American Mastiff

by Kate Barrington

Published: July 18th, 2018

About American Mastiff

Height

28-36 inches

Weight

120-200 lb

Lifespan

8-12 years

Group

not applicable

Best Suited For

active singles, active families, house with a yard, experienced dog owners

Temperament

dignified, loyal, protective, gentle

Comparable Breeds

Mastiff, Anatolian Mastiff

American Mastiff Basics

When you hear the word Mastiff you probably picture a giant dog with sagging cheeks and a mouth full of drool. While the American Mastiff is certainly a large, powerful dog with many similarities to other Mastiff breeds, he has a much drier mouth. This trait, combined with his loyalty and protective instincts make him a wonderful pet if you have the space for him. American Mastiffs may not be the easiest dogs to keep, but they are a calm and steady breed you’re sure to love.

American Mastiffs may not be the easiest dogs to keep, but they are a calm and steady breed you’re sure to love.

Origin

The American Mastiff was developed by Fredericka Wagner of Piketon, Ohio. This breed is the result of a crossing between the English Mastiff and the Anatolian Mastiff. Early litters of puppies had firmer, tighter lips than either parent breed and they drooled much less. Outcrossing for the American Mastiff breed continued until the late 1900s until Wagner had enough stock to breed from her existing lines. The Continental Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2000 and Wagner formed the American Mastiff Breeder’s Council in 2002. As of yet, the American Mastiff is not recognized by either the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club.

Pedigree

The American Mastiff is the result of a cross between the English Mastiff and the Anatolian Mastiff.

Food/Diet

As a giant breed, the American Mastiff should be fed a high-quality recipe formulated specifically for large-breed dogs. These recipes are made with high levels of protein to sustain lean muscle mass with moderate fat content to keep the calorie content under control. The American Mastiff needs a lot of calories simply due to his size but you should carefully control his portions to avoid obesity.

The American Mastiff is the result of a cross between the English Mastiff and the Anatolian Mastiff.

Training

The American Mastiff is not the most intelligent breed out there, but he is by no means stupid. These dogs are somewhat difficult to train, however, so they are best for experienced dog owners. American Mastiffs can respond well to positive reinforcement training but harsh training methods are likely to produce a stubborn, willful dog. Training should be started from an early age along with socialization to ensure that this breed grows up to be calm and well-adjusted.

Weight

The American Mastiff is a very large breed, standing 28 to 36 inches tall and weighing between 120 and 200 pounds at maturity.

Temperament/Behavior

Looking at the American Mastiff, you might not expect him to be much of a family pet but, despite his protective tendencies, this breed can be very gentle. American Mastiffs are calm, loyal, and affectionate dogs that do very well with children when properly socialized – they can also get along with other dogs and household pets. You should know, however, that they can be a bit tricky to handle due to their size so they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. This breed is not inherently aggressive, but he won’t hesitate to defend his family. He doesn’t need an excessive amount of exercise, but he does require plenty of attention and time with family to prevent destructive behaviors.

Common Health Problems

Part of the reason Wagner created the American Mastiff breed was to counteract some of the health problems seen in the English Mastiff. Unfortunately, the American Mastiff can carry some of those same health problems, though the risk is a little lower. Some of the conditions to which this breed may be prone include eye problems, joint dysplasia, heart problems, hypothyroidism, arthritis, bloat, and skin problems.

Life Expectancy

The average lifespan for the American Mastiff is 8 to 12 years.

Exercise Requirements

The American Mastiff is not overly active, but he does have moderate needs for exercise. A thirty-minute walk once a day should be sufficient to meet these needs.

American Mastiffs are calm, loyal, and affectionate dogs.

Recognized Clubs

The American Mastiff is not currently recognized by the AKC.

Coat

The American Mastiff has the kind of coat you would expect from a Mastiff – short and smooth. These dogs shed to a moderate degree, but the length of their coat makes it easy to groom. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush is recommended several times a week and you can bath your dog as needed. Compared to other Mastiff breeds, the American Mastiff has tighter skin (especially on the face). The most common colors for the breed include fawn, apricot, and brindle with or without white markings on the chest, chin, and feet.

Puppies

The average litter size for the American Mastiff is 2 to 5 puppies. Because this is a giant breed, you should expect puppies to take 2 years or more to reach their full size and to grow out of their puppy-like tendencies. To prevent overgrowth, feed your American Mastiff puppy a large-breed puppy formula and control his portions. Once he reaches 80% of his maximum size (usually between 12 and 18 months of age), you can switch him to a large- or giant-breed adult formula.

