Questions About Dogs [how many have you asked?]

This may be the most fun and interesting article you have ever read if you are a dog lover!

Your dog! Man’s best friend! Dogs have been domesticated and selectively bred for thousands of years. They have enhanced the lives of humans in countless ways. 

They are companions. They work doing dangerous jobs, such as detecting bombs. They help people with disabilities. What else can dogs do? And what can’t they do? 

Below is what you need to and want to know about your dog! “Can dogs…” questions and answers.

Can Dogs Cry Tears?

Dogs have tear ducts, and they are functional. Tear ducts, and tears, serve an important purpose for all living things that have them. Tear ducts produce tears that lubricate the eyes and ears that wash debris out of the eyes. 

The tears help prevent infections from foreign objects, and can also prevent debris from causing scratches on the eye. 

Can dogs cry tears of sadness?

Dogs, just like humans, cry tears. However, the jury is still out on whether they can, or do, cry because of sadness or emotion like humans. There isn’t enough scientific evidence to determine either way. 

One Veterinarian was interviewed and gave her opinion. Dr. Oliver at Benessere Animal Hospital, said she does believe dogs do cry out of emotion, but it is rare. 

Those that have seen their dog sad or cry tears of emotion, will agree it is possible for dogs to cry, but officially, there is no definite answer.

Can Dogs Carry Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small insects that tend to live in small crevasses, usually on furniture such as beds. An infestation of bed bugs can be incredibly difficult to eliminate and usually very expensive.

You might be wondering since dogs can carry fleas, if they also carry bed bugs. 

Yes, dogs can carry bed bugs but it isn’t as common as you might think. If a dog is in an infested environment, it is possible for a bed bug to leap onto the dog. 

However, bed bugs do not typically live on their host and they’re most active when the hosts are sleeping. Bed bugs will feed on their host, then crawl off the host and back to the furniture or clothing. 

Can dogs carry bed bugs in from outside?

Most unlikely that your dog ever will bring into the house bed bugs from outside. It is far more likely that bed bugs will be transferred through luggage, bedding, clothing, or furniture than to be transferred by your dog. 

Because of how unlikely it is for dogs to contract and transfer bed bugs, dogs have been chosen for use in bed bug detection. 

They are taken into suspected areas of bed bug infestation and can sniff out the locations of the pests, allowing companies to target and treat the area appropriately. 

Can Dogs Chew on Sticks?

Dogs love to chew and they love to play fetch! It is common for dogs to pick up nature’s toys, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. 

How many times have you seen a dog running around with a stick in its mouth? Dog’s love it!

While sticks, rocks, and other items found in nature can be appealing to dogs, many of these items are unsafe. 

What happens if a dog eats wood?

Dogs get the urge to chew and chewing on firm or hard items can help prevent tartar build-up on their teeth. That is a good thing! However, dogs should not chew on wooden sticks! 

Sticks splinter very easily and these splinters can be painful and even deadly to dogs if they swallow them wrong.

Eating wood can cause internal digestive blockages or even perforate your dog’s intestines which could be catastrophic. Certain types of wood even are toxic to dogs. You should discourage and not allow your dog to chew on wood of any type.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) warns of common injuries caused by dogs chewing on sticks.

Why do dogs chew on sticks?

Dogs crave chewing on things and sticks are fun to chew on right? Being hunters, all dogs naturally want to chew on bones. Sticks are an easy and readily available substitute since most domestic dogs are not actually hunting animals.

Can Dogs Brush Their Teeth with Human Toothpaste?

No, don’t use human toothpaste on your dog because it is not formulated to be swallowed. Find dog specific toothpaste. Don’t use baking soda either for the same reason.

Can Dogs Get Colds?

The common cold for humans is just an immune response to a various number of viruses. While dogs don’t typically catch human viruses, it isn’t impossible.

Can dogs get colds from humans?

Chances of your dog catching a virus from another person would be unusual. Many experts say that dogs cannot catch the human common cold.

How can you tell if your dog has a cold?

Dogs do have immune responses to viruses. Usually, these viruses cause an upper respiratory infection and your dog may have a cough. Dogs can also get fevers. You may notice a runny nose and their eyes are red.

How long do dog colds last?

