5 Fun Facts About Rabbits You Might Not Know

5 Fun Facts About Dogs That Might Surprise You

Dogs are often called "man's best friend," but there's more to these lovable companions than meets the eye. From their quirky biology to surprising behaviors, dogs are full of fascinating surprises. Whether you're a lifelong dog owner or simply a fan of furry facts, here are five unusual things you may not know about our four-legged friends.

5 Facts About Goldfish You Might Not Have Known

Goldfish are one of the most popular pets in the world, often admired for their bright colors and grace. While many people see them as fairly simple creatures, there are a few things about goldfish that might just surprise you.  

3 Fun Facts About Your Dog's Nose

Dogs are known for their incredible sense of smell, but their noses are fascinating for more reasons than just that. Here are three fun facts about your dog’s nose that might surprise you.

5 Smart Tricks to Ease Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in dogs is more common than many pet parents realize. It can manifest as destructive behavior, excessive barking, whining, pacing, or even accidents in the house. These are all signs that your dog is struggling to cope with being left alone. Luckily, with consistency and patience, you can ease your furry friend’s distress. Here are five smart tricks to help your dog feel more secure when you're not around.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Zeus the Maine Coon is the Size of a Child

Growing in popularity and in size, the long-haired Maine Coon proves to be a gentle giant with pet owners.

Adding a Degu to the Family? Let's Get You Properly Set Up!