Photo credit: PJW31189/Shutterstock; tamara321/Shutterstock; Eric Isselee/Shutterstock

Kate Barrington

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

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Some days, you’ll come across a dog whose story will just make you cry. Other days, you’re lucky enough to come across the story of an inspirational dog and you need All. The. Tissues. This is one of those days. The annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards are a celebration of the bonds between dogs and people, and recognize varied acts of courage and heroism our four-legged friends exhibit daily. Dogs compete in eight different categories–Law Enforcement, Arson, Service, Therapy, Military, Search and Rescue, Guide/Hearing and Emerging Hero Dogs–and are chosen by the votes given online. The Emerging Hero Dog award is a category for ‘ordinary’ dogs who ended up doing extraordinary things, and this year’s winner was a French Mastiff rescue named Hooch. Hooch’s dad, Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue founder Zach Skow, who is pretty inspirational himself, says Hooch is the picture of resiliency and an example of how past adversity doesn’t have to define who one is today. Related: Former Rescue Ruger The Hero Dog Sends Poachers Packing And Skow would know…he’s a former alcoholic, who was diagnosed with liver failure in 2008. Calling himself vulnerable and scared as he entered rehabilitation to save his life, he began working with the Humane Society and saw in so many of the ‘undesirables’ a little bit of himself. He was motivated to found Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue, a non-profit that works tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome dogs on death row. One dog he was called to rescue was Hooch, a French Mastiff who was in need of some desperate help. He was emaciated, and didn’t eat or drink. He clearly had been abused prior to his sheltering, as his ears were cut off and his tail was broken. Zach assumed that Hooch’s inability to eat and wild, thrashing behavior was the result of a broken or dislocated jaw. When Zach took Hooch to the vet, he learned the trauma Hooch had faced in his life was far more heartbreaking. Someone had cut Hooch’s tongue out, possibly in preparation to make him a bait dog for illegal dog fighting, and it literally made it impossible for him to eat or drink. Related: ASPCA Wants The Department of Justice To On Dog Fighting Laws Zach and the dedicated vet staff tried desperately to nourish and hydrate Hooch with a feeding tube, but poor Hooch was too traumatized and pained and constantly tore the tube out. Desperate measures calling for desperate times, Zach attempted all he could think of–hand feeding Hooch by putting the food down his throat while Hooch held his neck back to get the food to go down. To say this act of love for a pet was life-saving is an understatement, but Zach saw it as a way to gratefully give to another who needed help in rehabilitation, as he had so generously been given in his own life. And Hooch keeps paying it forward! When Zach rescued him, he was only 43 pounds. Now a hefty 95, Hooch does his part to help others in need by showering (literally–Zach says he drools like you’ve never seen!) everyone he sees with love. Hooch seems to have a heart for non-verbal children with autism, and works as a therapy dog for those children, as well as others who have been abused or have special needs. In addition, as part of Marley’s Mutts programs, he helps give comfort and support to homeless people and prisoners who have serious addictive backgrounds, and he is a testament to how a little bit of love and commitment can make a huge impact in the lives of so many.

American Bulldog

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Mastiff

Mastiff Basics Look up the “Mastiff” online and you’ll be greeted with a plethora of options. Why? It’s almost like looking up a breed in and of itself: the Mastiff is such a varied and multifaceted division in the world of dog breeds that you’re likely to come across a number of different individual Mastiff breeds. There are Cuban Mastiffs, English Mastiffs, French, German, Japanese Mastiffs – heck, we probably don’t have the space to list them all right here. (Note: We will, however, be doing a lot of concentration in the English Mastiff, the oldest of English dog breeds and often synonymous with the breed.) So how do you find out whether or not a Mastiff is really right for you? Well, you learn about the breed and about the common characteristics many of them share. In this summation of the world of Mastiffs, we’ll do our best to bring all of this information together so that you can easily navigate through the breed and find out if one might suit your home situation. Let’s take a closer look and find out what this breed is really all about. The original English Mastiff has a pedigree that can be traced throughout history and has been intertwined with the history of Europe itself. Origin Many Mastiffs are particularly young breeds, particularly if you’re talking about the American Mastiff, a breed that is so young that we can trace its roots back to English and Anatolian Mastiff breeding about 20 years ago. You may not be old enough to remember a time when there was no such thing as the American Mastiff. But when you’re talking about the formal “Mastiff,” you are talking about the English Mastiff, which is the breed many of the subsets can trace its roots. The English Mastiff actually has a long history, having been given a name by the ancient Romans, who spotted the dogs in what was then known as Britannia. This breed is recognized as the oldest English breed. The breed was being described in documents even around the 16th century, but even during the 15th century’s infamous Battle of Agincourt, at least one Mastiff was present. There is evidence that the Mastiff also made the trip to America on the Mayflower, although the real documentation for Mastiffs in America didn’t start until the 19th century. Today, the Mastiff is a classic enough breed that it has the aforementioned offshoots all over the world, from Cubans to Americans.

