Dogs prefer to poo along a north-south axis. (Yep, my first thought was "What !")

[BlueJazz]

Researchers have found that dogs use Earth’s magnetic fields to align their bowel and bladder movements - and they prefer to relieve themselves along a north-south axis. In fact, canines will actively avoid going to the bathroom in an east-west direction, the study found.

More at link >

http://www.sciencealert.com/dogs-prefer-to-poo-along-a-north-south-axis

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

1. The things you learn on the Internet...

Both of the toilets in my house are on a north-south axis. I wonder if the architect designed the bathroom plans that way on purpose? But the cats seem to prefer the east-west litter box to the two north-south ones. This will require more study.

[GeorgeGist]

2. Interesting video at the link ...

describing quantum navigation by birds.

[IDemo]

3. I could see a Far Side cartoon based on this

A Boy Scout in the woods, holding a pencil over a map while keeping an eye on his faithful companion.

[BlueJazz]

6. I was thinking of a Gary Larson/Far Side cartoon but you said it best.

[magical thyme]

4. this prompted immediate research with my own 2 dogs

somebody had posted it somewhere on DU (probably here in the lounge) I think last year or so. I immediately started watching my dogs. Yup...they insist on an north/south axis even when a steep embankment by the side of a road means the poops will roll into their feet

[PasadenaTrudy]

5. Mine does...n/t

[calimary]

10. Mine seems to prefer that, too.

[Major Nikon]

7. Mine tend to go east-west. I wonder if I should take them to the vet

[surrealAmerican]

8. Maybe there's an odd magnetic field in your neighborhood.

I guess you could observe the other neighborhood dogs ...

[BlueJazz]

9. You may of hit on a great marketing scenario.

"Woodland Kennels is now proud to offer our prized Golden Retrievers in Axis-orientated waste removal actions* "

*please specify your Golden in either NS or EW configuration

[UTUSN]

11. I *knew* they had something to do with all ancient monuments (crosswise). n/t

[retread]

12. My dogs' most disliked tune.