Dog – Interesting Facts at a Glance

The dog is not only one of the most popular pets inGermany. Whether house dog, herding dog or hunting dog, dogs have adapted to the needs of humans and have always been considered their most loyal companion.

In addition to their great popularity and many positive qualities, dogs can also cause problems – and not just list dogs. Especially when dog owners do not live up to their role. The range of annoyances ranges from feces that are not disposed of whenwalking, to threatening situations for other people and animals. At the same time, however, it is important to avoid conflicts with each other, especially in the neighbourhood, in order to maintain neighbourly peace.

In this article, we take a comprehensive look at the biology and pedigree of the dog. Among other things, we shed light on his social behaviour and relationship with people. We will also discuss the problems that can arise from dogs and how they can be prevented with a focus on animal welfare and conflict-free animal displacement. 

The dog – an overview 

The dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is a domesticated mammal and a close relative of the wolf. Dogs have been loyal companions of humans for thousands of years and during this time have evolved into a wide variety of breeds with different sizes, shapes and characteristics. They are social animals that can live in packs or human family structures.

Dogs have excellent, keen senses, including a strong sense of smell and good hearing. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to build emotional bonds with people.

Dogs are used in a variety of roles, including as pets, work animals, search and rescue dogs. They can also be found as therapy and assistance animals as well as in many other functions that enrich people's lives.

Spread and habitat of the dog

The spread of dogs is closely linked to the history of mankind and dates back to the earliest times of domestication. It is not without reason that he is also called man's best friend.

The exact genesis of domesticated dogs is not yet fully understood, but most researchers agree that they evolved from wolves thousands of years ago.

The first evidence of the presence of dogs in humans comes from archaeological finds dating back more than 15,000 years. Wolves are believed to have begun to join human settlements to take advantage of the remains of hunting prey. Over time, a symbiotic relationship developed between humans and dogs.

These early dogs likely had a variety of roles, including hunting assistants, guard and warning dogs, and in some cultures, possibly even spiritual or ritual meanings. With the development of human civilization, dogs began to take on a greater variety of tasks.

Over the centuries and millennia, different breeds of dogs and hybrids have evolved in different parts of the world. From the Arctic Husky to the Chihuahua, Desert Greyhound, Retriever, Shepherd or Mountain Dog, an amazing variety has emerged, whose external characteristics and abilities can be very different.

The spread of dogs around the world was mainly due to human migration, trade and colonisation. Dogs accompanied people on their journeys and were often bred specifically to adapt to different environments and tasks. Over time, dogs have become indispensable companions and work animals for many cultures around the world.

Today, dogs can be found in almost every part of the world, fulfilling a variety of roles, from loyal pets and companions to working animals in areas such as agriculture, safety, and rescue.

Social Behaviour and Reproduction of Dogs

The social behaviour of dogs is extremely complex and diverse. As pack animals, dogs have a pronounced need for social interaction, which is characterized by hierarchical structures: Within a pack, there is often an alpha or dominance dog that takes a leadership role.

Communication between dogs takes place in a variety of ways, including body language, vocalizations such as barking, growling and whining, as well as scent marking through the dog urine (not only in males). The dog's body language includes gestures such as tail wagging, ear position, posture and facial expression. This enables them to convey their intentions, emotions and position in the social fabric.

Socialisation is the cornerstone for later development in dog life. Puppies learn to show appropriate behaviour and social skills in the first weeks and months of life through interaction with their mother, siblings and other dogs. In this phase, the foundations are laid for dogs to become well-adapted and socially competent adult animals.

Play is another important aspect of dogs' social behavior. Through playful interaction with other dogs, they learn important skills such as cooperation, body control and the limits of their own strength. Play also serves to strengthen bonds between dogs and relieve tensions.

Food – which diet is suitable for dogs?

When it comes to the right diet for dogs, the spirits are divided, because there are a wide variety of views and approaches to this. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to understand your dog's needs and ensure that they receive a balanced and nutritious diet.

Basically, dogs need a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals to meet their energy requirements and ensure optimal health. Proteins are particularly important for building muscle and repairing tissues, while carbohydrates are a central source of energy. Fats provide extra energy and are important for the health of skin, fur and claws.