Study: Dogs Labelled as Pitbulls Stay 3 Times Longer in Shelters

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Dog Attacks: Do They Stem From Pooches or People?

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Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

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Golden Retriever Nurses African Painted Dog Pups Rejected by Their Mom

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Everyone likes a nice, relaxing massage – no doubt about it. It helps us unwind, soothes sore muscles, and can promote the release of “happy hormones” such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. So why shouldn’t our four-legged friends enjoy the same perks as we do? That’s right, dogs can enjoy getting a massage as well, and can also provide a range of benefits for our four-legged besties, the same as it does for us.What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?Canine massage can offer several benefits to dogs, both physically and emotionally. Just like us, our dogs can be tired, sore, grumpy, or sad. And a good massage can really help them shake it off and feel more at ease and relaxed. But people often wonder if there are any additional benefits for dogs who enjoy a massage – apart from it feeling nice, that is. And the answer is yes! Here are just some of the advantages they get from a massage:Stress and Tension Relief:A nice soothing massage can help relax tense muscles and reduce stress in dogs. This is especially beneficial for dogs that may be anxious or nervous.Better Circulation:Massage can enhance blood circulation, promoting better oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells and tissues. Improved circulation can aid in the healing process and contribute to overall well-being.Pain Relief:Massaging sore or tight muscles can help alleviate pain and discomfort. This is particularly relevant for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other musculoskeletal issues.Better Flexibility and Range of Motion:Regular massage may enhance a dog's flexibility and improve their range of motion. If you have a senior dog or a dog recovering from injuries, a massage can be of great help with improving their overall mobility.Better Joint Health:Massage can contribute to the health of joints by promoting synovial fluid production, which lubricates and nourishes the joints. Senior dogs can benefit from regular massages either to treat existing joint issues or to prevent them in the first place.  Pet-Owner Bonding:Massage provides an opportunity for bonding between the dog and their owner and can improve and strengthen your relationship. It can also help with socialization, especially for dogs that may be timid or have trust issues as it will help them relax when petted.A Stronger Immune System:Some experts suggest that massage may stimulate the lymphatic system, potentially boosting the immune system's function in dogs. While there aren’t any extensive studies done that could confirm this, it would be great if a “side effect” of canine massage is better overall health!Spotting Health Issues:Through massage, you may identify lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. Regular massage can help in the early detection of potential health issues on time to provide the right treatment.Postoperative Recovery:Dogs recovering from surgery may benefit from gentle massage to reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and aid in the healing process. Just don’t apply too much pressure or any pressure on the incision site – and be sure to get your vet’s approval (and possible instructions) before doing anything on your own,It's important to note that while a dog massage can be beneficial, it should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care or, in some cases, without the go-ahead from your pet’s vet. Before starting any massage regimen, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional canine massage therapist, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, learning proper massage techniques is crucial to ensure that you are providing a safe and effective experience for your dog.

