5 Simple Ways to Lose Weight With Your Dog

by Kate Barrington

Published: January 14th, 2018

5 simple ways to lose weight with your dog

Don’t think of it as a resolution – if you want to drop a few pounds, make it a small goal that you can share with your dog. Here are 5 easy ways to lose weight with your dog.

Many pet owners think of their companions as more than just pets – they are members of the family. If this is how you feel about your pet, you probably want to spend as much time with him as you possibly can. Unfortunately, many of the same health problems that threaten to shorten your own lifespan can affect your dog as well – being overweight is one of them.

But New Year’s Resolutions are doomed to fail. You put too much pressure on yourself, and if you mess up once, you abandon your best laid plans. Instead, try setting a small goal or two that will bring you closer to your overall goal. And if that goal is to lose weight, we have five easy ways to incorporate your dog into those starting steps.

Go for a Walk or Run

If you have a dog, you probably already take him for a daily walk, but how long is that walk? If you’re honest with yourself you might admit that you don’t walk your dog as long as you should or that your walking pace is too leisurely to really get much benefit. To get the most benefit out of walking your dog, aim for three 20-minute walks spaced throughout the day and walk at a brisk pace. If you are up to running, you can work with your dog over the course of a few weeks to increase his stamina so the two of you can go running together.

Work in Some Extra Play Time

You probably don’t take your cat for daily walks, if you have one, but you can still give him some extra exercise at home. Engaging in active playtime with your cat is good for both of you and it burns calories too! To get your cat moving, try tying a favorite toy to a string or use a laser pointer. It may not be as much exercise for you as for your cat, but taking even a 5- or 10-minute break from sitting can be beneficial for your health.

Choose Healthier Treats

There is nothing wrong with a little bit of indulgence now and then, but overindulgence can lead to unhealthy weight gain, both for you and for your pet. For your own diet, try to reduce your intake of processed foods and increase your intake of natural foods like fresh fruits and veggies. You may even be surprised to learn that some of the treats that are healthy for you and great for your pet too! Swap some of your dog’s store-bought treats for pieces of carrot, sweet potato, apple, or strawberry.

Rack Up Some Shorter Sessions

If you work a full-time job and care for a family, finding a spare 30 minutes to walk the dog may be something of a luxury. For both you and your dog’s health, however, you should get as much exercise each day as you can. If this means going for a few 5-minute walks around the block or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator, do it! For your pet, try putting his food dish and sleeping area (or litter box for a cat) at opposite ends of the house so they have to walk back and forth.

Be More Mindful of Portion Sizes

Your dog will eat just about anything you put in front of him and you may find that the same is true for you if you sit down with a bag of chips or a box of cookies. One of the easiest ways to lose weight is simply to eat a little less. To control your own portions, never eat from a box or bag – always put your food in a bowl. You might even measure out your portions, if you’re really serious about it. For your pet, re-evaluate how much you’re feeding him and compare it to the feeding recommendations on the package. If he’s gained or lost weight, adjust his portion accordingly.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Simple Ways To Keep Your Dog Safe When Home Alone

