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Best Leashes For Bernedoodles

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  July 9th, 2021

It’s important to make sure the leash you choose for your Bernedoodle is the right one, so we’ve compiled a list of the best leashes for Bernedoodles.

Bernedoodles are cuddle bugs who love their people! A mix of a Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog, they also have a bit of explorer in them, but they’re sometimes cautious about it. They can range in size from five pounds to 90 (depending on the mixes of varying poodle size and Bernedoodle) so you need to make sure whatever leash you have is the best for your dog. Check out the best 10 leashes for Bernedoodles we’ve found.

1. Editor’s Pick: Kurgo 6-in-1 Hands-Free Leash

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We love this hands-free leash for your medium-larger (trained) Bernedoodle. It adjusts six different ways to let it be the leash you use to walk around the block or to take on adventures at the beach or in the mountains, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.

2. Runner Up: PawLifestyles Retractable

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Another hands-free leash we like is this one by Paw Lifestyles. It’s retractable so it gives your Bernedoodle a bit of freedom when you’re jogging/running and it has a convenient pocket for you to keep phone/key/etc. It has two handles for better control, so it’s great for a larger Bernedoodle. It also has a reflective lining for safety and is easy to wash in the washer.

3. Best Training: Ezy Dog Bungee Training Leash

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Your Bernedoodle will need you to work and ensure he’s properly trained, and this basic bungee rope with a padded handle will help in that endeavor. The bungee helps with shock absorption and prevents issues with pull if your Bernedoodle’s will gets a little strong (they’re smart; it might). It comes in several different colors and two lengths, and has a money-back guarantee. It’s best for medium-larger Bernedoodles.

4. Best for Small Dogs: Pawtitas Small Nylon Leash

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Sometimes you’ll just want a basic leash to keep your Bernedoodle safe in environments and if you have a tiny or a mini Bernedoodle (10-24 pounds or 24-49 pounds), this is a great leash option. It’s basic but perfectly suited for the job and it’s easy to care for. It comes in lots of different colors.

5. Best Basic: Ruffwear Leash With Carabiner

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This basic rope leash is also a great option for smaller Bernedoodles, though they make them for larger ones as well. A larger might benefit from the carabiner lock/hook that attaches to your Bernedoodle’s collar/harness. Pet parents of smaller Bernedoodles often prefer harnesses, and this will work for either.

6. Best Leather: Logical Leather Water-Resistant Leather Leash

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This genuine leather leash comes in several different colors and is a classic, stylish option for a basic leather leash for walking and training. It’s water-resistant and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

7. Best Braided: SoftTouch Leather Braided Leash

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If you’d like to get a leather leash for your smaller Bernedoodle, this braided is a nice option as well. It has a padded handle and the leather is naturally tanned over 40 days so there is no exposure to any chemical should a zealous chewer get a hold of it.

8. Best Pattern: Mirage Pet Poodle Leash

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If you’d like your Bernedoodle to adorably pay homage to her poodle heritage, we love this cotton leash from Mirage Pets. It’s made in the USA; a nylon leash with the pretty-in-pink ribbon overlay. It’s best for medium-larger Bernedoodles.

9. Best No-Slip Handle: Petmegoo Dog Leash

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Your dog isn’t the only one going on the walk and that is why we love the Petmagoo Dog leash with its ultimate comfort no-slip handle. This is especially good if your Bernedoodle is a puller. You can pick from seven bright fun colors each of which are constructed with reflective threads so that you and your dog are kept safe when walking at night. The Petmegoo Dog leash uses a 360-degree tangle free swivel metal clasp that makes it easy to connect to your dog’s collar. The clasp is rust free and the entire leash is well constructed and durable.

10. Best Paracord: Bobcats Handmade Paracord Leash

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If you have a big dog, you know that finding the right leash that can handle your dog’s strength can be difficult. You will never question the strength of your leash again with Bobcat’s Handmade Paracord Leash. Each leash is handmade with 220 feet of Paracord that features 7 inner strand and has a break strength of 550 POUNDS! The also come in nine pleasing colors to choose from. At 7.5 feet long it is perfect for Retrievers, Alaskan Huskies, Samoyed, and Working Dog. Plus, with Bobcat’s 1 year warranty, you have nothing to lose.

How to leash train a puppy?

