Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross

by Kevin Roberts

Published: June 6th, 2015

dog powered running get fit with canicross

Are you and your dog runners? Hook up a harness and line, and give canicross a try! Kevin Roberts goes over the basics of what you’ll need to set a panting pace.

I run down the trail with my dog, and I pass another runner who mumbles “Cheater” under his breath. While he is so obviously jealous that my dog and I are such an awesomely fast team, it’s also clear that he has never heard of the sport of Canicross. And FYI, buddy – I’m not cheating because it’s a lot of work on my part!

Canicross is canine plus cross country running. All you need is a trail, a runner and a dog. The catch? The dog and human are attached to each other (one reason why this sport is so cool). You and your dog are a team as you work together to take on the trails.

If your dog likes to run and is reasonably physically fit, canicross can be an excellent work out! Smaller dogs, such as Beagles or Cocker Spaniels, may have the energy of a sled dog but not the strength. Canicross gives them street cred of an extreme sport to brag about at the dog park, without the added weight of hauling a sled. Big or small, canicross is a perfect fit for pretty much any breed.

Another great perk about this sport: canicrossers (that’s a fancy name for you and your dog) need little gear. Obviously, the human needs a good pair of shoes to handle the rigors of trail running. You’ll also need a hip belt, also called a trekking belt or a skijoring belt. There are a few options for hip belts on the market. My personal preference is a belt that doesn’t skimp on the width. I don’t want the belt digging into my back as I run – what a pain in the back! A wide belt eases the pressure on your back and is an overall more comfortable fit.

The runner and the dog are attached via a bungee line. You’ll need a line that’s about six to nine feet. The length really depends on how fast you plan to run, where you plan to run, and what you and your dog are comfortable with. If you have an excitable dog and are running on busy shared trails, go for a shorter line. If you’re running a fast dog on trails with some twists and turns, a longer line will give you the flexibility you need.

Harness Fit

Proper harness fit is essential to the health and performance of your dog. While those involved in canicross have their personal favorite, the right harness for your dog ultimately is decided by which one fits your dog best.

What you should be looking for is a properly padded, short harness. Some canicrossers I know run their dogs in traditional sled dog harnesses, also known as an X-back harness, but these are meant for sled dogs. When dogs are hauling a weight with a team of other dogs, the attachment point for the sled comes straight out from their back on the X-back harness. Most canicrossers are taller than their dog, and this means the line goes up at an angle from the dogs back. That means if you’re using an X-back harness, it’s not only uncomfortable for the dog to run in, but can also create problems during the run.

Before you head out on the trails, check that the harness fists properly. If you’re ordering online, the retailer will ask for a series of measurements to help ensure the best fit. The harness should sit just above the dog’s shoulder blades. Too tight a harness and your dog will choke. Too lose and it will interfere with your dog’s gait. Proper fit is essential for both enjoyment and health, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the best size! Even better, have the harness fit in-person by a knowledgeable canicrosser (search your area for canicrossing organizations or sporting goods stores on Google).

Hydrate

While running the trail, your dog is going to need water… and lots of it! The trick is to get your dog to drink enough water before hand to be properly hydrated for his run. If you are feeding a kibble-based diet, soak the kibble in water the night before a run. This will help get some added H2O into your dog.

You may want to consider baiting your dog’s water with something tasty. A drop of vanilla ice cream, some low sodium beef broth, or a little bit of beef fat melted into water will entice your dog to drink enough water to stay hydrated for the run. Make sure that you water your dog at least an hour before you hit the trail (to prevent bloat).

Foot Check

Get into the habit of inspecting your dog’s paw pads before and after every run. You’re looking for any small cracks or fissures in the paw pads. Also be on the lookout for paw pads that are smooth to the touch, sometimes seen with small beads of moisture making an appearance. This warning sign tells you that you have run your dog too far and have worn down their paw pads. Take a few days off, so your dog’s feet can recover. Running on hard surfaces can really aggravate your dog’s paw pads, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Try a paw balm, like Musher’s Secret, that will condition your dog’s paw pads properly.

