Who knows why we call them "The Dog Days of August"?

If no one gives the right answer, I'll post it soon.

I'm thinking it's because there is nothing much that goes on in August. No holidays, school usually starts in September, etc...

Kind of the Same Old Stuff, if you know what I mean.

DOG DAYS" is the name for the most sultry period of summer, from about July 3 to Aug. 11. Named in early times by observers in countries bordering the Mediterranean, the period was reckoned as extending from 20 days before to 20 days after the conjunction of Sirius (the dog star) and the sun.

In the latitude of the Mediterranean region this period coincided with hot days that were plagued with disease and discomfort.
The time of conjunction varies with difference in latitude, and because of the precession of the equinoxes it changes gradually over long periods in all latitudes.

That was quick. Very Good. Yes, the Romans called Sirrus(the brightest star in the sky)the dog star. In August it rises the same time as the sun and they thought that it added to the sun's heat. Hense, the Dog Days.

Bob posted the whole kit and kaboodle on the Just Conversation board a while back for those who are interested go take a look it is really interesting!

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"A kitten is in the world of animals, what a rosebud is in a garden."
Robert Southey

Leslie-Ann,
Moderator,
Cats,
Feral Cats,
Herbal Remedies,
Pet Memorial,
and Just for Kids.

mom of three,

I've gone blind! I can't find anything by Bob like that in Just Conversation. I would like to read it though. Can you tell us where it is please?

Sorry, the post is titled WEATHER and I just pushed it to the top for you so you can read it. Bob actually replied to a post with the Dog Days info.

Thanks Mom of 3, I alway like the answers people give off the top of their heads to the "Dog Days" question. Years ago I though that it was because dogs became lazy and laid around and panted alot in the sultry heat. I also like the "Roman" explination.

Thanks for turning me on to a different part of the forum.