Scientists Reveal Which Dogs Are Best at Giving Puppy Eyes

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: October 6th, 2023

Paolo_Ius/Shutterstock

Who can say they’re immune to those cute puppy eyes and their pet’s pleading little face? While all dogs will try to give you their best adorable look to coax you into doling out a few more treats or going on a walk just when you’ve put your feet up, some are more successful at it than others. Or at least that’s what a team of scientists at George Washington University concluded after their detailed research!

The results of their study indicate that the level of emotion and expressivity in a dog’s stare isn’t related to their breed at all, but rather to the dog’s unique facial markings. Their research found that dogs with a single, solid color on their face are considered more expressive than dogs that have multi-colored faces.

While there have been numerous studies on the topic of human-canine communications, the latest efforts, led by Courtney Sexton, the lead author of this study, are focused on investigating how dogs’ faces allow them to communicate with us. To help with the research, 100 volunteer dog owners were asked to record their pets in different conditions and emotional states.

Afterward, the research team used their special coding system called the Dog Facial Action Coding System (DFACS), which helped them analyze each dog’s behavior separately.

With that, they were able to evaluate each facial markings and patterns on the dogs’ faces.

In the end, the results of the study revealed that dogs with plain faces appear to make more facial expressions as they interact with their owners, compared to dogs with complex facial markings. 'As dogs become more and more integrated into human society, it's important that we understand how they communicate with us and how we can better communicate with them,' said Ms Sexton.

Something that came naturally is the fact that older dogs appear to be less expressive than younger, more energetic puppers. Researchers suggest that this is because senior dogs already have a strong bond with their owners, so facial expressions are not as important as before. Furthermore, they have also revealed that working and highly trained dogs tend to be more expressive.

In the end, we can see that markings might be the most important factor in the expressiveness of dogs’ faces, but it surely isn’t the only one – there are plenty of others that contribute to your pet’s ability to communicate their feelings solely with their expression.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

More by Angela Vuckovic

How Do I Stop My Cat From Waking Me up at Night?

View Article

How Do I Help A Dog Afraid of Car Rides?

Do you dream of travelling the world with your best friend by your side, but your dog turns into a nervous wreck every time you approach the car? If so, you’re not alone! Many dogs experience car anxiety to some degree, ranging from those who are slightly unsure of the vehicle to those who experience severe levels of stress. Luckily, there are options to manage your dog’s anxiety and even prevent it from happening in the future. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to improve your dog’s relationship with the car, from gradual desensitization to the use of calming treats and other products to make your next road trip easier for everyone! Is Driving Stressful for Dogs? Whether your dog finds car rides to be stressful will vary from dog to dog. Many pups are excited by simply hearing the phrase “car ride” and love sharing that experience with their human family members. However, for some dogs, the idea of getting into a vehicle instantly triggers feelings of stress and anxiety. As dog parents, the best thing we can do is pay careful attention to our dog's nonverbal communication and body language. Although dogs may not be able to speak English, they do a pretty good job of communicating how they are feeling if we know how to listen. How Do I Know if My Dog is Scared in the Car? Interpreting your dog’s body language often involves noting several different behaviors, as fear and anxiety can easily mimic excitement in many ways. For example, fearful dogs may whine when approaching a vehicle because they are afraid of getting into the car. However, approaching the same way with an excited dog may trigger a whine as they anticipate the fun ahead. Other aspects of their behavior, like their stance (standing tall and confident versus hunched low to the ground with their tail tucked), can help you better translate what your dog is trying to tell you.Some of the common signs that a dog is feeling afraid or anxious include: Excessive panting or yawning Licking the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupilsEars pressed forward or back against the headCowering or attempting to hideTail tucked between the legs or up and stuffShaking or tremblingSubmissive urinationStaring intently at the trigger Displacement behaviors like sneezing or itchingRefusal to take treats (even if they are typically food-driven)The most important thing to remember is that every dog is different. Your dog may display any combination of the symptoms listed above. No one knows your dog better than you. Trust your gut if you feel that something is off, even if it doesn’t fit the stereotypical fear response.

