Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Natural fiber to help comfortably reduce hairballs
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition (USA Study)
Is your dog scared of thunder? Does your kitty dart under the bed at the first rumble? Learn a few tips for keeping your pets calm during the storm.
Headed outside? How you and your pets engage with nature can affect the environment, so here are some quick tips for reducing your pet's carbon paw print.
Discover helpful tips for moving with your pet including safety recommendations to keep in mind on moving day & pet behavior to watch for at your new home.
Have you ever looked at your pup in confusion as he stood, stock-still, staring at something only he could see? This behavior is called pointing. Why do dogs point? Can any breed of dog be taught to point? Pointing isn't often a skill pet parents teach their pups, but teaching him this special skill may have its benefits.
A dog "points" by freezing his body, often with one front paw up, and aiming his nose at a particular spot. He will do this to bring attention to something and notify his pet parent of where to look. Although many people associate this behavior with dogs historically bred for hunting, other breeds can and will point.
What does it mean when a dog points? Usually, it's that he found something interesting. That could be a duck, a squirrel or even a tennis ball. Some dog breeds have the word in their name, such as the German shorthaired pointer, because of their love of finding, pointing at and flushing out small animals.
The American Kennel Club places pointers into the "sporting class" of dogs. This group also includes spaniels, retrievers and setters. If you have noticed that your dog likes to point at things and does it frequently, his breed may be more naturally inclined to do this action. If he's a mutt, it may even help you to figure out some of his ancestors!
When it comes to sporting dog breeds, another thing to keep in mind is their unique mix of independent thinking and collaborative attitude. So why do dogs point in front of people? While they are comfortable investigating their surroundings on their own, they also enjoy working with other dogs and being a companion to their humans. The pointing action helps fulfill both aspects of their special personality.
Reacting to any action your dog makes can reinforce it over time. If he's a natural pointer, that means that with a little patience you might be able to train him to point for specific reasons, such as when he sees a neighborhood cat or needs to go out. If your dog shows an interest in pointing or you are interested in seeing if your dog can point, you can work to reinforce the behavior in several ways:
Although pointing is somewhat instinctive in a few breeds of dogs, it is mostly a learned behavior. It's important to point out that it's never too late to teach your dog something new!
Chrissie Klinger is an educator, writer and mother of two children, three dogs and three cats. Her dog Jake loves sitting on her lap every chance he gets! She enjoys living an active and eco-friendly lifestyle in rural Pennsylvania.
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Your dog's coat and skin are a big part of your dog's overall health. Ensure you keep your dog's coat healthy, by following these simple tips.
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Understand the role that Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids play in your dog's overall health, and how you can ensure they are getting enough.
Learn about Hill's puppy food and the nutritional benefit & high quality ingredients that it contains for your pup.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.