Up until recently, the act of puppies pricking up their ears to human voices was simply cute. Now we know that it’s actually a form of communication between humans and their new pups. It’s not the sort of language that can be learned, however. Puppy-talk comes naturally to humans and puppies (but not adult dogs).
Yorkshire terriers look dainty and delicate but they’re working dogs who used to control vermin in the mines and textile mills of Yorkshire. So they’re pretty tough. Working yorkies are bigger and more robust than their modern companion lap dogs. They have their loveliness and cuteness to thank for that.
Beagles were bred in the UK as hunting dogs to drive small game back to hunters. They are ranked 5th on the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds in the USA. They’re boisterous, playful and fun-loving dogs who like nothing more than a good romp with their family.
Cockapoo dogs are a cross between poodles and American cocker spaniels. They first made an appearance in the USA in the 1960s but have become increasingly popular as ‘designer dogs’ over the past few years. Cockapoos are bred specifically for temperament; that is, playfulness, loyalty, affection, gentleness and friendliness, and make wonderful family pets.
Border Collies were bred as sheepdogs along the borders of Scotland, England and Wales. With their black and white coats, they’re one of the most instantly recognizable of the dog breeds. They’re also considered one of the most intelligent, not to mention one of the most high-energy breeds.
Technically, the term companion dogs refers to those bred purely for companionship, like pugs and Pekingese. However, any dog that loves people and is loyal and affectionate to a fault is a companion, even Great Danes and Golden retrievers.
When was the last time you went for a check-up? You know, blood pressure, cholesterol, maybe your blood sugar levels. Or maybe you have recently gone for an eye exam. We have regular checkups because we want to know that we are healthy. We also want to ensure our doctors can pick up any abnormalities as soon as possible. The same applies to your pet. Be it a dog, cat, parrot or rat – all animals need to have regular pet wellness exams to ensure they are as healthy as possible.
Those of us who have canine companions tend to adore them and will do almost anything for them. Well, American TV company CEO Gilad Neumann has taken that devotion a step further. He has created a cable channel specially for pets with a waggy tail. Yes, TV for dogs is a real thing, and it’s actually not a bad idea.
Whoever said, “Bring me a dog who doesn’t like to play and I will stand on my head,” knew the quintessential nature of man’s best friends. We love our canine companions as much as we love our children. In fact, many child-free couples love their dogs as if they were their children. And like children, dogs need to be engaged mentally as well as physically with interactive games and trick training.
As if we needed any more reason to value the companionship of dogs, it turns out that kids benefit from having a dog around in more ways than previously thought. Popular culture is filled with examples of dogs protecting children and rescuing them from danger. Now research shows that Lassie may not have just rescued Timmy from the well physically, but also metaphorically. Find out more about the benefits of a healthy relationship between kids and dogs.
