Just like people dogs can also have a dominant ‘hand’ or be ambilateral (what we would call ambidextrous).
While the majority of the human population are right handed, dogs seem to be much more evenly split between left pawed, right pawed and ambilateral.
There have now been a number of scientific studies, using different methods to assess dogs paw preference. But why is it important? Scientists are exploring this as it could give us an insight into how a dog is feeling.
Like humans, dogs’ brains are lateralised. This means the left and right sides of the brain process different emotion and control movement on the opposite side of the body (Eg the left side of the brain controls the right side of the body). As the left side of the brain processes positive emotions and the right side processes negative emotions, anxiety inducing situation have been shown to result in a dog wagging its tail to the right and positive situations, such as an owner returning home, wagging to the left.
Therefore a dog’s paw preference may also be able to tell us the emotions a dog is feeling or even personality traits, such being an optimist or pessimist.
It’s fascinating stuff!
Can you give a home to Pearl the lurcher?
What is the best treasure you will ever find? A pearl! And that is exactly what I am, an absolute treasure.
Hello everyone, I am Pearl, the perfect lurcher! I’m a shy young girl who loves attention and with a little bit of patience I can become your best friend.
I came into the centre as a stray, so my friends aren’t too sure of my history. I don’t really know what a home is, so initially I will need minimal leaving hours so I can get use to my new surroundings. I can live in a home with children aged 12 years old (Key Stage 3) and above, but I don’t fancy living with any other dogs or animals at the moment. I would like to live in a quiet home where I can enjoy lots of exciting walks but also cosy cuddles!
I’m currently having some medical treatment, its only short term and my friends at the centre will be more than happy to go through that with you in more detail!
If you’ve got a Pearl sized space in your home, then call South Lincs on 01205 260546 or email [email protected].
