Dogs – our loyal companions and beloved members of the family. These incredible creatures have been by our side for centuries, providing us with unwavering loyalty, love, and companionship. But beyond their undying devotion, have you ever wondered just how strong dogs really are? In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of canine strength, exploring their impressive physical abilities and the power they possess. Prepare to be amazed as we unleash the hidden potential of man’s best friend, shedding light on their remarkable strength that often goes unnoticed. There is no doubt that dogs are about to prove just how strong they truly are.
Dogs and their inherent physical abilities
Dogs are well-known for their remarkable physical abilities, which contribute to their status as man’s best friend. Understanding the inherent strength of dogs is important not only for appreciating their capabilities but also for harnessing their power effectively.
A discussion on the natural physical characteristics of dogs
Dogs possess several physical characteristics that contribute to their strength. Firstly, their musculoskeletal system is specifically designed for agility, speed, and power. Their well-developed muscles, tendons, and ligaments provide them with exceptional strength and endurance. Additionally, their flexible spine and robust joints enable them to perform various physical activities with ease.
Comparison of dogs’ strength to other animals
When it comes to strength, dogs are a force to be reckoned with. While their size may vary depending on the breed, dogs often possess comparative strength to other animals. This means that a medium-sized dog can easily overpower a human in terms of strength alone. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Nottingham found that the bite force of an average dog is strong enough to break bones.
Bite force of dogs
Explanation of the power behind a dog’s bite
One of the most fascinating aspects of dogs’ strength is their bite force. Dogs have incredibly powerful jaws comprising strong muscles, sharp teeth, and specialized dentition. This enables them to exert an immense amount of pressure with their bite, making them formidable predators and protectors.
Comparison of various dog breeds and their bite force
Different dog breeds have varying levels of bite force, which is influenced by their size and breed history. For instance, larger breeds such as the Rottweiler and Pit Bull Terrier have a bite force exceeding 300 pounds per square inch (psi), while smaller breeds like the Chihuahua exert a bite force of around 200 psi. Understanding these differences is crucial for dog owners and trainers, as it can help determine the appropriate training techniques and handling precautions needed for each breed.
In conclusion, dogs possess extraordinary strength and physical capabilities, making them worthy companions and powerful allies in various aspects of human life. From their bite force to their muscle power, endurance, and agility, dogs consistently showcase their strength in a variety of roles. Understanding and harnessing their strength effectively is essential for cultivating a strong bond between humans and dogs while ensuring their well-being and successful performance in different service roles.
IBite force of dogs
Explanation of the power behind a dog’s bite
When discussing the strength of dogs, it is essential to explore their bite force, as it is one of their most powerful physical abilities. Dogs possess incredibly strong jaws that are specifically designed for biting and tearing. The power behind a dog’s bite originates from the combination of their muscular jaw structure, sharp teeth, and the sheer force exerted by their jaw muscles.
Comparison of various dog breeds and their bite force
Different dog breeds exhibit varying degrees of bite force. Larger breeds, such as the Rottweiler, German Shepherd, and Mastiff, are known to have notably strong bites. According to a study conducted by Dr. Brady Barr, a National Geographic expert, the Rottweiler has an average bite force of about 328 pounds per square inch (psi). Meanwhile, the German Shepherd’s bite force averages around 238 psi.
Comparatively, smaller dog breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier or Dachshund have a significantly weaker bite force. The Jack Russell Terrier, for example, has an average bite force of approximately 200 psi, while the Dachshund’s bite force averages around 125 psi.
Understanding the variation in bite force among different dog breeds is crucial not only for dog owners but also for professionals who work closely with dogs, such as veterinarians, trainers, and handlers. It helps them better assess the potential risks associated with certain breeds and take the necessary precautions.
Additionally, knowledge of bite force is essential for legal and safety purposes. It informs legislation regarding dangerous dogs and serves as a basis for implementing safety measures when interacting with dogs, particularly ones with higher bite forces.
In conclusion, a dog’s bite force is a significant aspect of their strength. It is crucial to recognize the power behind a dog’s bite and understand the variation in bite force among different dog breeds. This knowledge allows for better management of potential risks and ensures the safety of both dog owners and the general public.
