Top 10 Medium Sized Dog Breeds

by Mary Simpson

Published: March 24th, 2021

Size does matter, especially when it comes to choosing a dog breed. If you’re looking for a pooch that’s not too big or small, here’s our list of top 10 medium sized dog breeds.

While any sized pooch works for me, many prospective pet owners feel like the storybook Goldilocks checking out the “too hot”, “too cold” and “just right” porridges. When trying to decide on the best dog for you, size does matter and there’s nothing wrong with taking the “somewhere in between” approach by choosing a dog that’s neither small nor large. In fact, there are some real jim-dandies out there that are perfectly sized to fit the bill! Here is a list of the Top 10 Medium Sized Dog Breeds that are guaranteed to play a big role in your life.

Border Collie

A whole lot of smart in this pick for our top medium-sized dog breeds. These incredibly intelligent boys are one of the fastest, most athletic dogs in the world. He’s great with kids, makes a fabulous running buddy and his herding instincts mean he’s sure to keep the cat in check. He weighs in at no more than 45 pounds and stands up to 22 inches at the shoulder. These smart dogs have a lot of energy, though, so get ready for that. It is a great idea to spend time training your Border Collie. Also, teaching your pooch to perform a variety of tricks will not only be mentally stimulating for him, but also a lot of fun for both of you. And even though this is a medium-sized dog, because of his high energy level, it is helpful if you have a nice-sized backyard that he can run around and play in to let all of that energy out in a positive way.

Fun Facts About Border Collies:

They are named as being developed in Scotland but living and thriving on the region that was between Scotland and England. Collie is a Scotch word that is used to describe sheepdogs and since this is where they flourished, thus they were named!
They were bred to herd sheep.
They are popular ‘actor’ breeds in shows and film

(Photo credit: Ksuksa/Bigstock)

English Springer Spaniel

Great things come in medium-sized packages and this friendly pooch is no exception. Typically used for hunting game bird, he is agile, willing, obedient and a quick little learner. He’s also great with kids and makes a super companion pooch. Dripping wet, he weighs around 50 pounds and stands up to 19 inches tall. Like so many other canine breeds, though, the English Springer Spaniel does need to have the opportunity to exercise daily. It is important to know that this breed is athletic and active, and it also has a natural instinct for hunting. Allowing your dog to play at the park or in your backyard is wise. And these dogs love being in open spaces, so if you live in the country and you’re in search of a medium-sized dog, this breed might be just what you have been looking for.

Fun Facts:

Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels used to be the same breed.
They are often depicted in lots of 16th Century Art.
They are a popular breed among celebrities.

(Photo credit: rokopics/Bigstock)

Beagle

One of the easiest going pooches around, this happy little guy is always delighted to share his thoughts on the world and is known for having a pretty robust bark and bay. He’s a great family dog with sweet, engaging brown eyes. For such a vocal pooch he has a pretty pint-sized frame that is typically under 25 pounds and no more than 15 inches in height. Also, if you are in search of a great family dog, the Beagle will not disappoint, as these dogs generally get along well with kids, and they form strong bonds with their owners. Even though these dogs can be a little shy at first around new people, the Beagle doesn’t really make for a good guard dog, but if you want a loyal and friendly canine companion, this is a good place to start.

Fun Facts About Beagles:

Their floppy ears help them smell things by bringing scents up to their nose.
They were bred to be hunters.
Their white-tipped tails were bred to make them easier to see as they stuck up.

(Photo credit: Johan F/Bigstock)

Portuguese Water Dog

The Obamas got it right. This playful medium-sized dog gained superstar status when he became the official First Dog of the White House a few years back. Natch, he loves water and was even bred to keep sailors company when at sea. He lands on the bigger side of “medium” packing up to 60 pounds on a 23-inch frame. Plus, the Portuguese Water Dog is one that really aims to please. Start training your pooch early for the best results, but rest assured that, with positive reinforcement, this smart dog will eagerly learn new rules and tricks in an effort to make you happy—and that will certainly make both of you happy! It is also worth noting that this fun loving canine breed is great with kids, as well as protective of the humans he loves, making it a good choice for families who want a watchdog that will be loyal and intelligent.

