The Wanderer

Unfortunately, your dog is a natural host for the foot-long heartworms who, once inside your pet, mature into adults, mate, and produce offspring. Left untreated, the number of heartworms increase which can cause lasting damage to your dog’s heart, arteries, and lungs.  

There are plenty of studies out there that show plant-based diets can be beneficial for humans. Reducing meat can help lower the risk for heart disease and help you maintain a healthy weight. But do dogs get the same benefits from going green or is it just another fido food fad? Let’s take a look at the risks and benefits of a plant-based diet for dogs: 

You're minding your own business, when suddenly your dog makes a disturbing snorting noise. Where did it come from? Are they ill? Are they possessed? Relax. It's probably just a reverse sneeze. Here's how to recognize them in your dog, along with some facts about what causes them, and what to do about the condition. 

Your dog depends on you to feed him healthy, fresh meals each day. This means that you must learn to store your dog food properly, because if it’s exposed to air or light, it can oxidize and degrade quickly. Meaning your dog’s food can become rancid and could cause your dog to become ill. This guide offers basic tips for storing dog food as well as ideas for storing each type of food. 

#1- Spinning Around in Circles 

Most pet parents are familiar with their dog spinning around in circles. Whether it’s during playtime when they give a little twirl, before they lie down on a soft blanket, or even when you come home from work, dogs seem to love spinning around.  

It will come as no surprise to pet lovers everywhere that, just like people, the amount of time a dog needs to spend with humans varies depending on each individual pet. Most dogs enjoy more time than not with their humans but leaving them home alone doesn’t mean you’re a bad person!  

Most pet parents have seen it before – your dog looking all cute and sweet when suddenly he gets that look in his eye and starts scooting his bottom across the floor. It’s awkward, and also a little cute and a little gross, but is it a sign of a problem? Let’s take a look at dog scooting behavior and find out what’s really behind it (pun intended).  

Few things in this world are as pure and satisfying as kisses from your dog. When they lick your legs, your arms, and your face, it's their way of telling you they love you. However, you might have heard reports of people contracting terrible illnesses from dog kisses as well. Some have even needed their limbs amputated. So, what is this disease, and what are your chances of contracting it from your dog? Here's everything you need to know.

You might have heard a lot in the news lately about dogs getting sick and dying from what’s known as toxic blue-green algae. Many people think it’s the same as the bacteria leptospirosis but though it’s just as dangerous, the two conditions are hugely different.

If you read our recent article on the potential link between certain brands of grain-free dog food and canine heart failure, it hopefully gave you a better understanding of dog nutrition and the role it plays in your pet’s overall health.

An extra treat here and a table scrap there won’t do much harm, right? Actually, those daily “little” rewards you give your dog can cause serious weight gain which, in turn, can cause lasting damage to her or his bones, joints, and internal organs.

Recently, the FDA released a report on the effects of certain brands of grain-free dog food and their potential link to a heightened risk of heart failure. This can be really scary for pet parents, so we want to do our part to help.

Summertime and we're feeling fine! Share the good vibes with your best friend with these deliciously decadent treats that are 100% safe for the dog (or dogs!) in your life.

When it comes to summer fun, a day at the beach definitely tops the list. And who better to spend a fun summer day with than your pup? But when you’re gathering together your sunscreen, towels, snacks, and beachwear, what should you include for your dog? And when you’re at the beach, what measures do you need to take to make sure your dog stays safe? We’ve got you covered here in our list of the top safety tips for a day at the beach with your dog.

There’s not much cuter than a puppy excitedly splashing around in the water, cooling off from the hot, summer heat. But before you take your dog swimming or boating, there’s a few safety tips to keep in mind:

Your dog’s eyes can build up gunk and produce tears for many reasons, and though it might be unsightly, it’s usually perfectly benign. But sometimes, it calls for a quick visit to the vet. Either way, here’s what that gross stuff is all about and how you should handle it.

Your furry friend is down for leash time at any moment. Dog walking experts Heather Curatolo and Sarah Schmidt weigh in with four things to consider before walking your dog, whether you're hitting the trails or sashaying down 5th Avenue.

Dogs can have a heightened amount of anxiety in the Summer. With fireworks, thunderstorms, people coming in and out of the house and more motorcycles driving by, many dogs experience fear that they might not normally have.

It's a gut-wrenching moment in life when you discover you have lost your dog.

Tips to keep in mind when creating posters and fliers for a missing dog. 

The weather is warming up and you don't want to let pests take down your pup! These tips will help you prevent fleas and ticks from slowing down your springtime fun and help you understand what to do if your dog ends up picking up one (or more) along the way.

For most dog owners, Spring is better known as canine mud season. For whatever reason, tons of dogs love the muck! And unless you plan on keeping them indoors this time of year, you're going to need some clever strategies for managing the dirty paws that come with warmer months.

