101 Incredible Dog Facts (2024 Infographic Update)

Pooch, doggy, best friend—there are many cute nicknames we assign the canine member of our family. Dogs provide their owners with unconditional love, companionship, and endless loyalty down to their final breath.

With this in mind, we’ve put together the ultimate list of 101 dog facts.

After all, they aren’t merely adorable to look at. Dogs never judge their owners. They don’t care if you’re rich or broke, they accept you just the way you are.

Without further ado, let’s check out the following 101 facts about man’s best friend. Woof woof!

Don’t miss our detailed infographic below depicting each of the interesting dog facts we’ve discussed!

1. Dogs understand up to 250 words and gestures, which makes them as smart as toddlers!

How smart is a dog compared to a human? According to research by animal psychologists, dogs can understand up to 250 words. They can also count to five and they’re able to do basic calculations. Dogs have the intelligence of a two-year-old!

2. Dogs do have a sense of time, and they miss their owners when they leave.

The circadian rhythm—the internal biological clock according to which humans know when to wake up, go to sleep, and eat—exists in dogs as well. Thus, dogs have a general perception of time as daylight turns to dark.

3. When is National Dog Day? This glorious day is celebrated on August 26th.

National Dog Day was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, pet and family lifestyle expert and animal advocate.

Paige is also the founder of National Mutt Day, National Cat Day, and National Puppy Day. August 26th was the day the founder’s family adopted their very first canine member, Sheltie.

4. A dog’s whiskers help them detect subtle changes in the air and keep them more alert to an approaching threat in the dark.

According to the facts, a dog’s whiskers help them detect vibrations in the air. Thus they act like radar detectors. In simpler terms, whiskers send vital information to the dog’s sensory cells.

5. Why do dogs pant? Canines rely on panting as a way to get rid of extra body heat.

Dogs do sweat, but the process of sweating is only one of the ways they cool themselves down in hot weather. Unlike human beings who sweat everywhere, dogs can only sweat on areas such as their paw pads and nose.

Because of this, wetting the bottom of a dog’s foot on a hot day helps them cool down.

6. A dog’s sense of smell can be up to 10 million times better than a human being’s.

One fascinating fact about dogs notes that canines have around 300 million receptors in their noses. Humans only have 6 million. It’s also estimated that the power of smell in dogs is around 40 times greater than it is in human beings.

7. Puppies are born deaf, but as they get older, they can hear 4 times farther than their owners can.

Dogs are more sensitive to sound than human beings. It’s believed that dogs can hear up to a shocking 50,000 HZ.

Dog whistles work at 20,000 HZ, which explains why humans are unable to hear them. Usually, humans only comfortably hear up to 5,000 HZ.

8. The most common names for dogs include Max, Molly, Maggie, Sam, and Zach.

The latest dog statistics reveal Max is the most common name for a male dog. And the facts reveal that Bella is the most common one for female dogs. Charlie takes second place, followed by Buddy, Cooper, Rocky, and Duke.

9. Dogs can pick up on whether their owner is fearful or stressed by smelling their perspiration.

A study published in Animal Cognition found that canines use their sense of smell to detect the emotions and mood of their human owners. According to the findings, dogs can find out how a human being feels by smelling his or her perspiration.

10. What fruits can dogs eat? They can eat bananas, blueberries, kiwi, watermelon, and pineapple.

Bananas are extremely rich in dietary potassium. Blueberries are great for healthy skin and a strong immune system. While kiwi is a powerhouse of vitamin C!

However, dogs shouldn’t eat avocados as they contain persin, grapes because they can cause kidney failure, and cherries because the pits may be a choking hazard.

11. Why do dogs bark? Barking is a dog’s way of communicating with humans and other dogs.

Dogs have a unique language of their own, completely different than that of human beings. Barking—as well as howling, growling, and whining—is a canine’s natural way of communication.

Furthermore, they bark to communicate with other dogs as well as humans. These interesting dog facts show that canines may bark to discipline young, induce play, or threaten strangers. Or they might just do it out of plain curiosity.

12. Toto from The Wizard of Oz was played by Terry, a female Cairn Terrier.

Many falsely believe that Toto, Dorothy’s furry companion from The Wizard of Oz (1939) was performed by a male. Yet, the role was played by Terry, a female Cairn Terrier from Chicago who appeared in up to 16 movies!

