|
INTRODUCTION Archaeological findings have identified the dogs distant ancestors on earth about 25 million years ago. Known as Cynodesmus, these evolved into Tomactus, the direct ancestor of the wolf, which appeared in most parts of the world about 12,000 years ago. It was the first dog to be domesticated by man forming the longest-established friendship of man and animal. Different breeds developed naturally, depending on climate and environment. The Arabs were the first to define the breeds, and it is the Saluki that is regarded as being the first distinct recoginised breed. Man first employed the dog for hunting; by Roman times, the dogs were also used to guard property. Pointers and setters were developed for hunting and terriers to go to ground. SENSE SMELL TASTE AND VISION The dogs highly-developed sense of smell is very important. It is a least 40 times greater than mans sense of smell, the dog is able to distinguish between the odours that we are completely unaware of. The dog's hearing is likewise highly developed, able to pick up ultrasonic vibrations and also are able to hear at far greater distance than us. The dog will completely disreguard taste if the food smells accectable, if food is offered to the dog it will first smell it before taking it in its mouth and then swallowing it without chewing. Vision for dogs is definately limited to black and white, but varies with the breed. The dog can see better at night than man. HEALTH It is essential that the owners ensure the good health of the dog, although basically a healthy animal, it does need a good diet and sufficent exercise the amount in each case varying with the breed. The dog must also be vaccinated against distemper leptospirosis an infectious hepatitis and be wormed reguraly as a precaution. |
 |
 |
 |