Dogs

One day, Libby and Zach returned to their home and found an unexpected surprise waiting for them. Living on a sprawling 200-acre property in Arkansas without any neighbors nearby, they never imagined they’d have an uninvited guest. As they approached their porch, Zach noticed something unusual. “I could see there was something on the porch.

Shutterstock When we think of dogs, we typically imagine loyal companions who love playing fetch, going on walks, and being at their owners’ sides. However, some dogs seem to challenge that notion, displaying behaviors that are more typical of cats. From curling up in the smallest spaces to demonstrating a surprising level of independence, certain

Shutterstock One of the most exciting aspects of adopting a puppy is watching them grow. Still, some dogs undergo such dramatic transformations that they look like an entirely different breed as adults. Whether it’s a shift in coat color, texture, size, or overall appearance, certain breeds surprise their owners with how much they change. While

One morning, a shelter worker arrived to find an unexpected surprise—a fluffy white puppy, alone and crying at the front door. The little pup, desperate for attention, let out loud cries, hoping someone would notice him. Without hesitation, the worker scooped him up and noticed a small wound on his back. Thinking that might be

Shutterstock Certain cat breeds possess an exceptional ability to retain their youthful appearance and energy, even as they age. These breeds don’t just look young but maintain playful behaviors and lively personalities well into their senior years. While all cats can benefit from proper care, these particular breeds have earned a reputation for aging gracefully.

Shutterstock The idea of self-recognition in animals has long fascinated researchers and pet owners. While humans and some primates can recognize themselves in mirrors, whether dogs can do the same is still debatable. Dogs perceive the world differently, relying heavily on their sense of smell rather than vision. Regarding mirrors, their reactions can vary widely,

Most dogs prefer fresh, cool water in a clean dish. Changing water every day and cleaning the water bowl are important to ensuring he drinks well. Credit: Alexei Tn | Getty Images Whether your dog is sick, feeling a little off, or has an acute or chronic illness that makes him avoid water, he still

Shutterstock Determination is a quality that shines brightly in certain dog breeds. Whether they’re focused on accomplishing a task, finding a way to get what they want, or simply refusing to give up in the face of a challenge, some dogs are undeniably driven. These dogs aren’t just persistent—they’re intelligent, strong-willed, and often have a

In a touching story of love and survival, a stray dog mother, struggling to care for her four puppies, made a surprising addition to her family—a tiny, stray kitten. Despite her own struggles, this determined mother dog took the vulnerable kitten under her wing, offering warmth, protection, and love. Her thin, weary frame spoke volumes

Shutterstock If you’re looking for a dog that loves to be the life of the party, then outgoing breeds are the way to go. These dogs are sociable, friendly, and eager to meet new people and other animals. They thrive in active environments where they can show off their energy, curiosity, and love for interaction.

A dog’s whiskers serve important sensory and protective functions for your dog. Credit: Boy Anupong | Getty Images When you think of whiskers, you probably picture cats, but dogs also possess a set of whiskers on their muzzle, cheeks, and above their eyes that serve important specific purposes. Whiskers, also known as vibrissae, play a

Shutterstock Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, far superior to anything humans can comprehend. While humans have around six million olfactory receptors, dogs are equipped with up to 300 million, giving them a sense of smell that’s 40 times more powerful than ours. This incredible ability allows dogs to detect scents and environmental changes

Dog treats made with pumpkin, like the pumpkin peanut butter biscuits and pumpkin, carrot, and coconut biscuits pictured here, are a perfect fall treat for your dog. Credit: CJ Puotinen Even though it’s best known for improving symptoms of indigestion, loose stools, and diarrhea, small amounts of pumpkin are appropriate anytime. Most dogs love the

Shutterstock Some dogs are naturally built for outdoor living, thriving in environments where they can run, explore, and engage in physical activities that suit their energetic nature. If you’re looking for a hiking buddy, a dog that loves wide-open spaces, or a breed that enjoys adventurous outings, certain dogs are perfect for this active lifestyle.