13. Why are dogs’ noses wet? The secreted mucus helps dogs smell better.

There may be different reasons why a dog’s nose is wet. The most obvious reason is to help the canine smell better. Furthermore, a wet nose assists dogs in cooling down in hot weather, as dogs sweat through their noses and their paws.

14. Why do dogs hump? Excited dogs hump to get attention and to gain status.

Besides the obvious sexual reason behind humping and mounting, dogs perform this activity to get attention from their owners or other dogs.

More importantly, dogs do this to gain social status and reassure their dominance over other dogs. Experts claim that canines will do this to test which dog will allow the activity and which will not.

15. On average, adult dogs have 42 teeth, whereas humans have only 32.

Typically, most facts about dogs and dental health claim that a healthy adult dog has one third more teeth than human beings.

To be more precise, adult dogs have 42 teeth, whereas puppies have 28 baby teeth. In comparison, adult humans have 32, and human babies have only 20.

16. Puppies lose all of their deciduous teeth by the time they’re 4 months.

Healthy puppies have around 28 milk teeth. They start falling out at about four weeks as they grow. All of the puppy teeth fall out by the time the dog is between 14 and 30 weeks, and they’re replaced by 42 strong adult teeth.

17. Dogs can’t regrow damaged or lost teeth, and if they lose one, they lose it for good.

It’s a common false dog fact that canines regrow teeth the way sharks do. In reality, once a canine’s teeth are damaged or fall out, they’re gone forever. Because of this, it’s important to take care of your pet’s chompers.

18. Due to a low-sugar diet and differences in mouth bacteria, it’s highly unlikely for dogs to get cavities.

Even though there are cases when dogs do get cavities, the good news is that these cases happen on very rare occasions.

The facts on dogs claim that this is because dogs have different diets than humans. Moreover, the oral bacteria in canines is also totally different from human beings. Furthermore, oral bacteria doesn’t cause any harmful acid build-up.

19. Small breeds with short snouts usually have more oral and periodontal issues such as tartar and plaque buildup.

The various dog breed facts claim that small dog breeds such as Poodles, Pomeranians, Pugs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are more likely to suffer from tooth decay than larger breeds.

This can be explained by the quicker tartar and plaque build-up in smaller mouths.

20. If a dog’s teeth are greenish-brown, the dog may have gum disease.

Gum disease or periodontal disease is defined as an infection resulting in the loss of support structures in a dog’s teeth. The facts about dogs and puppies show that over 80% of dogs are afflicted by gum disease.

The illness may be detected by examining a canine’s upper lip. If the teeth are distinctly discolored, then the dog usually has gum disease.

21. The large tooth in the middle of a dog’s upper jaw is the carnassial tooth, which helps the animal crush and shear food.

IWere you wondering what is unique about a dog? It’s its largest tooth. This tooth is the carnassial tooth. It’s designed to help the animal crush, shear, or hold food.

Furthermore, if you find yourself replacing furniture the dog mistook for a chew toy, blame it on the carnassial tooth.

Readers will agree that this is one of the more frustrating and entertaining facts. Especially since this tooth helps the pet industry make some extra cash on (replacement) toys.

22. Daily teeth brushing helps prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and bacteria from entering the bloodstream.

One of the top 10 facts about dogs on any list is that dental health is crucial for dogs. Brushing your dog’s teeth doesn’t have to be stressful or difficult. Especially if you start as early as possible and do it every day routinely.

It will prevent many problems not only in the oral cavity, but can also prevent bacteria from entering its bloodstream.

There are also many wonderful products such as special dog brushes, fun and interactive chew toys, and delicious, healthy treats that do a great job in maintaining your dog’s teeth healthy.

23. Why do dogs tilt their heads? They do this to get a better look at their owner’s face and read their expressions.

According to experts, dogs tilt their heads for a couple of good reasons. First, they may be attempting to read their owner’s body language and speech patterns to figure out what their owner is trying to say.

Many dog facts also reveal that dogs may tilt their head to adjust the outer ears to better detect the source of a sound.

24. Ear infections are common in dogs, usually caused by ear mites, bacteria, hair growth in the ear canal, and allergies.

The most common symptoms of ear infection in dogs include head tilting, constant scratching, a foul odor from the ears, a dirty discharge, and swelling of the ear.