Fun Facts About Portuguese Water Dogs:

They have webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers.
They were originally herders of fish into fishermen’s nests.
They have curly or wavy coats.
In Portugal, they are known as Cão de Água.

(Photo credit: LynMc26.2/Bigstock)

Cocker Spaniel

This sweet little darling with the big soulful eyes is a great companion dog. Like most breeds, he was originally developed for hunting and specifically for flushing out birds. Today this loving dog nestles nicely into any family unit and weighs in well under 30 pounds with a height of about 15 inches. Just keep in mind that this breed is part of the sporting dog group, so it is important to give your dog plenty of time to exercise and play every day. Training your pooch is a great way to connect with him and mentally stimulate him, too, but be prepared because these dogs can be a bit challenging when it comes to keeping their attention during training sessions. Generally, though, these dogs are well behaved, and they do have a lot of energy, especially when they are young. Plus, these friendly canines love having something to do, so giving these pooches a job will also make them happy.

Fun Facts About Cocker Spaniels:

They may have come to America on the Mayflower!
They are the smallest sporting breed.
They were originally bred to hunt birds.
A Cocker Spaniel was the first cancer-detecting dog.

(Photo credit: Cripps Photography/Bigstock)

Bulldog

You know you want one! This stocky little beauty with the iconic under-bite is one of the most visually animated of the medium-sized dogs. In spite of his intense, jowly look he’s actually a really loyal companion pooch who loves nothing better than to hang with you on the sofa. He does pack a lot on his short 15 inch frame, weighing in at up to 45 pounds. Generally, these dogs can be described as low-maintenance, friendly, and sometimes stubborn. They can also be playful, and they are responsive to training, so they can integrate rather easily into your family and your home.

Fun Facts About Bulldogs:

They were originally bred to fight bulls. (YIKES!)
Their big heads and small backsides make them really poor swimmers.
Conception and reproduction often needs a little ‘help’.

(Photo credit: kozorog/Bigstock)

Poodle

Don’t be fooled by fluff! This pooch is one of the most intelligent breeds around and one of the easier ones to train. Their gentle nature belies the fact that they too were bred for the hunt and retrieving water fowl. This beauty is loving and great with kids and other animals. At around 60 pounds and 27 inches in height, he sits at the top end of the medium-weight size.

Fun Facts About Poodles:

Poodles were originally bred as hunting dogs and they still make excellent hungers.
They are from Germany, not France.
‘Poodle’ cuts are more about function rather than fashion.
They come in three sizes.

(Photo credit: vizland/Bigstock)

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

In spite of their silly, playful nature these intelligent pooches have a keen-to-please personality that makes them easier to train than most terriers. In spite of his somewhat crazed appearance, his super soft and curly coat sheds minimally which makes him great for those with allergies. He weighs no more than 45 pounds and stands around 20 inches tall.

Fun Facts About Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers:

They were once called the “Poor Man’s Dog”.
They have tons of color variation.
They are native to Ireland.
They’re natural farmers.

(Photo credit: babenkodenis/Bigstock)

Standard Schnauzer

What a distinctive pooch; he’s handsome, intelligent, devoted to his family and like the Poodle and Wheaten, is a minimal shedder. This loving little dog comes from a working-class breed that was used for tracking, herding and retrieving on land and water. No wonder he’s kept in shape all these years, packing just 45 pounds onto his 20 inch frame.

Fun Facts About Schnauzers:

They were miniaturized in the 19th Century.
They make excellent service dogs.
They have Pinscher in their bloodline.

(Photo credit: Madrabothair/Bigstock)

Whippet

Finishing up our medium-sized dog breeds list is the Whippet. While this agile boy can reach speeds of up to 35 mph, he’s cool with just chasing balls, catching Frisbees or even working as a therapy dog. He’s friendly, loving and a big fan of crashing on the sofa with his bestie. He carries up to 40 pounds on his 22-inch frame.

Fun Facts About Whippets:

They can reach speeds up to 35 mph!
They often get mistaken for Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds or Great Danes.
They were once called “The Poor Man’s Racehorse”.

