ASK DR. SCHELLING
DEAR DR. SCHELLING,
I love my dog so much. When she snuggles up and looks into my eyes, I feel certain that she feels the same way about me. Are dogs capable of love as we know it?
- Syndey M., Newton, MA.
That’s a great question with Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Canines are known as man’s best friend, but there’s actually a lot of debate over whether dogs’ emotions are the same as a person’s. When dogs run to greet you, tails wagging with joy, or when they stare longingly into your eyes, are they expressing undying affection, or just hoping there’s a treat in your pocket? Click here to learn more about Dogs and Love.
Click here to read the full article.
How does your dog show you that they love you?
Let us know at: comments@doghealthnewsletter.com
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Dear Max,
When I tickle my dog’s side stomach, he starts kicking his back leg. Why does he do this? Is he ticklish?
–Ashley
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Dear Ashley,
The reaction you’re describing is called the “scratch reflex.” And though I’d like to take credit (it always makes you humans laugh!), it’s actually an involuntary response that we dogs can’t control—much the way your leg jerks when the doctor taps you below the knee. Click here to read more about THE SCRATCH REFLEX.
Max
Max's Mini-Reviews
ZANIES BERBER BONE: I may not be able to wear my heart on my sleeve but I can have it on my Berber Bone. This toy is perfect for tossing, chewing and my favorite—cuddling. I can see it now, my sweetheart and me, having a rousing game of fetch and then taking a nice nap. Sounds like a great Valentine’s Day to me.
BUSTER FOOD CUBE: Nothing makes my tail wag faster than toys and treats. Now, put those two together and what do you get? True love. My humans fill the toy with my favorite kibble treats and away I go! Playtime and treats have never been so good.
Let us know at: comments@doghealthnewsletter.com
DOG FACT
The first mention of the word "watchdog" was by Shakespeare in The Tempest.
"Happiness is a warm puppy. "
–Charles M. Schulz
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