Pack Power

You and your dog can hit the trails alone, but if you are looking for company, know that there are canicross clubs and events all over the world. A search on Google or Facebook will bring up plenty clubs in your area that promote the sport. Most clubs host races as well as training days, so you can brush up your skills or set a goal to compete.

Have I converted you into a fan – or at least an intrigued onlooker – of canicross? Do you need any more encouragement? Feel free to leave any questions about canicross in the comment section below and I’ll be sure to answer them!

Kevin Roberts

Kevin Roberts lives for adventure. Together with his pack of rescue dogs and his husband, he spends as much time outdoors as possible. Kevin lives by the motto: "Get outside and play with your dogs!

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Beat the Heat: Tips for Canicrossing in Hot Weather

How hot is too hot to go canicrossing? When the weather heats up, be sure you’re well prepared for exercising in hotter temperatures. Running your dog in the summertime needs extra special consideration. With hard exercise and heat, even the most fit of dogs can quickly overheat, suffering from distress and heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs in dogs when the dog’s body is not able to dissipate the excessive external heat. It’s your job to learn the signs, which may include: excessive drooling, increased body temperature (over 103° F (39°C), uncoordinated movements, dehydration, rapid heart rate and shock. Each dog will present differently. An Ounce of Prevention It’s much easier to prevent heat stroke than it is to treat it. But if your dog is displaying any signs of heat distress or heat stroke, get them out of the hot environment immediately. Begin to run cool, not cold, water over their body. Add an ice pack to their head – this will help to safely lower body temperature. Massage his legs to keep the blood flowing and reduce shock. Get your dog veterinary care immediately. In its most extreme stages, heat stroke can cause swelling of the brain, blood clots and kidney failure. Related: Why Your Dog Needs To Warm-Up Before Canicross Workouts How Hot is too Hot to Canicross? Well, that depends. Online there are all sorts of calculations and rules about when it’s too hot to train. These are generalizations at best. The fact is there is no one rule, as conditions vary by region, and each dog is affected differently. I live in the land of extremes and if I followed the online advice, it would be too cold to run my dogs for most of the winter, and too hot to run them all summer. This means that we would never get out. Sure, there are times it’s simply too hot to run them, or even take them for a walk, but I know my dogs and the climate we live in. Bottom line, it’s best to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure if it’s too hot to train that day, leave your dog at home. As hard as it is to leave a dog at home, think of how much harder it would be to face your dog suffering from heat stroke… or worse. Related: Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross Hitting the Pavement I’m not a fan of running dogs on pavement in the first place. Pavement can be hard on a dog’s feet and joints. But in the summer, pavement holds the heat, and your dog is running a lot closer to it than you are. The evening air up where you are breathing might seem cool and good enough for a run, but pavement holds the heat from the sun well into the evening. It’s not about running on the dog’s paw pads, it’s more the fact that it’s warmer down there! A much better option is to find a cool wooded track to run on. Look for a dirt trail, with plenty of shade. No trails nearby? You might want to consider a different sport, or limit your canicross runs to days when it will be safe enough for your dog. Glorious Water

Feel The Burn: Canicross In The Snow

The winter doesn’t mean you can hibernate until April. There’s no excuse for laziness! Kevin Roberts wants you to give winter canicross a go! Are you and your dog looking out the window at a winter wonderland? Got an itch to go dashing through the snow? But you have a problem… you’re missing a sled, and your skis are in the shop (or you just don’t have a pair). Does that mean no dashing for you? Nope! You can prance in the powder by giving canicross a go! Canicross is the popular sport of running with your dog. Humans and dogs work as a team to conquer the trail. The team is attached together by a belt worn on the human end, and a pulling harness worn by the dog. With a little planning, you can do this popular sport in the winter for a challenging workout. Related: Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross Here are some things to keep in mind: Paws: Winter weather can do some serious damage to your dog’s paws, especially if you live in an area where road salt is used. Make it part of your routine to check your dog’s paws before and after each run. Routine inspections are the best way to catch and fix minor problems before they become major ones. Regular use of a paw wax will help keep your dog’s feet in excellent condition. Apply the wax by rubbing it between each toe, and on the pads of your dog’s feet. Remember that it’s a wax, so it’s not going to go great on your carpet or furniture. It’s best applied before you head out the door – use a bench or seat by the entryway so the wax doesn’t get everywhere. It will be absorbed and slowly wear off on your run, but you can still wipe your dog’s paws when you come back in with an old towel.

