Questionable dietary choices, excessive licking and staring competitions are just some behaviours that have been puzzling puppy owners during lockdown.
With the pandemic bringing with it an influx of first-time dog owners, the Kennel Club has analysed data from the top 10 questions asked by those hoping to understand their four-legged friend’s behaviour.
It tracked Google search trends during the pandemic puppy boom and found a nation of owners baffled by their dog’s behaviours, looking for reassurance on canine habits and seeking answers to age-old questions relating to man’s best friend.
With the demand for puppies alone increasing by 187% during the first lockdown in 2020, according to the organisation’s Find a Puppy tool, the Kennel Club wants to reassure and guide those who may be worried, curious or fascinated about what they perceive to be an unusual habit, which could turn out to have a surprising reason behind it.
Topping the list of searches from January-December 2020 is, “Why does my dog eat grass?”, an age-old question that is often associated with a dog feeling sick. While this is one potential motive, and owners should always consult their vet if their dog appears unwell, the Kennel Club has outlined a host of other reasons that cause dogs to graze on grass, including boredom – or simply enjoying the taste!
QUIZZICAL
The second most-searched question is, “Why does my dog stare at me?”, a common question that owners have, with reasons varying from quizzical, need or just affection.
The third question that prompted dog owners to turn to Google during the pandemic was “Why does my dog shake?” Experts at The Kennel Club suggest there are a number of reasons, which can be divided into three main categories: behavioural, as a response to their environment or medical.
The top ten most-searched questions in 2020 according to Google search trends are:
1. Why does my dog eat grass?
2. Why does my dog stare at me?
3. Why does my dog shake?
4. Why does my dog eat poo?
5. Why does my dog follow me everywhere?
6. Why does my dog lick me?
7. Why does my dog lick me so much?
8. Why does my dog lick my feet?
9. Why does my dog keep sneezing?
10 Why does my dog smell like fish?
The Kennel Club has further information for those seeking answers to these questions on its website at thekennelclub.org.uk/whydoesmydog