You want to take your dog everywhere with you, but it’s just not possible. Ensure your dog’s home alone time is safe with a few simple house hacks. You have probably heard the saying that “curiosity killed the cat,” but dogs can be just as mischievous as cats, especially when they are left home alone. Your dog doesn’t understand that certain things in your house might be dangerous for him, he only knows that they look like fun to play with. And of course, he’ll find them when he’s got some time on his paws… alone. Before you leave the house, make sure that you’ve made the environment not only safe for him, but be confident that you’ll come back to an intact home. Related: 5 Stress-Free Ways To Deal With Dog Separation Anxiety Dog-Proofing Your Home Your home doesn’t suddenly become more dangerous just because you are gone – there are all kinds of things that your dog could get into when you are home and not supervising him. For your dog’s safety it is recommended that you “dog-proof” your home. Follow the tips below to dog-proof your home: Keep all food in closed containers, stored in a cupboard or pantry where your dog can’t get into it – this is especially important for foods that are toxic to dogs.Make sure your trash is kept in a lidded container, ideally under the sink or in a closet where your dog can’t get into dangerous things like chicken bones.Cover all of your outlets with plastic covers and keep electrical cords out of your dog’s reach.Avoid leaving small objects (like your child’s toys) on the floor where your dog could chew on them and potentially choke.Always keep doors to the outside closed so your dog doesn’t wander off without you knowing.Check to make sure that none of the houseplants you keep are toxic to dogs – you should also make sure the plants outside on your property are safe as well.Keep all cleaning products and medications out of your dog’s reach. Related: 5 Important Tips On Dog Proofing Your Balcony Other Tips for Keeping Dogs Safe In addition to dog-proofing your home, there are a few other simple things you can do to make sure that your dog is safe when you are not around. You will find additional dog safety tips below: To make sure that your dog doesn’t have the energy to get into trouble when you’re not around, engage in some active playtime before you go. Try to tire your dog out with a game of fetch, or go for a long walk or run.Give your dog an interactive toy to play with while you’re gone so he doesn’t get into things that aren’t toys. Kong toys and puzzle toys are great options – plus, they give your dog some mental stimulation which is especially important for high-intelligence breeds.Consider hiring a dog walker or taking your dog to a doggie daycare service if you worry that he isn’t getting enough exercise or attention. Having a dog walker come by in the middle of the day to take your dog out for a half hour or so can make a big difference.If you can’t trust your dog not to get into trouble when you aren’t home (for short periods of time ONLY), consider keeping him in a crate. If you don’t like the idea of a crate, make a play area for your dog in one room of the house with plenty of toys to keep him busy without giving him free reign of the house. Additionally, you should learn never to leave your dog outside when you are not home. Even if your fence is high enough and secure enough that your dog can’t escape, you never know when inclement weather might hit and a dog left alone in a yard is still vulnerable to intruders from the outside.

5 Reasons Why Your Cat May Be Losing Weight

Many cat owners are worried that their felines are too fat – but what do you do if your kitty is losing weight unintentionally?Keeping an eye on your cat’s weight is an important step you can take to ensure he’s healthy. In the same way that you aim to maintain a healthy weight so you can work towards staying well, you also want your kitty to be at a  healthy weight that is appropriate for his breed and size. You can help your cat stay within the right weight range by feeding him high-quality, species-appropriate food and encouraging him to stay active with the use of interactive toys, cat trees, perches, puzzle toys, and more. Making sure your kitty doesn’t weigh too much is just part of it, though. You also want to be sure that your cat isn’t losing weight when he shouldn’t. Of course, if your veterinarian put your cat on a diet to  lose weight because he was diagnosed as overweight or  obese, there is nothing wrong with him shedding a few pounds to get within an appropriate weight range—and you would work closely with your vet to ensure the safest weight loss results. But if your cat is losing weight unexpectedly or without trying, it might indicate there is a health problem that needs to be addressed.Related: How Much Should I Feed My Cat?Don’t Ignore Unexplained Weight Loss in CatsIf you notice your feline friend is losing weight, whether he’s eating normally or not, you should have him examined by a vet, as weight loss could indicate an underlying medical concern. So, don’t just ignore it when your cat starts losing weight, regardless of his age, and don’t assume that it is a normal part of aging. Instead, get answers from a veterinarian so you can provide any treatments, if necessary, and help your kitty achieve overall wellness.  To shed some light on this important topic, below are a few, but not all, of the reasons why a cat might start losing weight. Just remember that your vet can properly examine your kitty and determine whether your pet’s weight is ideal, too high, or too low, and what could be the cause for any weight loss that’s occurring.DiabetesDiabetes is one condition that may cause weight loss. But even if your kitty is getting thinner, you might notice that the weight loss is accompanied by a change in the cat’s appetite, to the point that your pet is eating more even though he is not gaining weight. In addition to that, if you notice that your cat has lost weight and is showing other signs associated with diabetes—such as urinating more than usual, drinking more than usual, behaving sluggishly, or having bad breath that smells sweet—take him to the vet to be examined so you can get some answers. Don’t worry, as there are treatment options for cats with diabetes, and your vet will be able to guide you in the right direction.Dental ProblemsWhen you have a toothache or another oral health issue that makes it difficult or painful to chew your food, you don’t really want to eat, right? Well, the same may be true of your cat. There are several oral health problems that can occur in cats, and your pet might experience pain as a result. Therefore, it is important to be aware of potential tooth and gum issues, and to keep an eye out for their symptoms. Your cat might stop eating and start to lose weight, even if he’s otherwise healthy, because something is wrong in his mouth, such as a toothache that’s causing him pain when he tries to eat. If you notice your cat pawing at his mouth or drooling, these are other symptoms that might also indicate that there’s a tooth or gum problem that needs to be checked by a vet. Your veterinarian can carefully examine your kitty’s mouth, including the teeth and gums, to see if there are any conditions that need to be addressed and treated. Plus, your vet can teach you how to work on  keeping your pet’s teeth clean at home. Related: What To Do With Your Overweight CatHyperthyroidismIf your kitty has a good appetite and is eating quite a bit, or perhaps even eating more than usual, but is still losing weight,  hyperthyroidism might be the culprit. Other symptoms of this condition include, but are not limited to, increase in thirst, increased urination, diarrhea, and vomiting. Also, this health problem might lead to heart ailments and death. So, as you probably assumed, getting your kitty to the vet is imperative if the symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism develop.Gastrointestinal Ailments Gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, and food allergies, may lead to weight loss. Other symptoms might also be evident, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite. 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5 Ways to Build a Bond With Your Dog

