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Spitfire The Whippet Believes He Can Fly [Video]

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  October 19th, 2018
Ever wonder what it would be like to fly with four legs? Wonder no more, as an incredible Whippet named Spitfire will be happy to show you…and break records while he’s at it!


There are some incredible dogs in this world. With technology being as it is, we’re lucky enough to ‘meet’ them and often, find ourselves in awe of them.


Related: Pittie-Looking Dog Prevented From Competing in Dock-Dog Meet


And when I came across this video of an amazing dog named Spitfire jumping 31 feet across a pool? You best believe my jaw dropped in awe.


Spitfire jumps a distance of over 31 feet to create a new world record for the farthest leap by a dog pic.twitter.com/00alb3lNYB


— viral viral (@xxlfunny1) October 10, 2018


That jump earned Spitfire the world record for the longest-ever jump by a dog. But, that’s not Spitfire’s only record–he’s also pretty fast on those four feet and the world record-holder in speed retrieval.


They see me rollin’


Posted by Spitfire the Whippet on Friday, July 27, 2018


My favorite thing about Spitfire though? He is this mega-record holder but totally hides his celebritydom behind his adoration for his human, 13-year old Sydney Mackie from Olympia, Washington. He just loves her and wants to please her, and what is sweeter?

Kristi Baird is Spitfire’s Dog Docking trainer and in an interview earlier this year, she tried to describe what differentiated Spitfire from other dogs. She said that pretty much any dog could participate in those events, but what made the great dogs so great at it was their drive.


Related: Whippet Pops Them Good As He Breaks World Record [Video]


Baird says that dogs with drive show in their level of competition and it’s just innate to the dog. Dogs who participate in dock diving are varied in breed, size and shape and enjoy all the dog things like chasing and playing in water.

But the fastest–the ones who fly through the air with their four feet gracefully and make humans feel woefully inadequate? Well, they’re dogs like Spitfire and they rock our world!

WOW
Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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Amazing Dog Steals Show And Sets World Record For Frisbee Catch

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Quarantine Weather Reports Constantly Interrupted By Talkative Pooch

With much of North America working remotely from home, there are bound to be some ruff days as pets and their people adjust to so much togetherness. One meteorologist from St. Louis had us cracking up, as his dog Maple clearly wanted to be the star of his show! When NBC5 On Your Side’s Chief Meterologist Scott Connell tried to film a tease from home, his King Charles Cavalier Maple wasn’t having any of it. Anybody else have a dog that really wants to be part of every experience? Working from home certainly has its challenges. Little Miss Maple apparently thought the squirrel in the backyard was worthy of my attention while trying to tape the tease for the late news Tuesday night. She's just a little spunky for sure! Posted by Scott Connell on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 Maple didn’t give any cares as he barked and yipped, trying to alert her clearly oblivious dad to the dangers of squirmy squirrels in the back yard. Maple’s barks were timed perfectly as each one hilariously coincided with her dad’s redoing a take for his weather report. Related: Spitfire The Whippet Believes He Can Fly [Video] Connell’s constant interruptions from Maple kept forcing him to retake, and even when he tried to get Maple to come and stay by his side, Maple wasn’t having any of it. It was only when Connell had his hand on Maple the entire time that she gave him enough quiet to make it all the way through…just barely, though. Because, you know…squirrels are serious business and wait for no one. The meteorologist posted the bloopers on Facebook, wondering it was just him who was having a hard time with pets who want to be part of every work from home experience. Turns out that he’s NOT, as the Interwebs have been full of people posting about how their pets are presenting themselves in the most inconvenient of ways while their humans work from home. Some pets are being the ever judgy bosses… meetings with my manager are a little different during mandated work from home pic.twitter.com/SwFOlOPSEH — bradley babendir (@therealbradbabs) March 12, 2020 While others are literally showing their rears in protest of working from home…. thoughts and prayers to everyone out there trying to work from home with a pet that does not understand the concept pic.twitter.com/zWLaLWyZg8 — Anagha Srikanth (@anasrikanth) March 12, 2020 Others are requiring some serious hand-holding through this whole COVID-19 thing… Work from home, they said. You’ll just be as productive. Clearly they haven’t met my dog, who requires me to hold her paws. pic.twitter.com/7vKjY251ys — Alex Wilcox (@Ms_Alex_W) March 12, 2020 Related: 10 Unapologetic Photobombing Pets While others insist that work be all about THEM… Everyday. Excuse my messy desk. pic.twitter.com/saSTTrTgy9 — Raven Vz (@blackedraven) March 12, 2020 Then there’s that sound that we all know the second we hear it…coming at the most inopportune times… The people on this conference call don’t know, but I BARELY muted my micrphone before my dog did something I can only describe as a yell barf. — Hand Stanitizer Horaczek (@stanhoraczek) March 18, 2020 And those who just give in and let their pets win. How I imagine pretty much every video conference meeting is going for anyone working from home who has a cat. pic.twitter.com/NYS3bpLkyw — Amanda (@Pandamoanimum) March 19, 2020 Of course, you always have those micromanager bosses who insist on being in the middle of EVERYthing… Studies have shown that pets boost our sense of well-being and creativity. They also sit on our hands while we’re trying to type. pic.twitter.com/fdbx92ajrX — Stephanie Zacharek (@szacharek) March 12, 2020 Mine’s a bit of a micromanager… pic.twitter.com/V4CBhz7L6c — SuchFertileChaos (@OldATXMonster) March 13, 2020 But then, there are always those who don’t care how you get it done, as long as it’s done and you don’t bother them! Meet Lily! On our last day of Alamo Staffs' Lily is a French Bulldog and just doesn't get this whole "Work From Home" thing. "Don't these humans know that their only job should be petting and playing with me?"How are your pets handling their new jobs? pic.twitter.com/LBZsUsEpi8 — The Alamo (@OfficialAlamo) April 17, 2020 These are definitely different times, and it’s unprecedented that we’re home as much as we are. Our pets are doing their best to cope with us, and hey…who can blame them for wanting to get into some of the quarantine action? Do you have any pet work-from-home pics you want to share with us? We’d love to see!

