Healthy Dog In-Depth
Dog Health Myths
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Page 1 of 5 1. Certain Breeds Have Locking Jaws
This myth has been applied to a variety of types of dogs from American Staffordshire Terriers to Bulldogs and Boxers. Numerous studies, however, have completely refuted this theory. No type of dog has been found to have a mechanism that enables locking the top and bottom jaws together. So, where did this rumor come from? Most probably because of what dog breeds commonly accused of having locking jaws were often bred to do in the past. For example, Bulldogs and American Staffordshire Terriers were often bred to be used for the cruel “sports” of bull fighting or dog fighting. In these "sports" it was a prized skill for a dog to have the tenacity and stubbornness to bite down and hold on to the opponent at all costs.
2. A Warm & Dry Nose Means Your Dog Is Sick
Your dog’s nose may be warm and dry or cold and wet for a variety of
reasons completely unrelated to how he is feeling or whether he has a
fever. Dog noses often become warm and dry during a nap, or when they
are in a warm or dry environment. For example, a perfectly healthy dog
relaxing in the morning sun or even in a heated room during winter will
often have a warm and dry nose. Legitimate signs that may indicate your
dog is not feeling well include changes in activity level, changes in
appetite, and of course, symptoms such as limping, coughing, vomiting
or changes in urinary or fecal output. As an informed dog owner you
should also be aware of your dog’s vital signs – normal breathing rate,
heart rate and temperature. To learn more about each of these vital
signs and how to take your dog’s temperature click here.
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