Are you looking for ways to grow even closer to your dog? We’ve put together 5 ways to build a bond with your dog. While we love our pets and consider them to be key family members, is our commitment to one another more or less transactional – they need us for sustenance, and we need them for comfort – and that’s how we happily co-exist? Or is it something more? So, here’s a question. If you could find a way to actually bond with your dog rather than simply share living space, would you be interested? Of course, you would. And that’s why we’re sharing these 5 easy steps to how you can build a stronger connection with your pooch. Build Trust Trust creates a level of comfortable predictability for your dog. He knows he can count on you to come through when he needs it most – meals, walks, or comfort during a stressful time. But there also needs to be an overarching level of trust that isn’t shaken when activities fall outside these established norms. The best way to gain his trust and bond with your dog is to always be fair and don’t tease. Don’t pretend you have a treat if there is none. Don’t trick him into getting leashed up for a trip to the dog park, when it’s a trip to the vet. You know the buzz words that get him happily excited – don’t abuse them. Use Rewards-Based Training All dogs require training at some point in their lives. Whether it’s to learn the basic commands, to help with socialization, or to help curtail naughty habits, teaching your dog new behaviors is simply part of life. And it’s during this period of growth that he’s learning more than just how to respond to commands. While he’s working hard to anticipate your expectations, he’s also taking note of how well you respond when he gets it wrong. Don’t create an environment of fear. Build a bond with your dog by using rewards-based training to praise and acknowledge his good days, and forget about scolding and punishment on those not-so-great days. Set Expectations There aren’t many dogs that don’t get excited by the words “good boy”. And whether it’s to recognize a trick he has performed or a naughty behavior he has overcome, dogs just love verbal praise and treat rewards that tell him he’s done a good job. It means you’re working as a tight, bonded team and he loves that. So, set your pet up for success by establishing consistent rules and setting expectations that let him know what’s required of him. Make them achievable and appropriate to his age, breed, and health, but ensure he knows what they are and that you celebrate together each time he delivers on them. Physical Affection While this may seem obvious, we don’t always deliver it in a way that is meaningful to our pet. Providing him with cushy beds or squeaky toys and playing games of catch in the backyard or to off-leash runs at the dog park, may feel like we’re showing our pet affection, but in actuality, we’re simply caring for them. The affection comes in the form of physical contact – snuggling on the sofa, rubbing his tummy, stroking his head, or grooming sessions that allow you to interact as you brush him out. Providing one-on-one contact with your pet is an ideal way to build a connection and develop a lasting bond. Understand His Boundaries Respect your dog’s boundaries. Whether fear-based (such as thunderstorms and fireworks), down to personal dislikes (my dogs hate to be brushed), or are a mistrust of strangers that you need to work through with him, don’t rush the solution. While the first step is to simply recognize the trigger, the next is to develop an action plan to overcome it. Offer rewards if your pet allows you to trim his nails or perform any other unpopular but necessary task. Check into Thunder-shirts that can help relieve stress or investigate de-sensitization practices. But forcing your pet into a confrontation will only break the bond you’ve worked so hard to