Trying to keep your dog as healthy as possible is something all dog owners can agree is an important, but tough responsibility. While keeping our dog happy is a straightforward task, ensuring that they are at their optimal health is sometimes not so simple. It certainly doesn’t help that we’re given an overwhelming amount of advice about how to maintain our dog’s health. With this person advising one thing, and that person advising another, it can be confusing to know which tips to follow. That's why, with the help of Monica Mizzi from Pet Life Today, we’ve narrowed down 3 simple things that we can all agree will effectively boost a dog’s health. Follow them, and your dog will be on their way to living a long and prosperous life.

Understanding the right level of activity your pet needs and what their healthy weight range is, according to experts, is the first hurdle to tackle in dealing with pet obesity. Long-term obesity can lead to a shortened lifespan for your furry companion and many healthy problems down the road.

Nearly half of all dog owners let their canine companions sleep in bed with them. But is it healthy? Here's a list of the potential problems and potential benefits that might come from sharing a bed with your dog.

Are you introducing a new puppy into your life? This is such an exciting time for everyone, pup included. And it needn't be a difficult introduction if you follow our new puppy planning checklist before bringing your furry friend home.

We love our dogs so much that may ignore the stench that comes along with their big wet kisses. Unfortunately, bad breath from your dog could be the sign of an underlying issue.

There’s no time like the present to prep your pup for the weather, temperature and other environmental changes that come with Spring. Regular maintenance like taking care of ears, nails, coat and paws need the right grooming supplies. We’ve put together a list of everything you need to keep up with your dog’s grooming needs as the season changes.

You probably know how many calories are in one of those chocolate cupcakes brought in by your coworker, but do you know your dog's ideal caloric intake each day? Follow these four tips to determine what to feed a puppy or adult dog to keep them healthy. 

When it's time to venture forth on an evening stroll with your canine bestie, don't go gentle into that good night. Go prepared. Follow these four tips for staying safe while walking your dog after the sun goes down.

Valentine's Day may be over, but the sweet reminders of this holiday still linger on. Whether you received a delicately wrapped box of chocolates from your significant other or took full advantage of the 70% off sale at your local grocery store on February 15th, you may be in truffle heaven for the foreseeable future. But what happens if that delight turns into truffle trouble when your dog gets into your stash? Chocolate is extremely toxic to dogs, so if your dog happens to get their paws on any of it, you should be prepared to take action.

Whether you're adding a new dog to your family, or considering switching up your current dog's food regiment, it can be challenging to decide what type of food to try feeding them with the numerous options available. One of these options is a raw diet, which has been growing popularity and adoption over the past few years. A quick Google Search will yield results touting the success of raw food diets for working dogs and household pets alike. There is no one consensus on whether or not a raw food diet is the way to go but some veterinarians believe it is the key to a healthier, and longer, life for your pup. How do you know if you should start your dog down that road? There are of course some things to consider before going all in on a completely raw diet.

February is National Pet Dental Health Month so now is the perfect time to make sure you're keeping up on your K9's canine health! Keeping your dog healthy is a full-time job! Exercise, vet check-ups, flea and tick medication, and at-home maintenance are all part of being a responsible dog owner. We get it and know you wouldn't have it any other way. Brushing your pup's teeth is an example of something we know should be done but don't always include the task in their weekly or monthly maintenance routine. Most groomers will do a light teeth cleaning and, as your dog ages, your veterinarian handles the deeper cleanings. It's important however to do a little upkeep on your own between sessions and we've got four easy-to-follow steps to help you get it done.

If you're like us, keeping your dog healthy is one of your main concerns. From feeding them the proper quality food, taking them for routine checkups, to exercise and grooming, you pride yourself on being a responsible pet owner. However, if your pup's dental health is sometimes overlooked, there can be both short and long-term consequences. The American Veterinary Dental College states that many dogs show signs of dental issues and periodontal disease by three years old.

Pets are part of the family and just like with our human family it’s important to know how to assist them in case of an emergency.

As the temperatures continue to drop this winter, there are hazards that you need to protect your pup from. We’ve put together a short checklist to help prevent any disasters from happening to your dog.

We’ve all heard the hype around DNA testing for dogs, but what are the real benefits from purchasing one of these kits? Some people decide to test their dog out of pure curiosity. When adopting a dog, there is usually some level of guesswork that goes into identifying what breed mix they are. Unless the rescue group knows the mother and father of your dog, there is no way they can accurately tell what breeds she is made up of. Actually, even if the group does have an idea about the mother and father, the puppies in a litter can have different fathers from each other!

