This week in our dog news pupdate, the Scoop: we reveal one explanation for why dogs pee doing handstands, we also encourage Mr Philip Hammond to book a dog sitter, share some adorable photographs of very large dogs with very small children and share an important message from Dog’s Trust… or should that be Socks Trust?
So you’re a dog, that’s cool, but can you pee standing on your hands?
We’ve noticed quite a few scientific studies making headlines recently that have delved deeper into various behavioural traits of dogs, from revealing how dogs remember things, to revealing how they understand language, we’re so grateful to science! This week, a couple of American scientists in Northampton, MA came closer to answering this question. Why do some dogs pee while standing on their hands?
Big thank you to The Dodo for bringing this fascinating story to our attention.
The scientists, named Sharon and Betty, observed the peeing habits of 6 female Jack Russell Terriers of various ages. they were all spayed and non-estrous (not in season) which would normally suggest that their peeing behaviour would not show signs of territorial marking. However, the study revealed that female dogs do sometimes pee to mark territory, and simply needing to go isn’t the sole reason for peeing. This might also help explain why some dogs adopt unusual peeing methods, such as handstands.
Backing up the study’s findings, The Dodo tracked down animal behavioural experts for a comment, who suggested from anecdotal experience that some smaller dogs may elevate their pee trajectory by standing on their front paws in order to cover the pee of larger dogs.
Of course, there’s still the possibility that the scientists haven’t included in their report – that dogs are awesome little goofballs who like to handstand as much as the next guy.
Socks for Christmas
This week Dog’s Trust rebranded and became Socks Trust. And, don’t worry, socks aren’t at risk of being abandoned this festive season. No, and unfortunately that’s the whole point. Socks are very much still in vogue. Dog’s Trust is urging people to think twice, and three times, before purchasing a puppy this Christmas. Watch the video above to see why.
Remember folks, buy socks this Christmas, not puppies. And if you’d like to join us in helping dog charities, our official charity partner is the RSPCA and this winter we’re donating £1 from every booking to support their rehabilitation and rehoming programs. Find out more about how we’re helping dogs find their forever homes.
Any dog sitters near Downing Street who could help Phil?
Last week we shared the news that UK government Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond had brought his dogs to Downing Street, a cause for celebration – even our politicians need their furry friends close. However, this week it’s emerged that Phil’s dogs are being, er, hounded by Larry, the resident cat at Number 10 Downing Street. sadly, this has lead to Mr Hammond apparently keeping his pooches holed up indoors all day long. We think Phil needs a DogBuddy dog sitter, has anyone got his number?
Gentle Giants in winter wonderlands
Possibly the most adorable photoshoot we’ve ever seen made its way to the world wide web this week. It features large dogs like Great Danes and Newfoundlands playing with their family’s children. If you needed any more proof that large dogs have even larger hearts and are truly gentle giants, here it is. Enjoy these winter themed snaps!