New Bill Will Eliminate Housing Barriers for Pet Owners In California

California tenants with pets rejoice - a new bill that stops landlords from denying housing to pet owners is in the works!The chair of the California Legislative Renters Caucus, Matt Haney, has introduced legislation that would compel landlords to accept tenants with pets. The bill, AB 2216, will insist that landlords have reasonable reason(s) for not allowing a pet in the rental unit. The biggest change, however, is that the bill prevents property owners from asking about pet ownership before the tenant’s application has been approved.The new bill, which is sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States, aims to solve a big problem in the rental world - a surplus of tenants with pets and a lack of landlords willing to rent to them.California has one of the highest number of tenants in the country, and close to 70% of them are pet owners. Alas, under current law, only around 30% of all rentals are pet-friendly. The lack of pet-friendly housing is causing almost a million tenants to keep pets in their rentals hidden from their landlords. This solves nothing. On one hand, landlords are left without adequate coverage for potential damages. On the other hand, pet owners are left living in constant fear of being kicked out of their homes. Andrea Amavisca, a senior legislative advocate at the California Immigration Policy Center, told the LA Times that she and her partner spent over a month looking for a two-bedroom rental in Sacramento that would allow for a small cattle dog mix.“Landlords that initially liked our application would suddenly stop answering our calls once they found out we had a dog. Or others would require a pet deposit close to $1,000 that would put the unit totally out of our budget.”Amavisca added it felt unfair that almost every landlord had a different pet policy with varying fees they could change as they pleased. Some landlords charged only $20 a month while others asked for four-figure cleaning deposits. The new bill doesn’t address fees and doesn’t prevent landlords from excluding certain types of pets. Haney’s legislation defines a common household pet as a domesticated animal, such as a cat or dog, that is kept in the home for pleasure rather than commercial uses. While pet owners are relieved to hear about the legislation, property owners are already expressing their concerns. The biggest issue is that landlords will be forced to take on pets, and the increased risk of potential property damage that comes with pets, without a pet deposit as a safeguard. Haney explained that exceptions would be made for landlords with reasonable excuses for not allowing pets on their property. “What we see too often is just these blanket prohibitions of pets with no good reason for it, with no required justification for it and no protection of pet owners, who represent the majority of California’s renters, to be able to access housing just like anyone else,” said Haney.According to Jenny Berg, California director for the Humane Society of the United States, extra fees and bans add to the overcrowding crisis in animal shelters nationwide. “One of the reasons why people relinquish their pets is because they can’t find affordable housing or housing at all that can accommodate their pets,” she said. Haney’s bill could make a massive change, as it would remove the barriers tenants face when looking for housing for them and their four-legged companions.“We want a renter to be considered first and decision made about whether they meet the requirements for the apartment,” said Haney. “And then, after that fact, they disclose that they have a pet. And only if there’s a reasonable rationale to deny them, that would be allowed.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

Each year millions of cats and dogs enter shelters and rescues nationwide. Almost a million more animals have entered and lingered in the nation’s shelters in the last three years, resulting in an ongoing capacity crisis. Last year, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations nationwide. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, compared to 330,000 cats that were euthanized last year. This marks a four-year peak in non-live outcomes for dogs and the first time the number of dogs euthanized has surpassed the number of euthanized cats.  These heartbreaking findings were published in an annual report of shelter populations compiled by Shelter Animals Count, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization founded in 2012. “Everywhere you turn, the shelters are in crisis,” said the organization’s executive director Stephanie Filer. “It’s truly about an imbalance of animals coming in at faster rates than they’re leaving.”According to Filer, for years cats were considered most at risk because they entered shelters at high rates, but faced low adoption rates. However, focused efforts to reverse these trends are giving results, and the newest data shows a positive shift.“We have seen major positive change,” said Filer. “Adoption rates are high and intakes have decreased, and there are efforts to keep cats at home or in their communities.”Unfortunately, dog programs are suffering, with adoption rates significantly lower than in recent years. “Too many dogs are entering shelters and being left behind,” added Filer, according to USA Today. “Unlike cat adoptions, which continue to increase, dog adoptions have essentially flatlined.”When people think of animal shelters, most imagine scores of large-sized mixed breeds and pit bulls. But in reality, there are purebreds like huskies, French bulldogs, Labradors, and even designer dogs.The one thing no animal advocate thought possible happened - the rates of dog euthanasia surpassed the rates of cat euthanasia for the first time in a long time. “The real reason we’re saying, ‘Wow,’ is that it wasn’t that way for a lot of years. And now it is,” said Filer.More than 6.5 million cats and dogs ended up in U.S. shelters and rescues in 2023. While the number of intakes remained relatively steady, this was the fourth consecutive year of overpopulation. While more dogs were adopted in 2023 than in 2022, the adoption rates were insufficient to meet the demand.The high cost of living, job loss, and housing cost challenges are the main reasons adoption rates aren’t keeping up with animal intake. At the end of 2023, an additional 70,000 cats and 107,000 dogs are waiting for a forever home in one of the many shelters and rescues nationwide. “With more animals entering shelters than leaving, animal welfare organizations and their communities need to continue working together to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters, including finding ways to increase access to veterinary care and advocating for pet-friendly housing policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and the CEO of ASPCA.Experts agree that the promotion of shelter adoptions is the best way to solve the ongoing capacity crisis. Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, but it also supports the struggling shelters and their staff. Although adopting a cat or a dog from a shelter isn’t possible for everyone, there are other things you can do to help. Volunteering in your local shelter, fostering a pet, or donating are great ways to get involved and help alleviate the shelter crisis.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Expats May Need to Leave their Pets Behind as Travel Costs Skyrocket

