Training dogs, and especially the most challenging dogs, has taught me a lot about getting through life. Figuring out how to take care of myself during, and after, the pandemic is no exception. I get my second COVID vaccine next week and, like many other people, this means I'm starting to cautiously think about what […]

Puppies have a short time window for optimal socialization, and that requires exposure to multiple different surfaces, people of all backgrounds, and various new situations. But what about the puppies who happen to be within that window now, during this time of necessary social distancing due to COVID-19? How can they be socialized so they […]

During the COVID-19 lockdown, your puppy won the people lottery by enjoying your attention around the clock. Snuggling for hours on the couch, long neighborhood walks, and extra lunchtime treats were all in a day's work. It's a heavenly routine your canine best friend has come to rely on. The downside is that your pup […]

There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. —Maya Angelou A young vet assistant carried my Lab, Fergus, into a room set aside for euthanasia. While Fergus lay on a large, soft pillow, I lay down beside him. I told him what a good guy he was and how I loved him. […]

When humans are reunited with their pets, owners might shed more than a few tears. But do dogs do the same? Until now, most evidence has indicated that, while they do exhibit empathic responses to humans in need of comfort, dogs do not cry. But a new study from Japan, published in the journal Current […]

Moving from a house to an apartment, condominium, RV, or tiny home can be challenging for dogs. These tips and skills will make the transition easier.

If you've got the time to provide the training and exercise these smart, high-energy wolf-like dog breeds need, they might be worth researching further.

Paid Advertisement When you get ready to leave your house for work or a quick errand, are you confident that your pooch will settle down for a leisurely snooze until you return? That's what the owner of three black Labrador Retrievers thought. But while she was out, those silly dogs ate the popcorn strung on […]

In a viral video on TikTok, a Shiba Inu perks up hearing his owner's voice on the radio for the first time. Despite the owner not being there, it begs the question if dogs can recognize voices—or actually understand that it's you when you ask to talk to your dog on the phone. Owners Already […]

When the music starts Elizabeth McKibben and her Australian Shepherd Harper and her Border Collie Fanta come alive. The 16-year-old from Dayton, Ohio, and her dogs are active competitors in Musical Freestyle competitions. McKibben and Harper have earned their fourth Musical Freestyle Championship and Fanta is about to earn his first Musical Freestyle Championship. Bringing […]

I have a spayed, female, four-year-old dog who hasn't urinated in the house since she was four months old. Suddenly, after she's been resting for a while, I find wet spots in her bedding. Dogs, like humans, can experience several problems when it comes to urination. One problem, called pollakiuria, is the need to urinate […]

When it comes to love, dogs offer all of the devotion with none of the guile. They won't sign up for a secret dating profile or see another owner behind your back. And that flirtation with the pet sitter … well, it's harmless. After all, there's a reason dogs have a reputation for being faithful […]

You’re bringing home a new dog. You’ve searched for the right adult dog to become a member of your family. After careful thought and planning, the day has come. It’s important to recognize that, although you had a chance to think this through, your new dog has no idea that an unknown family, strange household, […]

Does your dog have a routine? Dogs thrive on consistency and benefit from knowing what to expect. Routines can support every aspect of your relationship...

"Wouldn't it be great if our dogs could talk?" says Amanda Nascimento, head of Integrative Veterinary Medicine and Research at NHV Natural Pet. "If you listen closely, they can." Dogs don't just bark to communicate. There are lots of different dog sounds our pups use to express how they feel, and some breeds vocalize differently. Sometimes, owners […]

After settling into your comfy chair, you're ready for a movie night at home. Before you can say "Pass the popcorn," your dog approaches, sits on your feet, and leans on your legs. This gesture has precedent, too; historically, aristocratic ladies used some small breeds as foot warmers. Plenty of doggie cushions line the floor, […]

We love spending quality time with our dogs. But there may be days when we wonder, “Why does my dog follow me everywhere?” The answer has to do with their animal instinct,  pack mentality, and a few other variables. Canine companions that follow their humans everywhere are often referred to as “Velcro dogs” because of […]

Dog depression is a real and present concern for many owners. But how do you know if your dog is depressed? Learn more about signs of depression in dogs and causes, as well as what to do if you think your pet may be struggling.

Search-and-rescue dogs provide valuable assistance in times of crisis. But how do they do their jobs? Learn all about canine SAR and how these dogs work.

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs! AGILITY Congratulations to these dogs who have earned more MACHs: MACH21 Donaldson's Daisy […]