Muscle Power and Endurance in Dogs
The muscle structure of dogs and how it contributes to their strength
Dogs possess an impressive amount of muscle power, which is a key factor contributing to their overall strength. The muscle structure of dogs is designed to support their physical activities and enable them to perform tasks requiring strength and endurance.
Unlike humans, dogs have a higher proportion of muscle mass in their bodies, giving them a greater potential for strength. Their muscles are composed of dense and strong fibers that allow them to generate a considerable amount of force. Additionally, dogs have a higher concentration of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are responsible for explosive bursts of energy and rapid movements. This gives them an advantage when it comes to actions requiring quick acceleration and bursts of strength, such as jumping or sprinting.
Examples of dogs’ physical feats that showcase their endurance
Dogs are known for their impressive endurance, which allows them to engage in physically demanding activities for extended periods without fatigue. Their muscle power and overall physical fitness contribute to this exceptional stamina.
One example of dogs’ endurance is their ability to participate in long-distance running or activities such as dog sledding. Sled dogs, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, are highly regarded for their endurance and ability to pull heavy loads over vast distances. These dogs can cover hundreds of miles in extreme conditions, showcasing their remarkable strength and endurance.
In addition to long-distance running, dogs also excel in tasks that require sustained physical effort. For instance, search and rescue dogs tirelessly search for missing persons in challenging terrains, demonstrating their stamina and determination. Working dogs, such as those involved in herding or fetching, engage in repetitive physical tasks for extended periods, relying on their endurance to keep up with their duties.
Overall, dogs’ muscle power and endurance enable them to excel in various physical activities, showcasing their remarkable strength and stamina.
Sources:
– https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberian-husky/
– https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/alaskan-malamute/
– https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/search-and-rescue-dog/
Pulling Power
Exploration of the strength dogs possess for pulling heavy loads
Dogs are well-known for their remarkable strength and ability to perform various physical tasks. One of their notable physical abilities is their exceptional pulling power. Dogs possess natural strength and muscularity that allows them to pull heavy loads with great ease and efficiency. This section will delve into the impressive pulling power of dogs and explore the different ways in which they utilize this strength.
Dogs have been used for centuries in activities that require pulling heavy loads. The most notable example is the use of sled dogs in Arctic regions. Breeds such as Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Samoyeds are renowned for their pulling abilities. These dogs have a unique combination of strength, endurance, and determination that enables them to pull sleds of substantial weight across long distances in harsh winter conditions.
In addition to sled pulling, dogs are also utilized in other activities that require pulling power. They are often employed in carting, where they pull carts or wagons filled with goods or supplies. This has been a traditional role for working dog breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs and Saint Bernards. These dogs have a strong build and powerful muscles that enable them to efficiently navigate and pull heavy loads.
The use of dogs in sledding and other pulling-related activities
Beyond their practical applications, dogs’ pulling power is also showcased in various sports and competitions. Sledding races, such as the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, demonstrate the immense strength, endurance, and teamwork of these dogs. These races test not only the physical capabilities of the dogs but also their mental fortitude as they endure long distances and challenging terrains.
Other dog sports, such as weight pulling and carting competitions, further highlight the pulling power of dogs. These events require dogs to pull heavy weights over a specific distance, demonstrating their raw strength and determination. Breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Rottweiler are particularly well-suited for these activities due to their muscular build and tenacity.
In conclusion, dogs possess incredible strength when it comes to pulling heavy loads. They have been utilized for centuries in various practical roles that require this unique ability, such as sled pulling and carting. Additionally, dogs excel in sports and competitions that showcase their immense pulling power. Through their incredible pulling strength, dogs continue to amaze and prove why they truly are man’s best friend.
Agility and speed
How dogs’ physical abilities enable them to be agile and fast
Dogs possess incredible agility and speed thanks to their unique physical abilities. Their bodies are built for swift movements and quick reflexes, allowing them to excel in various physical activities and sports.
One key factor contributing to dogs’ agility is their flexible skeletal structure. Unlike humans, dogs have an elastic spine and highly mobile joints that enable them to change directions rapidly and perform acrobatic movements. This flexibility allows them to twist, turn, and navigate obstacles with ease, making them incredible athletes.