(Photo credit: Lilun/Bigstock)

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

More by Mary Simpson

Save Big on Ark Naturals Kiss Me-ow Dental Chews and Lickables

View Article

Top 10 Dumbest Dog Breeds

View Gallery

Top 10 Clingy Dog Breeds

Just call them Velcro dogs! Here's a list of 10 clingy dog breeds that will never want to leave your side.

Top 10 Crisis Response Dog Breeds

So, what exactly is a Crisis Response Dog? Let’s start with what it isn’t. It’s not a Therapy Dog, it isn’t a Service Dog, nor is it an Emotional Support Animal (ESA).

Top 10 Best Water Dog Breeds

Are you looking for a natural born swimmer? If you want a pooch who loves to splash around in the pool, check out our list of water dog breeds! You’re standing at the edge of a lake and decide to throw a stick into the water for your pooch to fetch. Which breeds are splashing down before the target hits the water and which are sneaking back to the car with their tail between their legs? Some dog breeds just can’t get enough of the wet stuff while others are born landlubbers who prefer nothing more than the dry warmth of terra firma. These water breeds below love the water. Why do dogs like the water? Many dogs love to swim. Seriously, think of the term ‘Doggie Paddle’ and wonder where that came from for a minute. The majority of dogs who love to swim do so for a couple of different reasons. One is that a dog’s body is often built to swim. The way their body weight is distributed along with their (sometimes) webbed paws and natural instincts makes them great swimmers. Their tails act like a great rudder to steer them along and their water-resistant coats mean that they stay warm and dry quickly no matter the water they go in. Additionally, dogs with longer legs love swimming because –well, they have the legs that are built for it. Long, lean kicks and movements in the water help keep them afloat and when you combine that with their desire to do smart things for their owners (like hunt and point)? Many dogs just love the water because it allows them to please their owners. Additionally, introducing dogs early on can make them love the water. You shouldn’t ever make your fearful dog get into water if they don’t want to, but take the time to train them and even use life jackets if need be if you’re not 100% sure they’re good. Even though they may be a water breed, they still have normal tendencies that play into their behaviors; be cognizant of that. Now, If you want to go for a dip, here is our Top 10 list of best water dog breeds. Newfoundland

Top 10 Affectionate Dog Breeds

Everybody needs someone to cuddle – why not make that special somebody a dog? You can count on any of these affectionate dog breeds to stay loyal and never stray! If you want a big kiss or you need to feel loved, nothing beats curling up on the couch with your loyal canine companion. Some dogs simply cannot get enough attention from us, and in turn, show us how much they adore us. In honor of this seemingly endless supply of adorable devotion, we’re pleased to present our top 10 most affectionate dog breeds. We know dogs have emotions. We know that they have feelings and they feel things and are sensitive to us when we are feeling things. We also know that there are just some dogs that we get along with and laugh and love with more because they seem to get us. Like, really get us. What is it about certain breeds of dog that makes that happen? What breeds are they, even that are more affectionate and free in their love? Most people look for a pet for those affectionate relationships and sometimes, when choosing a dog that’s less than affectionate by breed and history, they can be disappointed. It’s nothing against the dog, of course…they are who they are. But if you’re looking for an affectionate dog who’s going to love you forever (and show you too)? Check out this list of our most affectionate breeds (Photo credit: Christin Lola/Bigstock)

Taters the Cat Streams From Deep Space for NASA

Cat playing with laser pointer is used by NASA to measure band-with between deep space and Earth.

