Why do our pups do that?
Some odd and curious things are done by our dogs. Some things we are stunned by; some disgust and embarass us and others simply entertain us. Did you ever wonder why your dog so enjoys sniffing your crotch and the crotch of every other person that walks in your home? Are they getting fresh? No, not really, but there are some of our bodies strongest scent glands located in the genital area. We do have others located in our armpits, but logistically, the area above our thighs and below our belly buttons are the easiest for the dogs to get to. This helps to tell the dog who you are and he/she will identify you by your scent mainly and then use other means of identification such as your voice. If this is a behavioral issue, meaning it is funny at first, but your family, friends and neighbors are getting tired of your dog’s nose in places it shouldn’t be, there are training methods that can curb that type of behavior. Work with your dog and some very easy commands by clicking here to make sure your guests aren’t subject to your dog’s inquisitive nose.
I hate to go here, but why do dogs eat feces? Whether it is their own, other dogs’, or even cats’, it is a disgusting thought. However, the dogs don’t do it intentionally and many vets aren’t quite sure truly why adult dogs do it at all. Dr. Eurell, an animal behavioral specialist, retired from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine says that dogs are basically scavengers and this is very typical scavenger behavior. Also, female dogs lick the bottoms of their pups to “tickle” them. This teaches them to urinate and defecate. The mom then eats the feces from the pups and licks them dry to keep their living area clean and their scents to a minimum to avoid predators. Puppies are inclined to copy this behavior and will often eat feces, but most pups learn to stop by the time that they wean. Since it may be impossible to cure your dog from this habit, and it can be unhealthy, because waste contains bacteria and parasites, it is best to always clean up after your dog, so he doesn’t eventually eat his own and supervise him otherwise, on walks or in dog parks or other areas where animal feces may be prevelant.
For some more great tips on taking care of your dog, check out a previous entry, by clicking here.
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