Additionally, dogs have well-developed muscles and tendons in their legs, giving them explosive power for acceleration. These muscular structures create a strong propulsion mechanism, allowing dogs to achieve remarkable bursts of speed. The combination of powerful leg muscles, flexible spine, and mobile joints enables dogs to run at impressive speeds and quickly change direction when needed.
Examples of dog sports that highlight their speed and agility
There are numerous dog sports that showcase the speed and agility of dogs. One prominent example is agility training and competitions. In agility trials, dogs navigate a course filled with obstacles, such as jumps, tunnels, and weave poles, as fast as possible. They must demonstrate their ability to swiftly maneuver through these obstacles with precision and speed, showcasing their agility and quick reflexes.
Another popular dog sport is flyball, which involves teams of dogs racing against each other, retrieving a tennis ball from a spring-loaded box and returning it over jumps before the next dog can start. This high-energy sport tests dogs’ speed, agility, and ability to make split-second decisions.
Furthermore, disc dog competitions, also known as Frisbee dog competitions, highlight dogs’ agility and catching abilities. Dogs perform impressive aerial acrobatics while catching flying discs, showcasing their speed, agility, and coordination.
These sports not only demonstrate dogs’ physical abilities but also serve as a testament to the strong bond between humans and dogs. The teamwork and synchronization between dog and handler are crucial in achieving success in these sports, showcasing the incredible partnership and communication between them.
In conclusion, dogs possess remarkable agility and speed due to their flexible spine, mobile joints, and well-developed muscles. These traits allow them to excel in various dog sports and physical activities, demonstrating their athletic prowess. The bond between humans and dogs is strengthened by their shared love for athleticism and the joy they bring to each other through these activities.
Jumping ability
Discussion on dogs’ ability to jump high and far
Dogs are known for their exceptional jumping abilities, which stem from their powerful muscle structure and athletic physique. When it comes to jumping, dogs can reach impressive heights and cover significant distances. Understanding the mechanics behind their jumping prowess can help us appreciate the extent of their physical capabilities.
The relation between their muscle power and jumping prowess
The muscles in a dog’s hind legs play a crucial role in their jumping ability. These muscles, including the gluteals, quadriceps, and hamstrings, are well-developed and strong, allowing dogs to generate explosive power for takeoff. Additionally, the flexibility of their spine and the elasticity of their tendons contribute to their ability to propel themselves into the air.
The size and breed of a dog can also determine its jumping prowess. Smaller dogs like Jack Russell Terriers and Border Collies are known for their impressive vertical leaps, while larger breeds such as Greyhounds and German Shepherds excel in horizontal jumping. It’s important to note that certain dog breeds have been selectively bred for their jumping abilities, making them even more proficient in this skill.
Dogs utilize different types of jumps depending on the situation. The most common types of jumps include the “scissor jump” where the dog pushes off from both hind legs simultaneously, the “single-leg jump” where one hind leg is used as the primary propulsion, and the “twist jump” where the dog rotates mid-air to change direction while maintaining momentum. These variations highlight the agility and adaptability of dogs in different scenarios.
The jumping abilities of dogs are not solely for show or entertainment; they also serve practical purposes. For example, in search and rescue operations, dogs may need to navigate obstacles by clearing fences or jumping over debris. Additionally, in activities such as agility trials or frisbee competitions, dogs’ jumping prowess is showcased and celebrated.
Overall, dogs’ jumping ability is a testament to their strength and athleticism. Their powerful hind leg muscles, coupled with their flexibility and agility, allow them to achieve remarkable heights and cover impressive distances. Whether it’s for sport, work, or play, dogs’ jumping abilities continue to captivate and awe dog lovers worldwide.
Dogs and Their Swimming and Water Rescue Skills
The impressive swimming skills of certain dog breeds
Dogs are not only known for their loyalty and companionship but also for their exceptional physical abilities. One remarkable strength that some dog breeds possess is their swimming and water rescue skills. Certain breeds are naturally inclined to thrive in aquatic environments, making them well-suited for water-based tasks and activities.
