* Organization: Dogs are made up of complex systems of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.
* Metabolism: They carry out chemical reactions to obtain energy and maintain their bodies.
* Growth and Development: They grow and change throughout their lifespan.
* Responsiveness: They react to stimuli in their environment.
* Adaptation: They have evolved over time to survive in various environments.
* Reproduction: They produce offspring to continue their species.
* Homeostasis: They maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in their surroundings.
In addition to these characteristics, dogs also:
* Breathe and take in oxygen.
* Have a circulatory system to transport blood and nutrients.
* Have a nervous system to control their actions and senses.
* Exhibit complex behaviors like learning, socializing, and playing.
All of these factors contribute to the fact that dogs are undeniably living things.