5 Ways Probiotics Can Help Your Dog

You take probiotics to help your digestion – but did you know that your pooch could take them, too? Here are a few reasons why you should give your dog probiotics. While we’ve been conditioned to watch for probiotics in our branded yogurt products, do we really understand how this popular ingredient actually delivers on the promised improvement to our gut health? And if it really does help to improve the human digestive process, is there any chance it can also benefit our canine buddies? Let’s start with the first question. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria and yeasts that aid in the digestion of food. They inhibit the growth of pathogens such as E-coli and salmonella, help in the production of vitamins and nutrients, and generally give our immune system a bit of a boost. Now, when it comes to the second question about whether it can also benefit a dog’s digestive tract, the answer is “yes”. In fact, it’s a highly effective treatment for dogs with chronic or even sporadic digestive issues. Here’s how and when you should use it: Pancreatitis prone dogs. If your pooch reacts with loose bowels when just a hint of fat enters his diet, a probiotic can provide quick, natural relief. For those unfamiliar with the condition, pancreatitis is a painful inflammation of the pancreas and intestinal tract that can be caused by a fatty diet. Probiotics help to rebuild the ratio of good to bad bacteria in his gut that’s needed to help reduce debilitating irritation. Older dogs. As our pets age, their immune systems can become supressed and make them prone to digestive ailments. By including a probiotic in his daily diet, you can anticipate your dog’s need for help in this area. Taking a pro-active approach can prevent him from going through the discomfort of bloating and diarrhea that will happen when his digestive tract is out of balance. Easily stressed dogs. While some breeds are naturally inclined to fret, its not uncommon for individual dogs to have their own set of specific triggers like a change in routine or a visit to the vet. Whether your pet’s stress is chronic or situational, a probiotic taken daily (for dogs that are easily stressed) or as needed (the day before an expected event) can help to settle a nervous stomach. Medicated dogs. At some time in his life, your pet will have to take some form of medication – whether following a surgery, an infection, or for a condition that requires long-term treatment. While most dogs weather it well, for some it can result in a seriously upset digestive system. In these instances, a good probiotic can help calm a sensitive tummy – whether for temporary relief or as a continuing resolution. Parasite infected dogs. Dogs can be prone to hookworms – a parasite that’s found in contaminated soil and can be picked up as easily as your pooch walking across an infected area. It lives in his intestinal tract, feeding on blood and potentially causing anemia. A good probiotic will strengthen your pet’s intestinal wall membrane and research shows it can be highly effective at keeping hookworms at bay. But while you may be prone to share that bowl of yogurt with your pooch, best to resist. Many yogurts include ingredients (such as artificial sweetener Xylitol) which is extremely toxic for dogs – even in the smallest amounts. Plan to look for a powder, a liquid, chews or capsules that can be given to your pet in quantities recommended by the manufacturer

What Do I Do if My Dog Has a Chipped Tooth?

