Q&A

Q: Do certain dog breeds like to swim more than others?

Yes, certain dog breeds are more inclined to enjoy swimming than others, often due to their historical roles and physical attributes. Breeds that were developed for jobs requiring them to work in water tend to be natural swimmers. Here are some examples:

1. Labrador Retrievers: Bred as waterfowl retrieving dogs, they have water-resistant coats and webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers.

2. Golden Retrievers: Similar to Labradors, they were also bred for retrieving and are known to love water.

3. Portuguese Water Dogs: As their name suggests, these dogs were bred to work in the water, helping fishermen by herding fish into nets.

4. Newfoundland: This large breed has a waterresistant coat and webbed feet, and they were originally used as working dogs to help haul nets for fishermen and rescue people at risk of drowning.

5. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers: Known for their love of water, this breed has an oily coat that provides excellent insulation and water resistance.

6. Spanish Water Dog: They have been used for herding and as fishermen's assistants. They are natural and enthusiastic swimmers.

7. Standard Poodles: Despite their reputation as show dogs, Standard Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers and love to swim.

8. Irish Water Spaniel: This breed is the largest of the spaniels and was specifically bred to retrieve game from water.

9. American Water Spaniel: Developed in the United States as a hunting dog, the American Water Spaniel is well adapted to swimming and retrieving.

10. Otterhounds: With their webbed feet and dense, oily double coat, Otterhounds were originally bred for hunting otters in rivers and ponds.

Breeds not traditionally associated with swimming, particularly those with heavy bodies and short legs (like Bulldogs or Dachshunds), may not take to water as naturally due to their physical build. Additionally, brachycephalic breeds (like Pugs and Boxers) may have difficulty keeping their noses above water because of their short muzzles.

Regardless of breed, it's essential to gradually introduce any dog to water and ensure safety with a life vest if they are learning to swim or are unsure swimmers. Some dogs may have individual preferences and fears, so not all dogs of a breed known for swimming will necessarily enjoy it.

Q: Why do some dogs eat their own faeces or those of other dogs?

Dogs eating their own faeces, a behaviour known as coprophagia, can be both a natural and unnatural behaviour, depending on the context and frequency. Here are several reasons why dogs may engage in this activity:

1. Puppy exploration: Puppies are naturally curious and explore the world with their mouths. They may eat faeces out of curiosity or to learn about their environment.

2. Nutritional deficiency: A dog might eat faeces if he lacks certain nutrients in his diet. The behaviour can sometimes indicate that the dog is trying to replenish enzymes so he can digest his food better.

3. Malabsorption issues: If a dog has a nutritional deficiency, he may consume faeces to attempt to gain those missed nutrients.

4. Health issues: Certain conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and parasites, can increase appetite. Dogs with these conditions may eat faeces and other inappropriate items to satiate themselves.

5. Cleanliness: Some dogs, especially mothers with puppies, will eat faeces to keep their den clean. This is a natural behaviour meant to protect the puppies from predators that might be attracted to the scent.

6. Boredom or anxiety: Dogs that are bored or anxious may eat faeces as a way to alleviate stress or occupy their time.

7. Habit: If a dog starts eating faeces for any of the above reasons, the behaviour can sometimes become a habit over time.

8. Attention-seeking behaviour: Some dogs may learn that they receive attention when they eat faeces – even if the attention is negative, such as their owner scolding them.

9. Learned behaviour: Dogs can pick up behaviours from watching other dogs. So if they see another dog eating faeces, they might copy this action.

10. Confinement: Dogs kept in small areas or cages, who are not able to defaecate away from their living space might eat their faeces to keep their living area clean.

11. Taste: Some dogs might actually like the taste of faeces. This can be because some dogs might only partially digest the food, and the faeces may not taste all that different from the kibble, especially to a dog.

If a dog regularly eats faeces, it is important to consult with a vet to rule out health problems and seek advice on how to address the behaviour. Additionally, keeping the dog’s living area clean, ensuring a healthy diet, and providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help prevent this behaviour.