Discovering YOU Magazine April 2019 Issue | Page 37

ASK THE EXPERTS WITH CODY

4. They can Smell Disease

Research at the Schillerhohe Hospital in Germany found dogs have an incredible ability to recognize the smell of a range of organic compounds showing the human body isn’t working as it should. That means your dog can actually diagnose your cancer, something scientists are eager to explore further, as well as diabetes and the early signs of an epileptic seizure.

3. Their sense of Smell is really Powerful

We know dogs have a powerful sense of smell and while we can just about smell a spoonful of sugar in a cup of tea, our canine friends are capable of smelling that same spoonful in two Olympic swimming pools of water.

5. Dogs can be Smart - watch video

Dogs are as intelligent as a two year-old child, according to research presented to the American Psychological Association. Dogs can understand up to 250 words and gestures and even perform simple mathematical calculations. Perhaps unsurprisingly, border collies are the cleverest canines, with some able to understand up to 200 words. The other breeds in the top five are poodles, German shepherds, golden retrievers and dobermans.

6. A Wagging Tail does NOT always mean they are Happy

Tail wagging has its own language. Apparently dogs wag their tail to the right when they’re happy and to the left when they are frightened. Wagging low means they are insecure and rapid movements accompanied by tense muscles or dilated pupils can signal aggression. So every wagging tail tells its own story, if you know how to read the signs.