A dog's nutritional needs depend on factors such as its breed, size, age, activity level, and health status. For example, puppies need a higher protein diet to support their growth, while older dogs often need a special diet tailored to their needs. In addition, a large dog needs a different feed composition than a small dog, and then there are some pedigree dogs with special feed requirements.

The quality of the food is also crucial. It is important to offer high-quality commercial dog food or homemade meals that contain all the necessary nutrients. Pay attention to labels and choose foods that are made from high-quality ingredients and do not contain artificial colors or preservatives.

In addition to dry and wet food, you can also offer your dog fresh fruits and vegetables as snacks or supplements to the main meal. Some foods like apples, carrots, and blueberries can be a healthy addition to your dog's diet, providing extra vitamins and fiber. However, make sure that dogs do not tolerate all the food you find in your kitchen.

It is also important to control the amount of food and avoid being overweight, as this can lead to a variety of health problems. Follow the recommended feeding guidelines on the packaging or consult your veterinarian to determine the correct portion size for your dog.

The dog and its relationship with humans

The relationship between dogs and humans dates back to the beginnings of domestication, when wolves began to join humans. Since then, dogs have a firm place in human societies around the world.

This connection is characterized by mutual benefit. Humans have used dogs for various tasks, from hunting to guarding property. Today, they serve as faithful companions, therapy and assistance animals, as well as in many other roles that enrich our lives.

On the other hand, dogs benefit from the care and protection that humans provide. They receive food, shelter and medical care, which ensures their survival and well-being.

However, there is more to it than mutual benefit: the relationship between dogs and humans is characterized by a deep emotional bond. Dogs are known for their unconditional love, loyalty, and understanding of human emotions. They can provide comfort, alleviate loneliness, and bring joy, making them valued family members.

This bond between humans and dogs has also been scientifically researched. Studies have shown that living with dogs can have positive effects on mental health, reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

Obligations of dog owners

As a dog owner, you have a variety of duties to ensure that the dog lives healthy, happy and well integrated in the community and that there are no unnecessary tensions.

One of the basic duties is to take care of the dog's physical and emotional health. This means that the dog is fed regularly and supplied with fresh water, has a suitablesleeping place and that he receives sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Regular visits to the veterinarian are also essential to ensure vaccinations, check-ups and necessary treatments for canine diseases.

In addition, the education of the dog plays a central role. A well-behaved dog is not only more pleasant to handle and safer for its environment, but also more balanced. This includes training basic commands as well as socializing the dog to ensure it behaves appropriately in various situations.

There are different methods in which attention must also be paid to the background of a dog. For example, the training of young dogs and puppies is often different from that of animals that are already a few years old and – for example in the shelter – have already had more experience.

Dog owners must also follow local laws and regulations, which may vary by region. These include, for example, the obligation to use leashes in public areas, the carrying of poop bags and the proper disposal of dog poop. These measures help to keep public spaces clean and avoid conflicts with other people and animals. A dog tax also often has to be paid.

It is also the dog owner's responsibility to protect the dog from hazards. This includes stays in the garden as well as trips to the mountains or securing in the car.

A responsible dog owner recognizes the importance of emotional bonding for a dog's well-being. Dogs are social animals that need human interaction and affection. Therefore, it is important to regularly spend time with the dog, paying attention to it and giving it a sense of safety and security.

Possible damage caused by dogs

Dogs can cause a range of damage, both physical and material. For example, severe tugging on a leash, aggressive behavior towards other animals or people, excessive barking, or destruction of objects can cause problems. In addition, uncontrolled behavior of dogs can lead to damage, for example, by trampling plants, hunting wild animals or looting food sources. 

In addition, dogs are at risk of spreading dog diseases or parasites. Dogs can transmit various diseases such as rabies, worms, fleas or ticks to other animals or humans. Although this risk can be reduced by proper care and prevention on the part of the dog owner, human care is required here.

Although dog owners in Germany are required to dispose of the feces of their four-legged friends, unfortunately not everyone adheres to them. It can also happen that dogs run wild and leave dog droppings on the neighbor's lawn. In the long term, this can negatively affect a neighbourhood relationship. 

