🐶❤️🐶 This dog has been a very good girl! 🐶❤️🐶
Here are some dog photos to brighten your day 😊.
Here’s your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog of the Day: River!
Meme of the day:
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Why Do Dogs Lick the Air?
Dogs exhibit a variety of curious behaviors, and air licking is one that often puzzles their human companions. While it might seem strange to us, there are several reasons why dogs engage in this behavior, often rooted in their sensory perception and instincts.
One of the primary reasons dogs lick the air is to enhance their sense of smell. Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory system, far superior to ours. By licking the air, they can capture scent particles on their tongue and bring them closer to the vomeronasal organ (also known as Jacobson's organ), located on the roof of their mouth. This organ is specifically designed to detect pheromones and other subtle scents, providing dogs with valuable information about their environment and other animals.
Air licking can also be a response to enticing smells or sounds. When a dog smells something delicious or hears a familiar sound associated with food, they may lick the air in anticipation. This is similar to how our mouths might water when we think about our favorite meal.
In some cases, dogs may lick the air to communicate. They might be trying to disperse pheromones to signal their presence or attract a mate. This behavior is often accompanied by other body language cues, such as raised lips and flared nostrils, known as the "flehmen response."
While occasional air licking is usually harmless, excessive or persistent licking can sometimes indicate underlying medical or behavioral issues. Dental problems, allergies, gastrointestinal discomfort, or even neurological conditions can cause increased licking. If you notice your dog licking the air excessively, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health concerns.
Additionally, air licking can be a compulsive behavior in dogs experiencing anxiety or stress. It's essential to address the root cause of the anxiety, whether it's boredom, separation anxiety, or other factors, to help your dog cope and reduce the behavior.
By understanding the various reasons behind air licking, we can better appreciate our canine companions and ensure their well-being.
References:
Overall, K. L. (2013). Manual of clinical behavioral medicine for dogs and cats. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Landsberg, G. M., Hunthausen, W., & Ackerman, L. (2013). Behavior problems of the dog and cat. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Horwitz, D. F., & Mills, D. S. (2009). BSAVA manual of canine and feline behavioural medicine. BSAVA Library.
Family photo of the day: Savana!
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Sources:
Dog of the day: IG cuttlesdoggrooming
Meme of the day: FB Diamond
