Beardoodle

by Mary Simpson

Published: December 12th, 2017

About Beardoodle

Weight

40-60 lb

Height

20-22 inches

Lifespan

12-13 years

Group

Not Applicable

Best Suited For

families with kids and other pets, first-time dog owners, those seeking a companion dog

Temperament

active, intelligent, independent, social

Comparable Breeds

Poodle, Bearded Collie

Beardoodle Basics

The fun-loving Beardoodle is a combination of the smart, peppy Poodle and the stubborn yet charismatic Bearded Collie with the end result being a great family dog who loves to play and hang out with his people but also does quite well when left on his own – making him perfect for working families.

Beardoodles are a fun combination of the smart little Poodle and the stubborn Bearded Collie.

Origin

As a designer dog, the Beardoodle likely dates back to the 1980s when breeders first begin mixing pure-bred dogs to produce puppies that carried the desired traits of both parent breeds – typically a healthier, smaller, hypo-allergenic or gentler form of a popular breed.

Pedigree

The Beardoodle’s mixed breed make-up means he isn’t eligible to join the American Kennel Club (AKC) however both parent breeds are long-time members; the Poodle joined AKCs “sporting” group in 1887 while the Bearded Collie was named to AKC’s “herding” group in 1976.

Food/Diet

The Beardoodle is a medium-sized dog with a big appetite for exercise. As a result, he needs a nutrient-rich kibble that is specifically formulated to match his age, size and high level of activity. Opt for a food that is high in protein and low in fillers to avoid him over-eating to feel full. Because joint issue can be a problem later in life, you need to prevent this dog from becoming overweight so plan to feed him 2 to 3 times a day versus free feed and because Poodles can be prone to digestive issues, avoid high fat meals.

The Beardoodle is self-confident, outgoing and is cool with being left on his own.

Training

Beardoodles are the product of two intelligent, eager-to-please breeds and in spite of the Collie’s stubborn streak, this dog will be quick to pick up and obey commands. Because he is an energetic dog who can become bored and distracted if not engaged, training should include activities that he can be rewarded for – such as fetch or agility. As with most dogs, rewards-based training with lots of praise and treats of your choice will get the results you are looking for.

Weight

Your Beardoodle will likely weigh in the range of 40 to 60 pounds once he reaches adulthood.

Temperament/Behavior

The Beardoodle is a fun-loving, super-intelligent dog that loves playing with kids and other pets. He is considered self-confident, outgoing and is a quick study when it comes to picking up new tricks – particularly when rewards are involved. Perhaps because of the independent nature of the Bearded Collie, the Beardoodle doesn’t seem to suffer from separation anxiety and is quite comfortable being left on his own – which makes him a great fit for working families.

Common Health Problems

Typically the health issues that can present in pure-breds have been “bred out” of designer dogs however it is always important to know what your new puppy could inherit. In the case of the Beardoodle, that can include, joint issues from both parent breeds, bloat and digestive issues from the Poodle and Collie Eye Anomaly from the Bearded Collie side of his family.

Life Expectancy

The average life span of a Beardoodle is 12 to 13 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Beardoodle is a highly active dog who will need a combined 60 – 90 minutes of vigorous exercise each day. From power-walking or running to playing chase and catching a ball or frisbee in his own backyard, this boy loves to be busy. Adding the socialization that comes from visits to an off-leash dog park would be a great addition to his workout routine. A lack of exercise with this dog can result in boredom and destructive behaviors.

The Beardoodle is a fun-loving, super-intelligent dog that loves playing with kids and other pets.

Recognized Clubs

Although the Beardoodle is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), he is a member of the Designer Breed Registry (DBR).

Coat

The Beardoodle’s coat is long, thick, coarse and will require brushing 4 to 5 times a week with a metal comb and pin brush to prevent matts and tangles. In spite of this, he is considered a non- to low-shedding dog making him ideal for those who don’t like the clean-up of a heavy shedding dog. The Poodle in him may require a visit to the groomer every few months to keep his coat looking its best and because he is a floppy eared dog, weekly ear cleaning is a must to prevent infection.

Puppies

Beardoodle puppies come from 2 highly intelligent breeds, one of which has a stubborn streak so plan to socialize and introduce obedience training early on. His parental history of joint issues means leash-training and exercising this little guy will need to be introduced slowly and with care. Over-exerting tiny joints now can result in debilitating issues later in life.

Photo credit: Eric Isselee/Shutterstock.com; Tracey Patterson /Shutterstock.com; Cary Leppert/Shutterstock.com

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

More by Mary Simpson

Purina Animal Hall of Fame Inducts Two More Heroes

View Article

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

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

How Do I Introduce My Dog to Agility at Home?