Even though a simple medical cleaning may help the animal, sometimes surgery is necessary.

25. Why do dogs eat grass? Dogs that eat grass, scoot on their bottoms, or vomit frequently may have internal parasites such as hookworms, tapeworms, or roundworms.

Internal parasites are common in dogs. Almost every dog has an uncomfortable worm infestation (especially strays!). Hookworms, in particular, may prove to be fatal in puppies, so it’s important to visit a veterinarian frequently.

The most common signs a dog may have parasites include bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and eating grass to fulfill an unmet dietary need.

26. How do dogs get fleas? Usually, dogs get fleas by being in contact with other flea-infested animals.

According to experts, dogs can get a flea infestation in many ways. Most commonly through being in contact with another animal, such as a dog or cat with fleas. A dog may also contract fleas from its surroundings.

27. If left untreated, fleas may cause infections, allergic reactions, and anemia in dogs.

Almost all facts about owning a dog claim that fleas are among the biggest nuisances in the canine world.

Signs a dog may have fleas include hair loss, hot spots, flea dirt, allergic dermatitis caused by an allergic response to the fleas, and excessive licking, biting, and scratching.

Fortunately, there are many excellent treatments, such as collars, shampoos, sprays, and oral medicines for fighting a flea infestation.

28. Vomiting may be a symptom of heat stroke, kidney failure, pancreatitis, or even poisoning.

The causes of vomiting in dogs are seemingly endless. However, the most common reasons the animal throws up include pancreatitis, intestinal parasites, and poisoning.

A trained professional may put the dog in therapy, give it drugs to control the vomiting or recommend preparing it foods like rice and skinless chicken.

29. Why do dogs wag their tails? Dogs use their tails to communicate with their owner or other dogs.

It’s a common myth that dogs wag their tails as a sign of happiness. However, experts claim that canines use their tails as a form of language.

The language of dogs is based on the motion and the position of their tails, which convey the animal’s emotional state at the moment.

30. Dogs suffering from frequent diarrhea need to have access to plenty of water because they may be dehydrated.

In the case of diarrhea in dogs, the facts show that this also has many causes, from infections to food sensitivities. The symptoms of diarrhea are straightforward, and owners should be aware of any loose stool.

A word of caution, keep the dog extra hydrated because diarrhea may easily lead to dehydration and death.

31. The most common types of cancer in dogs are melanoma, lymphoma, osteosarcoma, mast cell tumors, and hemangiosarcoma.

According to the scientific facts about dogs, dogs can suffer from cancer just like their human counterparts.

A study from BioMed Central Veterinary Research found that out of every 100,000 dogs, around 800–900 will develop cancer.

The most common cancers in dogs are the cancer of the lymph nodes, cancer of the blood vessels, skin cancer, bone cancer, and cancer of the mammary glands.

32. National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day is celebrated on November 7th.

National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day was created to spread important dog facts and information about lymphoma. Activists strive to educate the  owners of ill dogs while also helping people look for a beneficial solution to this tragic illness.

National Canine Lymphoma Day was the idea of Terry Simmons, a famous dog agility coach, and competitor.

33. More than half of the cancers common in dogs are curable if diagnosed early on.

According to some of the most interesting facts about dogs, cancer is one of the most prevalent causes of death for canines over the age of 10.

The good news is that half of all cases of cancer in canines may be treatable if the disease is detected in its earliest stages.

34. The symptoms of cancer in dogs include difficulty urinating, stiffness, lethargy, pale gums, and a distended belly.

Sometimes it’s easy to spot the signs of cancer in canines. But sometimes the signs aren’t as obvious.

Some of the most frequent ones include abdominal swelling, wounds that won’t heal, changes in appetite, depression, coughing, bumps under the dog’s skin, and evidence of severe pain.

35. Certain dog breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs may be at a higher risk of developing cancer.

In the case of pure dog breeds, the facts show that these pups are more prone to cancer than mixed breeds.

Studies have found that Golden Retrievers are especially susceptible. Unfortunately, the studies have also found that cancer may present itself in Goldens at a much earlier age in comparison to other dog breeds.

36. Hormone imbalances, UV radiation, and chemicals such as lawn fertilizers may cause cancer in dogs.

These unfortunate dog facts claim that the causes of cancer in dogs are similar to the illness’s causes in human beings.

