady used to fetch just fine, except halfway during her run back to me she’d think about it and decide to stop and plop right down on the grass and destroy whatever it was that I was eagerly waiting for her to bring back. Many dead frisbees and tennis balls later, I came across the Bionic Ball. This rubber ball is great for smart dogs who like to predict where the ball is going to land, because you can bounce it a certain way that makes it impossible to know where it’ll head to next.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Floats in water
Can be stuffed with peanut butter
Fits most chucking/throwing toys
BUY HERE, $4.15-12.23
Best for independent dogs:
THE VARSITY BALL
This toy is 110% guaranteed indestructible by the folks who make it, which frankly makes me want to scream CHALLENGE ACCEPTED. It is purportedly the world’s toughest, toughest dog toy, and even tigers couldn’t bite through it. Its design makes it easy for doggos to use it by themselves, which makes my lazy behind even more willing to throw down money for this. It is a bit on the expensive side, but this is definitely a Buy It For Life item.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Designed for human-free use
Used by canine athletes and working dogs
Made 100% in the USA
BUY IT HERE, $80.99
Best for brainy dogs:
PIMM’S PENCIL AND BULLY STICK BUNDLE
I’m partial to a good toy that doubles as a conversation starter, and this one is all of those things. Made of 100% rubber, this pencil features an eraser that twists to separate from the hollow pencil, so you can stick a pizzle inside and let your dog have ultra bouncy fun trying to get it out. And the entire thing comes as a bundle for max savings!
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Pencil is 100% durable rubber
Made in the USA
Tough and tasty 9-inch steer stick
BUY HERE, $16
The post 7 Dog Toys For Dogs Who Love To Chew appeared first on BarkPost.
via BarkPost http://ift.tt/2vwxOsb
We spend a ton of money and time avoiding them ourselves, but bad hair days are not a human-specific phenomenon. These 10 dogs definitely know the meaning of “bad hair day,” and we’ve got some expert tips on how to make dog grooming go more smoothly.
1. The dirty dog
Photography by Willeecole/Thinkstock.
He’s never met a mud puddle he didn’t like, and he’s never met a shampoo that could conquer his ’do in one shot. This dog inspired the phrase, “lather, rinse, repeat.” And repeat … and repeat.
2. Matted dog hair
Tangled isn’t just a Disney movie for this dog — it’s a way of life. If your pal’s fur clumps together faster than a litter of sleepy puppies, bad hair day prevention means brushing until you’re the one who needs a nap.
3. The hair-raising sight
Some people say dogs can see ghosts when humans can’t. That is simply the only explanation for this look because we know this pup didn’t stick a fork in the electrical outlet.
4. Something stuck to his fur
Whether it’s gum, glue or the maple syrup he stole during brunch, this dog’s bad hair day started when he got into something he shouldn’t — and he just became the prime suspect in this crime against his coat.
5. The bald dog
A bald dog. Photography by Globalp/Thinkstock.
This dog’s genetic code hacked the bad hair day, but don’t be jealous. What the coatless breeds save in grooming costs they just end up spending on sweaters.
6. The Bichon frizzy
A very curly Bichon Frisé. Photography by MarijaRadovic/Thinkstock.
When this cutie’s curls are wound a little too tight he becomes more frizz than floof. Thankfully, this is not a permanent puppy perm.
7. Bad blowouts on dogs
Blow-dryers aren’t just shaped like weapons, they are weapons in the fight against bad hair days. Unfortunately, not everyone knows when to holster theirs — just ask this over-styled, over-fluffed pup.
8. A dog with double-coated fur
The double-coated dog’s tail sometimes looks like a duster, but it’s actually putting down more debris than it’s picking up. You know it’s a bad hair day when the hairs themselves are abandoning ship.
9. A dog with pigtails
A dog with a ribbon in her hair. Photography by Uroshpetrovic/Thinkstock.
They’re called “pigtails,” not “dogtails,” and this pup would rather walk the plank than wear these bows in public.
10. The (obviously) at-home dog grooming attempt
What’s uneven, unprofessional and was likely done with kitchen scissors? This poor dog’s hair. Like the bowl cut in elementary school, this bad hair day seems to happen to everyone at least once.
3 expert dog grooming tips
A dog surrounded by grooming products. Photography by Damedeeso/Thinkstock.
Avoid bad dog hair days with these tips from a pro! A former groomer herself, Megan Mouser is now the Education Manager for the Animal Division at Andis, a manufacturer of grooming tools.
Don’t be afraid
“The more you do at home, the better the situation you create for your professional groomer.” Megan said that regular brushing, combing and haircuts can stop a mat from turning into a shave (and tears) at the groomer. “Pick up a brush, and brush them every day. Make it a bonding time … you can work your way up to something like a trimmer.”
Annual maintenance is for cars, not dogs
“Regular grooming and maintenance of their coat and skin can prevent a ton of problems down the road. They can live longer, happier lives if they’re groomed on a six- to eight-week schedule instead of annual.”
Follow the hair if grooming your dog at home
If you’ve got enough beauty school skills to clip your dog at home, Megan said just don’t do the butt first. “For some reason everyone always wants to start from the tail and go backward, but you should always clip them in the direction of the hair growth. You’ll get a much better clip that way.”
Thumbnail: Photography by Laures/Thinkstock.
Read more about dog grooming on Dogster.com:
- 5 Tips for Finding the Right Groomer for Your Dog
- I Groom My Own Dog — and I Even Get Compliments!
- Grooming Your Dog From Puppy To Senior
Heather Marcoux is a freelance writer/live-in hairdresser for GhostBuster, a Golden-Lab mix who leaves more hair on the floor each day than his terrier sibling, Marshmallow, has ever grown. Follow @HeatherMarcoux on Twitter and check out @ghostpets on Instagram to see GhostBuster’s fur at its worst.
The post 10 Dog Grooming Fails and How to Avoid Them appeared first on Dogster.
via Dogster http://ift.tt/2vlcbLl