When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?

Training your pet is a very important task as it will shape them into a friendly, obedient dog that’s a pleasure to be around. While it does require a lot of patience and effort, training your dog on time makes your life as an owner much easier and prevents a myriad of behavior issues and other problems down the road. Of course, it goes without saying that you should start training early, while your doggo is still a puppy. That is the time when they gladly soak up all the information and eagerly learn. But when exactly is the best time to start puppy training? You can’t do it while they are still teeny-tiny, nor should you wait too long. What is the ideal middle ground? Let’s find out.When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?Puppies are like sponges, soaking up information from their environment and their owner, so early training can set a solid foundation for good behavior and establish obedience throughout their lives. Ideally, you can start basic training such as housebreaking, socialization, and simple commands like "sit" and "stay" when your puppy is around 8 weeks old. This is the general “golden rule” that many owners stick by. When they reach that 2-month mark, it’s considered the ideal time for them to quickly grasp the commands you teach them. If you think that this could be “too early” to start training, you are wrong. There are numerous benefits to early training, and all of them are critical for your dog’s well-being and normal behavior. Here are just a few of them:SocializationEarly socialization is so important for puppies. It allows them to learn how to properly interact with other dogs and humans and prevents aggression and behavioral problems later in life. During this period you should expose your pet to new environments, sounds, and sights.BondingTraining sessions are a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your puppy. Spending time together, teaching them new things, and rewarding good behavior builds trust and a positive relationship.Preventing Behavioral IssuesIf you spot behavior issues while your dog is still a puppy, it is easier to prevent them from becoming nasty habits. As you teach your pet proper behavior and as you set up boundaries, you will prevent many nasty issues from forming, such as excess chewing, barking, or disobedience. If you already notice chewing issues that stem from teething, make sure to redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and use  puppy no-chew deterrent sprays to help you shift their focus.

Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. “People say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Reveals the Most Expensive Locations for Pet-Friendly Airbnbs