Add Canicross to Your Cross Training Routine for Perfect Performance

Canine sports are a team effort – you and your dog are working together to reach physical goals and exceed expectations. If you’re stuck in a rut, canicross is the next step in your cross training workout. Cross training, which is when an athlete trains where two or more sports in order to improve fitness and performance, has never been more popular. Most partake in running, cycling and swimming to reach and push beyond their physical limits. The same can be said about dog sports. When you and your dog focus on just one sport, the results can be stagnating. Take your canine performance to the next level – canicross fits perfectly into your workout regime. Canicross is a team sport – you work with your dog to conquer the trails. It started off as a way to train lead dogs for sled teams. Mushers attached themselves to a dog in harness, and enjoyed the increased confidence in their lead dogs during training. Exercise releases endorphins, and mushers quickly realized that running one-on-one with their lead dog quickly strengthened their bond. Another benefit noticed by the early trail-blazers in canicross was that the on the human end – mushers found themselves more fit. They were able to better help their teams and become faster overall. The benefits of canicross aren’t just for sled dogs, they can be enjoyed by any dogs participating in dog sports. Flyball, agility, herding, hunting, disc and dock diving dogs, and handlers can all enjoy the benefits of cross training in canicross! Related: Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross Here are just a few of the reasons why you should add canicross to your cross training workout: No Size Limit Any dog participating in dog sports can enjoy canicross! While a 20 pound Jack Russel may be too small to pull a sled, putting him in harness and going for a canicross run will allow him to experience pulling, without doing damage to his small body, or bruising his big ego. You don’t need much gear Getting outfitted in canicross gear is simple. A properly fitted and padded harness, a line with a bungee, a belt and a good pair of running shoes – that’s all you need. The simple amount of equipment is ideal if you’re already involved in dog sports, as you have likely spent most of your money on gear for your chosen sport. Related: Feel The Burn: Canicross In The Snow Energy burnout Your sporting dog is no doubt full of energy, and maybe some days, a little much to live with. You know that the key to keeping your home sane is to exercise and train your dog. But too much intense training in your chosen sport can lead to burnout. Over-training pushes your dog from the point of tweaking performance, to being tired or bored, and learning bad habits or bad attitudes. Teams that cross train in canicross enjoy the benefits of exercise and mental stimulation, while still keeping training session in their chosen sport fun and fresh. Canicross is a different kind of work out, so it still allows for exercise, but not burnout. Increased confidence Cross training in canicross allows for dogs to gain confidence, which will cross over to other sports. Canicross is a team sport, but one where the dog is in the lead. Taking directions from the human end, the dog is the first one running down the trail. It takes a confident dog to lead the way. Want to push your dog out further and faster? Canicross will get your dog used to working out ahead of you. Dog gets fit, you get fit Want to shave time off your agility run? Take your dog to the next level in disc? Beat your personal best time on the flyball lane? Canicross is the ultimate in resistance training. A dog pulling in canicross can be likened to running while carrying weights. It’s a better workout than a simple free run, and because your dog is attached to you, you can easily control the speed and distance. Essentially, you’re creating the perfect cross training exercise program. An added benefit is that while you are focused on your dog’s fitness, your own fitness level will increase. This is defiantly going to mean an improvement to your team’s best time and performance. You’re a huge motivator to your dog. If you can increase your performance out there on the field, being in position just a second ahead of your usual time, this will transfer to your dog’s performance. If a disc dogging session leaves you panting and laying on the ground, you are seriously limiting your dog’s practice time, and possibly even their motivation. Dogs pick up on our cues, and if you are signaling that you are exhausted and not having as much fun, that is affecting your dog’s performance. You owe it to your dog to get in shape.