Guinness World Records Reviews Bobi’s 'World's Oldest Dog' Title

A Portuguese dog named Bobi made news last year when Guinness World Records crowned him as the world’s oldest dog. Bobi was 31 years and 165 days old when he died at his home last October.However, Guinness World Records has now suspended Bobi’s title after complaints made by veterinarians and professionals questioning the legitimacy of his age.Bobi, who was a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, was also declared the world’s oldest dog ever, breaking a nearly century-old record held by an Australian cattle dog, named Bluey, who died in 1939 at the age of 29 years and 5 months. The average life expectancy of a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo is 12 to 14 years.A spokesperson for the Guinness World Records explained that the review into Bobi’s record is ongoing and it includes looking over the evidence again, looking for new evidence, and talking to experts and all those linked to the original application. “While our review is ongoing we have decided to temporarily pause both the record titles for oldest dog living and (oldest dog) ever just until all of our findings are in place and have been communicated,” said the spokesperson, according to CBS News.Several skeptics pointed out that Bobi’s feet appear to be of different color in photos of him as a puppy and in recent pictures of him in his old age. A Lisbon vet, Miguel Figuereido said last year that Bobi doesn’t really look like a very old dog with mobility problems and an old dog muscle mass. Additionally, an investigation by Wired discovered that Bobi had been formally registered on Portugal’s pet database in July 2022. Leonel Costa, the dog’s owner, registered Bobi as being born in 1992, but there hasn’t been any proof, other than the owner’s word. According to Portuguese law, dogs born before 2008 didn’t have to be registered until October 2020. The Portuguese database for dogs, cats, and other pets also told Wired that they weren’t contacted by Guinness World Records to verify the information. Many other veterinarians and canine experts have questioned Bobi’s true age in correspondence to the Guinness World Records. A veterinarian and council member of the Royal Colledge of Veterinary Surgeons, Danny Chambers, told the Guardian, “Not a single one of my veterinary colleagues believe Bobi was actually 31 years old.”Guinness World Records insists that the suspension is temporary while the review is ongoing.Bobi spent his whole life living with the Costa family in the village of Conqueiros, in Portugal. The pooch, who was allegedly born on May 11, 1992, escaped death in his first days of life. Bobi, along with three other puppies, was born in a woodshed belonging to the Costa family. But, because they already owned many animals, the parents decided to get rid of the newborn puppies.One puppy - Bobi - was unintentionally left behind and discovered days later. Bobi’s owner, Leonel Costa, who was eight, and his sister persuaded their parents to keep the pup, and so he remained living with the family.Leonel Costa defended Bobi’s title saying that “an elite within the veterinary world…tried to give people an idea that Bobi’s life story was not true.”Costa believes this happened because he attributed Bobi’s longevity to a varied diet of human foods, rather than pet food. He said this goes against the recommendations of many veterinarians. “Everything would be different if we had said he (Bobi) ate pet food for three decades,” said Costa, adding that they’d provided everything Guinness World Records requested to validate Bobi’s age. Bobi has never been chained up or put on a leash and used to roam the woods around the village until he got too old to move much. He spent his golden years lounging in the yard with the family cats. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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!

Animal Shelter Receives Donations in Memory of Jon Stewart’s Dog

Comedian Jon Stewart returned to “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central in February, and viewers have been tuning in to watch him talk about current events. Stewart hosts every Monday night, serving up news in a hilarious way. But on February 26, he closed the show on a somber note, spending a few minutes talking about his dog, Dipper.Jon Stewart Remembers His Extraordinary DogStewart shared a touching story of how he met and came to adopt Dipper. He explained that, 12 or 13 years ago, his young children wanted to raise money for Animal Haven, a no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in New York City. To fundraise, his family baked cupcakes and set up an area outside of the shelter to sell them.  He went on to say that the shelter brought out a pit bull who was about 1 year old. At this point, Stewart started to break down, clearly getting emotional as he explained that the dog had been hit by a car in Brooklyn and had lost one of his legs as a result.Through tears, Stewart said his family left the shelter after raising some much-needed funds for a wonderful organization that does great work. But they also left with the very special pit bull who had stolen their hearts and who was, as Stewart described him, the best boy. Dipper even used to go to the studio with Stewart, so he met the famous people who were guests on the show.Then, Stewart shared the devastating news that Dipper had passed away just the day before. He ended with a wish for everyone to find an amazing dog they could love. And then, for the show’s “Moment of Zen,” they played an adorable video of Dipper playing in the snow.You can watch the segment here:

Library Accepting Cat Photos to Cover Your Fees

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How To Tell if a Cat Is Cold