A Dog is Adopted After 7 Years in Shelter After An Emotional Discovery

One pet shelter in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, has been the home of a darling rescue dog named Ella for 7 long years. But the long wait for a happy ending is finally over – as Ella was recently adopted, and under very special circumstances at that. The staff at  Bloomsburg Animal Resource Center have titled this “an extremely special adoption”, and advised readers that “they might want to grab a tissue real quick for this one”.Ella had been at the shelter for the last seven years, making her the center’s longest resident. But recently, things took a turn for the better, when Ella was spotted by Kaitlyn, a resident who quickly fell in love with the rescue pooch. When coming to the center, Kaitlyn said that her long-time furry friend, Jo, recently passed away, and now she was ready to meet a new dog.And as soon as the two met, the match was made. It was obvious that they were meant for each other. Ella quickly made everyone know that Kaitlyn was her “human”. Usually, it wasn’t so. Ella was a victim of abuse and had a long history of fear and aggression. It would take several visits for her to get relaxed around strangers. But with Kaitlyn, this was not the case. The bond was near-instant. “She immediately walked over to Kaitlyn with no hesitation, allowing her to give Ella scratches and pets right away,” the staff of the adoption center said.At the end of the adoption meeting, when Kaitlyn was about to leave, she suddenly noticed something that made her overwhelmingly emotional. What she spotted was the bandana that Ella was wearing around her neck. Her eyes welling with tears, Kaitlyn said to the staff that it was the exact bandana that belonged to her recently passed away dog, Jo. She said that after the passing, she donated all the bandanas to the center. “This bandana that Ella is wearing, it’s Jo’s. I donated them all here when he passed,” Kaitlyn said, quickly showing a picture of Jo wearing it. The symbolism and the connection were incredible. It was a sign that the two were meant to be together. When they realized what happened, the staff was moved to tears: “Out of the 20 dogs in our shelter right now, this bandana. This specific bandana. Jo’s bandana. It was on Ella.”Later, Kaitlyn said that the bandana is a sign: “I like to think of it as Jo’s stamp of approval.”And so it was, that after 7 long years of waiting, the kind and gentle Ella found her new forever home, and a human friend who would treat her right.“Every morning, Ella used to pop up off her bed and greet you at the door of her kennel right away,” the staff at the Animal Resource Center said. “We’ll miss that tomorrow, it’ll be such a bittersweet moment realizing that as we pause to reflect on a few of our favorites times with Ella — but my goodness the amount of pure happiness we will feel every day knowing Ella finally got what she deserved: ELLA GOT ADOPTED.”

Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

UK Insurance Giant Names Pets as Culprit in Over 6,000 Claims

Between 2019 and 2023, dogs and cats identified as cause for missing jewelry, broken electronics, and property damage.

How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

We love our dogs and many of us won’t say no to puppy smooches – but to be fair, not all furballs have the freshest breath out there. If your dog has  bad-smelling breath, the culprit might be plaque buildup and the bacteria overgrowth that comes with it. We all know that bacteria are responsible for all things smelly, and when it comes to oral hygiene, the reason why bacteria are there in the first place is bits of leftover food that slowly but surely turn into tartar on your pet’s teeth. The best way to prevent plaque on a dog's teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.How Can I Remove Plaque from My Dog's Teeth?Maintaining good dental health in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. Addressing plaque in your dog's teeth is not just about maintaining a bright smile; it's a key aspect that contributes to their overall health, happiness, and longevity. Regular dental care is an investment in your dog's well-being that pays off in various ways - it’s sure way to prevent dental diseases such as  gingivitis and  periodontitis, eliminate bad breath odor, avoid tooth decay and loss, and maintain your dog’s good appetite. After all, dogs depend on their teeth to eat properly. Just imagine the effect of bad or missing teeth. Unchewed food, indigestion, vomiting – the list is long. So it goes a long way to act on this ahead of time and prevent tartar buildup and remove any existing one. Here are just a few tips to consider when dealing with persistent dog teeth plaque:Prevent Buildup With Regular BrushingDogs need to brush their teeth just like us! They’ll need your help to do it, of course. Remember that it is never too late to start. Start slowly and gently with short brushing sessions, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable. Of course, you should use  a toothbrush that is designed specifically for dogs or a similar fingerbrush. The toothpaste also needs to be for dogs only (never use human toothpaste as it may contain ingredients harmful to dogs).

Are Dogs Smarter than Cats?

The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Diarrhea in Dogs?