Why Your Dog Needs To Warm-Up Before Canicross Workouts

Before you head out on your canicross run, do you do stretches? What about your dogs? A warm-up is an important part of your canicross workout. To get the most out of your workout, you should have a warm-up. The same goes for our dogs. Before you hit the canicross trail, you need to prepare your dog’s body for exercise. This ensures your dog gets the most out of the workout and it goes a long way in avoiding injury. Warming up for a workout starts slow. A gradual increase in heart rate aids circulation, loosens joints, and carries blood to the muscles. The muscles warm up properly, can contract more forcefully and relax faster, increasing speed and strength. This greatly reduces the chance of pulling a muscle. Related: Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross Warm-up activities will vary depending on the age, condition, and activity level of your dog. My oldest dog is 12 and still loves a good canicross session, but her warm-ups are a little longer these days. A few years ago, she had leg surgery after being struck by a car. The warm-up is a great opportunity to watch for any signs that her leg is acting up. My youngest dog is a complete powerhouse and in his prime. Warm-ups for him are vital to ensure that his muscles are prepared before we hit the trail, and he doesn’t overdo it. During your warm-up, look for signs of signs of limping, avoidance, loss of interest, cringing when touched in certain areas, and unusual panting. These subtle signs are your dog telling you something is wrong, and they aren’t ready for a workout. If you suspect something is wrong, get your dog to a vet or a canine physiotherapist. To Stretch or Not to Stretch Trainers are divided on the benefits of a pre-workout stretch. Some trainers use “active stretches,” in which they lure or encourage the dog to stretch the muscles on their own. These stretches rely on the dog to stretch, without the human stretching the muscles on the dog. Related: Add Canicross to Your Cross Training Routine for Perfect Performance A “static stretch” is when a person stretches the dog’s muscles by pulling gently on a leg. Personally, I only use static stretches for cool down exercises. With each of my dogs I have been given a set of exercises by our canine physiotherapist to use. Stretching a cold muscle or stretching improperly can injure the dog. Always consult with a professional before partaking in a warm-up routine. Temperature The temperature outside also determines our warm-up routine. If it’s 40 below, a warm-up is done in a coat, or may even start indoors before we head outside. Warm-ups are most effective no more than 30 minutes before an activity. Warm-up stretches needn’t be complex. Some of my favorite for canicross involve walking the dogs at different paces, in a heel position with yummy treats we walk slow figure eights, ensuring the dog gets a chance to practice turns. Next, we speed up with a fast pace walk and finishing up with recall exercises. Some dogs love to rug on a toy, and this can be a great way to get those muscles warmed up. If tugging over excites your dog, it may be best to skip this activity before going for a canicross. Once the dog is warmed up, we are ready to hit the trail and have a great time! Sure, it takes time to warm up your dog, and we understand you want to hit the trails ASAP. But an injury could lead to weeks or months of crate rest – not fun. So think of a warm-up as insurance, and incorporate it into your practice.

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog Don’t Got Game

What do you do when your dog doesn’t share your passion for the sport of agility? Instead of being benched, the Hairy Dogfathers have some advice to share. Dear Hairy Dogfathers, I am a crazy dog person. I fully and freely admit this. My first dog, Huey, loved agility so much. Huey got older, and passed over the Rainbow Bridge. My agility friends found me another dog, Gamer. Gamer was bred by someone in the club, and all his family play agility. Gamer doesn’t. His mom does, his dad plays, all his siblings happily play. I have tried all sorts of things, and he just isn’t an agility dog. He doesn’t enjoy it, and I am not going make him do it. But here’s my problem… I would happily keep Gamer as a pet, and get a second dog to do agility with. My husband says that one dog is enough, and there’s no way we are getting a second! Agility was my outlet, my passion! I miss my friends there. What am I to do? From, No more agility!? Related: Exhilarating Workouts For You And Your Dog André says: Dear Agility, Playing a sport with your dog can be so much fun, and can also be a good social outlet for you and your dog. It’s really too bad that Gamer isn’t into agility, total bummer. It’s understandable that you want to continue with the sport, and it’s unfortunate that your hubby isn’t open to getting a second dog right now. While you’re waiting for him to come around, why don’t you try a new dog sport? There are so many to choose from, some of my personal favorites include rally, disc dogging and canicross. Depending on what Gamer is into, I’m sure you can find a human/canine sport that suits the two of you, it may not be what you are used to, but I guarantee it will help you and Gamer grow closer and you will both have a lot of fun. Game on! Related: Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross Kevin says: Dear Agility, I hear you! But honey, this isn’t all about you! Your dog is trying to tell you something here: he doesn’t like this sport. So play around with some other training. Perhaps some of your other agility friends are willing to cross over and try a new sport with you as well. Now for the husband thinking you have enough dogs… well, I can relate to that! I certainly don’t understand it, but I have been there. Everyone has their limits, and one dog is his. You have to respect that. You don’t have to like it, but you have to respect it. Perhaps you and the hubby would be willing to foster another dog, just to see if four’s a crowd. Remember, your hubby has to live there too, so be fair to him! Now, if you can’t get a second dog, and another sport doesn’t appeal to you, then consider helping out at your club. Be a super helper with setting up equipment, a timer at matches or take on a more formal role within the club’s organization. Dogs don’t live forever. Enjoy Gamer for who he is. Kevin