Have you ever watched a dog on social media zoom through a tunnel or weave through poles with joy and happiness on their face? If so, you may be considering getting involved in dog agility.This exciting sport is a great way to bond with your pup while providing both physical and mental stimulation. But where do you begin? Many dog parents who are considering getting involved in agility quickly become overwhelmed with the costs and commitment required to compete in this sport professionally.In this article, I will guide you through everything you need to know to introduce your dog to agility in the comfort of your own home. From building simple obstacles to mastering basic commands, you can start exploring this sport with your best friend today.Can All Dogs Do Agility? If you have been watching dog agility events, you may have noticed that a few breeds often dominate the sport. Many of the top competitors are border collies, Australian shepherds, and golden retrievers. However, if you watch long enough, you will notice that even the professional competitors are enjoyed by a wide variety of different dogs, including many breeds and sizes. Whether your dog is a purebred border collie or a mixed-breed rescue, they can take part in (and love) agility. How Do You Know if Your Dog Will Be Good at Agility? While any dog can participate in agility, a few key traits distinguish casual hobby athletes from the top dogs in professional agility competitions. For dog parents who want to use agility activities as a fun bonding experience at home, top performance may not matter. However, if you are interested in getting into the sport professionally, you want to look for the following traits: Active and high-energy Good coordinationHighly trainable Ability to concentrate despite distractionsConfident Easily motivated Good health

Scientists Reveal Why Cats Scratch Furniture and How to Stop It

Many cat owners get used to seeing torn cushions, carpets, and furniture that bear their felines’ claw marks. Scratching is normal behavior for cats but is often considered a behavioral problem by cat owners who sometimes turn to painful procedures, like declawing, as a quick fix.This has prompted an international team of researchers to investigate which factors influence undesired scratching behavior in domestic cats. The team surveyed over 1,200 cat owners in France about the daily lives and characteristics, as well as undesired scratching behavior of their cats. Their findings were published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. “Here we show that certain factors - such as the presence of children at home, personality traits of cats and their activity levels -significantly impact the extent of scratching behavior,” explained Dr. Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas, the first author of the study and a veterinary researcher at Ankara University. “Our findings can help caregivers manage and redirect scratching to appropriate materials, which could help foster a more harmonious living environment for both cats and their caregivers.”Researchers discovered a link between certain behavioral and environmental factors and increased scratching behavior in cats. “Specifically, the presence of children in the home as well as high levels of play and nocturnal activity significantly contribute to increased scratching,” explained Salgirli Demirbas. Nocturnal activity in cats consists of behaviors exhibited at night. Heightened vocalization and playfulness during the night are usually the result of poor daytime stimulation or lack of social interactions. But it may also be a cat’s way of seeking attention. “While cats are naturally nocturnal, they can adjust to a human diurnal schedule if provided with structured and engaging activities during the day,” said the survey’s lead author.However, researchers found that stress is the main reason behind increased scratching. For example, the presence of children in the home, especially while they’re small, might increase stress levels and be one of several factors that can cause cats to scratch. Although it may seem unlikely, playfulness is another factor that can be associated with stress. You see, when cats play for a long time without a break, their stress levels can become high because of uninterrupted stimulation. Unsurprisingly, researchers discovered that cats described as aggressive and troublesome also exhibited higher levels of unwanted scratching. Although some factors that contribute to unwanted scratching - such as the cat’s personality and the presence of young children at home - can’t be changed, others can. For example, placing scratching posts in areas a cat spends a lot of time in or near their favorite resting spot can lessen the cat’s urge to scratch the furniture. Using pheromone diffusers and sprays is also an effective way to help your cat feel calm and confident in their environment. Pheromone therapy is often used for cats that show signs of anxiety and can prevent stress behaviors like scratching, crying, and hiding. “Providing safe hiding places, elevated observation spots, and ample play opportunities can also help alleviate stress and engage the cat in more constructive activities,” explained researchers.Engaging a cat in multiple play sessions that mimic hunting behavior is a great strategy to reduce stress and excessive scratching. This type of play will keep the cat mentally stimulated and help deepen the bond between the owner and the cat.“Understanding the underlying emotional motivations of scratching behavior, such as frustration, which seem to be linked to personality traits and environmental factors, allows the caregivers to address these issues directly.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

According to a New Study, Crows Can Count Out Loud

It’s no secret that crows are very intelligent creatures, and are capable of some truly stunning feats. However, a new study sheds light on a previously unknown skill of theirs – one that makes them truly unique in the world of animals. According to a team of scientists, crows can count out loud, quite similarly to human toddlers – and are the only other animal except humans to do so.This study is titled “Crows 'Count' the Number of Self-Generated Vocalizations" and was released on May 23rd, 2024 in the popular journal Science. The study found that crows are capable of producing a certain number of “caws” in response to auditory or visual stimuli. This means that they were able to count out loud between one and four. Why is that so important, though?"Producing a specific number of vocalizations with purpose requires a sophisticated combination of numerical abilities and vocal control," the researchers explained. "Our results demonstrate that crows can flexibly and deliberately produce an instructed number of vocalizations by using the 'approximate number system', a non-symbolic number estimation system shared by humans and animals."During the course of the experiment, the research team presented three crows with random auditory and visual stimuli. These included sounds from various instruments and Arabic numbers. "Through trial and error, the birds learned that each cue corresponded to a set number of caws between one and four," the team members wrote. "After crowing the vocalizations out (cawing four times for a sound or symbol associated with four caws, for example), the birds were trained to peck the screen displaying them to signal they had finished."After the training was done, the crows – much to everyone’s surprise – gave correct answers when asked to say “the proper number of caws”. Their counting skills were quickly compared to those of toddlers. "This competency in crows also mirrors toddlers' enumeration skills before they learn to understand cardinal number words and may therefore constitute an evolutionary precursor of true counting where numbers are part of a combinatorial symbol system," the team shared.This goes beyond everything that was known about crows thus far. It just goes to show that crows are much more than regular birds in their behavior and abilities. And they might be much smarter than we previously realized – and we already thought they were exceptionally intelligent to begin with.