Start by introducing the puppy to the gear they’ll be using- collar or harness- and get them to wear it during the day so they get used to it even before you go out on a walk. Once you’re outside, with the leash safely attached, don’t let the puppy tug or pull on it and try to keep the leash loose to make sure your pet feels independent (even though you are still in control) and doesn’t tug. The key to leash training a puppy is using treats and praise, as positive reinforcement will encourage your pet to work harder and follow your commands when you’re out walking. Cheer your puppy on every few steps and don’t forget to dole out some tasty treats, too, so they know there’s a reward coming for the job well done!

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Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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Should you keep your pooch on a tight leash if you want them to behave? Or is that just a silly saying you shouldn’t pay any attention to? PetGuide.com’s experienced staff will clear any doubts you have and answer all your question about dog leashes, in an effort to help you pick out the best one for your four-legged family member. Same as it is the case with all dog accessories, leashes come in many forms and sizes, and what suits one pooch perfectly can be a disastrous choice for another doggo. That’s why we’ve prepared extensive buying guides and informational features on various types of leashes, as well as in-depth reviews of the most popular models on the market. You won’t have to test different leashes on your pooch before settling down on the perfect fit: our resources will save you both time and money, helping you to make the best decision on the first try. Best Dog Leash Features Available At BAAPET 5 FT Strong Dog Leash

How To Choose The Best Type Of Leash For Your Dog

Not all dog leashes are made alike – these are the things you need to pay attention to when choosing a leash for your pet. Spending time outdoors is important – both for you and your dog. Whether it is a long walk or a quick jog – soaking up the sun and stretching out is quite the benefit. But when you take your doggo along with you, there are steps you need to take in order to make them safe and under your control. By far the most popular way to do so is a leash. A sturdy dog leash will give you ample control over your dog’s movements, while still allowing them ample freedom. And best of all – they can help you react in time when something goes wrong. But how to choose the best type of leash for your dog? Here are the things you need to look for! Material & Type The very first thing you want to pay attention to is the material. A leash needs to be strong, durable, and comfortable for the owner and the pet – which is not often easy to balance in a design. Consider your dog’s breed, age, size, and character. If your furry friend is still just a puppy, then something standard will do the trick. Nylon leashes are good for puppies, but not ideal for all adult dogs. If an adult dog tugs on the nylon leash a lot, some skin irritation and chafing may occur. Leather leashes, on the other hand, can feel more against the skin, and are equally durable. Besides, a leather leash always looks classy and elegant. However, if you are the owner of a large and powerful breed – or your dog has a tendency to tug a lot – a more durable solution might be needed. That’s why chain leashes are ideal: they are super strong, and usually combined with a leather collar – keeping chafing at bay. Furthermore, you can opt for a harness instead of a collar. A harness supports the body and takes away the pressure from the neck area, which is a big issue with dogs that tug. If you are confident in your dog’s habits and obedience, you can also try a retractable leash. These nifty adjustable leashes allow you to control the length of the leash and offer more distance between you and your pet. However, retractable leashes are most commonly designed for puppies and small dog breeds, as they lack the strength that is needed to control large breeds. Dimensions Besides material and type, you should also look at the size. For general leashes, the length of 6 feet is ideal – it offers ample freedom for your dog, while still keeping you in control. A leash that is too long takes away from that control, while a short one limits your dog too much. In the end, it is important to know that a leash can be a valuable accessory for every dog owner. Even if you have plenty of trust in your dog, it is never wise to let them walk off-leash in populated areas. Things can get out of hand in a second, so it is always wise to retain some control at all moments.