What Age Should You Start Clicker Training?

Clicker training is a popular form of positive reinforcement dog training that uses a small handheld device called a clicker to mark and reinforce desired behaviors. The clicker makes a distinct and consistent sound that signals to the dog that they have performed the desired behavior, followed by a reward such as a treat or praise. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with the reward, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.Now, if you want to try clicker training with your dog, you could be wondering at what age should you start. Very early on? Or as your puppy grows a bit older? Let’s find out.What Age Should You Start Clicker Training?Clicker training is versatile and can be used for teaching  basic commands, tricks, and even addressing behavioral issues. It is a humane and positive approach to training that fosters a strong bond between the owner and the dog. Clicker training can be started with dogs at a relatively young age, typically when they are around 8 weeks old. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands and behaviors from a young age, and clicker training can be a positive and effective method for teaching them.However, it's important to keep in mind that very young puppies have shorter attention spans, so training sessions should be kept short and fun. Focus on simple commands and behaviors, and use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, in conjunction with the clicker.Consistency and patience are key when training puppies, and it's important to make the training sessions enjoyable for them. Stay consistent and maintain your composure and command. Even if the early training sessions last just a few minutes, keep it up. Of course, if you're unsure about how to start clicker training or have concerns about your puppy's readiness, consulting with a professional dog trainer or attending puppy training classes can be helpful. Always use positive reinforcement methods to create a positive and trusting relationship between you and your dog.Remember that clicker training requires patience and hard work to be successful. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with positive reinforcement, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.4 Things to Know About Clicker TrainingTo ensure your training sessions with a clicker are successful no matter when you start implementing them in your pet’s routine, you need to know the basics. These tips will help you optimize your process for maximum efficiency:Timing is KeyClicker training relies on precise timing. The click should occur at the exact moment your dog exhibits the desired behavior. This helps your dog make the connection between the behavior and the reward.Positive Reinforcement

Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?

As winter comes, the roads become icy and treacherous and rock salt is used to make them less slippery. While roads covered with rock salt are common in the chillier months of the year, dog owners are wondering if it is safe for their pets to walk on rock salt or accidentally ingest it. After all, dogs are known to be inquisitive and eager to lick or nibble on anything and everything so the idea is not as far-fetched as some might think at first. So, without further ado, let’s find out if rock salt is toxic to dogs and how you can best protect your pet in the winter months.Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?Sadly, the answer is yes – rock salt, commonly used for de-icing roads and sidewalks in winter, can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Rock salt, or sodium chloride, can cause salt poisoning or hypernatremia in dogs. Ingesting excessive amounts of salt can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive thirst, increased urination, and in severe cases, it can even result in tremors, seizures, or death.And that is not all. In addition to the risk of ingestion, rock salt can also cause irritation to a dog's paws if they walk on treated surfaces. The salt can cause dryness, cracking, and discomfort, and dogs may try to  lick their paws to alleviate the irritation, leading to ingestion of the salt. After all, the roads are meant for cars and tires, so it was sadly never taken into account that pets would walk on them as well. Still, as a caring owner, there are a number of precautions that you can take in order to ensure that your dog doesn’t ingest rock salt – here are some of the most popular ways.Clean their paws after walks:Wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth after walks to remove any salt or de-icing chemicals. Do this after every walk and as soon as you get home. Remember to take care of your pet’s paws and paw pads. When injured or unkempt, they can cause great discomfort. Furthermore, you can consider using  dog boots if your pet doesn’t mind it – they’ll keep their paws safe and warm.