Factors associated with nutrition, viruses, hormonal imbalances, canned foods, and radioactive waste can all contribute to the formation of the dangerous disease.

37. Cancer may be prevented by neutering or spaying dogs.

Facts show that by spaying female dogs, the possibility of ovarian and uterine cancer may be greatly reduced. Furthermore, the chances of male dogs developing prostate cancer may be eliminated by neutering them.

38. When do dogs stop growing? Generally, small breeds are fully grown by 8 months of age, while giant breeds grow until they’re 18 months old.

Dogs usually stop growing in height and length when they turn one. Of course, different breeds grow at different paces.

The size of the breed is the greatest determinator when it comes to the pace of growth. As a rule, large and giant breeds need more time to grow, whereas tiny and small breeds need less.

39. A Boxer named Brandy carried the title of Dog with the Longest Tongue.

According to these Boxer dog facts, the record for the longest tongue on a canine belonged to a female Boxer by the name of Brandy.

Her impressive tongue reached a shocking 43 centimeters, in comparison with a human tongue, which measures at only 10.1 cm. Dubbed the Gene Simmons of canines, Brandy passed away in 2002.

40. The wrinkles on Boxers need to be cleaned.

Boxers, famously known as hunting dogs, tend to collect blood residue from capturing their prey in their wrinkles.

Some of the boxer dogs facts claim that the wrinkles on their face create efficient channels that funnel the blood of their prey away from their eyes.

Damp cloths are necessary for cleaning the pet’s wrinkles to make sure infection remains at bay.

41. Boxers are some of the most favorite dog breeds among celebrities.

Some of the fun facts about this breed of dogs show that Boxers are celebrity favorites.

There’s a good reason celebrities like Hugh Jackman, Jessica Biel, Luke Perry, and Jennifer Love Hewitt love Boxers. The breed is one of the most beloved ones in the industry!

42. Pit Bull is not a breed but a generic term describing dogs who have similar characteristics and traits.

According to the Pitbull dog facts, breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier are two of the most common representatives of Pit Bulls.

Furthermore, breeds such as Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, the Bulldog, and the Bull Terrier are more simply identified as Pit Bulls.

43. Pit Bulls are excellent escape artists.

Owners, if you have a large backyard with a fence, be aware of your Pit Bull! According to the well-known but cool facts about dogs, Pit Bulls are some of the most athletic canine breeds out there! Hence, they may easily climb fences and run away.

44. Razor Edge Pit Bull puppies sell for thousands of dollars!

Due to their special, bulky appearance and sweet nature, the Razor Edge (also known as the Razor’s Edge) Pit Bull is one of the most sought-after types of Pit Bulls out there.

However, it’s important to note that the Razor Edge isn’t an officially recognized breed.

45. The Siberian Husky was bred by the Chukchi Eskimos to pull heavy loads across rough terrain.

If you’re curious about sled dogs, facts show that Huskies have always been bred as working dogs. This breed was also used by Eskimos to herd reindeer and guard their owners against intruders.

46. Some of the most popular Siberian Husky color combinations include red and white, black and white, and sable and white.

Based on the information on Husky dogs, most facts note that the coat of a purebred Siberian Husky comes in different colors. They range from pure white to pure black, with or without different patches and markings on the head.

Even though it’s less common, the coat of a Husky can also be a solid color such as dark grey, white, or silver.

47. Huskies need rigorous training due to their tough and highly intelligent character.

The Husky dog facts claim that these dogs aren’t the best option for families who are inexperienced with the breed. This breed has a typical Arctic dog temperament. It means they’re self-sufficient, determined, and frequently difficult to handle.

48. Newfoundlands have webbed feet, and they make great swimmers.

These dogs are amazing swimmers, and they’ve been used as water rescue dogs for many years, according to the Newfoundland dog facts. One of the main reasons this breed of dog manages to swim so well is due to its semi-webbed feet.

49. Newfoundlands are ride-or-die dogs.

If you’re looking to adopt an extremely loyal pet, go for a Newfoundlander. They’re known for protecting their owners from strangers and also for being the perfect nanny for small children.

Because of this, the Newfoundland dog is also commonly dubbed the “nanny dog” and a “gentle giant.”