Simple Tricks to Get Your Pet to Take Their Meds

Let’s face it, for most pet parents, the moment the veterinarian prescribes medication for your beloved dog or cat, a little voice inside you whispers (or screams), “Oh no!” You’re not alone! Many of us (myself included, in the past) have engaged in a strategic chase around the living room, a tiny pill clutched in our hand. But rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. While it can feel like navigating an impossible challenge, there are effective and less stressful ways to help your pets take their medicine, whether it comes in the form of a pill, a liquid, or a powder. In this post, I am going to share some simple tricks and techniques I have learned that have proven to be effective in my house. By mastering these tricks, you can set yourself up for success, making prioritizing your pet’s health and well-being easier than ever. Why Is Giving Medication to a Pet So Challenging?Have you ever wondered why your sweet and loving best friend suddenly becomes a master of evasion the moment medication comes into the picture? There are several reasons why our pets put up such a fight. Taste and Smell: Many medications simply don’t taste or smell very good to our pets. Some can even be quite bitter or have an unfamiliar smell that triggers a natural dislike and aversion. Instincts: Our pets are descendants of their wild ancestors, who were hardwired with instincts to help them survive. For this reason, they are naturally wary of anything new, different, or unusual in their routine, especially something offered by hand. Negative Past Experiences: If your pet has had a negative experience with medications in the past, such as force or discomfort, this can create a lasting association of fear and resistance with the taking of medication in general. Stress and Anxiety: The act of being handled or restrained can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety in some animals, making them even less likely to cooperate. Side Effects: It’s important to remember that some medications may cause physical discomfort or side effects. If this is the case, it can make them more reluctant to take that medication again (understandably). As pet parents, dealing with this resistance can be physically and emotionally draining. We want to help our pets feel better, and it can be disheartening when those efforts are met with struggle or upset. But putting ourselves in their shoes for a moment can help us identify the reason why they are so reluctant to take their medications, helping us overcome these hurdles. Setting Yourself Up for Success The process of effectively giving your pet medication starts with careful preparation. Think of it like laying the groundwork for an overall smoother experience. Here are a few things to consider: Communication with Your Vet Before you even attempt to give your pet their medication, make sure you clearly understand your vet's instructions. This includes asking the following questions: Dosage: What is the exact amount of medication you are supposed to give your pet each time?Frequency: How often must the medication be given throughout the day?Timing: Does the medication need to be given at a specific time? Does it need to be given with food or on an empty stomach? If you have multiple medications, can they be given at the same time? Don’t hesitate to ask your vet what formulations and options are available. Every pet is different, and you may find that yours is more accepting of one form of medication than another. For example, there may be a flavored liquid instead of a pill, or even alternatives to the medication altogether. Ask about any side effects your pet may experience and how best to manage them. Knowing this in advance can help you get relief for your pet far quicker, as you can respond immediately versus trying to determine if the side effect is, in fact, associated with the medication and how to address it. Most importantly, remember this golden rule: never change the dosage or stop giving medication without discussing it with your vet (unless, of course, you are facing a severe reaction). Some medicines, like antibiotics, must be given for a set length of time to be effective. Stopping a medication because your pet appears to be getting better could set them back long-term. Be Calm and OrganizedThe environment and your energy will both play a significant role in your pet’s willingness to cooperate. Choose a calm, quiet, and familiar space in your home where your pet will feel safe and secure. Where possible, try to avoid any distractions or interruptions. Before introducing your pet into the equation, take time to gather all the needed supplies. This includes the medication itself, any treats you plan to use, and applicators like oral syringes if required. Having all of these items within reach will keep the process as quick and efficient as possible, helping to reduce your pet’s stress. When gathering them for medication time, avoid approaching them in a rushed or stressed manner, as they will likely pick up on your emotions. Instead, try to stay calm and offer a reassuring presence to calm any fears or concerns they may have. The Art of PillingWhen it comes to giving your pet pills, the goal is to make the process as stress-free and palatable as possible. Luckily, there are several clever strategies you can use to make the process quicker and easier for everyone involved. The Pill Pocket One of the most popular and often successful tricks is using “pill pockets.” These are commercially available treats designed with a hollow center to conceal a pill. The idea being that the pet is so excited to take the treat that they don’t even notice they are taking a pill at the same time. There are many different brands and flavors available, depending on your pet’s preferences, such as the Presidio Pill Buddy Naturals, which comes in a tempting “Tender Grilled Duck” flavor, or the popular salmon flavour of Greenies Feline Pill Pockets. An interesting product, and a spin on the “pill pocket” approach, that we have been using recently in our house is the Vetality Twist + Lick Simpill Gel. This looks almost like a deodorant container, but a flavored gel comes up when you twist the bottom. You simply place the pills in the gel and allow your dog to help themselves. It comes in beef, chicken, and peanut butter. Hiding in FoodAnother common tactic is to hide the pill within a small amount of a soft, highly palatable food. Common choices include tiny pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, a small cube of cheese, a dab of tuna (in water, not oil), or a smear of xylitol-free peanut butter. But don’t overdo it. The goal here is to use only a small amount of the food so you can guarantee that your pet eats the entire medicated portion in one go and doesn’t just eat around the pill. I recommend not hiding pills in your pet’s regular food bowl, especially if they are fighting the pilling process. Otherwise, you may create a negative association with their regular food, leading to them turning their nose up at the usual dinners. One useful trick that helps to leave your pet with a positive feeling about the process is to deliver the medicated food in a “treat sandwich” approach. First, give them a piece of the food entirely unmedicated, then a piece containing the pill, and finally another plain piece as a reward.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet Degu

If you’ve ever wanted a pet that’s as curious as a squirrel but as social as a guinea pig, you might want to meet the degu. These small rodents from Chile aren’t as common as hamsters or rabbits, but for the right person they make engaging, lively companions. Before you dive in, though, there are a few important things to know.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Is My Guinea Pig Making That Noise?

Guinea pigs are popular pets for good reason - they’re social, expressive, and surprisingly vocal. If you've ever stopped to wonder what all those squeals, purrs, and clicks mean, you're not alone. Guinea pigs use sound as a primary way to communicate how they're feeling. Understanding these noises can help you care for your pet more effectively and strengthen your bond in the process.Here’s a breakdown of the most common guinea pig sounds and what they usually mean.Wheeking (Whistling or Squealing)Wheeking is one of the most recognizable guinea pig sounds. It’s a loud, high-pitched whistle or squeal, and it usually means one thing: food. Many guinea pigs start wheeking when they hear a bag rustling or the fridge door opening. It's their way of saying, "Hey, don't forget me!"

Ever Wonder Why Your Cat Sleeps That Way? Science Has Some Answers!