Are you considering taking a trip to a dream destination in the United States with your best friend by your side? If so, you’re not alone! A growing number of animal lovers are taking steps to include the whole family in their travel plans, with Airbnb reporting that close to 50% of nights booked include pets. But have you ever stopped to consider how much your furry family member is increasing the budget?The team at MarketWatch recently released a guide to pet-friendly Airbnb travel in the US with some startling stats.Data was compiled about the cost of renting 11, 676 Airbnbs and 11,753 pet-friendly Airbnbs located in 46 of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. By comparing the average nightly cost for pet-friendly and pet-free locations, they determined the price premium or the added cost pet parents must pay to include their furry friends.While we’re not suggesting that the cost of accommodations should be the sole deciding factor for your next vacation, this could impact your top choices.According to the guide, the most expensive city is Honolulu, Hawaii, with an average night stay costing $511. This is also the destination where pet parents will face the highest price premium for booking a pet-friendly location at $345.50.If you’re an avid traveler, this likely comes as no surprise. Hawaii is one of the country's more popular destinations for luxury travel. Not only is the cost of living in the state one of the highest, but the state also charges a Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT), further increasing costs.Of the 10 most expensive tourist destinations to book a pet-friendly Airbnb, 7 were in California. In addition to Honolulu, the list includes:Monterey, CA ($509)Sonoma, CA ($488)Napa Valley ($380)Santa Cruz, CA ($339)Palm Springs, CA ($329)Boston, MA ($238)Los Angeles, CA ($226)San Francisco, CA ($226)Yellowstone National Park, WY ($219)Don’t let these costs keep you from planning your next big pet-friendly getaway. Not only did they compile a list of the most expensive destinations, but they also identified the least expensive nightly rates in the US. This list is a great way to travel with your pet without worrying about your budget.They discovered that the least expensive city to book a pet-friendly Airbnb is Oklahoma City, OK, where the average nightly rate is only $110. Other locations that made this list include:St. Louis, MO ($111)Cleveland, OH ($114)Columbus, OH ($117)Houston, TX ($119)Salt Lake City, UT ($119)Detroit, MI ($124)Memphis, TN ($125)Indianapolis, IN ($129)San Antonio, TX ($130)Booking a lower-cost Airbnb is only one of many ways to keep the costs down when traveling with your pet. Pack all your pet’s travel essentials before your trip, including a leash, food/water dishes, grooming supplies, plastic waste bags, and a first aid kit. If you are driving to your destination, you can also pack your pet’s food to avoid shopping for it once you arrive. You can gather these items by shopping local sales rather than paying a premium to get what you need on short notice. Pet Insurance is another great budget-friendly travel tip. This may seem counterproductive, adding the monthly cost of your pet’s policy to your budget. But if disaster strikes, the insurance policy can help to significantly reduce emergency vet bills.Whatever your budget, we encourage all pet parents to get out and explore, making memories with their pets by their side. You won’t regret it!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

If you’re a bird parent, you love and cherish your feathered friend – but what do you do when your bird nips or bites? This is a behavior that can be both surprising and concerning, especially for first-time bird parents. But know, you’re not alone!If you’re wondering, “Why is my bird biting me?” This article is for you!We will explore the different factors and explanations for your pet bird’s newly developed biting tendencies, helping you understand the motivations, identify when there is a deeper problem requiring your attention, and learn how to address the behavior appropriately.Let’s look at how to set you and your bird up for a long, happy relationship by addressing problem biting today.Do Bird Bites Hurt?The short answer to this is – Maybe? Whether or not your bird’s bite will hurt depends on a few factors, including how the bird bites, their overall intention, your bird’s size, and your level of pain tolerance.Bird bites can range from a light little nibble that merely tickles to bites that have the capability of causing serious damage, especially to vulnerable areas like the eyes, ears, nose, lips, fingers, and toes.The potential for a bird bite to cause severe or lasting injuries highlights the importance of understanding your bird, why they may bite, and how to prevent this situation from happening. It’s also one of the most important reasons to consider when deciding if a bird is right for your child, elderly, or special needs family member.Even smaller birds can cause a surprising amount of pain. Often, it’s not the initial bite that causes the most pain. Instead, it’s the way that they will dig in or even grind their beaks that will lead to discomfort, stinging, and soreness.

Are Hamsters Good Pets for Kids?

Final Thoughts: Hamsters and ChildrenAre hamsters good pets for kids? The short answer is, “maybe.” There are several key factors to consider when deciding if a hamster will be an excellent addition to your family, including the space needed for their habitat, their independent personalities, your child’s interest in a bet, the work (and finances) required to care for your new hamster, and the availability of a veterinarian that will accept small animals.If your child is ready for a pet, but a hamster doesn’t quite check all the boxes on your new pet wishlist, there are many other options, including guinea pigs, cats, dogs, and some species of birds. Don’t rush this decision. Take time to research and find the best fit for your family before committing to your future furry (or feathered) family member.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten and Puppy Food Due to Bacteria

Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

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.

Study Finds Differences in Pain Sensitivity Between Dog Breeds

Although you might think that all dogs experience pain the same, it turns out that different dog breeds have varying levels of pain sensitivity.