Usually a few days to a week or so. Remember, what you think may just be a cold could actually be an infection that needs attention.

If your dog doesn’t seem well and appears to be sick, ALWAYS take them to a vet to have them looked over. Ensure your dog gets professional treatment when they don’t seem to be feeling well. 

Can Dogs See TV?

Yes! Dogs can see TV and they see movement on the TV! They even see pictures. However, their vision is slightly different from humans.

Can dogs see TV screens?

The complex colors and flicker rate of the TV make the images more difficult for dogs to see. However, through various studies, researchers are able to know that dogs do see images on the TV, and if the right colors and definition is used, the dog can have an enjoyable TV experience.

Do dogs like watching TV?

Apparently yes! Dogs do like watching TV too! Check out this short video of dogs showing there excitement when watching TV

Did You Know? There is a TV channel for dogs called DogTV!

DogTV started a subscription service (affiliate link) that has focused on combining colors and sounds that dogs are receptive to. They compiled studies and conducted research to develop TV just for dogs. Who knew?

Save 33% and get a free trial to DogTV here. (affiliate link)

What Can Dogs See?

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not see in just black and white. Dogs have two types of cones in their eyes that control color perception, which means, they do see color. 

How do dogs see colors?

The eye has something called cones which detect light. Humans have three cones but dogs only have two. This limits the number of colors they can see. This makes a dog’s vision more similar to that of people who are color-blind and don’t see red and green. Dogs can see different levels of blue and yellow color.

What can dogs see that humans can’t?

Experts say that dogs can actually see ultraviolet light! Being able to see UV waves almost seems like a superman power! They can see better at night than you can probably.

Your dog’s eyes are also set more on the sides of their head than humans so it gives them better peripheral vision.

Can Dogs Sense Sadness?

Dogs have long been used as emotional support animals because they comfort people that struggle with negative emotions. 

It should be no surprise that dogs can sense emotions in other dogs. But what about humans?

Can dogs sense sadness in humans?

According to a study done in Italy, dogs can sense sadness in humans!

The only emotions dogs struggled with identifying were disgust and surprise. They not only recognize sadness as a human emotion, but they recognize it as a negative emotion as well.

Do dogs know when you cry?

It sure seems like a dog knows when its owner is crying. Numerous people report and experience their dogs coming to them when they are crying and even licking their faces to try and make them feel better.

Some dogs have been noticed to walk away when their owner starts crying. So dogs react to this emotional stress in different ways just as people do.

Can Dogs Be Ticklish?

Dogs have nerve endings just like humans. When a person is tickled, they have an uncontrolled response. 

The uncontrolled response for humans is usually laughter and wiggling to get away. For dogs, the uncontrolled response looks more like the kicking of their foot, as if they are trying to scratch an itch. 

I am sure you have scratch the belly of a dog before and experienced them start moving their legs.

Do dogs laugh?

Dogs are in fact ticklish, but they won’t be laughing or giggling. Lots of people think dogs can laugh because they will be showing expressions of happiness while at the same time making facial expressions that can be confused with a human laugh.

How do dogs laugh?

Most experts say dogs can’t laugh as a human would. But since many dogs owners swear their dogs can laugh, how exactly would a dog laugh?

Well, most agree that dogs don’t laugh like a human. But they also suggest that dogs can actually mimic a smile on their faces and then they start panting heavily. The sound of their ‘happy’ panting is a dog laugh.

Do dogs like to be tickled?

Just because a dog can be tickled, doesn’t mean they always enjoy it. Some dogs enjoy it, some don’t mind and some are indifferent. Others might let you know they do not enjoy it by growling and changing their body language to show you their feelings! 

Can Dogs Breathe Through Their Mouth?

There is a common myth that dogs can’t breathe through their mouth, they can only pant. 

However, that myth is debunked because panting is a form of breathing. If dogs wanted to, they could breathe through their mouth.

Can dogs breathe through their nose? 

Just like with humans, yes they can! When there isn’t an obstruction or need for quick and heavy breaths, it is easier to breathe through the nose for a dog just like a person. 

The anatomy of a dog’s respiratory system can be seen in various diagrams. These diagrams show the trachea, which connects to the lungs, can receive oxygen from both the mouth and nose. 