Are Collagen Chews Good for Dogs?

Are you searching for a tasty treat to keep your pup occupied? Have you heard the warnings made by experts about the potential dangers of rawhide chews and are struggling to find a healthy alternative for your dog? A newer type of dog chew is gaining popularity in the pet world, beloved both by pets and their parents alike. Let’s discuss the benefits of collagen chews and why this would be a great option for your dog. What Are Collagen Chews? Before we get into the benefits, we’ll start with the basics. What exactly is a collagen chew? Like rawhide, a collagen chew is a dried animal product. However, it is made from the inner layer of a cow's skin instead of the hide. This may seem like a minor difference, but it makes the product much easier to digest, making it safer for pet parents concerned about the risk of obstructions associated with rawhide. Collagen chew products are available in various forms, including flat chews, sticks, traditional bone shapes, and rings. Each variation of the chew ranges in size, thickness, and, therefore, chew difficulty level. Do Vets Recommend Collagen Sticks? Yes! Many veterinarians recommend collagen chews as a healthy alternative to rawhide. This healthy and natural chew option offers many health benefits, including joint issues and dry skin. Most collagen chews are made from all-natural ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial colors, and artificial flavors, making them a healthy replacement for your dog’s favorite rawhide bones.Is Collagen Better Than Rawhide? While both collagen chews and rawhides are long-lasting chew options, collagen chews address many of the health concerns related to rawhide. If your dog loves rawhide chews, this is a great alternative. Like rawhides, collagen chews are long-lasting. However, if your dog swallows a portion of the chew, its digestibility makes it less likely that you will find yourself at an emergency vet paying for surgery to remove an obstruction.

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New Study Searches for the Secret Connection Between ‘Gifted’ Dogs

As dog parents, we all want to believe that our dog is the smartest, most incredible, most amazing dog out there. Right? But there is a select group of dogs whose talent and intelligence stand out above the rest. What makes these dogs so bright? That’s what a new study hopes to understand… Known as “Gifted Word Learner” (GWL) Dogs, these dogs display an impressive vocabulary by learning the names of dozens of their toys, with some learning as many as 125 toys by name! Interested in better understanding this phenomenon and what makes these dogs so naturally gifted, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary set out to identify any commonalities between these pups. Their recent study, published in Scientific Reports on December 14, included 41 GWL dogs from nine countries: the US, the UK, Canada, Brazil, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Hungary. They put out a call for ‘gifted’ dogs, asking owners to complete and submit a self-assessment following their detailed instructions and send the results in a video. Dogs that passed that phase were then given an online vocabulary assessment test to better assess their language skills. The owners were also given a questionnaire to provide a better understanding of each dog’s life experience. “In the questionnaire, we asked the owners about their dog’s life experience, their own experience in raising and training dogs, and about the process by which the dog came to learn the names of his/her toys,” explained Dr. Andrea Sommese, study co-author. Researchers discovered some interesting connections between the GWL dogs using all this information.

Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?