Animal travel has always been expensive, but it’s about to become unaffordable for many pet lovers. Pet owners moving abroad may be forced to leave their pets behind after animal travel costs have gone up by as much as 400 percent!IAG Cargo, a sister company to British Airways, Vueling, and Aer Lingus, has recently announced that it was raising travel prices along some routes beginning March 1. This unexpected move shocked pet owners with relocation plans, particularly those moving to and from Britain and the United States. “To reflect the complexities of this bespoke service and the cost of providing the very best care for pets traveling as cargo, we have made some amendments to our prices,” a spokesperson for IAG Cargo said in a statement. This shipping company is mostly used by military personnel to move their pets abroad while deployed. After three years at their duty station in the UK, Sara and her family are moving back to the U.S. The family’s two dogs, Bentley and Ghost, are booked on a British Airways flight on 1 March.Under the current policy, IAG Cargo only accepts a booking for a pet transfer up to six weeks before the flight. The company then confirms the space has been requested. Two weeks before the flight, once the planes have been scheduled on that route, the IAG Cargo confirms the booking, locking in the price.Initially, Sara’s family was quoted $1,450 for a flight from London to Baltimore for both dogs. However, due to the recent price hike, the travel price for the dogs has jumped to $6,500! And that’s without the administration fees and the cost of the agency the family is using to arrange the cargo shipment. “We are paying out of our own pocket for this, and we just bought a house in our new location,” said Sara to BBC. “Our dogs are like our children, we would do anything for them but that doesn’t mean it’s not devastating for our finances.”The family’s shipping agent found another airline that could ship their dogs at a lower price. The catch - they would have to make a seven-hour round trip to collect the dogs from another airport. Sara explained that her dogs are small in size and that she believes people shipping large-size dogs could face shipping costs over $10,000.“I already know a number of people who did not bring their pets [to the UK] because of the costs to bring them one way… People are going to be shocked,” she added.Details about the new pricing and affected routes are still unclear, but some companies that work with IAG Cargo are already seeing the effects. Kimberly Cirone, a director at Pets Abroad UK, a pet relocation company that assists pet owners with travel arrangements and works with airlines, said that the costs of pet transport between Britain and the United States have increased by 400 percent without warning, consideration, or explanation.The unexpected price hike has left many military families in turmoil as they are unable to gather the necessary funds in time to have their pets shipped back home. “It’s a huge amount to organize, and within days or weeks of arriving one of those family members may be sent on to areas of conflict. The dog or cat is hugely important, it is the family’s companion when one partner is away fighting and this will be hugely distressing for them.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists Uncover Secrets of Extinct "Wooly Dog" Breed