How Do I Introduce Cats and Dogs Safely?

There has long been a stereotype of dogs and cats as mortal enemies, constantly at one another’s throats. While becoming a two-pet household can sometimes be overwhelming, there is something so magical about watching your pets form their special bond.Introducing dogs and cats can be a nerve-racking process, but it doesn’t have to be.This post will guide you through a step-by-step approach to introducing your pets safely and carefully, laying the foundation for a positive relationship. Plus, you’ll find tips to ensure a smooth transition for both pets.How to Introduce a Cat and Dog Together: 5 Easy StepsIf you already have one pet in your home, introducing a second involves planning, preparation, and a lot of patience. While there are ways to overcome a rough first meeting, the best possible scenario is to ensure your pets start off on the right foot (or should I say paw).Here is a step-by-step walk-through of how to approach an introduction with the best chance of success.However, it’s important to note that there are some situations where this simply won’t work. For example, if you have a pet with previous negative interactions with other animals, they may be more nervous or anxious, requiring a slightly different approach. Use this as a starting point, but be prepared to be flexible and offer more care and consideration where needed.Step One: Consider PersonalitiesYou may be surprised to learn that the first step starts as early as selecting the right pets. Just as some people mesh better than others, the same can be said for our animals. When adopting a second pet, take the time to try to match personalities.A few important things to consider include:Energy Levels: If you have a laid-back or senior pet, adding a high-energy pet to the mix could be stressful and frustrating. Alternatively, a calm, quiet pet may struggle to settle into your home if your current pet is rambunctious.Outgoing vs. Shy: Some pets show more interest in playing and connecting with other pets, like an extroverted person who jumps right into wanting an interaction. On the other end of the spectrum, a shy pet (or introverted person) will want their space.Play Style: Some pets will play rougher than others. If you have a dog, for example, who plays rougher, a delicate kitten isn’t a good match as they could be injured. Instead, a playful adult cat who shares that play style would be a better match.Previous Interactions: Sometimes, a pet’s previous experiences can offer a glimpse of whether they will mesh well together. A dog that has shown they will chase cats who run wouldn’t mesh well with a cat who tends to run the moment they see a dog.Step Two: Start At a DistanceBefore bringing the two pets together, you must start introducing them at a distance. This means introducing them to one another’s scents while keeping them confined in their own safe spaces. The best way to do this is by keeping your pets in separate rooms and rotating them into a common living area where they can investigate one another’s scent.For example, if you have two bedrooms, you can place a pet in each bedroom. If not, consider blocking off a dining room, laundry room, or bathroom to keep one of your pets safely contained. Alternatively, a crate can be used to keep one of the pets in a hallway or space the other doesn’t have access to.Note: Allowing the pet moving freely in the home to tease or bother the crated pet can create frustration and anxiety. This could destroy any chance that your pets can coexist happily.We have always used the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door Dog Crate when crate training our dogs. Its dual front and side doors ensure that the crate can easily fit into any space. For containing our cats, we prefer to use enclosures with multiple levels, like the MidWest Homes for Pets Cat Playpen, which allows them to climb and explore.Another great approach to introducing pets to one another’s scent is scent-swapping with blankets. Allow your pets to each sleep with a blanket, then place them in the other pet’s room or space.

Georgia Non-Profit Gives Shelter Dogs a Second Chance as Police K9s

In a heartwarming story of second chances, a non-profit organization in Georgia is transforming the lives of shelter dogs by training them for a new purpose in life. These remarkable pups are breaking the stereotypes of “damaged” shelter dogs by being trained to serve as police K9s. Co-founders Samantha Walsh and Matt Rook are both passionate dog lovers. Recognizing that incredible dogs were being abandoned by the people who were supposed to love them, many never living out their final days before being euthanized for no fault of their own across the country, they wanted to find a solution. Rook previously served as the police chief in Chattahoochee Hills. During his time there, he faced a tight budget that didn’t allow him to fund a K9 unit in the area. Many people don’t realize how pricey it is to incorporate a K9 unit with a police force. A single purebred working dog, bred to serve in a law enforcement capacity, can cost more than $25,000. For many smaller towns and communities, this restricts their ability to incorporate the benefits of a K9 unit protecting their neighborhoods. However, Rook and Walsh had another idea… Drawing on their experience with law enforcement and working with dogs, they proposed the idea that a healthy rescue dog could be adopted and trained to do the same work at a much lower cost to law enforcement agencies. With this in mind, they created a non-profit arm of their business, Hurricane Creek K9.