Bernedoodle

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works. Bernedoodle BasicsIf you are looking for a smart and loyal dog that will be your companion for life, look no further than the Bernedoodle. Also known as the Bernese Mountain Poo, this breed is a combination of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. These hybrid fluffy pooches combine the best of both worlds: the intelligence and low shedding coat of the Poodle combined with the laid-back, yet incredibly loyal nature of the Bernese. For anyone who has owned either of those breeds, you’ll know that means that the Bernedoodle is one special pup, who combines the best traits of both parents into one cute package!The goal with crossbreeding these two popular dogs was to create a perfect companion for families of all shapes and sizes that will be both hypoallergenic and possess personality traits that make them ideal pets. That’s why the breeders didn’t stop at first generation mixes, but continued to select and perfect Bernedoodles in different sizes and with slightly different traits. Bernedoodles can vary widely depending on the breeder as there is no set standard for this breed (which is usually the case with all designer dogs). They can range from 10 to 50 pounds in size and can have quite different personalities from wildly energetic to a more stoic and calm demeanor. A lot will depend on which of the parental breeds' genes are more dominant in the mix and whose traits are going to be more apparent – the Poodle’s or the Bernese Mountain Dog’s. Luckily, this also means that there really is a Bernedoodle for every person and it’s hard not to fall in love once these special dogs enter your life.However, while Bernedoodle should ideally be a perfect mix of the parent breeds that only features the best of both worlds, with hybrids there is no guarantee either about their personality or their looks. In a litter of fluffy little Bernese Mountain Poos, all of the puppies might look different from each other and each one of them could have a wildly different temperament as well. For example, your Bernedoodle puppy might take after its Poodle parent more and be a furry brainiac that will learn tricks with ease and have an air of elegance to them. Or they might favor their Swiss ancestry and turn out a bit more stubborn than you’d expect, but with a heart of gold that will make it impossible to get mad at their antics. It’s hard for breeder’s to predict with this tricky hybrid, since there’s no proven “recipe” on how to ensure which breed gets to be more dominant in the mix. On top of the fact that you can’t predict their personality or looks with certainty, depending on the dog’s genetic makeup, they can have health issues more typical for one breed than the other.Related: 10 Best Harnesses For BernedoodlesAlthough there’s still a lot to learn about designer dog breeds, it’s safe to say that we now have a better picture about the Bernedoodle as these hybrid mixes have been around for quite a while now. Their name may sound a little funny, but these dogs make wonderful pets, and they are especially great with children, so they are often the first choice for families with young kids. There’s a reason why this designer breed has grown in popularity so rapidly. These are truly special pups. So, if you are looking for a fluffy dog that will be your companion for life, look no further than the Bernedoodle!

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Study Shows These Dog Breeds Most Likely To Have an Extra Row of Teeth

Is your pooch more likely to sport a second row of teeth? The so-called “Shark Teeth” is a little-known dental condition that can affect up to 7% of doggos around the world. The “disorder” is officially known as persistent deciduous teeth (PDT) and it means that instead of falling out as you’d expect, baby teeth remain in the gums when adult teeth come through. The condition is not particularly dangerous, but even so, it can be odd or cause slight discomfort to a dog. Recent studies revealed that the dog breeds most likely to suffer from PDT are the Toy Poodle, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Maltese, and the Chihuahua. What exactly is PTD? And what does it cause? The disorder causes  malocclusion, or - in simpler terms - a misaligned bite. In the long run, this can cause your pet’s mouth to bleed, and also increase the risk of periodontal disease, which is considered a serious gum infection.The research team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, led by Corrin Wallis, released their new study that focuses on PDT specifically. “Dogs use their teeth for a multitude of tasks and, as such, it is vital for their health and wellbeing that their oral health is maintained,” Wallis and colleagues  say.  “Persistent deciduous teeth (PDT), those that fail to fall out at the appropriate time, are associated with malocclusion (misaligned bite), soft tissue trauma and increased risk of periodontal disease.”In the course of their extensive study, which has been published in the journal  Research in Veterinary Science, the team from Leicestershire examined medical records from up to 2.8 million dogs in the US, in just a span of five years, from January 2010 to December 2014. The study itself was a major undertaking. Ultimately, it was revealed that the prevalence of PDT was 7%. When it comes to individual breeds, it was revealed that the highest prevalence is amongst the Yorkshire Terriers with 25.1%, followed by the Maltese and the Poodle, both with 14.8%.On the lower end of that spectrum, the lowest prevalence was with the Greyhound, with 0.1%, followed by the Rhodesian Ridgeback with 0.2%. Amongst those breeds with lower percentages were also the English Bulldog, the Boxer, and the Great Dane, with 0.4%. All of this reveals that the smaller the breed, the higher the percentage. The team is not certain why smaller breeds have a higher percentage, but it could be linked to their genetics. The team said that it was crucial for owners of smaller breeds to have a thorough oral examination at around six months of age. This can help them identify and remove PDT in its early stages. “Once identified, PDT can be removed and if this is carried out by six months of age, the chances of problems associated with PDT, such as the development of periodontal disease or malocclusion, can likely be greatly reduced,” they said. 

