Years come and go, but dogs are still dogs. And although dogs may appear our ever-constant companions, our scientific understanding of them is anything but set. So , how much do you know about dogs?
There are a million interesting things that you can learn about your pets to improve both their life and yours, and understanding what makes your dog tick can be helpful to their home life, to their behavior, and even to their personality. While some facts will vary based on your own pup, we’ve put together several interesting details to give you some tips to get well along with your ‘little friends’.
Dogs need to meet strangers when they’re young.
Although it can be overwhelming or stressful to introduce your dog to people when they’re small, it’s actually crucial to your dog’s socialization. According to Reader’s Digest, experts say that dogs should meet about 100 new people in their first few months of living at home. And, these should be people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. 
Familiarizing your puppy with the people around them will cause them to be much less fearful with strangers as they grow up. You should include people with accessories like sunglasses or hats, as well as folks who are bicycling, wheeling a stroller, or doing other day-to-day activities.
Dogs sweat with their paws.
Although dogs cool themselves down by panting – which circulates air through their bodies – they actually sweat through their paw pads. When sweat and bacteria build up on their feet, it gives off that unique scent. 
Cleaning your dog’s paws is especially necessary in the winter if they’re trotting through salt; dog paws are very sensitive to the elements. However, a muddy summer is also a reason to clean their feet. Dirty paws can hide cuts or abrasions on the paw pads, making it harder to tell when your pup needs a trip to the vet.
Smelly dog breath is not normal.
When we joke about stinky dog breath, it actually shouldn’t be normal for your pup. Just like humans, bad breath comes around with a buildup of bacteria in the mouth; the same thing goes for dogs. If your pup has chronically bad breath, it may mean that they need to have their teeth checked by the vet, or something else could be going on in their gut or lungs. 
Bad breath in dogs is commonly caused by gum disease. If the issue is in your dog’s gut, you may want to consider switching up his or her food. Your vet may also want to do a professional cleaning on your pup’s teeth. To nip the issue in the bud, provide your pup with hard, safe toys or treats that encourage better breath. You can even brush your dog’s teeth daily – just be sure to use a pup-approved toothpaste.
Dogs need to be walked.
Historically, dogs have always been energetic animals, whether they were roaming in the wild, herding sheep, or running around. While breeds have been used for different purposes – like hunting or to follow trails – many dog breeds have a long history of being active, which gives them a storage of natural energy.They sniff, stop, investigate, pee, and meet new people and new dogs. Typically, they can’t do this in their backyard (or, it is not as exciting). Walking your dog for mental stimulation is an excellent way to encourage socialization.
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