Interacting with Dogs Affects Your Brain, Mood, and Focus

New research from South Korea shows what happens in a person’s brain when they interact with a dog.

Is a Ferret the Right Pet For Me?

Ferrets are well-known for their playful personalities and mischievous antics – and who can resist their adorable faces? As a result, they have become an increasingly popular choice for pets. However, before you invite one of these energetic critters into your home, it’s essential to understand their unique needs! In this guide, I’ll explore the pros and cons of ferret ownership, including questions to ask yourself to determine if a ferret is the right pet for you. Plus, if you’re ready to move forward with your new pet, we’ll help you identify what to look for in a healthy ferret and the steps to take to prepare your home for your new furry friend’s arrival. Ferret Basics: Things You Should Know Before Getting a Ferret Before researching where to find your new friend, let’s step back and start with the basics. What will your new ferret require for a happy, healthy life? Are you prepared to meet those needs? Determining this should be the first step when considering any new pet, regardless of the pet you plan to adopt. Yes, even dogs and cats! Temperament Ferrets are social animals and require regular interaction with others. They are happiest when living in pairs or small groups for constant companionship. This also means they aren’t the type of pet that can be left to fend for themselves without regular quality time with their person or people. They can be startled easily and have sharp teeth that hurt considerably if they bite. This most commonly happens if they are surprised, startled, or handled incorrectly. For this reason, they may not be the best fit for homes with young children unless careful boundaries are established. Daily RoutineExperts recommend that ferrets be given at least 4 hours of active time outside their cage or habitat daily, six to eight hours when they are young. Failing to meet those needs can lead to boredom and a wide range of behavioral problems. When you start handling and playing with your ferret, you may notice they are naturally mouthy. To train your new ferret to play safely with people, avoid using your hands as a “toy.” Instead, use fun and ferret-safe toys like rubber balls, ropes, chew toys, or interactive cat toys. Avoid anything too small that they could swallow, as it could cause a life-threatening obstruction. Grooming While these adorable creatures are naturally clean, they have a distinct odor often described as musky. This scent is even stronger in unneutered ferrets. You can bathe your ferret regularly, but the smell will never disappear entirely. That being said, avoid the temptation to over-bathe your ferret. They should be bathed at most once or twice a month. Bathing them too often will strip their skin and coat of the protective natural oils, causing skin irritation or even making the smell worse! Diet Ferrets are carnivores requiring a high-protein, low-fiber, meat-based diet. This can be accomplished by feeding a commercially prepared ferret food or preparing a homemade diet. The amount they need to eat and the nutrients required to ensure their diet is balanced correctly will depend on their age, weight, lifestyle, and any underlying health concerns. Some foods that can be included in their meals include eggs, high-protein baby foods, kitten foods, turkey necks, game birds, or minced meat. Health and Veterinary CareLike other traditional companion animals, ferrets require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure no cause for concern. Finding a vet may be a little more challenging as there are fewer vets experienced with ferret care. These little critters are prone to several health problems like lymphoma, adrenal gland disease, respiratory problems, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. Staying on top of their vet care will help prevent issues and identify problems early when they are easier to address.Ideal Environment When creating the ideal habitat for your ferret, one of the biggest things to consider is the available space in your home. A ferret’s cage should be at least 18 inches by 18 inches by 30 inches, with a minimum of two levels and stairs or ramps to move between them. This means you must find space in your home for a cage of this size. This cage should include many enrichment opportunities, like toys, tubes, hammocks, and hiding spaces. In addition to setting up a cage with all the necessities, they will also need time to play and explore outside their cage. This means you will need to have a ferret-proofed area of the home where they can move about safely. They are masters of climbing and slipping through small spaces, which can make the process of ferret-proofing or keeping them contained in one area of the home challenging. Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Ferret Do you have enough space to accommodate your ferret’s habitat and the ability to ferret-proof an area of your home (they are escape artists)? Are you prepared for the high cost of veterinary care if your ferret encounters a medical emergency or any of the common health conditions listed above?Can you dedicate at least 4 hours per day to playtime and social interaction? Are ferrets legal to keep as pets in my area? Have you found a vet near you with experience in ferret care?Will you be comfortable with the strong, musky ferret odor (Yes, it will be in your home)?Do you have a young child in the home? If so, you may be better served by adopting a pet your child can handle and interact with safely.

Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?

Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or red bugs, are tiny parasitic mites that feed on the skin of various animals - including dogs. That’s right - dogs can get harvest mites too. These tiny pests are common in warm and dry climates and are active during the late summer and early fall. It is because of this that they are called “harvest” mites. But don’t be fooled by their tiny size – these mites can cause significant discomfort to dogs, mostly due to the irritation that their bites can cause.What Are Harvest Mites? Are They Dangerous for Dogs?Belonging to the Trombiculidae family, harvest mites are this subclade’s larvae. They are almost microscopic, measuring only about 0.2 mm in size. These mites are bright orange or red, which makes them slightly easier to spot on a dog’s skin, though their small size still makes them difficult to detect. They tend to live in grassy or wooded areas and attach themselves to dogs, humans, or other animals when they come into contact with the vegetation where the mites live.Now, once a harvest mite attaches itself to a dog’s skin, they will inject saliva into it in order to break down the cells which they consume. Unlike fleas or ticks, which feed on blood, these mites feed on skin cells. It is this process that causes an intense allergic reaction in dogs, leading to inflammation and itching. The dog may develop red, raised bumps or welts at the bite sites, typically in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the paws, belly, ears, or armpits.Your furry friend might scratch or bite the affected area, in hopes of easing the irritation. But this can potentially cause further skin damage or further infections. While harvest mites do not burrow into the skin, their bites can remain itchy and uncomfortable for several days, even after the mites are detached and gone.Symptoms of Harvest Mites in DogsIt is important to note that intense itching and irritation are not the only symptoms of harvest mite bites. If a dog is repeatedly scratching or licking at a particular area, this could indicate the presence of harvest mites, so know what signs to look out for.Red bumps and welts will often appear on the dog’s paws, belly, ears, or between their toes.Itching that is caused by harvest mites can be intense, and if your pet is vigorously scratching this is a classic indicator.In some cases, dogs may lose fur around the affected area due to excessive scratching.Constant scratching or biting may lead to crusty patches or open wounds. This is one of the more advanced signs.Of course, you need to make sure that harvest mite infestation is treated as soon as possible. This typically involves relieving the itching and removing any remaining mites. Of course, you need to seek the help of a vet, who will prescribe the proper treatment for your pet's unique case.

Some NY Hospitals Permit ESAs to Visit Their Owners After They Give

Some hospitals in New York are allowing patients’ dogs to be present and offer support to their owners after they give birth. The Northwell Health hospitals, which are the largest health system in New York, allow pregnant women to bring their emotional support dogs to the postpartum unit. Lisa Schavrein, the nurse navigator in OBGYN at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital who helps arrange these visits, told the People: “We have a 40-week lead time before our patients walk through the door. So there should be nothing about you that we’re not prepared for. Anything that requires an extra level of care comes through me.”This gives pregnant women with anxiety or depression an opportunity to have their emotional support dog present for one of the most important moments in their lives. “Having a baby at baseline causes anxiety with or without a pre-existing condition, so if you use an emotional support animal to calm you and you want them to help, to me it’s a no-brainer,” said Schavrein. Patients interested in bringing their emotional support dog into a postpartum unit must follow some rules, though. Women planning to give birth at the Lenox Hill Hospital must provide their dog’s emotional support paperwork before their due date so the nurse navigator can arrange everything. This usually involves notifying the hospital’s security team and staff in advance so that they are prepared for the arrival of the emotional support animal.Additionally, to come into the hospital, the emotional support dog must be hypoallergenic so it won’t affect other patients. A patient’s family member or a friend must be present while the dog is staying in the hospital, so there is someone to take the pup out for bathroom breaks. Emotional support animals aren’t allowed in the hospital labor and delivery units to ensure the safety of all patients and the staff. Instead, the dog is taken straight to visit their owner in the postpartum unit. “It’s a huge comfort to them,” said Schavrein. “Some people don’t even end up having their animals come. They are just comforted to know that they can bring their emotional support animal if they need it.”Natalie Reyes Bursky and her husband, Ryan Bursky, experienced first-hand how much comfort an emotional support dog can offer in this situation. Natalie gave birth at the Lenox Hill Hospital in 2023 and had her emotional support dog Magita, visit her at the postpartum unit shortly after delivery.Natalie had Magita long before she got married and became pregnant. The two crossed paths in 2011 in Chile, while Magita was just a puppy. Three years later Magita become Natali’s emotional support animal. Natalie, who struggled with depression and anxiety for years, finds Magita’s calm demeanor soothing and that’s one of the reasons she brings her pooch with her everywhere. So, when Natalie and Ryan learned that Magita could visit them at the Lenox Hill Hospital postpartum unit, they jumped at the opportunity to arrange their dog’s visit with Schavrein.The couple was sure that Magita’s presence would provide comfort and stability to Natalie in the hours after birth, especially since Magita was trained to be a hospital therapy dog. However, they couldn’t imagine how vital the dog’s presence would be.After experiencing a very sudden and intense labor, Natalie was extremely grateful for Magia’s ability to bring a sense of serenity and comfort. “I didn’t have my baby at that point. He was in the NICU. I couldn’t move or get up, but my dog was there and she provided comfort,” said Natalie. “It was incredible. She got to lie on a blanket right next to me.” “I would recommend this for somebody who has struggled with their mental health, especially as it's becoming less stigmatized to talk openly about mental health. It meant the world to me to be able to have Magita there,” added Natalie. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Does My Dog Need a Stroller?