50. Major notable figures in literature such as Lord Byron and Emily Dickinson owned a Newfoundland dog.

The amazing dog facts on this breed show that they’re English literature muses!

“Epitaph to a Dog,” a famous poem by Lord Byron, was dedicated to the British poet’s Newfoundland dog Boatswain, who passed away due to rabies. Furthermore, Dickinson’s dog Carlo was also a major inspiration for the author.

51. The Bernese Mountain dog was typically used for driving cattle to alpine pastures.

According to the well-known Bernese Mountain dog facts, the breed was used for generations as a versatile farm dog, from guarding property to driving dairy cattle to the pastures.

These dogs frequently compete in AKC Herding Events, where they can show off their impressive working instincts.

52. Bernese dogs are extremely heroic.

Hands down, the most amazing fact about this dog breed is that they’re often capable of heroism!

In 2013, a Bernese called Bella saved her Canadian owner from fire by pulling him out of a burning house. Furthermore, another Berner named Nica rescued two victims from a California rip current!

53. Bernese dogs have a sense of humor.

According to some dog and human relationship facts, this breed may try to make their human laugh by repeating certain actions that quickly lead to laughter.

Even though the idea of a dog having a sense of humor may seem odd, Charles Darwin also once suggested that canines attempt to make their owners laugh.

54. German Shepherds are big in the Hollywood industry.

If you’re looking for a famous dog, facts say you’ll likely find a German Shepherd. This breed is one of the best represented in the movie industry.

Most people have heard of Rin Tin Tin, the abandoned puppy who became an international movie star and an icon in Hollywood. But few know of Strongheart, a true canine superstar in America’s early years of film.

55. A YouTube video of a German Shepherd sitting and looking at the camera went viral and got about 10 million views!

Based on the German Shepherd dog facts on the internet, they’re naturals in front of the camera. There’s proof that not only Hollywood but also YouTube loves German Shepherds, and the proof lies in a simple viral video.

More precisely, the 40-second YouTube video features a dog called Dunder and his growth from puppy to adult dog.

56. German Shepherds have an insane work ethic.

German Shepherds are entirely different from all other breeds due to their extreme work ethic and loyalty.

According to the police dog facts, to thrive in their canine lives, German Shepherds need to have challenging jobs such as apprehending criminals and searching for drugs.

57. The Maltese are fearless dogs.

Even though they give off a sweet and innocent appearance, Maltese dogs aren’t afraid of meeting strangers and discovering foreign things.

This breed is characterized as energetic and fearless based on cool dog facts. Since this may be both a curse and a blessing, owners are recommended to keep a close eye on their small pets.

58. Maltese are great for people with allergies.

While pet allergy facts show there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, there are some breeds that trigger reactions to a far lesser, almost nonexistent degree.

The best thing about this sweet breed is that they don’t shed at all. So if you’re sensitive to dandruff and dog fur, you’re in luck.

59. The Maltese used to be known as the Lion Dog or the Roman Ladies’ Dog.

According to even more interesting facts about Maltese dogs, the breed was formerly popularly known as the Melita Dog, the Spaniel Gentle, the Maltese Terrier, and the Maltese Lion Dog.

However, nowadays this breed is only referred to as the Maltese. Other common names include Cokie and the ancient dog of Malta.

60. Poodles are first-rate hunters.

It may seem strange that the delicate Poodle used to be bred for retrieving waterfowl. But the cute dog facts show that Poodles are amazing athletes. Their soft mouths and agile physique help Poodles retrieve wounded or dead birds from the water.

61. Poodles come in four different sizes.

Poodles are known for being a very versatile breed. They exist in four sizes: standard, medium, miniature, and toy. However, the AKC claims that there are only three: standard, miniature, and toy.

62. The Cockapoo and the Goldendoodle are popular Poodle cross-breeds.

Due to their intelligence, sweet nature, and unique fur, Poodles have been taking part in different cross-breeding programs for years.

According to some dog facts on crossbreeding, the most common types are the Cockapoo, a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix, and the Goldendoodle, a mix of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.

63. Chihuahua is the largest state in Mexico and a popular dog breed!

The adorable mini and micro breed gets its name from the largest state in Mexico — Chihuahua. In the case of the Chihuahua, dog facts claim that during the 19th century, American tourists visiting Mexico fell head over heels in love with the breed!