If you’re like me, you’re probably obsessed with every little thing your cat does – how they clean themselves, how they eat, and, of course, their impressive napping skills. After all, they are practically pros! They can snooze anywhere, anytime, for hours on end. But what does how they sleep say about your cat? We all know that cats are masters of finding the perfect spot to nap. They love high perches, such as the top of their favorite cat tree, the back of your favorite recliner, or even squeezed onto a bookshelf. It’s instinctual. They want to see everything around them, keeping an eye out for anything that might be a threat, just as their ancestors would when watching out for predators. Researchers from Ruhr University Bochum in Germany recently published a study in Current Biology that focused on better understanding how our cats sleep, specifically when sleeping on the ground. After watching hundreds of cat videos on YouTube and analyzing the way cats sleep, researchers found that two-thirds of cats prefer to sleep on their left side. So, why the left-side lean? It all comes down to their brains. When a cat sleeps on their left side, their vision on that side stays open. This “visual information” goes straight to the right side of their brain, which is the part of the brain responsible for tasks such as knowing their location in space, identifying potential danger, and preparing to make a quick escape.  When you stop to think about it, it makes sense. When cats are in a deep sleep, they are very vulnerable. By keeping this left visual field clear, they are keeping a little bit of their danger radar active. It means if something startles them awake, whether it’s a loud noise, a shadow, or even us trying to sneak up to take a picture of their adorable faces, this direct line to the right side of the brain might give them an extra second to react. It’s a great example of how evolution continues to impact our cats, even as they settle into their comfortable domesticated lives. Knowing all this, how can we help create the absolute best nap spots for them? Here are a few tips to help you craft the perfect cozy sleep spot that still allows them to tap into those natural instincts for safety and awareness:Offer Elevated Options: Don’t overlook their natural desire for a good vantage point. Consider a cat tree with multiple levels, window perches, or even a soft bed placed up on a sturdy bookshelf. The higher, the better, as it gives them a sense of security and a better view of their surroundings. Provide Places to Hide: Enclosed beds, cat caves, or even a cozy box can offer a sense of security and privacy. These spots allow your cat to enjoy a deeper sleep where they feel completely safe from any threats. Placement Matters: Pay attention to which side your cat prefers to sleep on. While the study suggests a left-side bias, every cat is an individual. Ensure the spot you are setting up allows them to lie on their preferred side while still being open to observe the room. Comfort and Warmth: Consider plush beds, blankets, or even a heated cat bed, especially during cooler months. A comfortable surface encourages longer, more restful sleep. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

5 Tips for Helping Your Socially Anxious Dog

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from social anxiety. Whether it stems from a traumatic experience, lack of early socialization, or a naturally shy temperament, social anxiety in dogs can manifest as trembling, barking, growling, hiding, or even aggression when faced with unfamiliar people, animals, or environments. If your furry friend struggles in social settings, here are five practical tips to help them build confidence and feel more at ease.

Viral Puppy Video Confirms the Best Way to Protect Young Joints

Exploring the great outdoors together is one of the great joys of sharing our lives with a dog. Fresh air, new scents, and challenging trails are a great way to build a strong bond between a dog and their person. But as a recent video reminds us, giving our pups a great lie means carefully balancing the thrill of adventure with the need for safety and rest – especially when they’re young. An adorable video featuring Apollo, a young Australian Cattle Dog, on his first hike, went viral on TikTok.  With over 7 million views and 1.5 million likes, the clip captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. The video highlights pure puppy enthusiasm and joy, followed by an immediate need to recharge. Instead of sprinting down the path, the young pup is seen settled comfortably on the trail, leaning against his owner as if she’s his personal, portable sofa. According to his mom, this was Apollo’s “first little hike.” While the experience was a fun adventure with new scents, the actual walking distance was short. In fact, Apollo spent much of the time being carried. His mom noted that seeing him grow comfortable in nature, exploring and sniffing everything, was “such a beautiful treat.” It was more about experiencing the great outdoors in a positive way than achieving distance goals.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Ferret

Ferrets can make great pets, with their high energy level and fun-loving personalities, but they aren’t right for everyone. If you’ve been thinking about bringing a ferret into your family, there are several things to consider before you do. As with any type of pet, you want to be sure you know what to expect, and you want to be certain you’ll be able to provide your ferret with the care they need.

What Should I Feed My Pet Cockatiel?