Technology Tracking Dogs Really Are a Thing

We’ve all heard of dogs that can sniff out drugs and explosives or locate missing persons from a simple whiff of their clothing… but what’s all this about technology trackers? Can I seriously teach my pooch to hunt down the TV remote that went missing over the weekend? Actually, it’s not that kind of technology. You see, this highly specialized dog is trained to detect a compound called triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO) and with a dog’s approximately 400 million olfactory receptors (humans have closer to 50 million) these super sleuths can smell that stuff through pocket material, duffle bags, a shoe insole, and even drywall. Now, if you’re wondering what TPPO is, it’s the compound used to cover circuit boards in storage devices ranging from hard drives to USB sticks, memory cards and even those tiny SIM cards that store data on our cellphones. Essentially, it’s the all-important coating that prevents these gadgets from overheating and because of that, it’s a compound that will never not be present on electronic devices.But as to why this specific training is growing in K9 units worldwide you need to consider the increase in cyber-terrorism. From drug and human trafficking to child pornography and weapons offences, the need to locate a criminal’s “tools of the trade” such as computers, burner phones, and hard drives is essential to securing a successful conviction. And while internet use and location trackers have made it easy to trail an individual, many perpetrators now work on darknets – an overlay that uses the internet but requires special software for the person to access illicit data.Of course, even a darknet involves a computer system and that’s where the TPPO-sniffing pooch steps up to the plate. Find the perp and let this specially trained K9 agent track down the concealed storage system. I mean, when you’re dealing with something as easily hidden as a SIM card, having a secret furry weapon that detects the scent, then sits, barks and wags his tail saves a heck of a lot of time.Truth is, technology-tracking dogs are becoming more and more common in the execution of this type of warrant because police often get just one shot at finding the much-needed evidence. No surprise that the best dogs for this type of work tend to be the usual suspects – Labrador retrievers because of their heightened sensory skills, innate hunting traits and their gentle disposition – important if there are younger family members present during a search. Other faves include the stately Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dogs for their tenacity and handler loyalty. I’m not convinced my Schnoodles would rank but as with most family pooches, they’re ace at hunting down an errant chip between the sofa cushions… and that’s good enough for me.

Neutering Rottweilers May Shorten Their Lifespan, Study Finds

Increased lifespan is often cited as one of the main benefits of neutering a dog. But is that true? A recently published study found neutered Rottweilers may have a shorter lifespan than their intact counterparts. Neutering is a commonly performed surgical procedure that prevents unwanted puppies, controls the pet population, and eliminates certain health problems in dogs. It offers significant health benefits, such as reduced risk of pyometra and mammary tumors in female dogs. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the possible side effects of neutering. A recent study aimed to shed some light on this topic by comparing the lifespans of neutered and intact male and female Rottweilers. Scientists analyzed available clinical records of 3,085 intact and 4,100 neutered Rottweilers from July 1994 to June 2021. These records were collected by VetCompass Australia. The analysis provided surprising results. Scientists discovered that Rottweilers that were neutered before one year of age had a shortened lifespan of one-and-a-half years in males and one year in females when compared to intact Rottweilers. The analysis showed similar results for dogs neutered before the age of four-and-a-half years. “Most other studies have found that neutering dogs increases their longevity but ours is the first that went against that,” said Dr. Caroline Joone, the study’s lead author and senior lecturer at James Cook University in theriogeneology. “It was a bit of a shock when that wasn’t what we found,” Dr. Joone added. “We were fortunate with the data we had because we could determine when a dog was desexed and when they died.” Despite the study’s findings Dr. Joone strongly encourages owners to neuter their four-legged companions to prevent unwanted litters, as well as, serious health issues. “There are serious consequences for not neutering a dog, such as the risk of life-threatening uterus infection known as pyometra, mammary tumors, and unwanted puppies,” Dr. Joone explained. At this time, it’s unclear whether there is an ideal age to neuter a Rottweiler that doesn’t influence their lifespan. The study also highlighted several factors that could affect the lifespan of any dog, including nutrition, exercise, health care, genetic predispositions, and environmental factors. These factors may be reduced by screening for genetic health conditions. Selecting healthy breeding pairs may also help reduce the occurrence of hereditary disorders and support longevity. Let’s not forget that overweight dogs have a shorter life span than lean dogs. “There’s a strong suspicion that the reduced lifespan is more to do with weight issues than the neutering itself, so I would encourage owners to go ahead and neuter their dog but make sure you keep it at a good, healthy weight.”Dr. Joone explained that a balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for maintaining a healthy weight in neutered dogs.Do these findings apply to all neutered dogs or just Rottweilers? Scientists aren’t sure yet but plan to extend their research to other popular breeds, such as golden retrievers and greyhounds, to determine whether these results are widely applicable. The role of weight gain post-neutering and other underlying causes of reduced lifespan in neutered dogs are worth investigating further. Additionally, this study also showed that the time of neutering a dog may affect its lifespan. Dogs are often neutered between six months and one year of age, but mounting evidence has suggested that this may not be the best time to neuter a dog. Based on this analysis, neutering Rottweilers early, especially before the age of one, reduces lifespan, highlighting the importance of determining the optimal neutering age. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