Despite your cat’s luxurious coat, they can feel cold sometimes, and it’s important to make it easy for them to warm up because, if they get too cold, they could become hypothermic. Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs that your cat is cold, and how to help them feel warm and comfortable.Signs Your Cat Is ColdCats of all ages and breeds can feel the effects of the cold, but kittens, seniors, and those who are ill are more susceptible. And, of course, hairless cats can get cold even faster. Here are some of the ways to tell if your cat is cold:Your cat’s body feels cold – Feel your cat’s body to see if they’re cold to the touch. If their ears, paws, and tail are colder than normal, they may need help warming up. Your cat’s posture changes – A cat who’s cold may curl up in a ball to try to warm up. You might also find them puffing up their fur or they might be in a hunched position as they try to conserve heat. Your cat is looking for warmer spots – A kitty who’s feeling the chill in the air will find the warmest spots in the house. They might get under the thick blanket on your bed, or they might insist on sitting in your lap. And you might find them spending more time near a heater or fireplace. During the day, they might also move to areas that get more sunshine to feel its warmth.Your cat isn’t as active – When a cat feels too cold, they may become less active. If your pet is sleeping more or appears lethargic, first make sure that another medical issue isn’t to blame. If it’s because they’re cold, take action to warm them up, including turning up the heat in your home. Bear in mind that cats with certain conditions, such as arthritis, might feel even more discomfort when it’s cold, and this can lead to changes in activity level and behavior too.Your cat starts shivering – Like people, cats shiver when they’re very cold, and this is a sign that you need to warm them up right away. But because this could also be a symptom of other problems, from illness and pain to stress and fear, be sure to determine if temperature is really the culprit.What To Do if Your Cat Is ColdThere are many ways to help your feline friend feel cozy and comfortable, such as:Give your cat a cozy bed and blanket in a warm spotWhen you see that your cat is feeling cold, give them a warm bed that they can rest in to warm up. There are heated beds that you plug in, as well as self-warming beds that work without electricity. Plus, there are heated pads that can be helpful in making your kitty feel cozy. And you can let your cat crawl under a soft blanket for extra warmth. Just be sure to use heated beds and pads as directed to prevent injuries. Let your cat relax in a warm area in the house, such as near a heat source or in a spot where the sunshine streams in during the day. Move your pet away from drafts.Snuggle with your catOnce your cat finds a comfortable spot on the bed or sofa, you can lie down next to them to help them warm up with your body heat. They’re sure to love the attention, and you’ll get to be near your purring feline friend.  Put sweaters on your catAs long as your kitty doesn’t mind wearing clothes, you can use sweaters to keep them warm on chilly days. This is especially useful for hairless kitties. And you can use clothes to keep your cat warm while exploring the outdoors with you.Protect cats who spend time outsideIf your pet is an adventure cat who goes outside with you, or an indoor/outdoor cat who goes out on their own, check outdoor temperatures first. Generally, it’s best to let them spend time outside only when it’s at least 45°F (7°C), but every cat is different, so some might only feel comfortable when it’s even warmer than that.Whenever it’s cold, raining, windy, or snowing, keep them indoors until the weather clears and warms up. Remember, cats who are cold or wet for too long are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia.Note: If you have an outdoor cat, they’ll look for shelter to stay as warm as possible, so give them a safe and dry outdoor enclosure that will protect them from the elements if you can’t bring them into your home, which would be preferable.Check Out These Products That Help Cats Stay WarmHere are a few products we recommend for keeping your cat warm: K&H Thermo-Kitty Bed Deluxe Hooded

Are Candles Safe for Pets?

Final Thoughts: Candles and PetsWhether you want to include a candle in your holiday décor while keeping your pet safe or simply burn a candle to mask those pesky “pet smells,” there ARE options available to enjoy the gentle glow of a candle without creating unnecessary risks for your companion.Choose a pet-safe candle that is made from plant-based wax, avoiding those scented with potentially toxic essential oils like peppermint and pine oils. Set your candle up on a secure surface out of their reach and supervise your pet the entire time it burns. When you’re done, ensure your candle is stored safely where your pet can’t reach it.These simple precautions may be the difference between a festive holiday scene and a trip to your local emergency vet!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

It's a Match! Winnipeg Rescue Intro's Doggie Dates

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Great Dane Sets the Largest Litter Record at North Carolina Rescue