Cockatiels are intelligent, sociable birds with big personalities. To keep them healthy and active, a balanced, nutritious diet is essential. Whether you’re a new bird owner or just looking to improve your cockatiel’s feeding routine, here’s what you need to know.The Basics of a Healthy Cockatiel DietIn the wild, cockatiels eat a variety of seeds, grains, fruits, and greens. In captivity, they should get a similarly varied diet to meet all their nutritional needs. A good daily diet includes: High-quality pellets (60–70% of the diet)Fresh vegetables (daily)Limited seeds (as a supplement)Occasional fruits (as treats)Fresh, clean water (available at all times)

Are Grain-Free Diets Good for Dogs?

Grain-free diets have become a huge trend in the pet world over the past few years. You’ve probably seen the ads: glossy bags of dog food promising “ancestral,” “natural,” or “clean” nutrition - all without a single grain in sight.The message seems clear: Grains are bad, and grain-free is better. But is it really that simple?Let’s take a closer look at what grain-free dog food actually is, why it's so popular, and what the science (and vets) have to say about whether it’s the right choice for your pup.What Does "Grain-Free" Actually Mean?Grain-free dog foods leave out common grains like wheat, corn, rice, oats, and barley. Instead, they rely on other carbohydrate sources like:PeasLentilsChickpeasPotatoesThese ingredients provide fiber and energy, and many brands market them as a more “natural” alternative - the idea being that dogs, descended from wolves, didn’t evolve eating grains.It sounds convincing. But modern dogs aren’t wolves, and their digestive systems have adapted over thousands of years of domestication. So the truth is more nuanced than that.Do Grains Cause Allergies in Dogs?One of the main reasons people choose grain-free is the belief that grains cause allergies or sensitivities. But here’s the catch: true grain allergies in dogs are extremely rare.Most food allergies in dogs are caused by animal proteins - like chicken, beef, or dairy - not grains. If a dog’s symptoms improve on a grain-free food, it might be because the new food removed another problem ingredient, not the grains themselves.That said, some dogs do genuinely feel better on a grain-free diet - but it’s not always for the reason people think.Marketing and MisconceptionsGrain-free foods are often marketed as premium, higher-quality options. They sound healthier, and many owners feel good about feeding them. But grains like brown rice, oats, and barley can actually be very nutritious for dogs.In fact, these whole grains provide:Easily digestible carbohydratesFiber for gut healthB vitamins and mineralsSupport for healthy skin and a shiny coatSo the idea that “grain-free equals better” isn’t always grounded in fact - it’s often rooted in branding.

5 Helpful Things to Donate to Animal Shelters This Fall

During fall, many animal shelters experience an increase in animals needing care. Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or simply want to make a difference this season, your donations can have a meaningful impact. By giving even a few essential supplies, you’ll help shelters provide the best possible care for their furry residents. Here are five thoughtful items you can donate to your local animal shelter. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Is Catnip Bad for Dogs?