Dogs are no strangers to stress and anxiety. While most pooches are the picture of the tail-wagging, carefree dog whose only stress is that they have to wait for their next meal, some have it a bit more ruff. Anxiety in dogs can vary from mild to severe, triggered by specific and occasional stressors (such as  fireworks, for example) or present on a daily level. Naturally, your pet’s state of mind has a big impact on their overall health, so it doesn’t surprise that dogs with anxiety often have tummy issues. But does that mean that a stressful situation or anxiety can directly cause diarrhea in dogs? Having in mind that, in a way, your pet’s mental health is connected to their digestion, it sounds highly probable.How Stress and Anxiety Can Cause DiarrheaSo how does it work? The connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of dogs. When dogs experience stress or anxiety, it can trigger a cascade of physiological responses, including changes in gut motility, secretion of digestive enzymes, and alterations in the composition of gut microbiota. These disruptions can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.When stress or anxiety takes hold, it's not just a matter of frazzled nerves. These emotional states can set off a domino effect within your dog's digestive system. Rather than a simple list of effects, think of it as a cascade of events:Picture your dog feeling anxious during a  thunderstorm or while being left alone. This emotional response triggers a surge of adrenaline, part of the body's "fight or flight" response. Blood flow shifts away from the digestive organs and toward the muscles, heart, and lungs, hastening gut motility.Meanwhile, the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome, is disrupted by stress. This dysbiosis can lead to inflammation, changes in gut permeability, and an upset stomach.Furthermore, chronic stress weakens the immune system, leaving your dog more susceptible to infections and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.Beyond these physiological effects, stress-related behaviors like excessive chewing,  licking, or ingesting non-food items can irritate the digestive tract, exacerbating diarrhea.How To Deal With Stress-Related Diarrhea in DogsIf your dog is experiencing stress-related diarrhea, there are several things you can do to alleviate their discomfort and ensure a speedier recovery.Before anything else, it’s essential to identify and address stressors. Determine the underlying causes of your dog's stress or anxiety and take steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible. This may involve providing a calm, predictable environment, addressing separation anxiety, or using  desensitization techniques for noise phobias.Next, support their digestion with a mild, nurturing diet and the right supplements. Your pet’s tummy is upset, so you shouldn’t neglect the importance of rebalancing their gut biome and helping their digestion. Instead of their usual kibble, offer them a bit of broth, some cooked rice, or boiled chicken breast. Additionally, a digestive supplement such as  Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder can work wonders in managing symptoms of diarrhea. With a combination of special probiotics and antioxidants, this powdered supplement will quickly restore your pet’s GI tract and help their stool get back to its normal consistency. And since it’s packed with live microorganisms to benefit beneficial intestinal microflora, it can also help treat excessive gas and other digestion-related troubles, so it’s good to keep stocked in your pet’s first aid kit, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. 

AI Could Match You with a New Furry Friend Based on Personality

In a cutting-edge study, scientists specializing in canine behavior have used artificial intelligence to predict dog personality types. A multi-disciplinary research team has developed an AI algorithm that simplifies the painstaking process of evaluating canine personalities.Understanding a dog’s temperament is key not only for pet owners but also for training agencies and professionals working with working dogs. The study, which introduces a brand-new method of predicting and categorizing dog personalities, is published in the eminent journal Scientific Reports. The team that developed the algorithm hopes that it will more quickly and accurately evaluate which dogs are better suited for long-term careers, such as assisting people with disabilities and helping law enforcement. This new approach to predicting dog personalities could also be used to match owners with a new furry best friend. The new AI algorithm can help shelters place dogs in the right homes, thus reducing the number of dogs returned for not being the right fit for their adoptive families.Before this algorithm, canine behavioral experts used questionnaires and statistical analysis to determine a dog’s personality.  The AI algorithm uses data from almost 8,000 responses to the commonly used Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). The C-BARQ questionnaire has been the top resource for evaluating working dogs in the past two decades. “C-BARQ is highly effective, but many of its questions are also subjective,” said James Serpell, a professor of ethics and animal welfare emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “By clustering data from thousands of surveys, we can adjust for outlying responses inherent to subjective survey questions in categories such as dog rivalry and stranger-related fear.”The team’s new AI algorithm gathers the responses to C-BARQ questions into five main categories that essentially form the digital personality of a dog. The results showed five distinctive personality types among domestic dogs, including excitable/attached, anxious/fearful, reactive/assertive, aloof/predatory, and calm/agreeable.The study was conducted over two years by a multi-disciplinary research team consisting of Dr Mohammad Amirhosseini of the University of East London and Professor James Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. The research was sponsored by Dogvatar, a Miami, Florida-based canine technology startup.“This innovative AI-based methodology holds promise for revolutionizing the selection and training of dogs for specific roles, both for working and non-working,” said Dr Amirhosseini. Almost 50 percent of people who surrender their dogs to animal shelters in the USA say that behavioral problems are a contributing factor, and nearly a quarter say that those problems are the main reason for giving up their dog. More research is needed to understand the nuances of canine personalities. However, researchers hope to promote strong bonds between people and their dogs by designing effective training programs and customized dog-owner interactions. According to researchers, these findings could serve as a foundation to explore personality matching between dogs and their owners and how that might improve the quality of their relationship.Dogvatar and the research team plan to conduct further research into potential uses for their dog personality testing algorithm.“This has been a really exciting breakthrough for us,” said Dogvatar CEO Piya Pettigrew. “This algorithm could greatly improve efficiency in working dog training and placement process and could help reduce the number of companion dogs brought back to shelters for not being compatible. It’s a win for both dogs and the people they serve.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?