In June 2024, a senior dog named Kino was discovered abandoned in Oakland, California. He was taken in by Oakland Animal Services, and the staff immediately began searching for his owner. Unfortunately, when they finally tracked the owner down, their hearts sank. The heartbreaking truth emerged—the owner had deliberately abandoned Kino, unwilling to care for

Some dogs think going to the groomer is great fun! Others do not. If your dog is in the latter category, consider time and training whenever possible instead of sedation. In some cases, a dog may need to be sedated for grooming. For example, if you have a new rescue dog who is badly matted,

What’s the happiest place in the world for you? Some people might think of thrilling amusement parks like Disneyland or tropical beach getaways, but for Scrattie, an adorable and energetic little dog, nothing brings more joy than a visit to his beloved dog park. The excitement and anticipation he feels when his owner takes him

Shutterstock Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but certain breeds stand out for their incredible speed and agility. Whether bred for hunting, herding, or racing, these dogs are powerful, fast, and efficient runners. Their ability to dash, chase, and sprint with ease makes them the ultimate athletes of the canine world. Some are so

Shutterstock Dogs have long been known for their loyalty and devotion to their human families. While many breeds are friendly and affectionate, certain dogs stand out for their strong protective instincts. These breeds are naturally inclined to watch over their loved ones, often displaying a keen awareness of their surroundings and an unwavering commitment to

Throughout history, dogs have played essential roles in different cultures, serving as loyal companions and protectors, hunters, and symbols of religious or spiritual importance. Some breeds hold deep significance in specific regions, representing values such as loyalty, bravery, or nobility. These dogs often transcend their working roles, becoming symbols within myths, legends, and cultural traditions.

Fast Facts The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is cautioning pet owners that FDA samples of five Darwin’s Natural Pet Products raw cat and dog food made by Arrow Reliance, Inc. tested positive for Salmonella and a sixth FDA sample tested positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono). Affected products are sold in frozen 2-pound packages  and consist of certain

Cleanliness and being sure the puppies are nursing all the teats can help prevent mastitis. Credit: Fabio Filzi | Getty Images Breeding and raising a litter of puppies can be an extremely rewarding experience. It can also be fraught with complications for the puppies and for the mother herself. One of those complications is mastitis.

Shutterstock Genetic disorders in dogs can significantly impact their quality of life, often causing chronic health issues or shortening their lifespan. These conditions are often inherited due to selective breeding, which can inadvertently pass down traits that lead to genetic abnormalities. While any dog breed can suffer from health problems, certain breeds are more prone

Shutterstock When it comes to dogs, one feature that can instantly melt hearts is their ears whether they’re long and floppy, perky and upright, or somewhere in between, dog ears come in all shapes and sizes, each adding a unique charm to the breed; ears can be a defining characteristic of a breed, enhancing their

Wet food, like canned foods, offers a multitude of benefits for your senior dog. Credit: Monica Bertolazzi As dogs age, their nutritional needs and dietary preferences may change. Dog food recommended for senior dogs is usually soft, wet, or canned. The wide variety of soft foods on the market makes it easy to find one

Shutterstock Your dog is more than just a loyal companion—they’re also a natural health booster! From encouraging daily exercise to reducing stress and improving your mental well-being, dogs play a significant role in keeping us healthy. In this article, we explore various ways your dog contributes to your physical, emotional, and social wellness every day.

Shutterstock Choosing the right dog breed is essential for seniors who prioritize tranquility and companionship. As people age, their lifestyle becomes more relaxed, so selecting a pet that matches this pace is important. The best dogs for seniors are typically calm, require low to moderate exercise, and are easy to manage regarding grooming and health

Shutterstock While all dogs can get smelly occasionally, some breeds are naturally more prone to it. Whether it’s due to oily coats, skin folds, or an affinity for rolling in mud, certain dogs develop a particularly pungent odor. These lesser-known breeds might not be as famous, but they definitely stand out when it comes to

Daily brushing can improve the overall health of your dog’s coat and help reduce dandruff. Credit: sonsam | Getty Images Dandruff in dogs isn’t a life-threatening disease, but dry skin flakes are messy, itchy, and unattractive. Worse, they can trigger allergic reactions in humans and signal health problems in your pup. What causes dog dandruff,

Shutterstock Dogs have a unique way of influencing our lives, often in ways we don’t consciously recognize. Beyond companionship, dogs teach us valuable responsibility, empathy, and time management lessons. Many people don’t realize that their dogs also play a subtle yet powerful role in improving their decision-making skills. Through daily routines, challenges, and interactions, dogs