Therefore, adequate dog training, for example in dog schools, as well as the proper care and supervision of the dog are among the most important tasks of dog owners. If these tasks are not fulfilled or only insufficiently fulfilled, conflicts can arise.

Such conflicts can quickly become uncomfortable, especially in the neighborhood. Therefore, special tact is required to drive your neighbor's dog out of your own garden.

Is it possible to drive dogs away or keep them away?

There are several ways to drive away an annoying dog without harming it. Here are some options:

1. Dog scare with ultrasound: There are ultrasound devices that emit sounds that are uncomfortable for dogs but imperceptible to humans. These devices can keep dogs away from a specific area in an animal-friendly and conflict-free manner without causing them physical harm.
2. Fence or barrier: An effective way to keep dogs away from a specific area is to build a stable fence or barrier. This can be particularly useful for the protection of gardens, land or private areas, but in many cases is not easily possible.
3. Repellents: There are various commercial repellents on the market that can scare dogs away by their smell or taste. These can be applied in the form of dog scare spray or granules on surfaces or in specific areas to keep dogs away.
4. Irrigation systems: Irrigation systems that use jets of water or bursts of air can be used to keep dogs away from a specific area. These systems are activated when a dog enters a certain area and drive it away.
5. Natural deterrents: Some natural substances such as vinegar, citrus fruit or cayenne pepper can act as a natural dog scare as they are unpleasant for dogs.

It is important to note that some of these methods are more effective than others and that the effectiveness depends on how persistent the dogs are. It is also important to ensure that the chosen method does not pose a risk to the health or well-being of the dogs.

Drive away dogs gently with IREPELL®

With IREPELL®, it is possible to keep dogs away without causing any damage. Through the use of ultrasound, motion sensors and flash, any unwanted dog can be driven away – to keep him from doing his business in your garden, or because it is a dog with aggressive behavior.

Other advantages of IREPELL® are:

• Animal-friendly: IREPELL® does not harm dogs, but keeps them away painlessly through animal-friendly defense mechanisms.
• Different defense modes: Targeted settings repel different animals; so there is also a special mode for dogs.
• Long range: IREPELL ® creates an invisible 360° protection zone- thanks to a far-reaching ultrasound signal.
• Easy to use:IREPELL ® is easy to install and can be controlled via a user-friendly app.

Those who are tired of constantly finding dog droppings in the garden or even have to fear for the safety of their family through a free-roamingfour-legged friend will benefit from IREPELL ® in use against dogs. The device is unobtrusive, can be easily put into operation and controlled via an easy-to-use app. Another great advantage is that IREPELL ® is mobile thanks to the built-in battery and can accompany you on the go.

Particularly practical: IREPELL® not only works against dogs that are undesirable on your property, but also keeps a wide variety of animals away: Ticks, ants, mosquitoes, moths and cockroaches as well as mice, rats, cats or raccoons and martens are no longer a problem with IREPELL ®.

FAQs

Why are dogs so popular as pets?

Dogs are very popular pets because of their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to form close emotional bonds with humans. They provide companionship, can serve as therapy and assistance animals and contribute to the physical and mental health of their owners.

What challenges can dogs pose in everyday life?

Dogs can cause various challenges in everyday life, such as uncleaned feces, noise pollution from barking, aggressiveness towards other animals or people, and causing damage to property. In addition, they can transmit diseases or parasites if they are not properly cared for.

How can you prevent dogs from causing damage or being unwanted?

To prevent damage and unwanted behavior of dogs, dog owners should educate their animals well, maintain them regularly, and comply with local laws and regulations. Methods of repelling foreign dogs include the use of ultrasound equipment, fences, repellents, and irrigation systems that humanely keep dogs away.

What should be considered when feeding dogs?

A balanced diet is crucial for a dog's health. Dogs need a mixture of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Nutritional needs vary depending on the dog's breed, size, age, and activity level. High-quality commercial dog food or balanced homemade meals are recommended.

How does IREPELL® help keep dogs away from certain areas?

IREPELL® uses ultrasound, motion sensors and flash to keep dogs away in an animal-friendly way. It is easy to install, offers various defense modes and has a long range to establish a 360° protection zone. The device is mobile and can be controlled via a user-friendly app, making it particularly convenient for use in different environments.