While traveling with your pet can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be. Even though some  airlines can be a bit finicky about their rules and regulations, you can fly with your pet in tow safely and comfortably, as long as you know their requirements and follow them to the letter.Having your choice of airlines to travel with your dog as your companion, broadens your options when it comes to travel destinations and can eliminate a lot of usual travel-related stress factors in the process. In fact, flying your pet together with you can be simple, straightforward, and hassle-free! As long as you stick to the rules, that is. So, without further ado, what are the requirements for flying with a dog? Are there any universal practices you should know or does it really depend from company to company? Here’s everything you should know before packing your bags.What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?Of course, it goes without saying that you can’t just appear with your pet at the check-in gate and fly away! There are many important rules involved, mainly in order to keep your pet safe, to comply with specific airline regulations, the rules of other countries, and the comfort of other passengers as well. It is also important to remember that different airlines might have different rules. It is crucial that you contact your desired airline beforehand, checking about any special regulations that they require. Still, there are some universal criteria that any pet will have to meet in order to fly on a plane.One of the foremost requirements that will allow your pet to fly on a plane is a health certificate. This is a special document that can be issued by your veterinarian after a thorough physical examination. It guarantees that your doggo is healthy, has no diseases, and has all the required vaccinations that are up to date. And, of course, this certificate needs to be recent. They are valid for only about 30 days, so make sure to do it in time. Some airlines also require that your pet be microchipped. This is advisable for all pet owners regardless of travel or not. The  microchip allows for quick and simple identification in case your pet gets lost and also serves as a sort of doggo credential. Just make sure that all the information stored on the chip is up-to-date!

Husky Detects a Dangerous Gas Leak and Saves the Entire Neighborhood

Kobe, a four-year-old husky became an internet hero after saving his home and the entire neighborhood from a catastrophic gas leak. According to his owner, Chanell Bell, the canine started digging a large hole in the front yard of their Philadelphia home. At first, Bell didn’t think much of Kobe’s strange behavior. However, as the hole grew bigger, she became concerned that Kobe was trying to tell her something.“I trust his judgment because that isn’t his typical behavior and he is usually right,” said Bell, according to PEOPLE. “He has great senses and he never digs holes unless he is helping me dig; I knew something was up.”Earlier in the month, Bell had a gas leak in the house, and out of caution, she decided to check the hole Kobe dug with a gas detection device. “I had a reader already in the house to make sure there were no leaks coming from my old heater,” explained Bell. “When I saw the hole, I realized it was odd behavior for my dog. My intuition told me to check it.”Immediately the device detected gas. A potentially catastrophic amount of gas was coming from the hole Kobe dug in the yard!Bell alerted authorities right away and they informed her that the entire neighborhood should be grateful that Kobe detected the leak when he did. “We were told it could’ve caused serious health effects like respiratory issues, brain damage, and even death. They told me that something as simple as a light switch turning on could’ve caused an explosion, too.”As soon as they arrived at the address, the gas foreman and crew turned off the gas and started to work on the pipes. During the repairs, the crew discovered three other gas leaks in the neighborhood, all caused by old pipes. The crew worked for three days to repair the leaks and install new pipes. Workers told Bell that something as simple as turning on a light switch could have caused the gas to ignite and blow up the entire house. While they worked, the crew praised Kobe.“They were so impressed with Kobe and mentioned what a good dog he was,” said Bell, adding that people should always listen to their pets and their senses. The gas company said that it adds Marcaptan to the natural gas it administers to homes to produce a smell similar to rotten eggs to allow for easier leak detection. “Just like this customer, any time anyone smells a foreign odor or egg-like smell, they should immediately call,” said the utility company, in a statement. “It feels amazing to know Kobe saved our block, I am very thankful to have him,” added Bell. “I hope this spreads awareness to others about the dangers and severity of gas leaks and to pay attention to your fur babies!”  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Tell Your Cats Are About to Fight, According to Scientists

