Dogs have played many roles in human societies, and many of these roles are tied to specific lifestyles and cultures. Future scientific techniques and archaeological research will help us understand the mutual relationship between humans and dogs. The dog has been around for thousands of years and mated with wolves and humans, but the ebb and flow of the gene pool have resulted in a fascinating mess. What do you know about the history of the dog?
A study found that when humans pet dogs, they release oxytocin – the hormone associated with love, bonding, and affection. This hormone has important benefits for our psychological well-being, especially for people who are often isolated from other people. The social impact of a dog is important to all human societies. According to the social support theory, it is important to have a companion animal because it gives us a sense of belonging. If a dog has a bad experience, it might react defensively or even bite.
The physiology of a dog’s heart and lungs is specialized for their purpose. While humans have excellent vision, dogs are far less advanced in this regard. Dogs have enlarged hearts and lungs relative to their size. This extra capacity is attributed to their large spleen, which stores red blood cells that are released into the bloodstream when needed. A dog’s enlarged heart and lungs, while smaller than the average human, are working at full capacity, generating heat and exerting energy during physical activity.
The health of domestic dogs is dependent on their genetic makeup. Some are prone to genetic diseases, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and deafness. Other canine diseases include pyometra, heartworm, and cleft palate. While dogs are omnivores, their diets vary widely. Dogs have small intestines, which make them less dependent on meat-specific protein. They can eat a large portion of vegetables as well.
In addition to the above functions, dogs are also used for entertainment. There are many types of show dogs, from Poodles to American Eskimo dogs. Many types of dogs appear in movies and television. And of course, there are therapy dogs! These dogs have friendly temperaments and can provide comfort and companionship to patients suffering from various ailments. The modern concept of a therapy dog began in 1976 by Elaine Smith. So, what breed is a dog good for?