ACANA™ Pet Food Team Announces Nationwide Kitten Cuddler Promotion

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From Woofs to Words: Pet Translation Device Is Just Around the Corner

What would be the first thing you’d ask your dog if they could talk instead of barking? If dogs talked you could learn how much your pooch loves you, or maybe you’d be more interested to know why Fido peed on the carpet, again.Unfortunately, this level of conversation is unlikely to happen any time soon. But recent advances in artificial intelligence and speech and translation technology may bring us one step closer to conversing with our pets.Thanks to AI, scientists are figuring out how to translate animals’ facial expressions and vocalizations into a language understandable to people. In recent years, scientists have been using AI systems to analyze a sheep’s face to determine whether an animal is in pain, and another one is being used to listen to the communication calls of marmoset monkeys.Dr. Con Slobodchikoff, an animal behaviorist and professor of biology at Northern Arizona University is an expert on animal communication. Slobodchikoff has spent 30 years trying to better understand the calls of prairie dogs. Together with a computer scientist colleague, he developed an algorithm that translates the vocalizations of prairie dogs into English. “I thought, if we can do this with prairie dogs, we can certainly do it with dogs and cats,” said Slobodchikoff according to NBC News. Slobodchikoff imagined a cell phone app or device that you could point to a dog to record a video and audio of a dog’s behavior and then upload it for an AI system to analyze. “The AI would translate this for you into English, or any other language,” explained Slobodchikoff. The translation, Slobodchikoff said, could be something like ‘I’m hungry’ or ‘I need to go outside to pee’ or ‘I want to go for a walk.’To teach an AI algorithm about the nuances of canine communication, Slobodchikoff collected thousands of videos of dogs showing various types of body movements and different types of barks. For this to work, Slobodchikoff has to explain to the AI algorithm what each bark and tail wag means. This means that, at this stage, scientists must provide explanations of canine body language and vocalization, which gives room to individual interpretation. However, Slobodchikoff strives to include the growing scientific research that uses data gained from actual experiments rather than guesswork to interpret the true meaning of canine behavior.Being able to understand what dogs are saying would help owners forge stronger bonds with their pets, but also much more. It would make caring for dogs much easier and also help save lives. According to ASPCA, around 920,000 cats and dogs are euthanized each year in the U.S. alone - in many cases, because of misunderstood behavioral problems. For example, a dog that exhibits aggressive behavior might simply be afraid or anxious, and if there was a device to help us understand its fears, it might be possible to help that dog and save its life. “You could use that information and instead of backing a dog into a corner, give the dog more space,” said Slobodchikoff.Keeping track of the advances made in this field, an Amazon-sponsored report on future trends predicted that we’ll have commercial pet translators in the next 10 years. Even if pet translators become a reality, it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to have a real conversation with our pets. But, with the help of this new technology, owners would be able to understand how their dogs feel, including if they are in pain or sick, and what makes them happy or sad.Although more research is needed, we are one step closer to translating barks.

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Dogs Could Be Wagging Their Tails Because Ancient Humans Loved Rhythm

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How Can I Tell If My Dog Has a Fever?

High fever is no joke, and can be quite serious – both for people and their furry four-legged friends. Yes, dogs can have a fever too, and it can be a much more serious condition for them than it is for us. Unfortunately, fever is not an ailment you can spot with your bare eye. Because of this, you will need to thoroughly observe your pet’s behavior and learn how to spot those little details that indicate a fever. Read on as we go through the basics of dog fever and just how to tell if your pet needs your help.Symptoms of Fever in DogsDogs, like humans, can develop a fever as a response to illness or infection. It’s the body’s natural way to fight off the “intruders” in the body. Fever comes in many forms and for various reasons. You can tell if your dog has a fever by observing their behavior and checking for physical signs. Here are just a few of the most common indicators.Increased Body Temperature: 

