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Name: Santha
Status: other
Grade: n/a
Location: Outside U.S.
Country: Australia
Date: Summer 2011
Question:
What is the difference between sniffing and breathing in dogs?


Replies:
Santha,

That is a good observation. Sniffing is done by dogs to smell the air. The act of sniffing does cause air to move in and out of the nose and lung like breathing. The purpose is a bit different. Breathing is done to allow oxygen to reach the red blood cells which is vital for life. Sniffing helps dogs get information about their environment. I hope this helps.

Louis M. Huzella, DVM, Diplomate, ACVP.


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