Throughout history, dogs have played several key roles in the lives of people globally. They have hunted, worked, and provided for us, forever weaving them into the fabric of human existence. We often use this knowledge to better understand our modern dogs by reflecting on their original purpose as a breed. Unfortunately, not every breed continues to thrive among us today.The Coast Salish wooly dog was a unique breed, kept by the First Nations people throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Vancouver Island, for its fleece-like coat. A new study reveals insights into the history of the now-extinct breed.Unlike most animals at that time in history, the dog was kept in pens and longhouses. This was done to prevent the dogs from mixing with village and hunting dogs, preserving the breed and the fleece it provided.“They were sheared like sheep, and the wool was woven into blankets,” recounted Eliot White-Hill of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “Blankets were like currency in our economy prior to contact and some of the most important things you could own and give away as gifts.”The dogs were fed a diet of fish and elk and were seen as beloved family members.“It’s not just a dog – it’s a relative. It has enormous spiritual power, conveyed in its wool,” explained Michael Pavel, an elder of the Skokomish-Twana tribe and one of the study's authors. “Imagine being able to receive the gift of wool fiber, being able to learn to weave that into yarn, into an entity, or a blanket or robe that you could wrap yourself in the coldest of winter and feel the warmth of those prayers. That’s how we look at it, and we can now enjoy a scientific view, as well.”Unfortunately, the breed did not survive colonization. It’s not clear exactly what caused the demise of the Coast Salish wooly dog – the introduction of European dog breeds, rules enforced on First Nations people during assimilation and displacement, or smallpox epidemics being a few of the hypothesized factors.But thanks to the preserved pelt of a wooly dog named Mutton, who died in 1859, researchers can now learn a little more about the unique DNA of the dog, its lineage, and insight into the breeding practices of local Indigenous communities.Researchers compared DNA from Mutton’s pelt to that of a separate non-wooly village dog that lived and died in the same region at approximately the same time.While the information gathered from the study did not offer any conclusive answers about the disappearance of the breed, it did hypothesize that the Indian Act of 1876 played a critical role as it would have directly impacted the ability of Indigenous women to pass on valuable knowledge about caring for the dogs and weaving necessary to its survival.On a positive note, the study did support historical facts shared by First Nations people in that area – a valuable piece of the puzzle as many work to reclaim the traditions of their ancestors.“It brought a large group of people together that reaffirmed for us the history we know,” stated Violet Elliott, also of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “It was a gift of collaboration with other nations.”

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.

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Clean Dog Diarrhea From Carpet

Sure, sharing your life with a dog is fun and your days are filled with love, but sometimes, it can get messy. Like, real messy. After all, even though we love them, dogs are not the neatest of animals out there (that title would go to kitties, I’m afraid). In the daily life of a dog owner, there is bound to be a bit of dirt, hair, and - inevitably, poop – to clean up after your pet. And as if picking up poop from the street after your pet wasn’t bad enough, sometimes accidents happen inside your home, and the messes are that much harder to clean. Especially when you’re dealing with diarrhea and not your regular ole poop situation. But even though it’s far from pleasant to clean up after, it’s not the end of the world if an accident happens. While it can be difficult to thoroughly clean dog diarrhea embedded in the carpet fibers, everything can be cleaned if you are persistent enough – and know how to approach the issue. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you clean dog diarrhea from carpet – stains and smell both.How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: Step by StepNow, keep in mind that cleaning dog diarrhea from a carpet can be a messy task, but it's important to clean it thoroughly and as quickly as possible to prevent lasting stains and lingering odors. Even if you are disgusted by the sight before you, it is necessary to keep at it until the job’s done. Someone has to do it, right? And we all know it ain’t gonna be your pooch.So, first things first, you’ll need to gather supplies. It is always good to have them handy and keep them stored in a secure cabinet. You never know when an accident can happen and they will be needed, so be sure to be stocked on  pet-safe cleaning supplies (if you’re not already, now is a perfect time to pick up all of your basic necessities). 