A North Carolina dog gave birth to a litter of puppies and has set a record in the process. Earlier this month, Perfectly Imperfect Pups, a North Carolina foster-based rescue took in a pregnant Great Dane, named Meadow. Two days later, Meadow gave birth to 15 puppies. “It’s the largest litter we have ever seen,” said Nicole Kincaid, the rescue’s founder and director. “We could not believe it when we heard she had 15 puppies, and most of them male! We are so excited for their bright future!”Meadows litter is the largest the rescue has seen since it was founded three years ago. The PIP’s founder and director, Nicole Kincaid, shared that this is also the largest litter she has seen in her 13-year-long rescue career. According to Kincaid, Meadow’s litter is unique for another reason - most of the puppies in the litter are male. “Shockingly enough, we have 12 boys, which is a huge number of boys out of a litter.”PIPs share the news of the record-breaking litter in a Facebook post, writing, “Puppies, puppies, and more puppies! Mamma Meadow and her crew are doing great.”“We are shocked to find out how many puppies she actually had and that all have survived and are doing well,” said Kincaid, according to PEOPLE. “Before being taken in by the Perfectly Imperfect Pups, Meadow had an unsteady past. “She has been passed around to five homes, since giving birth to another litter in February. She was being given away on social media and we reached out, but unfortunately, they gave her away pregnant to someone else.”“Within two days they contacted us and asked if we could still take [Meadow], and of course, we were delighted to take her in,” Kincaid shared. “We got her to our vet the next day, and the day after, she started going into labor.”Meadow is just one of many dogs who had the misfortune of being bounced around from one home to the next. Kincaid shared that this wasn’t Meadow’s fault, saying, “People get a large breed dog, and they don’t realize what they are getting themselves into.”“We are delighted that this will be her final [litter], and her next home will be her forever home,” said Kincaid. “We will also make sure that all 15 puppies go to homes that are experienced with large breed dogs.”For now, Shari Willson, one of the Perfectly Imperfect Pups’ fosters is taking care of Meadow and her pups. The foster mom is supplement feeding the pups in between feedings to make sure all puppies are getting enough food. “Everyone’s gaining weight, everyone’s eating, they are all doing really well,” said Willson.Kincaid praised Meadow’s foster home, saying that her organization “is so proud of our foster parents. They take in dogs without knowing what the next few days or months could bring.”“Taking in a pregnant dog is even more of a challenge because you don’t always know when mom will give birth, how many puppies will be born, or what complications may come along,” she said.The rescue has already received applications and hundreds of messages about adopting Meadow or her puppies when they are old enough to go to their forever homes. All of PIP’s adopters sign a contract in which they commit to taking care of the dog for its entire life and promise to contact the rescue if they can no longer care for them. The rescue’s post-adoption team follows up with the adopters and is available to answer any medical or training-related questions. Mamma Meadow and her pups are going to make wonderful companions and loving dogs to their new families! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

42% of Pet Parents Feel Caring for Pets is More Stressful Than Kids!

Pets can be an incredible addition to any family, but they can also come with a bit of stress. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly half of pet parents shared that caring for their pet was more stressful than caring for their partner or even their children! What is it about our pets that worries us the most? That was the goal of the recent survey conducted by OnePoll and ElleVet Sciences. They polled 2000 pet owners, asking them questions about their relationships, their pets, and the stress that they experience in their role. The answers revealed that the top three sources of stress in most people’s lives include their finances (54%), their job or career (49%), and their ability to care for their pets (42%). The survey went on to discuss reasons for being stressed about our pets, and there was one concern that the majority of respondents shared – as pet parents, we worry about our ability to provide the care our pets will need in their senior years. As our pets get older, their needs often change. We can see this in the way they act and the activities they engage in. A once hyperactive, high-energy dog may start to slow down and sleep more. A dog that easily jumped onto the couch most of their lives now requires stairs or a ramp to get up for cuddle time. Not all changes that come with aging are inherently bad, but 68% of parents say watching their pet age and suffer would be more hurtful to them than losing their job (61%) or breaking up with their partner (61%). “Supporting your pet through all stages of life can minimize their stress, allowing you to create more happy memories together,” shared Amanda Howland, co-founder and CCO of ElleVet Sciences. “As your pet gets older, it’s important to be proactive in identifying the signs of aging, such as difficulty moving, trouble sleeping, and social isolation. It’s all about more time, and more quality time with your pet, and for them, aging and stress are intertwined so taking care of discomfort-related aging and cognitive decline can reduce their stress significantly.” The concern shared by the survey respondents (and other pet parents nationwide) clearly illustrates how important our pets are in our lives. While 73% of those surveyed described their pet as their “protector,” they serve many other vital roles in our lives – our best friends, sounding boards, cheerleaders, motivators, and companions. Your senior pet may require some changes around the home. Throw rugs can be used to provide traction on slippery floors. Safety gates are key for blocking off unsafe areas like staircases that could lead to injury. Caring for our senior pets may be stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to repay our pets for everything they have given us throughout their lives. Even just setting aside time in your schedule each day for a walk around the block followed by a short cuddle on the couch can positively impact their lives, reducing stress and promoting better health. “Just like us, pets’ needs can change as they age, so their daily routines, diet, and exercise may need to be adjusted to improve their quality of life, as well as adding high-quality supplements,” Howland explained. “Small adjustments can ensure your pet’s golden years are less stressful for both themselves and their human companion.”

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