64. Chihuahuas are celebrated during the festivities of Cinco de Mayo.

Chihuahuas are so loved that they also have a race, the “Run of the Chihuahuas.” It’s held during the Si Se Puede Foundation’s Cinco de Mayo, a festival in Arizona.

The pets are usually dressed up in vibrant ponchos and accessorized with small guitars and miniature sombreros.

65. Chihuahuas are the tiniest dog breed on Earth.

According to the crazy facts about dogs, Chihuahuas are also known as the smallest dogs in the world. In fact, Milly, a Chihuahua, became the smallest living dog in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records in 2013.

66. Pugs originally come from China, and they were kept as royal lap dogs.

Even though Pugs can be found anywhere and everywhere in the world, their origins date back to ancient times in China.

In fact, according to the more unusual facts about dogs, this breed was extremely valued by many Chinese emperors, who kept them as royal pets, guarded by soldiers.

67. Pugs are brachycephalic.

The unique and odd appearance of Pugs and their loyal nature are why people want to get their hands on this ancient breed.

However, some weird facts about dogs claim that Pugs suffer from the brachycephalic syndrome. This is the reason their face is smashed and their head so short. Furthermore, due to this condition, they frequently snore or snort loudly.

68. A “grumble” is the term for a pack of Pugs.

A flock of birds, a school of fish, and a murder of crows don’t come anywhere close to being as odd as a pack of Pugs being named a grumble. An important note, though — there must be a group of at least three pugs to have a grumble.

69. Saint Bernards were originally mountain rescue dogs.

According to most service dog facts, the giant among dog breeds, Saint Bernard, was formerly used as a mountain rescue dog.

However, the last time one took on this task was in a mountain rescue mission in 1955. Nowadays, Saint Bernards are simply kept as loyal family pets.

70. Saint Bernards are more prone to diseases of the bones due to their rapid growth rate.

Some breeds of dogs are more likely to suffer from certain diseases than others. And in the case of St. Bernard, dog facts claim that this is the case here.

Unfortunately, due to their gigantic size and how quickly they grow, the breed is more likely to suffer from bone-related illnesses such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and bone cancer.

71. The famous kid-friendly comedy, Beethoven, stars a Saint Bernard.

Based on the slightly random dog facts on Saint Bernard, the best and most well-known example of this breed appeared in Beethoven.

It’s a lovely family comedy featuring a trouble-causing Saint Bernard pooch. The film was an instant hit upon its release, and it grossed up to $147.2 million.

72. You can spot a Beagle in the long grass by looking for its white tip tail.

Beagles, a truly unique breed of small hound is an excellent scent hound. They’re mostly used for hunting rabbits.

This hound dog, the facts show, features a white-tipped tail that helps huntsmen identify the dog in tall grass. Beagles were intentionally bred to maintain this feature.

73. Snoopy is a Beagle.

The lovable and iconic dog from Schulz’s classic comic strip Peanuts is a Beagle.

Snoopy made his debut in 1950, and ever since, he has been a big part of every kid’s life. According to the facts, Snoopy was modeled in the image of the author’s Beagle, Spike.

74. Odie from Garfield is a Beagle.

Snoopy isn’t the only famous Beagle in the media. One of the fun dog trivia facts claims that Odie, from Jim Davis’s 1978 hit, is based on a Beagle. However, in the live-action films, Odie isn’t depicted as a Beagle, but instead as a Dachshund.

75. Queen Victoria was obsessed with the Dachshund.

Queen Victoria famously said that a Dachshund will certainly turn every man’s home into a castle.

According to these wiener dogs facts, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert discovered the breed in Germany and decided to get their first canine in 1845, whom they named Deckel.

However, Waldman VI, the Queen’s most cherished Dachshund, is responsible for the royal family’s infatuation with this breed.

76. The Dachshund is also nicknamed the wiener dog or hot dog.

Based on the facts about weiner dogs, officially known as the Dachshund, the breed is among  some of the most courageous dogs out there.

However, due to their unique body shape, many popularly call this breed a sausage dog, wiener dog, or even hot dog.

77. The title of the oldest dog in the world belonged to a 21-year-old Dachshund called Chanel.

The Dachshund is known for having a long lifespan, which is evident with Chanel. Chanel died in 2009 at the age of 21, granting her the Guinness World Record as the longest-living canine. Otto, another Dachshund, also held the title for a brief period.