For instance, the Newfoundland breed, known for their webbed feet and water-resistant coat, excel in swimming. With incredible strength and endurance, Newfoundlands are capable of swimming long distances and are often utilized in water rescue operations. Their natural swimming abilities, combined with their strong build, make them ideal for retrieving people or objects from water.
Other dog breeds that are known for their swimming prowess include the Labrador Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have historically been used for various water-related tasks, such as retrieving ducks during hunting trips and assisting fishermen. Their affinity for water and their superior swimming skills have made them valuable assets in these roles.
How dogs assist in water rescues
In addition to their swimming abilities, dogs also play a crucial role in water rescues. Trained water rescue dogs can use their sense of smell to locate individuals in distress in the water. They can swiftly navigate through rough currents and challenging terrains, even in low-light or murky conditions, to reach those in need.
Water rescue dogs are trained to perform tasks such as towing or carrying people to safety, providing flotation support, and even delivering lifesaving equipment like ropes or flotation devices. Their strength and swimming skills allow them to navigate swiftly and efficiently in water, enabling them to reach those in danger quickly.
These highly specialized skills are often utilized in real-life scenarios, such as natural disasters or accidents involving water. Water rescue dogs are deployed to assist in situations such as boating accidents, floods, or even when individuals get caught in rip currents at the beach. Their strength, agility, and swimming abilities make them indispensable in ensuring the safety and well-being of people in distress.
In conclusion, dogs’ impressive swimming skills and water rescue abilities demonstrate their strength and versatility as our trusted companions. Their natural inclination and adaptability to aquatic environments, along with their physical capabilities, make certain dog breeds invaluable in water-related tasks and rescues. Whether it is a Newfoundland fearlessly diving into the water or a Labrador Retriever tirelessly retrieving items, dogs truly harness the power of their strength to keep us safe and provide assistance when we need it most.
Senses and Detection Abilities
An overview of dogs’ extraordinary sense of smell
Dogs are known for their exceptional sense of smell, which is far superior to that of humans. While humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, dogs have around 300 million, making their olfactory capabilities truly remarkable. This heightened sense of smell allows them to detect scents that humans cannot even perceive.
A dog’s nose is equipped with a complex structure that facilitates their remarkable olfactory abilities. The inside of their nose is lined with specialized cells that can detect and analyze a wide range of smells. When a dog sniffs, the air is directed to the olfactory epThelium, a tiny organ at the back of the nasal cavity, where the scent molecules are captured and processed. This process allows dogs to distinguish individual scents and track odors over vast distances.
How their sensory abilities contribute to their reputation as “man’s best friend”
The extraordinary sense of smell possessed by dogs is one of the many reasons why they have earned the title of “man’s best friend.” Dogs have been trained for centuries to assist humans in various tasks that require their sensory abilities.
One area where dogs’ sense of smell is particularly valuable is in detection work. They have been trained to detect a wide range of substances, including drugs, explosives, and even certain medical conditions like cancer and diabetes. Their scenting abilities have been instrumental in law enforcement and search and rescue operations, where they can locate missing persons or uncover hidden contraband.
Furthermore, dogs’ sense of smell enables them to provide emotional support and assistance to individuals with disabilities. They can be trained to sense changes in their owner’s body odor or detect the onset of a medical condition, allowing them to provide timely assistance or alert medical professionals for help.
The remarkable sensory abilities of dogs not only enhance their usefulness as working animals but also deepen their bond with humans. Their incredible sense of smell allows them to perceive our emotions and detect subtle changes in our body chemistry, making them highly intuitive and empathetic companions.
In conclusion, dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell that surpasses the capabilities of humans. Their nose serves as a powerful tool that enables them to assist in various roles, such as detection work and providing emotional support. This remarkable sensory ability contributes to their reputation as “man’s best friend” and strengthens the unique bond between humans and dogs.
X. Showcasing strength in different service roles
The strength requirements for dogs in various service roles
Dogs have been playing crucial roles in various service fields due to their exceptional strength and abilities. Different service roles demand different levels of physical strength from dogs. In this section, we will explore some of these roles and the specific strength requirements associated with them.