Sometimes, dogs can behave straight out quirky. The range of their weird behaviors varies from chasing their tail and scooting on their but, to “pawing” or “digging” food, which sort of looks like they’re burying their kibble but they’re not really doing anything. Have you ever seen your pooch trying to fake bury his food by pawing at it? Don’t worry, the behavior might look odd at the very least, but it’s not a reason for concern. Here’s what dogs that dig, bury, or paw their food are trying to tell you with this behavior.Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?Dogs may exhibit pawing or digging behavior around their food bowl for various reasons, and the interpretation can depend on the individual dog. By closely observing your dog's specific actions and considering these factors, you may gain a better understanding of why they engage in pawing behavior. Keep in mind that individual differences among dogs can lead to variations in behavior, and what holds true for one dog may not necessarily apply to another. Still, there are some common explanations that hold true for most situations when “pawing” is in question.Too Much Food Served:In the wild, dogs might use their paws to cover or bury their food to protect it from other animals or to save it for later. This behavior could be a residual instinct from their ancestors – if they eat a bit and then paw at their bowl before leaving the meal, it means that they are trying to stash the surplus away for later. Try downsizing their portions to see if the behavior goes away. Scent Marking: Dogs have scent glands in their paws, and pawing at the food bowl might be a way for them to mark the area with their scent. This could be a territorial behavior and might be seen in households where there are several dogs present. Excitement or Anticipation: Dogs might get excited about mealtime, and pawing at the bowl could be a way of expressing anticipation or eagerness for their food. This is especially true if they are eagerly pawing the ground even before the food has been served. These dogs can often be voracious eaters as well, so to prevent them from snarfing up their food in seconds, try utilizing a  slow feeder for dogs to promote a more appropriate pace of eating and prevent bloat and other digestive issues due to lack of chewing and fast eating.

Cat Fanciers’ Association Reveals the Top 15 Pedigreed Cat Breeds

The world’s largest registry of purebred cats, the Cat Fanciers’ Association has revealed the top 15 most popular pedigreed cat breeds, based on registration data collected in 2023. Can you guess which felines made the cut?No list of the most popular cat breeds would be complete without the Bengal cat. Starting this list at number 15 is the Bengal. Originating in the United States, the Bengal cat is a hybrid created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat. Best known for their wild appearance and leopard-like coat, Bengals are playful and affectionate cats that make excellent companions for families with children.Coming in at number 14 is the Oriental Shorthair cat. Officially recognized by the CFA in 1977, the Oriental is a medium-sized cat with a long, elegant body, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. Curious, intelligent, and friendly Orientals are a great choice for families looking for an affectionate, devoted, and friendly feline companion.At number 13 is the Norwegian forest cat. Large in size, the Norwegian forest cat has a robust body, long legs, and a thick, fluffy coat that keeps it warm in the cold weather. This smart, independent, and friendly cat is a great pick for busy people.The Russian blue cat takes the 12th place. The short, plush coat that varies in color from light silver to darker slate gray, and expressive green eyes are this breed’s signature traits. Russian blue cats are intelligent and active by nature and require mental and physical stimulation to thrive.Next on the list, at number 11 is the American shorthair cat. Known for its rounded and thick appearance, the American shorthair was recognized in 1906. This easygoing and friendly cat makes a loving companion for families looking for a low-maintenance cat.The hairless Sphynx takes the 10th place. Originating in Canada, this breed is best known for its lack of fur. Highly energetic, playful, and affectionate Sphynx gets along well with children and other pets and even makes a great therapy cat.At number 9 is the Siberian cat. Large in size and slow to mature, the Siberian cat can weigh up to 15 pounds and has a thick triple coat. Their dog-like personality and intelligent nature make them a great choice for people looking for an affectionate and playful furry companion. The Scottish fold takes the 8th place. Medium in size, the Scottish fold has a round head, round eyes, and small folded ears. Their sweet nature and cute looks make them a popular choice among cat fanciers.In 7th place is the Abyssinian cat, famous for its distinctive thicked tabby coat. Thanks to their playful, active, and intelligent natures, Abyssinians make great family pets.The British shorthair comes in 6th place. Described as the teddy bear of cat breeds both in looks and personality, the British shorthair is suited to just about any type of household. This time the Devon Rex takes the 5th place. Best known for its pixie-like appearance, the Devon Rex has an oddly shaped head, large eyes, and a wavy coat. The mischievous, playful, and loving Devon Rex makes a great pet for people looking for a cuddly and companionable cat.In the 4th place is the Exotic Shorthair cat. Developed as the shorthaired version of the Persian cat, the Exotic Shorthair has a round appearance and a charming personality. Next up, in the 3td place, is the Persian cat. Best known for its long coat, and round, flat face, the Persian cat has been one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide for many years. Their sweet-tempered, gentle, and adaptable nature makes them a great pet for people of all ages.In 2nd place is the Maine Coon. Known as the gentle giant, the Maine Coon is one of the largest breeds of domestic cats. Its massive size and friendly nature make it a great choice for people looking for a large, playful feline.And the 1st place goes to the Ragdoll cat. Large in size, the Ragdoll has a semi-long silky coat, tufted ears, blue eyes, and a bushy tail. Affectionate, docile, and friendly Ragdolls are ultimate lap cats and fantastic family pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hypothermia in Cats: What You Should Know