78. Why do dogs howl? Dogs howl to communicate and attract attention.

Experts claim that howling is one of the many methods dogs use to communicate with other dogs nearby. Furthermore, dogs howl to announce their presence to other dogs and attract their attention.

Dogs may sometimes howl in response to different sounds, such as vehicle sirens or high-pitched noise.

79. Why do dogs lick you? Dogs lick because they like the salty skin of their owner or simply as a sign of affection.

According to experts, the process of licking releases feel-good endorphins that make the dog happy and feel relaxed.

Owners who are annoyed by constant licking shouldn’t react, thereby teaching the dog that the action won’t get them attention from humans.

80. Why is chocolate bad for dogs? Chocolate contains theobromine, an ingredient that may be fatal to canines.

Even though humans can safely eat large quantities of chocolate and cocoa-based products, dogs can’t metabolize theobromine. Thus, it may build up to severely toxic levels in their sensitive system.

However, a piece of chocolate will probably just cause an upset stomach.

81. What colors can dogs see? Dogs can see all colors, but they won’t appear as vibrant as they do to humans.

The famous myth that dogs see the world in black, white, and grey has been debunked!

Jay Neitz tested the color vision of canines, and after many attempts, he found that dogs do see color. Just not in the same way humans do.

For example, instead of seeing a rainbow as blue, green, orange, and red, dogs see it as light blue-grey, light yellow, dark yellow, and dark grey.

82. Why do dogs lick their paws? Licking or chewing paws may be an indicator of a yeast infection.

If a dog’s diet primarily consists of refined grains, fillers, chemicals, and artificial dyes, chances are the canine has a nasty yeast infection.

One of the most common signs a dog may be suffering from a yeast infection is the licking or chewing of the paws, as this action helps dogs get some temporary relief.

83. How much does a dog sleep in its lifetime? Dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day.

In general, experts claim the average dog gets around 12 to 14 hours of quality sleep each day. Multiplying that out over a dog’s lifetime, that’s a lot of sleep!

On the other hand, hyperactive puppies need up to 18–20 hours to feel well-rested. Also, the older the dog, the more sleep they may need.

84. What do dogs dream about? Dogs likely dream about playing, eating, and chasing stuff.

Most people have seen their canines suddenly woof or twitch during sleep. So does this mean that dogs dream like humans, and if so, what do they dream about?

Many researchers claim that dogs experience dreams similarly to humans. And it’s speculated that they dream about everyday activities.

85. What kind of dog is Scooby-Doo? Scooby is a Great Dane.

Scooby is the iconic character from the animated television franchise by Hanna-Barbera, created in 1969. Scooby, a male Great Dane, is the best friend and companion of Shaggy Rogers, a young detective.

86. What is the biggest dog in the world? The Great Dane is the tallest, while the English Mastiff is the heaviest dog in the world.

In terms of height, the Great Dane is considered the tallest dog in the world. The world record for the tallest dog in the world belonged to Zeus, a Great Dane, who could help himself to water in the kitchen sink (44 inches tall).

Still, the record for the heaviest dog belonged to an English Mastiff named Aicama Zorba (343 pounds).

So, before you decide to adopt these beauties, remember that statistics show you need over $1,000 per year in expenses for your average dog. And the amount of food a great Dance is anything but average.

87. When do dogs go into heat? Female dogs usually first go into heat when they reach 6 months of age.

Experts claim that a female dog reaches sexual maturity around month six. However, the average age for a canine’s first heat can vary, depending on the dog’s breed and size. Larger breeds may not go into heat before they turn two years.

88. What breed is the smartest dog? Border Collies and Poodles are the smartest dogs.

Border Collies are known for being excellent sheepherders and extremely athletic dogs. Furthermore, their so-called “herding eye” helps them stare down farm animals and herd them.

And second, the Poodles are famous for their high intelligence, making them great dogs to hunt, retrieve, obey, and track.

89. Wondering how to calculate dog years into human years? Around 15 human years equals the first year of an average-sized canine’s life.

Even though counting dog years into human years may seem easy, it’s much more complicated than people might think.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, year two for a canine equals around nine years for a human being. And each subsequent human year is around five years for a dog.