Is a dog stroller a necessity or an extravagant splurge? While some may raise an eyebrow at the site of a dog riding comfortably in their stroller, these seemingly luxury items offer many benefits for both dogs and their owners. From providing a safe and comfortable way to transport your dog in various settings to accommodating mobility concerns and enhancing their quality of life, let’s explore why a dog stroller may be a great choice for your dog. Plus, I’ll share tips for choosing the best dog stroller for your pup and how to incorporate it effectively into your daily routine. What Are Dog Strollers? Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are dog strollers? Are they the same as baby strollers? Can the two be used interchangeably? While dog strollers look similar to baby strollers in many ways, they have a few key features that differentiate the two. Most importantly, dog strollers incorporate a way to keep your dog secured and held in place so they can’t hop out and escape, like a zippered mesh cover or a leash attachment that can be hooked to their harness. They are often described as a “fancy dog crate on wheels.” The most basic models are soft-sided dog crates with wheels and a handle. But most offer other features, like adjustable or padded handlebars, cup holders, storage pockets and compartments, sunshades, and ramps for easy access. Is it Okay to Put Your Dog in a Stroller? An important question that every pet parent should ask when being introduced to a new product is whether it’s actually safe and beneficial for your pet. After all, just because it’s being sold and marketed doesn’t mean it’s good for them. When it comes to dog strollers, the answer is “maybe.” If you have a healthy dog, only taking them out in a stroller and not making space for the exercise and physical activity they require can lead to a whole list of health problems. However, there are many situations where a dog stroller can be used to improve your dog’s quality of health. In short, this means that, yes, there are times when it is okay to put your dog in a stroller. It is our responsibility as dog parents to recognize the right time and place for their use. Are Dog Strollers Only for Small Dogs? One of the most common misconceptions about dog strollers is that they are only designed for small dogs or toy breeds. While this is arguably the most common type of dog stroller on the market, it’s not the only option. Recognizing the benefits these products offer, many brands now make dog strollers with larger dogs in mind. This includes creating sturdier frames that can support heavier weights, offering more room for large dogs to sit or lie down comfortably, and even adding features like ramps to help our larger friends get in and out of the stroller when lifting them isn’t an option. A great example is the HPZ Pet Rover Titan-HD, designed for dogs up to 100 LBS. So, while your standard stroller may not be the right solution (not without breaking it), big dog strollers are available!

Save Big on Ark Naturals Kiss Me-ow Dental Chews and Lickables

Does your cat’s breath make you want to hold yours whenever it gets a little too close? It doesn’t have to be that way.

Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

Study Finds Designer Dogs At High Risk of Tick Infestation

If you are regularly finding ticks in your dog’s coat, you might be wondering if there’s something special about your pooch that makes it more prone to attracting these blood-sucking pests than other dogs. Well, a new study can shed some light. Researchers from Royal Veterinary Colledge (RVC) have discovered that some dog breeds are more likely to become infested by ticks. The study revealed that popular designer crossbreeds such as cavapoo, cockapoo, goldendoodle, and cavachon have an increased risk of tick infestation due to their poodle heritage. Researchers identified standard poodles as the second most likely breed to become infested by ticks, suggesting that ticks find the poodle’s curly coat particularly appealing. “There is no single perfect dog breed so it is critical that we fully understand the strengths and weaknesses for the breed we choose to bring into our own family. Owners of dogs that are either poodle or have poodle heritage can now be aware of the need to routinely check their dogs for ticks and to perhaps ensure the coats of these dogs are kept short,” said Dr. Dan O’Neil, lead author of the study. Designer dog breeds have become extremely popular among pet lovers in recent years. Poodles are often crossed with other pure breeds to create designer hybrids, mainly because of their low-shedding coats which are considered hypoallergenic. However, this new study points out that designer dogs are at an increased risk of tick infestations because of the poodle’s curly coat. The RVC’s VetCommpass study analyzed a random sample of veterinary health records of 900,000 dogs in the UK. The results showed that ticks are a common parasite in dogs, with one in every 50 dogs diagnosed with at least one tick infestation during five years. Researchers also looked at possible risk factors to understand what makes some dogs more likely to attract ticks than others. The possible risk factors included traits such as skull shape, breed purity, coat, and body weight. While the study found that newer designer breeds had a higher risk of tick infestation, it also discovered that some pure breeds are also at high risk. These included the cairn terrier, standard poodle, golden retriever, Person Russell terrier, and miniature schnauzer. Interestingly, researchers have established that Staffordshire bull terriers, rottweilers, Chihuahuas, and English bulldogs have the lowest risks of tick infestation. The study also found that male dogs had a 1.24 higher risk of attracting ticks than female dogs. Dogs with medium-length coats and pooches with V-shaped drop, or long, floppy ears also exhibited an increased risk of tick infestation. “Ticks aren’t just pests that feast on your dog and cause them to itch; they can also be carriers of serious diseases. They can be dangerous for any age of dog and indeed any breed - although this paper shows that some dogs can be more susceptible to picking them up due to their coat - so it’s important owners know what to do if they spot one,” said Bill Lambert, Welfare and Breeding Service Executive at The Kennel Club. Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that attach to a dog’s skin and can stay there for up to a week, before falling off when they are full of blood. In addition to feeding on a dog’s blood, ticks also transmit diseases. The most common tick-borne diseases that affect dogs are Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, hepatozoonosis, and bartonellosis. These are serious diseases that can have detrimental health consequences for dogs if not treated in time. Although ticks normally live in woodlands and grasslands, they can be found in urban areas and popular hiking trails. The best way to protect your pooch is to stay up to date with your dog’s tick prevention. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Wish Your Dog Could Understand You? New Study Says They Can!