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

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

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

Cat Fanciers’ Association Reveals the Top 15 Pedigreed Cat Breeds

The world’s largest registry of purebred cats, the Cat Fanciers’ Association has revealed the top 15 most popular pedigreed cat breeds, based on registration data collected in 2023. Can you guess which felines made the cut?No list of the most popular cat breeds would be complete without the Bengal cat. Starting this list at number 15 is the Bengal. Originating in the United States, the Bengal cat is a hybrid created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat. Best known for their wild appearance and leopard-like coat, Bengals are playful and affectionate cats that make excellent companions for families with children.Coming in at number 14 is the Oriental Shorthair cat. Officially recognized by the CFA in 1977, the Oriental is a medium-sized cat with a long, elegant body, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. Curious, intelligent, and friendly Orientals are a great choice for families looking for an affectionate, devoted, and friendly feline companion.At number 13 is the Norwegian forest cat. Large in size, the Norwegian forest cat has a robust body, long legs, and a thick, fluffy coat that keeps it warm in the cold weather. This smart, independent, and friendly cat is a great pick for busy people.The Russian blue cat takes the 12th place. The short, plush coat that varies in color from light silver to darker slate gray, and expressive green eyes are this breed’s signature traits. Russian blue cats are intelligent and active by nature and require mental and physical stimulation to thrive.Next on the list, at number 11 is the American shorthair cat. Known for its rounded and thick appearance, the American shorthair was recognized in 1906. This easygoing and friendly cat makes a loving companion for families looking for a low-maintenance cat.The hairless Sphynx takes the 10th place. Originating in Canada, this breed is best known for its lack of fur. Highly energetic, playful, and affectionate Sphynx gets along well with children and other pets and even makes a great therapy cat.At number 9 is the Siberian cat. Large in size and slow to mature, the Siberian cat can weigh up to 15 pounds and has a thick triple coat. Their dog-like personality and intelligent nature make them a great choice for people looking for an affectionate and playful furry companion. The Scottish fold takes the 8th place. Medium in size, the Scottish fold has a round head, round eyes, and small folded ears. Their sweet nature and cute looks make them a popular choice among cat fanciers.In 7th place is the Abyssinian cat, famous for its distinctive thicked tabby coat. Thanks to their playful, active, and intelligent natures, Abyssinians make great family pets.The British shorthair comes in 6th place. Described as the teddy bear of cat breeds both in looks and personality, the British shorthair is suited to just about any type of household. This time the Devon Rex takes the 5th place. Best known for its pixie-like appearance, the Devon Rex has an oddly shaped head, large eyes, and a wavy coat. The mischievous, playful, and loving Devon Rex makes a great pet for people looking for a cuddly and companionable cat.In the 4th place is the Exotic Shorthair cat. Developed as the shorthaired version of the Persian cat, the Exotic Shorthair has a round appearance and a charming personality. Next up, in the 3td place, is the Persian cat. Best known for its long coat, and round, flat face, the Persian cat has been one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide for many years. Their sweet-tempered, gentle, and adaptable nature makes them a great pet for people of all ages.In 2nd place is the Maine Coon. Known as the gentle giant, the Maine Coon is one of the largest breeds of domestic cats. Its massive size and friendly nature make it a great choice for people looking for a large, playful feline.And the 1st place goes to the Ragdoll cat. Large in size, the Ragdoll has a semi-long silky coat, tufted ears, blue eyes, and a bushy tail. Affectionate, docile, and friendly Ragdolls are ultimate lap cats and fantastic family pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why is My Cat Shedding in October?

The fall colours are out on full display, and temperatures are starting to dip, but for many cat parents, this time of year introduces another interesting change – their cats are starting to shed much more than usual. But if you’re suddenly noticing a trail of fur around your house, you have a few questions, including: Why is my cat shedding in October? Is it normal for a cat to shed more during the fall season? When should I be worried about my cat’s shedding? Don’t worry. We have you covered! This blog post will discuss seasonal shedding and how it may affect your cat. Plus, we have assembled a list of tips and tricks to help you deal with the increased shedding during fall, ranging from how to help your cat stay comfortable to keeping your house clean (or as clean as can be expected). Let’s dive in… Why Do Cats Shed? Whether you are a first-time cat owner experiencing shedding for the first time or a lifelong cat lover who simply hasn’t explored the reason why our cats shed – let’s talk about why this occurs. After all, isn’t losing hair a sign of illness or disease in humans? Shedding is a natural process in animals like cats where dead or damaged hair falls loose. This is essential for your cat’s skin and coat health. The amount of hair your cat sheds will depend on several factors, including the breed, age, overall health, and the time of year. That’s right, the time of year does have an impact on the shedding cycle…Is it Normal for Cats to Shed in the Fall? There are two times each year when you may notice an increase in hair collecting around your house. Commonly referred to as “shedding season,” this heavy shedding activity falls in the spring and the fall as your cat’s coat adapts to the change in temperature. The heavy winter coat is shed in the spring to make way for a lighter summer coat. Then, the reverse happens in the fall as they set themselves up for the best chance of survival during the cold of winter. Check the temperature – if it’s starting to drop and there are colder days ahead, you can expect to see the shedding activity pick up in the coming days.