It is entirely possible for dogs to breathe through their mouth. Also, it may be more comfortable for a dog to breathe through its nose so don’t be alarmed if you see that. 

If you notice your dog is panting during times they should be relaxed, contact your veterinarian. 

Can Dogs Lose Their Voice?

Dogs have vocal chords. Sometimes, vocal chords can become swollen or inflamed for a number of reasons. 

When this happens it causes dogs to lose their voice. If you notice your dog’s bark has become hoarse or strained, it could be because they are losing their voice. 

Can dogs lose their voice from barking too much?

Yes, they absolutely can! Just like when a person talks too much. If your dog has been barking a lot, it may just need to take a break from the barking. Try to put them in a location and position where they won’t feel the need to bark.

Common causes of dogs losing their voice include:

• Viral Infections
• Barking Too Much
• Vocal Chord Paralysis
• Bacterial Infections 

Usually, Kennel Cough, or another virus or bacteria that causes your dog to cough frequently, can cause the vocal chords to swell. Infections can cause swelling, just like in humans.

Dog lost voice remedy

When a dog loses their voice, just like with a person it could mean they are sick. So don’t take any chances. Take your dog to the vet.

There are medications that can help and your vet can advise you as to the best approach. Also, some give their dogs a little honey. Just a little. But again, ask your vet first. A humidifier to help increase the moisture in the air could help some.

In any case, you should contact your vet so they can determine if a more thorough exam is necessary. 

Can Dogs Communicate With Each Other?

Communication has often been interchanged with the word language and is even frequently assumed to be verbal. Humans and animals have communicated from the beginning of time using various methods. 

Dogs communicate with people and other animals using their barks and body language. Not all barks mean the same thing. Dogs, and even humans, are effective at discerning the difference between barks. 

While barks don’t necessarily translate into human language, they do communicate the dog’s emotions. For example, a dog who is playing with other dogs will have a higher pitch bark, indicating he is being playful. 

Why do dogs bark at each other?

Have you ever been to a dog park and noticed the dogs are running and barking, but none of them are becoming aggressive or fighting? 

That’s because the dogs are aware through body language and vocal communication (barking), that they are playful, not fearful or aggressive. 

Dogs can and do communicate with each other via barking. Their barking could be signaling to another dog they are upset, angry, protecting their territory, warning them, or even letting them know they would like to play.

Why do dogs bark at each other through the fence?

Ok, we have all seen this right? Often called “fence fighting”, dogs on opposite sides of a fence barking and going at each other like it is all-out war! But they are divided by a fence and can’t actually get to each other!

What is up with that? Could it be mostly bluster? Maybe they are so fierce and ferocious with each other because they know the fence is there and keeping them apart?

It could also be a show of frustration that gets a bit out of control. Dogs are naturally curious of other dogs and want to scout them out usually via scent. If the fence is between them then that barrier causes ‘frustration’ that the dog can’t investigate the other.

Can Dogs Use Human Shampoo?

Is there a big difference between dog and human shampoo? Well that depends on what kind of shampoos you are talking about. 

Lower quality brands of shampoos, for both dogs and humans, tend to have more chemicals. A human shampoo that is loaded with chemicals, can be an irritant to your dog’s skin. Frequent use of human shampoo on your dog can lead to the skin becoming flakey and even infected.

Can I use baby shampoo on my dog?

If you have human baby shampoo with natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals, then bathing a dog with it will likely be just fine. The no tears shampoos used on babies can be a second choice if you don’t have dog shampoo.

Choosing a dog shampoo with fewer chemicals is the best way to go. Dogs have thinner skin than humans, and while their fur will be just fine if it’s washed with human shampoo, the oils on their skin will likely suffer. 

Dog shampoos are usually specially formulated to protect the dog’s skin.  

Homemade dog shampoo recipes

Many dog owners choose to make their own dog shampoo. You can find a wide variety of ingredients that are used in homemade dog shampoo such as oatmeal, coconut oil, and aloe vera gel to name a few.

What Dogs Should Not Eat

Feeding table scraps, or catching your dog eating from the trash, can lead you to questions about what they should or can eat. Is it ok for my dog to eat that?

Here are several of the most common questions answered below plus a list of foods dogs should not eat. 

Can Dogs Drink Coffee?