You don’t have to be a dog owner to know that dogs can learn and understand commands like “sit” or “come”. But, a new study has made a groundbreaking discovery that dogs also know that certain words stand for specific objects. This finding won’t come as a big surprise to any dog owner who has ever asked their pup to “go get your toy” and, a minute later, been handed a chewed-up rubber ball or slobbery stuffed animal. Scientists have long been interested in learning whether dogs can truly associate words with objects. However, researchers couldn’t figure out whether dogs and other animals get a mental image when they hear an object's name. This would suggest that dogs have a better understanding of language than believed before. Researchers in Hungary have discovered that in addition to being able to respond to commands such as “sit”, “roll over”, or “stay” dogs can also grasp the essence of nouns. This relationship with language is called referential understanding, and it has been unproven in dogs until now. “When we are talking about objects, objects are external to the dogs and dogs have to learn that words refer, they stand for something that is external to them,” explained the study’s co-lead author, Marianna Boros, of the Department of Ethology at the Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.To get some answers about what is happening in the dog brain when it processes words, Boros and her colleagues asked 18 dog owners to bring their pooches to the lab along with five objects the dogs knew well. The objects included balls, slippers, leads, rubber toys, frisbees, and other items.Researchers instructed the owners to say the words for the items before showing their dog either the correct object or a different one. For example, the owner might say “Rover, look, the ball”, but hold up a lead instead. During the tests, the researchers measured the dogs’ brain activity using non-invasive electroencephalography, or EEG. The idea was to see whether EEG could offer a better insight into dogs’ understanding of language. The brain recordings showed different patterns in the brain when the dogs were shown an object that matched or didn’t match the owner’s spoken word. The difference was even greater for the words owners believed their dogs knew well.The same results were seen when humans performed these tests and are widely accepted as people understanding the word well enough to form a mental image of the object they were later shown. “We expected that if a dog really understands the meaning of the object’s word, it will expect to see that object. And if the owner shows a different one, there will be a so-called surprise reaction in the brain. And this is exactly what we found,” said Boros according to ABC News.Lilla Magyari, also of Eötvös Loránd University, and the other co-first author, said that although some other animals have shown some degree of referential understanding of language, they have typically been trained to do so. In dogs, she explained, such capacities seem to be inborn and don’t require any particular training or talent. Researchers stress they aren’t claiming that dogs understand words as well as humans. Future studies are needed to determine whether dogs can generalize in the same way humans learn to as children.This study raises an interesting question of why, if dogs understand nouns, more of them don’t show it. One possible answer is that dogs know more than they are willing to show us.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

UK Law Commands Serious Jail Time for Pet Theft

Recently introduced private member's bill received Royal Assent to make it a law.

