As a dog owner, you may think you know your canine friend very well. But beyond observing their behavior on a day-to-day basis, there are still plenty of facts out there that may surprise you. In honor of National Dog Day on Aug. 26, the friendly veterinarians at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital in Columbia, MO, are here to share a few fascinating and lesser-known facts about dogs.

4 Fun Dog Facts to Know

1. Color Blindness Is a Myth

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not see in black and white. They can see in color, like shades of gray, green, and blue, but it is not as vivid as humans. It’s best compared to our vision in low-light.

2. The U.S. Loves Dogs

The United States has the highest population of dogs in the world. In fact, 36% of households, or one out of every three families, within the country have at least one dog as a pet. The country with the second highest population is France.

3. Dogs Do Dream

Just like humans, dogs experience slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM). Dogs dream during the REM stage. If you see your dog twitching or moving their paws, this is a sign that they are dreaming.

4. They Have a Sense of Time

Dogs are able to pick up on your daily routine and know when it’s time for them to go on a walk or be fed. This is because they are able to sense the passage of time, derived from their own circadian rhythm.

To learn more about your beloved canine companion, talk to your veterinarian. Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital is the premier animal hospital in Columbia, MO, offering a wide range of pet care services, from routine vaccinations and surgery to pet grooming and boarding. Their experienced veterinarians are dedicated to providing your pet with the highest level of care. Call (573) 449-7387 today to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for a full list of services.