New Study Shows Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely to Get Cancer

When it comes to humans, early detection is key when dealing with different types of cancer, and the same is true for canines. Naturally, a healthy diet, daily exercise, and regular veterinary checkups can all help keep your four-legged companion in tip-top condition.But, wouldn’t it be great if you knew in advance that your pooch is more predisposed to cancer? A new study published in Royal Society Open Science shows that there is a strong link between the dog’s size and their likelihood of getting cancer.Leonard Nunney, a biologist at the University of California, Riverside, and the lead author of the study wanted to understand how cancer starts and how it is initiated in different dog breeds. Nunney explained that while humans have an increased risk of developing cancer as they get older, the same isn’t true for dogs.This new study looked at dogs ranging in size from a tiny Chihuahua up to a mastiff, and a giant Great Dane. Despite the popular belief that larger dog breeds are at a higher risk of cancer, it turned out that bigger dogs are at a lower risk of developing any type of cancer simply because they tend to have shorter lifespans compared to smaller dog breeds, which typically live longer. Breeds like golden retrievers, German shepherds, and Labrador retrievers are considered large dogs and usually live up to 12 years. This study showed that smaller dog breeds, like Chihuahuas, terriers, and Pomeranians are at a higher risk for developing cancer because they tend to live longer, typically around 15 years or more. While doing their research, Nunney and his team made another discovery. They learned that certain dog breeds, regardless of their size, are more predisposed to developing certain cancers.Nunney lists terriers, specifically West Highland terriers, also known as Westies, as having a higher likelihood of developing bladder cancer. Flat-coated retrievers are prone to a rare type of cancer, called sarcoma, which is found in soft tissues and bones. In addition to these two breeds, Bernese mountain dogs are also more likely to develop cancer than other dog breeds. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, one in four dogs will, at some point in their life, develop cancer. Furthermore, almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop some type of cancer. But before you rush to get your dog to the vet for a full checkup, know that just because smaller breeds are more likely to develop cancer, that doesn’t mean they will. According to researchers, only a few dog breeds tend to be predisposed to cancer, as this illness is caused by genetic mutations. The researchers also discovered that while ancestry-based interbreeding reduces the breed’s life expectancy, it doesn’t increase the risk of cancer. Thanks to this new research scientists and animal experts can better understand dog breeds and how their genetics play a role in developing cancer. “Dogs are an extremely good model for understanding the genetic changes that may lead to a higher susceptibility of specific cancers,” added Nunney. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are Natural Methods for Flea and Tick Protection in Dogs?

If you have a dog – or ever had one – you know that fleas and ticks are amongst the most persistent and pesky pests that affect our pets. They can be notoriously difficult to get rid of, so more often than not, owners reach for harsher repellents based on insecticides in hopes they’ll be more effective. While they can help you resolve the issue faster, the ingredients in these flea and tick protection products can be dangerous for sensitive dogs – which is why many turn to gentler, natural methods of keeping these parasites at bay.6 Ways You Can Protect Your Dog from Fleas & Ticks Without Chemicals Protecting your dog from fleas and ticks is important for their health – at the very least. Not only that their bites are super irritating (fleas) but both of these pests can carry or cause a range of diseases and health issues, from coat and skin problems to more severe conditions, such as anemia or Lyme disease. Needless to say, this means that timely protection is imperative, and in case you spot any of these pests on your pet, you should get rid of them fast. While there are many commercial products available for flea and tick prevention, some dog owners prefer natural methods – here are 6 steps you should take to keep ticks and fleas away from your pet without resorting to insecticides:Regular Grooming: This comes as the first and foremost rule. Don’t neglect your pet’s hygiene. Frequent grooming helps you spot and remove fleas and ticks manually. Use a fine-toothed comb to check for pests, and make it a part of your regular grooming routine. Additionally, don’t forget about regular bathing. Some natural dog shampoos are formulated to eliminate fleas and ticks and act as repellents in between baths, such as  this one which contains essential oils such as peppermint, clove, cedarwood, etc, which act as natural insect repellents. However, remember not to bathe your pet too frequently, as it can leave their skin dry and flaky. 

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