Mary Allen
What Causes Dogs to Shake After Swimming?
Have you ever noticed your dog shaking vigorously after coming out of the water? This behavior is quite common among dogs, and it is a natural response to water exposure. Dogs shake after swimming to get rid of excess water on their fur and skin. It is a way of drying themselves off quickly and efficiently.
While shaking may appear to be a simple act, it is a complex behavior with several underlying factors. In this article, we will explore the reasons why dogs shake after swimming and the science behind this behavior.
The Science Behind Canine Shaking Behavior
Shaking is an instinctive behavior that is hardwired into a dog’s nervous system. The act of shaking involves a series of rapid muscle contractions that help to expel water from the fur. The shaking motion also helps to restore the fur’s natural alignment and prevent it from matting.
A dog’s shaking behavior is controlled by the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement. When a dog shakes, the cerebellum sends signals to the muscles, telling them to contract rapidly. This causes the dog’s body to shake vigorously, expelling water in the process.
The Importance of Water Resistant Fur
One reason why dogs shake after swimming is because they have water-resistant fur. Dogs have a double coat of fur, consisting of a thick, insulating layer and a water-repellent topcoat. This topcoat is made up of long, stiff guard hairs that help to keep water from penetrating the skin.
However, even with water-resistant fur, dogs will still get wet when they swim. This is where shaking comes in. By shaking vigorously, dogs can remove most of the water from their fur, preventing it from weighing them down and keeping them warm.
Stay tuned for the next paragraphs to discover more reasons behind dogs shaking after water exposure.