Caffeine is a stimulant drug, and as with all drugs, overdosing is possible. For people, it takes a relatively high amount of caffeine to cause poisoning. For dogs, the amount of caffeine ingested before it causes serious health issues is much lower.   

The AKC states that drinking coffee or eating coffee grounds can be lethal to dogs. Dogs probably won’t experience any side effects if they drink a little tiny bit of coffee or other caffeinated beverage but don’t risk it. 

Remember, little more than a small taste can lead to caffeine poisoning, so it’s best to keep your coffee out of reach. 

Can Dogs Have Celery?

Most experts say Celery is considered a safe, and even beneficial food for dogs. Celery has vitamins and minerals that are good for dogs. Celery can also help with odorous dog breath. 

You should make sure to chop the celery into bite size pieces to avoid choking. Raw celery will keep its nutritious value and provide a crunch texture that helps clean the dog’s teeth. 

Can dogs have celery juice?

Yes, just as Celery is considered a safe food for dogs by many experts Celery juice is the same. One drawback is the juice won’t have the power to help clean your dogs teeth like piece of whole Celery would.

Can Dogs Have Grapes?

No. Grapes are especially toxic to dogs and should not be given to them. Raisins, which are dried grapes, also should not be given to dogs. 

Can a single grape kill a dog?

Grapes, even in small amounts, can cause renal failure in dogs. 

Renal failure is when the kidneys fail to remove metabolic waste from the body, allowing toxins to build up, shutting down organs, and even leading to death. 

What happens if my dog eats a grape?

Each dog will be different. Call your vet for guidance if your dog accidentally eats a grape. There are no set rules for this. One grape could cause very bad symptoms in your dog which include:

• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Loss of Appetite

Can Dogs Eat Grass?

Maybe the more common question is why do dogs eat grass because we all know they can and do! Generally, eating grass is not going to be a problem for your dog. Of course, if the grass they are eating is covered with pesticides and fertilizer that can’t be good for them so think about that.

Why do dogs eat grass and vomit?

Dogs need fiber in their diet and some suggest they know this so eat grass. Could be your dog is bored and eating grass gives them something to do. Maybe they like the way the grass tastes?

Others say dogs eat grass when they don’t feel well and the grass makes them throw up after which they feel better.

What should I do if my dog eats grass?

If they stop after only eating a little bit and they seem fine then no worries. But if they start acting strangely and you sense they are sick call your vet.

Can Dogs Have Milk?

Cow’s milk will not cause serious or immediate harm to your dog. However, cow’s milk can be more difficult to digest for humans and dogs alike. Only give them a tiny bit if you do at all.

If your dog has an upset stomach after consuming milk or other dairy products, they might be lactose intolerant. This can cause gastrointestinal upset and might lead to you cleaning up accidents in the house if your pet is intolerant. 

Why does my dog love milk?

It may be as simple as they like the taste! Some deeper thinkers suggest that because dogs nurse when they are babies the ‘taste’ for milk is engrained in their DNA.

Many pet owners feed their dogs milk and cereal but it is probably not a good thing to do as it could cause issues.

Can dogs have dairy?

Even if your pet isn’t lactose intolerant, keep the milk and dairy products to a minimum. Milk and dairy products can be high in fat and high-fat diets can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Dairy can also be hard for your dog to digest.

Can Dogs Drink Beer?

Nobody likes to drink alone, but drinking with your pet is not the solution unless you decide to give them pet-safe, faux alcohol products. Alcohol is toxic to dogs. 

How much alcohol is toxic to dogs?

Small amounts can be. For dogs, the toxic level of alcohol is much lower than it is for humans. While most dogs and cats probably won’t drink excessive amounts due to the taste, some might. No beer or alcohol is the right choice for your pet.

Can a dog get drunk?

Yes, just like a human a dog can get drunk. If somehow your dog drank beer or other alcohol and is acting funny please call your vet right away!

Smart Choice: Keep the beer out of the pet bowl! If you’re still interested in cracking a cold one with your furry best friend, Busch Beer created a dog brew that is safe for dogs! 

List of what dogs should not eat

Dogs should not eat these foods. Note: This is not a comprehensive list. There are other items your dog should not eat.

• Alcohol
• Avocados
• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Grapes
• Macadamia Nuts
• Raisins