One notable service role that requires immense strength is that of police dogs. These highly trained canines assist law enforcement agencies in a multitude of tasks such as apprehending suspects, detecting narcotics, and searching for evidence. Police dogs must possess strong muscles and robust physical capabilities to engage and incapacitate individuals if required. Their strength and power are vital assets in maintaining law and order.
Similarly, search and rescue dogs showcase remarkable strength in their roles. These dogs have to navigate through various terrains, often under treacherous conditions, to locate missing persons. Their strength is essential in providing agility and endurance while traversing challenging landscapes, such as rubble piles, dense forests, or mountainous regions. Their ability to pull victims to safety also underscores their strength.
Guard dogs are another example where strength is a fundamental requirement. These dogs are responsible for protecting properties and individuals from potential threats. Their physical strength allows them to deter intruders, impose control, and apprehend trespassers if necessary. Guard dogs must possess intimidating strength to effectively execute their duties, while also maintaining discipline through rigorous training.
Real-life examples of dogs displaying their strength in these roles
There have been numerous instances where dogs in service roles have displayed extraordinary strength, showcasing the power and capabilities of man’s best friend. One noteworthy example involves police dogs apprehending suspects during high-stakes situations. The sheer strength and force exerted by these dogs are often enough to subdue criminals and ensure the safety of law enforcement personnel.
Search and rescue dogs have been credited with saving countless lives by utilizing their strength and agility. There have been awe-inspiring stories of these dogs braving treacherous conditions, traversing difficult terrains, and tirelessly working to locate missing individuals. Their unwavering determination and physical strength have proven vital in successful rescues.
Similarly, guard dogs have consistently demonstrated their strength and bravery in protecting their human companions. There have been instances where these dogs have fearlessly confronted intruders, preventing potential harm or theft. The mere presence of a strong and assertive guard dog can serve as a deterrent, often discouraging criminal activities altogether.
The strength exhibited by dogs in these service roles reinforces their value and indispensability. Their physical prowess, combined with their unwavering loyalty, intelligence, and training, makes them highly effective partners in their respective fields. Understanding and harnessing their strength is crucial to ensuring their effectiveness and maximizing their potential in these service roles.
Emotional strength and support
The emotional strength of dogs
Dogs are not only physically strong, but they also possess remarkable emotional strength. They have an innate ability to sense and understand human emotions, providing comfort, support, and unconditional love to their owners. This emotional strength is one of the reasons why dogs are considered man’s best friend.
Therapy and emotional support dog roles
Dogs have been widely recognized for their therapeutic benefits and have been utilized in various therapeutic settings. Therapy dogs are trained to provide emotional support to individuals in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other institutions. These dogs have a unique ability to sense and respond to human emotions, bringing joy and comfort to those in need.
Emotional support dogs, on the other hand, play a crucial role in providing comfort and stability to individuals suffering from mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These dogs offer a constant presence and emotional support, reducing stress and anxiety levels in their owners.
The power of the human-dog bond
The emotional strength of dogs is instrumental in strengthening the bond between humans and dogs. Dogs have an uncanny ability to sense their owners’ moods and emotions, allowing them to offer comfort and companionship during difficult times. Their unwavering loyalty and unconditional love provide a source of emotional support that is unparalleled.
Studies have shown that interacting with dogs can have positive effects on human emotional well-being. Petting a dog has been found to increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress reduction. The presence of a dog can also help alleviate feelings of loneliness and improve overall mood.
The emotional support provided by dogs extends beyond just their owners. Therapy dogs have been shown to have a positive impact on individuals in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and disaster relief situations. Their presence alone can bring a sense of calm and comfort to those who are struggling.
In conclusion, dogs possess not only physical strength but also emotional strength that makes them truly exceptional creatures. Their ability to provide emotional support and comfort to humans is invaluable. Whether it be in a therapy or emotional support role, dogs prove time and time again that their emotional strength knows no bounds. The human-dog bond is strengthened by their ability to understand and support us, making them an indispensable part of our lives.
Protecting their owners
The strong protective instincts of dogs towards their owners
Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty and devotion to their owners, and this loyalty extends to their strong protective instincts. Dogs have an innate ability to sense danger and respond accordingly to protect their human companions. This instinctual behavior has made them invaluable as protectors and guardians throughout history.