Sleeping With Pets: Here's What Experts Have to Say

Pet parents adore their four-legged companions so much that they choose to sleep with them at night. Research shows that more than half of pet owners sleep with their pets. Most pet owners consider their pets part of the family, so it is no surprise that they will go out of their way to ensure their furry companions’ comfort. However, with an increasing focus on our sleep health, pet parents are starting to wonder about the potential disadvantages of sleeping with pets. In fact, sharing a bed with a pet is the subject of controversy among pet parents.Various studies suggest that there are many benefits to sleeping with pets. And experts tend to agree. According to Audrey Wells, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a pet can provide an emotional connection and reduce anxiety and stress levels, therefore promoting sleep. “Some people may consider their pets an added layer of security, dependable to alert them to unexpected noises or lights.”Another benefit of sleeping with your pet is that they can keep you nice and warm during the night. People who get chilled easily might enjoy cuddling with a furry companion during frigid winter nights.“Pets are sensitive to routine, and they can help enforce a regular bedtime and better sleep quality for their owner,” explained Dr. Wells. “Similarly, pets can signal wake-up time in the morning and even prompt some time outside for a walk and daylight exposure.”If you enjoy sleeping with your pet and find it beneficial for your sleep, the science agrees with you. According to Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavioral Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society, studies have found that some people sleep more soundly when their dog is sleeping next to them. “If you and your dog both sleep well together, you’ll enjoy the health benefits that come with a good night’s sleep, such as improved mental clarity, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system,” explained Farah.According to Teddy Cralle, Ms, RN, certified clinical sleep educator, some people sleep better when their pet is in the bed, but some don’t. If there’s a chance that you won't get a good night’s rest while sleeping with your pet you shouldn't sleep with them in the first place. For example, if you’re a light sleeper and your dog likes to change positions during the night, sleeping with your pooch may wake you more often, resulting in low-quality sleep. Also, some pups like to claim the entire bed for themselves, leading to a sleepless night and a backache. “Sacrificing your sleep means sacrificing your health, well-being, and quality of life - and that is not a sacrifice to make,” Cralle added.Sharing a bed with a pet may not be the best idea if you’re an asthma or allergy sufferer. Although some dog breeds shed less than others, no dog is truly hypoallergenic because it’s their dander and not hair that triggers an allergic reaction. Zoonotic diseases are another downside of sleeping with pets. Research has confirmed that sharing a bed with a pet can increase the exposure rate to pathogens that might be present. Although no one wants to think about it, pets can bring unwanted guests to your bed. Fleas and ticks are the most active during the warmer months, but the truth is they can infest your pet all year long. If the downsides of sleeping with your pet have made you reconsider your sleeping arrangement don’t fret - you can still have your pooch close by while you sleep. A crate or a cozy dog bed next to your bed will help everyone get a good night’s rest. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Causes Heartworm in Dogs?

One of the most dangerous threats to the health of dogs around the world is the dreaded  heartworm. Most people are not even aware of the illness, until it is too late for  treatment and the damage has already been done. In fact, many dog owners are not at all familiar with heartworm, how it occurs, how it progresses, and what causes it in the first place. That’s why we’ll go into all of the details every dog owner should know about heartworm. What Is Heartworm Disease in Dogs and What Causes It?Heartworm disease in dogs is caused by a parasitic worm, called Dirofilaria Immitis. These are most simply put, heartworm larvae, and are carried within mosquitos. And that’s how they are transmitted – through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito, carrying a heartworm larva, bites a dog, it immediately transmits the larvae onto the dog’s skin. This is how the heartworm enters the bloodstream, through the teeny tiny mosquito bite wound – yes, that is how incredibly small these larvae are. After this, over the course of several months, the deposited larvae mature and grow into adult worms that nest and reside within your dog’s heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Once they become adults and enter the animal’s system, these worms can really cause substantial damage to the lungs, heart, and even other organs. This damage is then manifested through visible symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, difficulty breathing, coughing, and – in the most extreme cases – heart failure. Heartworm needs to be treated. Otherwise, this disease can be fatal to dogs. Of course, your most common precaution is through regular use of heartworm preventatives, as well as minimizing exposure to mosquitoes or mosquito-dense areas. This can help protect your doggo from contracting a potentially deadly disease. Preventing And Treating Heartworm Disease in DogsThis being said, we need to take into account that heartworm disease won’t be common in all parts of the world equally. The disease is prevalent in parts of the world with warm or humid climates, and high populations of mosquitoes. This is not an exclusive rule, however, and the disease can occur in all parts of the world, including temperate zones. As a diligent dog owner, you should get familiar with your region and if needed, take precautionary measures. If you live in an area where there are a lot of mosquitoes, you can invest in things like mosquito repellents for dogs. 

This Special Camera Reveals How Our Pets See the World Around Them

Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

What to Know About Osteoarthritis in Cats

Osteoarthritis, also referred to as OA, is a condition that’s common in cats – experts have found that 90% of kitties over the age of 12 have it. And because cats may hide the signs, it can be overlooked, so it’s a good idea to learn about the symptoms and keep an eye out for them, especially as your pet gets older. The good news is, if your feline friend is diagnosed with this condition, there are things you can do to help her experience less pain.