Is Yawning Contagious Between Humans And Dogs? Study Says It Is

Many owners claim that when they yawn, their dog yawns, too. And now researchers have confirmed that they are right. Several studies have shown that dogs are more likely to yawn when their owners yawn. This phenomenon is called contagious yawning and is well-known among humans - you’ve probably done it yourself countless times. When we hear, see, or sometimes just think about yawning, many of us yawn. Now, research shows that our four-legged companions exhibit the same behavior.Studies done on humans show that people who catch a yawn from another person have better social skills. Researchers believe that contagious yawns show that we empathize with our fellow yawner. But does the same hold true for dogs?“It’s reasonable to assume that dogs who yawn when their owners do are more emotionally connected to them,” said Dr. Brian Hare, the founder of the Duke Canine Cognition Center at Duke University. Adding that dogs understand us better than any other animal, including primates.In humans, contagious yawning has been considered a sign of empathy. However, researchers are still debating whether this phenomenon may be a sign of a connection between people and their canine companions. A University in Tokyo study found that dogs yawned twice as often after watching their owners yawn than after watching strangers yawn. This finding suggested that a social bond associated with empathy might be behind this behavior. Teresa Romero, an animal behavioral researcher who conducted the study, explained that contagious yawning may be a way for animals who live together to coordinate their activities. This behavior may be deeply rooted in canine history, considering that they have been living with humans for more than 15,000 years. The long relationship with humans may have given the dogs the necessary tools to empathize with us.However, later studies were unable to determine such a connection. A meta-analysis of 257 dogs didn’t find conclusive evidence that contagious yawning in dogs is associated with empathy or familiarity.  “There’s just no strong support for a direct connection between contagious yawning and empathy, despite the fact that the predictions are very intuitive,” explained Andrew Gullap, a psychology professor at SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica, New York.  Dr. Hare, who studied dog yawns at Duke Canine Cognition Center has discovered that only five percent of dogs yawn contagiously. However, his findings come from an online, at-home test called Dognition. This test asks the owners to watch their dogs just for two minutes to see if they’ll do a contagious yawn. On the other hand, all other dog yawn studies have watched the dog for as long as five minutes after their owner yawned to see whether they’ll yawn too.“I’m not against the idea that dogs yawn contagiously,” Dr. Hare admitted. “We are just having a hard time demonstrating it. It’s possible we’re doing (the yawn test) wrong. We are going to analyze the data and find out more.” Several studies have concluded that dogs can yawn contagiously when they see or hear a person yawn. However, scientists still haven’t figured out what contagious yawning means. Studying dog yawning is difficult because dogs can yawn for many reasons - some of which have nothing to do with seeing a human yawn. Dogs can yawn spontaneously, and let’s not forget that yawning can be a sign of stress in dogs. A dog’s stress levels may be heightened during laboratory experiments in which the dog is videotaped to see whether they’ll yawn or not, affecting results.Hopefully, scientists will find better ways to study contagious yawning in dogs and discover what this behavior means. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Teach My Cat to Play Fetch?

Unlike dogs, cats aren’t exactly known for their love of fetch. If you dream of tossing a toy with your furry best friend for hours, fear note – with a bit of time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you may just inspire a new love for the game in your kitty. This post will discuss why some cats take to fetch so naturally and how play can benefit your cat’s overall health and well-being. Plus, we’ll share how to teach your cat to play fetch step-by-step with tips for success! So, grab your cat’s favorite toy and get ready for a fun game of fetch…Why Do Cats Love Playing Fetch? There are many theories about why cats enjoy this game. The most accepted theory is that the action triggers natural hunting instincts. When an object is thrown, it mimics their prey moving across the room. The cat then chases the toy, stalking and hunting it. Retrieving the toy and bringing it back to you is similar to cats bringing their freshly killed prey to their owners as a gift. Other experts see the game of fetch as an attempt to spend quality time playing together, bonding like we do with our dogs. However, no research confirms either theory. What Toy Do Cats Love Most? Finding the best toy for your fetch-loving cat can be a fun process. Why? There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Instead, you’ll have to set aside time to play and test which toys your cat connects with most. Think of it as a fun game of trial and error. We have two cats at home, one of whom is absolutely in love with playing fetch. Pippen, our Maine Coon mix, will bring toys to us randomly throughout the day. She drops them at our feet and meows loudly while pawing at our pant legs, begging us to throw whatever she has brought us. Here are a few of her favorite toys to play fetch with: SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys: These little mice are not only the perfect size and weight for cats to carry around, but the fact they include catnip makes them even more enticing. If the theory about hunting is correct, they are a great example of mock prey. Catit Eco Cat Toy: Another prey-like toy, this is arguably the top choice in our house. Pippen loves anything with feathers. If you have a tiny kitten, this is a little harder to carry, but Pippen is relatively small, and she has never had a problem. Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls: This is another one I have heard other cat parents raving about. The balls make a fun crinkling sound while the foil-like mylar material reflects the light, making them a fun visual spectacle to hunt down. SPOT Colorful Springs: These toys may not seem special, but the spring design causes them to bounce around the room unpredictably. This keeps your cat on their toes as they hunt them down with each throw. Cat Tube Spring Toys: These toys are made of lightweight mesh material, making them easy to carry around. If you fold them or push down the ends, then let go, they fly through the air. The goal is to find something your cat loves, wants to retrieve, and can comfortably carry back to you to continue the game. Is It Normal for a Cat to Never Play? While you can expect a range of playfulness from cats, with some cats being very playful and others only playing occasionally when they “feel like it,” it’s not normal for a cat to never play at all. A healthy adult cat should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of playtime daily. This can be in one large play session or, ideally, split into shorter play sessions of 10 to 15 minutes. If you have a cat who appears lazy or unmotivated, you should prioritize turning this around and encouraging them to play more. Otherwise, they will be at a higher risk of potential health complications, including obesity, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, arthritis and other joint-related issues, and fatty liver disease.

Top stories

Beardoodle

About Beardoodle

Purina Animal Hall of Fame Inducts Two More Heroes

Why is My Dog Chewing Furniture and How Do I Stop It?

Top stories

Beardoodle

About Beardoodle

Related articles