Discovering that your dog is hurt or in pain is a concerning moment for any pet parent, regardless of the injury. But dental injuries can be particularly stressful. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you understand!Whether your pup chipped a tooth during a rough play session with their best furry friend or while gnawing on a hard chew like a bone or antler, any dental damage must be addressed promptly.Read on to learn how to prioritize your dog’s dental health, including identifying if they may be suffering from a broken or chipped tooth, how to address dental damage and tips for preventing a broken tooth before it happens. Your pup will thank you!Common Signs of a Broken or Chipped ToothThe first step to caring for dental problems is to identify that your dog is experiencing an issue. The signs of dental problems vary considerably. While some dogs won’t show any discomfort, others may demonstrate considerable pain. This is due not only to the difference in a dog’s personality and pain threshold but also the spectrum of injuries that fall under the heading of “dental problems.”Broken teeth can be categorized into three groups:Enamel Fractures: Damage only to the enamel of the tooth.Crown Fractures: Damage extends deeper into the tooth, breaking the crown and exposing the pulp.Root Fractures: The root of the tooth has been broken.Unless you inspect your dog’s teeth regularly and spot a problem, we often have to rely on body language and behavioral changes to know there’s a problem. Unfortunately, dogs are very good at hiding pain, so they may be suffering from a problem for a while before we’re aware that there is an issue.Some of the more common signs of a broken or chipped tooth include:Excessive droolingBloody salivaPawing at their muzzleChewing on one side of the mouthReluctancy to eat and kibble or harder-to-chew itemsRefusal to eat at allAvoiding drinking cold waterGrinding teethSwelling in the faceDiscomfort or reluctance to have muzzle touchedWhining or whimpering Not playing as they would normally Sudden or out-of-character aggressive or anxious behaviorTrembling or shaking

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New Study Shows Surprising Effect of Pet Ownership on Seniors

You’ve probably noticed how your four-legged bestie influences your mood for the better, but did you know that your pet might be beneficial to your brain? That’s right! The latest studies show that your pet and their company could be just the thing to lower the risk of dementia in your golden years. These findings are especially important for single senior pet owners who are at risk of this troubling illness as they reveal that having a pet can make a drastic change. A recent study that involved adults over the age of 50 who lived alone revealed that those living in the company of a loved pet will have considerably less decline in their verbal fluency and verbal memory - compared to those who lived without a pet. This research was published in the  journal JAMA Network Open and was based on data taken from 7,945 people in the mentioned age group.This study, however, only reflects on people who live alone and does not involve participants who lived with other persons in the household. Still, while the results reinforce the fact that loneliness is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in old age, they also reveal something new – that the company of a pet counts as much as the company of human family members, if not more so.The early signs of cognitive decline can be fluency, verbal issues, cognition, and memory problems, and so on. But if you have the company of a pet, whom you can address and care for, can greatly reduce the feelings of loneliness and keep these cognitive issues at bay. This study and its results are very important in today’s day and age and for many Americans in particular. Recent U.S. Census Bureau insights revealed that almost 28 percent of all households in the United States were “one-person households” in 2020. This is an alarmingly large number and shows us that many people aged 50 and older will face lonely senior years. Of course, even though the results of this study show that older people can maintain their mental health through the company of a pet, the research team emphasized that more advanced studies and clinical trials will be required to fully confirm the results. Yet even so, the lack of an effective therapy that can reverse or slow cognitive decline and treat dementia means that these results are a small but very important benefit for the understanding of these issues. And, needless to say, all those who are entering their senior years and want to spend them in a healthier and more beneficial way now know that their next station should probably be a local pet shelter. Find a pet you can love and cherish - and keep your brain healthy while showering them with affection.

Adopter Visits a Dog Every Day for 2 Months to Earn the Pet's Trust

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Loyal after death, this mini-mutt remained at her owner's side until rescuers arrived.

Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?