Dog Finds A Forever Home After Spending 1,007 Days at Delaware Shelter

Tessy, now a 5-year-old black Labrador retriever mix, spent 1,007 days at a Delaware animal shelter before being adopted into a forever home. This cute pooch arrived at Humane Animal Partners (formerly Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA) on January 17, 2021, hoping to be adopted in no time.Unfortunately, finding her people proved challenging for Tessy. Days, weeks, months, and years went by, and Tessy was still living at the shelter with no prospective adopters in sight. “Tessy is loyal, goofy, snuggly, and remarkably smart,” said Leigh McKinley, a director at the Humane Animal Partners, according to PEOPLE. Like many other shelter dogs, Tessy had some trust issues and was wary of new people and experiences. These problems were the reasons for Tessy’s longer stay at the Humane Animal Partners shelter. “Tessy exhibited fear-reactive behaviors in the form of lunging, barking, and growling towards unfamiliar stimuli. Our goal was to help her overcome those fears and learn to trust humans and her surrounding environment, essentially changing her emotional response from a negative to a positive,” McKinley explained.The shelter used a behavioral modification plan, which consisted of positive reinforcement training techniques to help Tessy overcome her fears. Fixing a problematic behavior takes a lot of time, patience, and effort, but the shelter’s staff didn’t give up on Tessy.“Changing an involuntary physiological behavior takes dedication and consistency to be successful, and while we were determined to see this through, the nature of being in a shelter, with different staff members working with her on any given day, and for varying amounts of time, means the change would take time,” said McKinley. “We also needed to make sure her adopters were the right fit for her. We took a very thoughtful and careful approach to introducing her to people, and it took time for the right family to find her.”Then, almost three years later, all of Tessy’s hard work paid off! After 1,007 days at the shelter, this cute pooch has finally found her forever home. The family who adopted Tessy, met her several times to help her feel at ease. For the adopters, it was love at first sight, and Tessy instantly felt safe around them. “When her adopters Jeanine and Jeff first met her, we all tried to keep a level head about it, not getting our hopes up too high. After their third meeting, though, we could tell Tessy had already established a level of trust with them that we had never seen so quickly before,” said McKinley. Jeff and Jeanine adopted the pooch shortly after the third visit, and the shelter’s staff was ecstatic that Tessy had found a loving home.“It was a rollercoaster of emotions leading up to the adoption day, everything from celebrations to disbelief to sadness, excitement, a bit of anxiety, and everything in between. Mostly, though, we felt proud. Proud of her, proud of everyone who helped get her to this point, and proud of the results,” McKinley shared.  “We all know she’d do okay, we are also quite aware that going from three years in the shelter into a loving home is a big adjustment, and it will take her a while to fully acclimate. We tried to instill in her adopters to be confident and patient but never to be complacent.” the shelter’s director added.It’s important to know that not every visit to an animal shelter ends with ‘love at first sight.’ A lot of adoptable dogs have experienced some level of trauma and neglect, and are generally more anxious inside the shelter. Keep an open mind when visiting your local shelter and remember that each of these pups deserves a loving family and a forever home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

Yoga mat, water bottle,... lint roller?

Furry friends bring a new twist to traditional yoga.

Felix Cat Insurance Will Pay Your Engagement Ring – On One Condition

If you're ready to tie the knot, you should know that there’s a way to make this special occasion even more memorable – by including your furball in the proposal. Not only is it an adorable way to ask for someone’s hand in  marriage, but thanks to Felix Cat Insurance, it can also be a way to get a gorgeous ring for free! This company is launching “A Purr-fect Proposal” campaign, aiming to help one couple of cat lovers celebrate that special moment in their lives. The aim of the campaign is to cover the costs of an engagement ring and the only requirement is to include your cat in the proposal!December is truly a magical month, so it doesn’t surprise that it’s also the most popular month to get engaged – which is why Felix Cat Insurance chose this month to bring their plan to fruition. The contest is open until December 19th, and the company will choose one lucky winner whose kitty-centered proposal plan sounds the best three days after that, on December 22nd. The winner will be gifted $4,750 or have the cost of an engagement ring covered. Not only that, but they will also receive a package of cat treats, festive toys, and even elegant cat clothes for their furry helper – to wear on the special occasion, of course. "Our felines are family members and just like your closest friends and family, we want to include them in celebrating meaningful moments like this," said Jamie Maxfield, Marketing Director and Brand Expert at Felix Cat Insurance. "Planning for the future can also bring challenges, which is why we're spreading holiday cheer by easing the expense of this life milestone as you, your partner, and your furry friend embark on your new life together. Not only is Felix here to ease the expense of this core life event, but we can also be there every step of the way afterwards."Here are the contest details as laid out by the company:Prize:$4,750 to put toward an engagement ring. A curated kit of treats and surprises so your furry friend can join in on the celebration. Dates: The contest opens on November 28th, 2023 at 12:01 a.m. EST and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 19, 2023. The winner will be selected on December 22, 2023. Eligibility & Rules: You must live in the United States.You must be 18+ in age. The proposal must take place within the month of December. This contest is not available in Washington or Puerto Rico. For more information on the "Purr-fect Proposal" contest, including terms and conditions, visit  FelixPurrfectProposal.com. Good luck – and congrats on the engagement to be!