Have you recently noticed your dog sniffing around your cat’s favorite toy? If so, you may find yourself wondering why your dog is drawn to something clearly designed for cats. After all, it’s called “cat” nip for a reason, right?This harmless-looking herb drives our cats into a frenzy of rolling, drooling, and playful craziness. But what happens if your dog ingests the leafy green? Does it cause the same “high”? Is it even safe? And, perhaps most importantly, could the herb that’s famous for making cats go wild actually offer any potential benefits for our pups? After all, we want to give our dogs the happiest lives possible, and that sometimes means exploring options outside of the usual dog-specific products.In this article, I’ll answer these questions and more.What Exactly is Catnip?You’ve likely seen catnip mentioned a million times when it comes to cats’ toys, but what exactly is it? To understand how it interacts with your dog, we first need to know exactly what it is. It’s much more than just a novelty for the kitties in our lives; it’s an herb with a long history, even in human tradition.Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb in the mint family. It’s native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, but it now grows readily around the world. In fact, you can likely buy catnip seeds in your local garden center. Historically, long before it was known for entertaining housecats, humans used it in herbal teas for its calming and mild sedative properties. It was also sometimes used to improve digestion.         The reason catnip attracts so much attention centers on one specific volatile oil: Nepetalactone. This oil is contained within the leaves, stems, and seed pods of the plant.In cats, it’s the nepetalactone that triggers the short-term neurological reaction that we see, aka the crazy burst of energy that they get when they get near it. However, as I’ll explain in the next section, the canine system processes the chemical very differently. It’s unlikely to start zooming around the room after a sniff.Is Catnip Safe for Dogs?Returning to the original question of this article, is catnip safe for your dog? If your pup decides to tear apart a cat toy (as my girl Willow has done several times), should you be worried?When discussing the safety of any substance, we need to address both the potential for toxicity and the risk of discomfort for your pup. While the latter may not be life-threatening, we all want to take steps to keep our dogs feeling comfortable!Catnip is Generally Non-Toxic to DogsFirst and foremost, you can breathe a sigh of relief if your dog has recently tested the waters with the herb. According to organizations like the ASPCA and the Pet Poison Helpline, catnip is not listed as a poisonous substance that can cause severe or life-threatening reactions in dogs. If your dog nibbles a stray leaf or manages to sample the dried herb while chewing a cat toy, there is no need to panic. The plant will not poison them.Understanding “Non-Toxic” vs. “Harmless”While catnip isn’t poisonous, that doesn’t mean your dog should be allowed to eat a whole patch. It’s crucial that dog parents understand the difference between a substance being “non-toxic” (aka not poisonous) and “harmless” or safe to eat without any consequences.The risk associated with catnip exposure centers almost entirely on gastrointestinal problems. The digestive systems of our dogs are not designed to ingest large quantities of plant matter. If they eat too much of any herb or green, including catnip, it can irritate their digestive tract.The most common side effects of eating excessive amounts of plant matter are mild and short-lived, such as temporary vomiting, diarrhea, or general stomach discomfort. Generally, your dog will start to feel better as soon as the material passes. However, if your dog passes the plants and is still showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian, as there may be a bigger problem to address.The Hidden Hazard of the Toy ItselfNow that we’ve clarified that eating some catnip from chewing a cat toy isn’t going to cause any serious harm, there is a danger associated with this situation that I want to highlight. Chewing a non-edible item (like a cat toy) can lead to trouble!Catnip toys are designed to be light, fluffy, and enticing for cats. But they are not durable for a powerful canine jaw, especially if your pup is a power chewer like our two! If they ingest a chunk of stuffing, the fabric or plastic pieces, or even a whole catnip mouse (yes, it happens), it can create a serious choking hazard or, worse, a risk of life-threatening obstruction.Always supervise your dog around cat toys if they share their home with a feline sibling. Immediately take away the toys if you see your pup starting to chew on them.The Impact of Catnip on DogsWe’re all familiar with the hilarious, erratic behavior you might see from your cat after being exposed to catnip, but what about dogs? If your pup does manage to ingest a little catnip, you may be surprised. The key difference lies in the way dogs and cats process the active ingredient, nepetalactone.Unlike cats, dogs don’t get “high” on catnip. Cats possess specialized receptors, particularly in the roof of their mouth, that are sensitive to nepetalactone. This triggers a strong, euphoric response when the scent is inhaled, leading to the reaction we commonly associate with the herb.On the other hand (or paw), dogs lack these sensitive receptors. While they can smell the herb, their brains do not process the nepetalactone in a way that causes the typical stimulation. Instead, they respond when they ingest catnip (either the leaves or the dried herb). For our pups, this acts as a mild sedative or relaxant. It is the same effect that humans expect when they historically brewed catnip tea to calm their nerves or help them sleep.When consumed, catnip has a mild depressant effect on a dog’s central nervous system, helping to reduce general restlessness or anxiety. The response is often very subtle, so don’t expect your dog to suddenly collapse into a tranquil slumber. Instead, you can expect your pup to show a slight easing of tension or an increase in general calmness.While rare, it is worth noting that a very small percentage of dogs may experience the opposite, showing a mild stimulating effect. Always monitor your dog carefully during their first few exposures to see how their unique system processes the herb. If you notice increased agitation or hyperactivity, stop using it.However, for the vast majority of dogs, the primary effect is either a mild calming one or none at all.