Essential oils have a variety of uses and can be quite beneficial. And that’s not true for human use alone, as these natural oils found their way to the world of pets as well, and can be used to help eliminate a range of issues such as skin irritations, allergies, and fleas, and to boost the overall health of your dog’s coat. But, while there are plenty of pet products that contain essential oils, many owners are wondering: are essential oils really safe for dogs? It is a good question, so let’s try and find the right answer.Essential Oils for Dogs: The BasicsWhile some essential oils can be safe for dogs, it's important to use them with caution. Dogs have a more sensitive sense of smell than humans, so strong scents can be overwhelming, even if they are of natural origin. Certain essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, are generally considered safe in small amounts and when properly diluted. That being said, it is important to know what you are buying and to find essential oils that are made for pets especially. These are likely to be properly diluted and formulated to be safe for dogs. Essential oils can have various effects on dogs, both positive and negative. Some oils, like the aforementioned lavender and chamomile, may help with relaxation and anxiety, and help your pet sleep easier. On the other side, specific oils such as tea tree, citrus, and peppermint can be harmful to dogs and should be avoided.When using essential oils around dogs, it's crucial to dilute them properly. Always dilute essential oils before using them around your dog. Most experts recommend a ratio of 1:50, meaning one drop of essential oil to 50 drops of carrier oil. Of course, you should always observe your dog's reactions. Watch for signs of distress or discomfort in your dog when you introduce a new essential oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, stop using the oil immediately.Ultimately, you should be wary of the application methods you are using. Avoid applying essential oils directly to your dog's skin. Instead, diffuse them in the air or use a diffuser. You can also add a few drops to your dog's collar or bedding if the goal is to deter parasites. Needless to say, it goes a long way to properly familiarize yourself with essential oils and how they are used in the dog world. You can go in-depth with  a book that specializes in this topic, and gain the ultimate knowledge about these helpful oils before utilizing these natural products for your pet’s well-being. 

Is it OK to Give Dogs Raw Bones?

While dogs can be picky eaters, they’re not really known as pets with the most refined pallets. Pooches tend to be voracious and their appetites are indiscriminate, so they’ll munch on anything – anytime.However, as a responsible owner, you should make sure that whatever they’re snacking on is something that’s safe for them to eat – which can be a bit stressful. For instance, the image of a dog with a bone is all but ingrained in people’s brains, but do dogs really need to chew on bones? And, if so, are raw bones fine or do you need to cook them first?Many owners are fearful that bones are not entirely appropriate for dogs, both because of potential bacterial contamination and the risk of bone splintering. Because of this, feeding dogs raw bones can be a controversial topic, and it's important to consider various factors before deciding whether or not to offer this natural snack to your pet. Before you make your decision, here are some important aspects to take into account.Is it OK to Give Dogs Raw Bones?Whether it’s a childhood memory or a scene in an old cartoon, you’ve probably seen a dig happily gnawing on a bone (and a cat drinking cow milk), but are bones really good for dogs – or is it just a myth that they enjoy them? While raw bones for dogs can have some benefits, such as offering important trace minerals, or a way to naturally  remove plaque buildup from a dog’s teeth, there are some risks to giving your pet raw bones. Mainly, two things about raw bones concern dog owners – their tendency to splinter and potential bacterial contamination. When it comes to splintering, it is much less likely for a raw bone to splinter than a cooked one, but still, it is wise to choose bigger bones to minimize the risks even more. As for the chance for the bones to be contaminated with salmonella or E. coli, the key is to source the bones from a trusted, responsible supplier.With those things in mind, if you are still interested in giving your dog raw bones, here are some key steps to follow to make sure that your pet is safe and enjoys their natural chew treat without any adverse effects:#1 Always supervise your petIf you decide to give your dog a raw bone, it's essential to supervise them closely. This helps prevent potential choking hazards, broken teeth, or possible injuries if splintering does occur.#2 Pick the right size

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.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

UK rescues dealing with influx of super-trendy, uber-fashionable pedigree felines.

What Size of Cage Does My Hamster Need?

Final Thoughts: The Best Hamster Cage SetupWhen setting up your hamster’s habitat, consider the floor space available. They are active and energetic creatures that need to be able to run, demanding more freedom to move than is often available in the overly hyped commercial cages. Instead, ensure the cage offers at least 24” by 12” of floor space on the main floor. Several cage styles are available, including wire cages, glass aquariums, and plastic pens. If you want to extend their habitat with a second floor, be cautious about the risk of injury. A long fall can be catastrophic. Include all necessities on the main floor of your hamster’s cage. This includes plenty of bedding to burrow into, clean hay, chew toys/enrichment opportunities, an appropriately sized exercise wheel, and access to fresh food and water. A proper habitat is the foundation for a happy, healthy life for your furry friend! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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