These Dog Foods Are Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Owners should always be careful about the food that they give to their pet – and it’s only natural that every caring owner will naturally want the best for their pet. But sometimes, even getting the best of the best is not a guarantee as accidents can happen anytime. In this case, the issue is that several popular dog food brands got potentially contaminated with salmonellla. Recently, owners had been shocked to find out that three brands of pet food were recalled - having tested positive for salmonella. And in fact, the past year saw at least seven recalls of dog food brands that were either contaminated with this nasty bacteria, or had harmful elevated levels of vitamins. And, to make matters worse, 2019 saw several dogs get seriously ill after consuming the food. And our dear four-legged friends are not the only ones at risk - handling the contaminated dog food, we too are exposed to salmonella. In 2012, up to 49 people in the United States and Canada fell ill after an outbreak of salmonella that was traced to dry dog food. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 persons were so ill that hospitalization was required.According to the CDC, the pesky salmonella bacteria causes “an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.”As for the latest recalls, a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, released on October 30th, includes the following foods: “one by Mid America Pet Food of Mount Pleasant, Texas, involving three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula after random sampling found salmonella, which can sicken pets as well as people who come in contact with it.” Furthermore, it is stated that the food was “Sold by retailers across the U.S., the recalled products come in five-pound, 15-pound and 40-pound bags with a best-by-date of June 12, 2024, and contain one of the following three lot numbers on the back of the products: 1000016890, 1000016891, 1000016892.”The second recall involves TFP Nutrition of Nacogdoches, and their Retriever All Life Stages Mini Chunk Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, in 50lbs bags, with best-by-dates of October 2024 and production codes of either 3277 TFP or 3278 TFP. Lastly, the third recall in the latest wave is Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, North Carolina, which is recalling Breeders Choice dog food with the UPC code 8 54298 00193 1 due to possible salmonella contamination.In case you suspect your pet has eaten any potentially infected foods, it is important to know the  symptoms of salmonella poisoning in pets: they can be lethargic, listless, or have diarrhea that is followed by fever and vomiting. If you recognise these in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. And, if you suspect that the dog food you have is contaminated, make sure to destroy it in a way that children, animals, or people cannot get in contact with it.

Why Do Some Dogs Have Bad Body Odor?

Dogs are cute, no doubt about that, but most of them are not winning awards for their lovely BO – in fact, if we’re being honest, most pooches are a bit stinky. Of course, if you make sure to keep them clean with regular baths, grooming, and teeth brushing, you can eliminate or at least significantly reduce any unpleasant smell. But sometimes, even if you are very attentive about your dog’s hygiene, they can still smell a bit funky. Why does this happen? And what should you do in that case? Lastly, is there a way to prevent unpleasant body odors in your dog? Let’s try and answer all these stinky questions.Why Does My Dog Smell Bad?Are you catching a whiff of something foul whenever your dog enters the room? Are you struggling to keep them clean and smelling fresh? There could be a number of reasons why your pupper is stinky, and it is important to go over everything in order to properly address this issue. Firstly, you want to consider their hygiene. Lack of regular grooming and bathing can lead to a buildup of dirt, oils, and bacteria on a dog's skin and coat, resulting in a bad odor. Make sure you are giving your dog a regular wash or a bath, and that you are using  special shampoos that are safe for pets and smell nice.

Top stories

Scientists Reveal Which Dogs Are Best at Giving Puppy Eyes

Related articles