5 surprising facts about dogs

1. They can detect diseases

Dogs have an incredibly sharp sense of smell, with around 220 million scent receptors (humans only have 5 million). This allows them to detect diseases like cancer, diabetes, and even seizures before symptoms appear.

2. Dogs understand up to 250 words

Studies show that dogs have intelligence similar to a two-year-old child. They can understand up to 250 words and commands, as well as basic numbers. This explains why they seem to understand their owners so well.

3. A unique nose print

Just like human fingerprints, every dog’s nose print is unique. No two dogs have the same nose pattern, making it possible to identify them by their nose alone.

4. They can dream

Dogs experience similar sleep cycles to humans, including the REM stage, where dreams occur. Puppies and older dogs tend to dream more frequently, and they might even twitch, bark, or move their paws while dreaming.

5. Tail wagging speaks volumes

A dog’s wagging tail is not always a sign of happiness. The direction and speed of the wag can indicate different emotions. A wag to the right often shows excitement or happiness, while a wag to the left might suggest anxiety or caution.