90. What is the fastest dog breed in the world? Greyhounds are the fastest canine’s in the world!

Based on data from the Minnesota chapter of Greyhound Pets of America, Greyhounds are classified as the fastest dogs on planet Earth. They can run up to an impressive speed of 45 miles per hour.

Additionally, the Saluki, Afghan Hound, Vizsla, and German Shepherd found themselves on the list of the fastest dog breeds in the world.

91. What is the only breed of dog that is unable to bark? It turns out that the Basenji can’t bark.

The Basenji is an ancient breed famously known for having the inability to bark. However, this breed can’t be considered silent whatsoever. Even though Basenjis don’t bark, they frequently yodel, grunt, and talk with their owners.

Other dog breeds that rarely bark include the French Bulldog and the Chinook.

92. Why do dogs make a circle before lying down? Circling before lying down helps dogs get comfortable.

Even though there are no definite reasons why dogs tend to circle before lying down, experts assume it’s for many reasons.

The most obvious reason is to get comfortable. While the less obvious one involves a genetic predisposition that the dog may have inherited from the canine ancestors.

Dogs in the wild usually circle to position themselves in a way that protects them from attack.

93. How many toes does a dog have? Most dogs have four toes on each paw, but the Great Pyrenees has six!

In general, most dog breeds have sixteen toes total—four toes on each paw.

However, some breeds, such as Australian Shepherds and Rottweilers, have an extra toe nicknamed the dewclaw. Shockingly, the Great Pyrenees breed has up to six toes on each paw!

94. What kind of dog was Lassie? The television celebrity was a Rough Collie.

Lassie, the star of the 1943 movie Lassie Come Home was a female Rough Collie. The adorable dog star was so well-received by audiences that Lassie became one of the most beloved TV shows in history.

95. Wolves can breed with domestic dogs.

According to some of the crazier dog breeding facts, pet owners who’ve been dreaming of having their very own wolf can see their dreams come true!

Dogs and wolves share similar DNA, making them more than capable of breeding hybrid puppies. It’s estimated that there are around 300,000 Wolfdogs in the US.

96. Dogs smell like popcorn or Fritos.

Have you ever taken a whiff of your dog and found them smelling like a bag of these salty snacks? If so, then you aren’t alone.

When it comes to the smell of your dog, some fun facts note that your pup might have a distinct Frito-esque smell lingering from their paws. According to the experts, the smell is caused by harmless bacteria.

97. Baboons can kidnap small dogs or puppies.

If you ever find yourself near a baboon, keep an eye on your pup. These more absurd small dog facts are based on a viral video of a Ta’if baboon kidnapping a puppy. It just goes to prove that owners should keep a close eye on their tiny canines.

However, scientists claim that baboons don’t steal dogs to keep them as pets.

98. The Turnspit dog used to be a part of the kitchen.

This extinct breed, also called “Vernepator Cur,” was commonly present in most British kitchens in the 16th century.

The dog was used to run inside a large wheel and turn the meat so it could cook quicker and more evenly. Many believe that the closest relative of the Turnspit is the Welsh Corgi.

99. Smelling each other’s bums is the doggy equivalent of a handshake.

Numerous dog facts claim that canines—especially the more socially inclined dogs—engage in this activity all the time.

Before getting repulsed by the sniffing of bums, pet owners need to be reminded that it’s a dog’s way of getting to know another dog. Every dog has an “anal sac,” which releases different chemicals.

100. Dogs usually defecate in line with the planet’s magnetic field.

Even though it sounds bizarre, a study by the Frontiers in Zoology concluded that canines are highly sensitive to the electrical magnetic field of the Earth.

Thus, according to the official 100 most interesting facts about dogs, canines prefer to poop on a North-South axis.

101. Raccoon dogs are neither raccoons nor dogs.

Even though the animal is called a Raccoon Dog, it isn’t classified as a raccoon, nor is it a canine.

They belong to the canid family, so they’re closely related to wolves, foxes, and dogs. Raccoon dogs can be found in wetlands, farmlands, forests, and different urban areas.

 

Conclusion

There are many things we don’t know about dogs. Some of the dog facts in this article might have been no-brainers, while others were a shock to some.

One thing is certain: no matter how many crazy things we can learn about dogs, we will still love them as much as they love us, unconditionally.

Sources:

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