With Just a Sniff, Dogs May be Able to Curtail PTSD Episodes

Halifax's Dalhousie University finds dogs can identify the adrenaline hormone through an individual's breath.

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

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We ask the question: Is there really an app in the works that will help us talk to animals?

Britain's Beloved Breed, the Scottish Terrier, Faces Extinction

Once an icon of British culture, the Scottish terrier is now facing extinction. The Scottie has a distinctive silhouette of a short-legged but sturdy dog with furnishings at the beard, legs, and lower body.These mighty pooches decorated everything from the Monopoly board to designer bags, and shortbread tins. However, the Kennel Club has placed the Scottish terrier on its “at watch” list after only 406 puppies were registered by breeders in 2023.The number of registered Scotties has been plummeting for five consecutive years, but this is a record low.The Scottie was the most popular in the 1930s when there were more than 5,800 registered puppies in a single year. Presidents Franklin D Roosevelt and George W Bush enjoyed the company of Scottie dogs, while countless celebrities including Dorothy Parker and Charles Lindbergh owned a Scottish terrier. Originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin in the Highlands, the Scottish terrier has a loyal, fateful, and bold nature, but is never aggressive. Scotties are dignified, self-assured, independent, and highly intelligent dogs that make wonderful companions to people of all ages.Unfortunately, the Scottie isn’t the only dog that has fallen out of favor with British dog lovers. On the Kennel Club’s “at watch” list are also the English pointer, the rough collie, the wire fox terrier, the Sussex spaniel, the curly-coated retriever, the otterhound, the Gordon setter, the Norwich terrier, and the Manchester terrier. “The Scottish terrier has been such an icon and recognizable breed in the UK for decades and means so much to so many different people, so these latest figures are really worrying,” said Bill Lambart, a spokesman for the Kennel Club.On the other end of the popularity spectrum are Bernese mountain dogs and miniature longhaired Dachshunds, which saw the biggest rise in registrations. The English setter, the Jack Russel terrier, and the Yorkshire terrier also experienced a surge in popularity. Brits are lucky to have more than two hundred wonderful dog breeds to choose from. Each of these breeds has unique personality and character traits and make amazing companions. However, most dogs seen in the parks and streets come from the top ten most popular breeds.“People often opt for well-known choices and simply forget to dig a little deeper, with the worrying knock-on effect that not only are some of our most iconic breeds in decline but also that people might not be getting the perfect match for them,” said Lambert. “People simply forget there are so many different dog breeds, with different personalities and characteristics, and it’s not just the well-known ones that could be a great match for our lifestyles.” The Kennel Club is pleased to see that some of the country’s native breeds, like the English setter, are regaining their popularity. However, the organization also stresses that many breeds are at risk of extinction only because they are no longer fashionable. The top ten most popular breeds in the UK, including the French bulldog, Labrador retriever, and Cocker spaniel, account for more than 60 percent of annual puppy registrations for all breeds. Despite the low registration numbers, there’s still hope for the Scottish terrier. Breed enthusiasts and clubs have started to promote the breed’s unique traits, in hopes of increasing the public’s interest in this amazing breed. The plan to educate the public about the Scottish terrier’s character, history, and suitability as a companion pet could be essential for boosting the breed’s registration numbers. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and you’re probably excited about everything that this festive time of year has to offer. But even though you might be focused on being with the people you love, eating delicious food, and sharing gifts, it’s important to also consider the effects the holidays can have on your pets.To help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your furbabies, here’s a list of holiday safety tips for pets.

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