Instances where dogs have displayed their strength and bravery in protecting their human companions
Numerous stories and real-life accounts demonstrate the remarkable strength and bravery of dogs when it comes to protecting their owners. From playful family pets to highly trained working dogs, these instances highlight the incredible bond between dogs and humans and their shared survival instincts.
One such example is the story of a German Shepherd named Max, who saved his owner’s life during a home invasion. Max confronted the intruder, who was armed, and managed to keep him at bay until help arrived. Max’s quick thinking and physical strength prevented a potentially tragic outcome.
In another instance, a Labrador Retriever named Cooper protected his owner from a snake bite. When a venomous snake approached his owner, Cooper leaped to action, biting and incapacitating the snake, ultimately saving his owner from a potentially lethal bite. This showcases not only the physical strength of dogs but also their ability to assess and respond to dangerous situations.
These stories and countless others demonstrate the powerful protective instincts that dogs possess. Whether it’s fending off intruders, preventing harm, or acting as a deterrent, dogs have proven time and again that they are willing to put their lives on the line to safeguard their human companions.
Proper training and harnessing a dog’s strength
While a dog’s protective instincts are innate, it is crucial to provide them with proper training to ensure their strength is harnessed effectively. Training should focus on developing obedience, self-control, and discernment, enabling the dog to make correct decisions in challenging situations.
Key elements of training should include socialization to ensure the dog can differentiate between friendly and threatening individuals. Additionally, teaching commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” can be instrumental in controlling a dog’s protective instincts and preventing them from becoming overly aggressive.
It is essential to strike a balance between encouraging a dog’s protective nature and ensuring they respond in a controlled and controlled manner. This requires building trust and strengthening the bond between owner and dog through positive reinforcement-based training methods.
By properly training and harnessing a dog’s strength, owners can benefit from their protective instincts while maintaining control in a variety of situations. This enables dogs to fulfill their role as protectors and providers of safety, further strengthening the bond between humans and dogs.
In conclusion, dogs possess a remarkable strength when it comes to protecting their owners. Their strong protective instincts, combined with their loyalty and bravery, make them formidable guardians. Through proper training and effective harnessing of their strength, dogs can fulfill their role as protectors while maintaining control. The bond between humans and dogs is strengthened by their shared ability to provide safety, comfort, and unwavering support.
Section Conclusion
A Recap of Dogs’ Strength and Their Incredible Abilities
In conclusion, dogs are truly remarkable creatures that possess incredible strength and abilities. Throughout this article, we have explored various aspects of a dog’s physical prowess and seen how their strength extends beyond just a powerful bite. From muscle power and endurance to agility, jumping ability, swimming skills, and senses, dogs consistently showcase their exceptional capabilities.
The Bond Between Humans and Dogs, Strengthened by Their Strength
Understanding the strength of dogs is not just a matter of fascination, but it also plays a pivotal role in the bond between humans and their canine companions. Dogs’ strength and their unwavering loyalty have earned them the title of “man’s best friend.” Their ability to provide emotional support and comfort is unmatched, as dogs have a remarkable emotional strength that resonates with their owners.
Appreciating Dogs’ Strength in Various Service Roles
Dogs’ strength is not only evident in their ability to provide emotional support but also in the multitude of service roles they undertake. Whether it’s in the police force, search and rescue teams, or as guard dogs, dogs consistently display their strength and dedication. Real-life examples of dogs using their strength to protect and save lives are a testament to their exceptional capabilities.
Proper Training and Channeling a Dog’s Strength
To harness a dog’s strength effectively, proper training is crucial. It is essential to understand a dog’s natural physical abilities and work on enhancing them while maintaining control. By providing training that maximizes their strength, dogs can contribute positively to various roles without compromising their safety or that of others.
In summary, dogs possess an incredible array of physical abilities that lend them strength beyond measure. Their bite force, muscle power, endurance, and agility are just a few examples of how dogs showcase their strength. From pulling heavy loads and swimming to showcasing their incredible senses and providing emotional support, dogs truly are powerful creatures. Their strength not only enhances their individual capabilities but also strengthens the bond between humans and dogs. It is undeniable that dogs’ strength and incredible abilities make them an invaluable presence in our lives.