Hypothermia puts your cat’s health at risk, and if not treated in time, can be fatal. So, it’s wise to know even just the basics about hypothermia so you can recognize the symptoms and get your cat the help they need right away. Here’s a short guide to get you started.

TikTok "Cheese Tax" Video Seriously Resonates with Pet Owners

Viral TikTok video spills the beans on sharing with our pooches!

Holiday Gifts for Dogs to Include Them in the Fun

It’s the gift giving season, and you’re thinking about all of the people you’ll buy presents for, but why not also add your canine companion to the list? With so many great products on the market, you can find the ideal gift for your dog so they can participate in the opening of presents with everyone they love. Here are some tips to help you find something that your pooch will get excited over.

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Royal Corgis Make Way for Jack Russell Terriers

New palace pooches get the royal treatment they deserve.

Survey Finds America’s Most Dog-Friendly Cities, You May Be Surprise

The number of Americans embracing a pet-friendly lifestyle is on the rise, and we’re here for it! We read announcements and news articles daily about businesses introducing pet policies and welcoming our furry friends into their establishments.However, if you’ve been traveling with your pup, you know that not all cities are created equally. Some locations truly shine—not only welcoming dogs but also creating an environment where they can live their lives to the fullest. From dog-friendly patios and shops to beautiful park spaces, these cities are rolling out the red carpet.Interested in finding the best locations for our best friends? MarketWatchGuides studied the country's 98 biggest cities, ranking them based on seven dog-friendly metrics, including:Number of pet activities per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly apartments per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly weather days (days where the high did not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the low did not drop below 0 degrees Fahrenheit)Number of dog parks per 100,000 peopleNumber of vet offices per 100,000 peopleAverage vet costsUsing these findings, they gave each city a ranking out of 100 in 3 categories—Dog Friendliness, Dog Walkability, and Pet Health—as well as an overall score out of 100, allowing them to rank the cities from most dog-friendly to least dog-friendly. The findings may have you reconsidering what part of the country you call home!According to the study, Raleigh, North Carolina, was the most dog-friendly city in the United States, with an impressive overall ranking of 80.3. While the city did rank low on a couple of factors (namely, the number of dog-friendly weather days and the number of dog parks), it scored high enough in the other metrics to earn the top spot.Most impressively, the city scored 91.2 on the Pet Health Score, which considered the number of vet offices and average vet costs.Other cities that managed to earn a spot in the top 10 most dog-friendly cities included:Nashville, Tennessee (78.2)Madison, Wisconsin (77.4)Lexington, Kentucky (76.7)Boise, Idaho (76.5)Austin, Texas (74.3)Portland, Oregon (73.9)Cincinnati, Ohio (73.4)Seattle, Washington (72.6)Greensboro, North Carolina (71.1)Of course, ranking these cities on an overall score may not appeal to every dog parent. While one may prioritize finding a city with the lowest vet costs, another may be willing to pay a little more to enjoy a location with more dog-friendly restaurants.Recognizing this, they then broke down a few fun stats to consider:The city with the most dog-friendly restaurants per capita was Orlando, Florida. Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, North Las Vegas, Nevada, took the title of the fewest dog-friendly restaurants per capita.The most accessible pet health care in the United States can be found in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.Does your dog love heading out for a “Pup Cup” on a warm day? The Starbucks chain first popularized this tasty treat, referring to the small cup of whipped cream as “Puppuccinos.” If the very mention of a Pup Cup has your dog’s tail wagging, you may want to visit Atlanta, Georgia, where you can find the most locations offering pup cups per capita.Wherever your pet-friendly travels take you, check out our list of Dog Travel Essentials to set you (and your dog) up for success!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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