Have you ever wondered if your cats are play fighting or fighting for real? People living in multi-cat households know that the occasional scuffle or a full-blown cat fight is bound to happen. However, many cat owners have a hard time figuring out whether their cats are fighting or roughhousing. A new study published in Scientific Reports can provide some clues. As it turns out, certain behaviors could indicate whether an interaction between two felines is friendly, aggressive, or something in between. In this study, scientists, including Noema Gajdoš-Kmecová from the University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Slovakia, analyzed 105 videos of interactions between 210 cats. The videos were obtained directly from cat owners and YouTube. After watching around one-third of the videos, Gajdoš-Kmecová pinpointed six types of specific behaviors, including wrestling, chasing, staying still, vocalizing, interactive, and non-interactive activities. She then watched all the videos again to see which cats exhibited one of these specific behaviors and for how long. After running a statistical analysis, Gajdoš-Kmecová was able to identify three distinctive types of interactions between the cat pairs - playful, intermediate, and aggressive. To confirm her findings, other members of the research team also watched the videos and classified each interaction between cats. Over half of the cats from the videos, 56% to be exact, exhibited playful interactions. According to the study, playful interactions included wrestling and a lack of vocalization. About 29% were labeled as agonistic, meaning they exhibited any type of social behavior that included threatening, aggression, and submission. Cats in this group vocalized and exhibited recurring bouts of inactivity.The cats in the intermediate group were involved in both aggressive and playful encounters. According to researchers, this group showed prolonged exchanges of specific behaviors, like laying on the back with the belly exposed, pouncing, stalking, and grooming each other. Scientists believe that this mixture of playful and aggressive behavior may be a sign of short-term friction between the cats rather than the end of the relationship. “This might escalate into a fully agonistic encounter but does not necessarily reflect a breakdown in their social relationship but rather a short-term disagreement in social priorities,” researchers wrote in the study. This study is the first to apply a scientific approach to cat behavior that can be identified by experienced and first-time owners alike. Thanks to this study, scientists can now classify inter-cat interactions as either playful, agonistic, or intermediate. “Wrestling can be a sign of a fight but if it comes with bouts of inactivity then that often means it is playful,” explained Profesor Daniel Mills, who led the study.“Playfighting is also without vocalizations. That’s the profile of a friendly cat. The agonistic cat, they might not do as much wrestling with inactivity but they do lots of vocalization.”“Owners should keep an eye out on how much they are wrestling and whether or not they’re vocalizing. Vocalizing can be broad and include meowing and also yowling,” he added. We all know when cats are fighting fur real, but it’s important to recognize intermediate interactions, where things could end in play or escalate into a real fight. “A lot of cats end up at cat rescue centers because the owners think that they’ve fallen out. In the clinic, I’ve seen cats that are playing and the owner thinks it’s a real fight,” said Professor Mills. If your cats are really getting along (share food and toys and sleep together), an occasional bout of agonistic play is okay. But if your cats aren’t the best of friends, you should look for signs of agonistic behavior. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

