Scientific Name: Canis lupus familiaris
Common Name: Dog / Canine
General Overview:
Canines are domesticated mammals known for their loyalty, intelligence, and adaptability. They are a subspecies of the gray wolf and have been bred for thousands of years for various roles, including companionship, work, hunting, and protection.
Physical Characteristics:
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Size: Varies widely depending on breed, ranging from toy breeds (e.g., Chihuahuas) to large working breeds (e.g., Great Danes).
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Coat: Comes in various lengths (short, medium, long), textures (smooth, wiry, curly), and colors (solid, brindle, spotted, etc.).
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Teeth: Sharp carnivorous teeth suited for tearing meat, though many modern dogs are omnivores.
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Ears and Tail: Ears may be erect or floppy; tails vary in length and curl depending on breed.
Behavior and Temperament:
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Highly social animals that thrive on companionship and structure.
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Display a wide range of temperaments: playful, protective, alert, calm, or energetic.
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Strong pack instincts and can be trained to follow commands and perform tasks.
Senses:
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Smell: Exceptionally strong, estimated to be up to 100,000 times more sensitive than humans.
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Hearing: Can hear higher frequencies and at greater distances.
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Vision: Good night vision; color vision is limited compared to humans.
Diet:
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Omnivorous, but typically require a protein-rich diet.
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Commercial dog foods are formulated to meet their nutritional needs, but some owners opt for raw or home-cooked diets under veterinary supervision.
Lifespan:
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Generally ranges from 10 to 15 years, depending on breed, size, and overall health.
Common Roles:
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Companions, therapy animals, service dogs, guard dogs, herding, hunting, police and military work.