“One-of-a-Kind” Cat With Two Noses Searches for Her Forever Home

As rescue cat parents and rescue advocates, we know firsthand that every cat has a unique story to tell. But some cats truly stand out and make their mark on the world. Nanny McPhee, a rescue cat who recently came into the care of the Cats Protection Warrington Adoption Centre. It’s not the way this sweet girl came into the shelter or her life before that has everyone talking… It’s a VERY unique physical feature – her nose, or “noses,” in her case! The sweet kitty lived in a loving home for the first four years of her life. Unfortunately, her previous owner had to make the difficult decision to contact a rescue due to health and financial reasons. When Nanny McPhee first arrived at the rescue, volunteers and rescue workers noticed a few things about the tuxedo kitty. First, she was a very gentle lady with a love for attention.“She has proven to be a gentle lady who adores a fuss and a cuddle, and we are hopeful her new-found fame will mean she will have no shortage of potential adopters,” shared shelter manager Lindsay Kerr. “She really does deserve a home where she can settle down and become the center of a loving family.” Second, they noticed she had a surprisingly large nose. It was this unique feature that led to her being named after the popular children’s character. But that signature sniffer was hiding an even bigger secret. A check-up with a local veterinarian revealed that the cat had not one but TWO noses, creating the appearance of one large snout. When asked about the discovery, senior field veterinary officer Fiona Brockbank explained that it was the first time they had seen this but that the cat’s unique appearance resulted from a congenital malformation. Other more common examples of this include cleft palates or cleft lips. These conditions can be inherited or caused by an incident during development in utero.

Camping Available at Best Friend's Animal Sanctuary

Are you searching for a pet-friendly camping solution for the upcoming travel season? If so, you’re in luck! Located in Kanab, Utah, the Best Friends Sanctuary offers a beautiful getaway for animal lovers.The location offers hiking trails, children’s activities, the Sanctuary store, the Angel Village café, and, of course, the animal sanctuary. Whether you plan on staying for a night or more, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your trip while making a difference for the most vulnerable.Located on 3,700 acres, it is home to up to 1,600 animals on any given day. The animals in their care include cats, dogs, birds, bunnies, horses, pigs, and others.There are 18 RV sites with 30—and 50-amp power, septic, and water hookups. Free Wi-Fi is also available to visitors. While the sites can accommodate larger RVs and trailers, any over 21 feet may have difficulty navigating the roads within the sanctuary, and it is recommended that these guests have a separate vehicle to get around during their stay.If you don’t have an RV, cottages and cabins are also available on-site. The most significant differences between these two options are the guest capacity and location. Cottages can accommodate groups of up to six, while cabins are designed for only one or two people. Unlike the cabins, which share a group patio area, each cottage has its own dedicated patio or deck.Visitors can reserve a tour of the sanctuary to see the beautiful views and the incredible work the organization is doing or sign up to volunteer. It’s the perfect opportunity for those who want to give back, dedicating a small portion of your vacation to helping around the sanctuary and leaving you with the good feeling of knowing you made a difference.You can schedule a volunteer shift up to a year in advance with tasks including:Walking the animalsPreparing and serving foodQuality time playing with or petting the animalsCleaning (dishes, mopping, etc.)Making toys or treatsGeneral maintenance and upkeep on the groundsThe minimum age for volunteering depends on the task, with the Bunny House and Parrot Garden accepting volunteers as young as eight.If camping isn’t your travel style, no problem. Five minutes down the road, you will find the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile, a boutique pet-centric hotel. The location offers 40 rooms and suites, a complimentary vegan continental breakfast, an on-site pet grooming facility, and a dog park complete with a seasonal splash pad.With an allowed maximum of four pets per room and no pet fee, the hotel takes “pet-friendly” to a whole new level!Are you traveling without your pet and need to get your “fix” of cuddles and playtime? You can also host a sleepover with a dog or cat from the sanctuary at the hotel. Simply contact the hotel in advance to arrange for a furry sleepover guest.Of course, if you fall in love with an adoptable animal during your stay, you can always apply to add that furry (or feathered) friend to your family before leaving.Make your reservation to stay at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary on their website today!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Top stories

Top 10 Medium Sized Dog Breeds

Save Big on Ark Naturals Kiss Me-ow Dental Chews and Lickables

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

Top stories

Top 10 Medium Sized Dog Breeds

Related articles