Most pawrents keep their canines under control, but taming their dog's vet bills can be a challenge. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans spend, on average, $500 a year on vet bills for their dogs, and yours may be more. It's not easy to balance your responsibilities to your pet and your budget. With the help of retired Arcata, California veterinarian Jeri Lou Oliphant, we've put together five tips for ways to keep your vet bills reasonable.

There’s a new employee work benefit started recently by a company in Minneapolis designed specially to cater for new dog owners, they’re calling it ‘fur-ternity leave’. Nina Hale, a marketing company in the city introduced the benefit to allow employees with new pets to work from home.

Winter days are shorter, and the weather can be ruff. But don't let winter woes dampen the fun you can have with your dog. Here are 9 easy ways to cheer up a pup who may be missing his summertime scene.

Happy 2019! The new year is usually marked by making resolutions, and for most of us, that means getting fit. It's a positive change for us and our pets because vets estimate 50% of our four-footed friends are obese. Getting your pooch to start out strong is one thing, but how can you keep your dog's New Year's resolution to get fit? We've got five steps to success.

Here are our tried and true tips for a calm and happy holiday season for you, your guests and, most of all, your canine pal.

'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, Roscoe was dragging around pieces of a Christmas tree he had just torn to bits. Wait, that's not how it goes! Dogs and Christmas trees don't have to be a bone of contention in your house. We've got five tips for pup-proofing your yuletide evergreen and to keep him from sabotaging your holiday cheer.

Your dog is an important member of your family, and this means she deserves a special holiday meal of her own. Christmas dinner for your dog needs to be healthy in addition to including yuletide elements. Here are five ideas for serving your pup a Christmas feast. 

Taking care of a pet can teach you a lot about taking good care of yourself. Here are a few things that we can learn from our dogs:

A dog going missing is absolutely heart wrenching, but if you do ever find yourself in this situation try to remain calm. Here's a plan to help you effectively recover your lost dog.

Winter comfort for your pup is all about staying warm, eating well and being protected from the weather. Keep them cozy and happy during the cold months ahead with these 4 must-have products.

Cooking for your family can be a lot of work! You have to pick out your recipes, check your ingredients list and make sure you have all the necessary tools to perfect your meal. Meanwhile, you want to prepare something that is both tasty as well as nutritious. Adding fruits and vegetables is the best way to support a healthy family. As you stroll through the produce aisle in the grocery store, you also may be tempted tograb some of your produce as a snack for your four-legged family member, your dog. Before you do, make sure to check our list of fruits and vegetables to see if they are pup-approved or human only.

It's tempting to feed your dog table scraps, but not every nibble is worth sharing with him, no matter how pleading the puppy dog eyes. With the help of nationally acclaimed pet wellness advocate, Tracie Hotchner, we've put together a list of seven do's and don'ts about foods that dogs can and can't eat.

Ask dog pawrents what's the most unbelievable thing their pup ate, and you'll be regaled with stories about devoured turkeys on Thanksgiving and missing Valentine's Day chocolate, both frustrating and dangerous as both can be quite harmful to dogs. Curious about their world, these pups have their families telling unbelievable tales about what their dogs ate.

Winter is approaching, and with it, shorter days and the end of Daylight Saving Time. Clocks fall back one hour, which means an earlier sunrise and sunset. But what do these changes mean for your pup?

Moving is always stressful, and not just for us...it’s tough on our dogs too. The initial house hunt, the packing, cleaning and actually removing yourself from somewhere you once lived...it’s a challenging process.

If you’re like us and love to spend summer days on long hikes exploring wooded trails with your best friend, you already know to bring plenty of water and check for pesky ticks afterward.

It’s good to be choosey about what you feed your dog. Many fruits we consume every day such as grapes, avocados, and figs can be toxic to our pets. Watermelon, on the other hand, is safe and nutritious when fed responsibly. Technically both a fruit and a vegetable, watermelon is from the botanical family Curcurbitaceae and is closely related to pumpkin, cucumber, and squash—all healthy, low calorie treats for our canine companions.

When warm weather hits, outdoor adventures beckon. You dress light, pack sunscreen and carry icy water for yourself, but remember that your dog heats up quickly in hot temps too. Follow these four tips on how to keep your dog cool this summer.

Does my dog see what I see, does he have good eyesight, is it true that he only sees the world in black and white? These are some of the questions we’ve all pondered when we see our dog peering off into the distance. Just what does he see with those eyes?

While we all wish we could take our dogs everywhere we go, that is not always possible. We have jobs and other responsibilities that require us to leave our dogs at home alone. Owner guilt tends to set in and we worry that we are not being the best pet parents that we could be. However, there are ways that you can get rid of this guilt and set your pup up for success when your schedule is not conducive to bringing your little buddy along.

Memorial Day signals the start of summer for us all and best of all, it’s the time of year when our public outdoor pools open for the season. That got us thinking about all the benefits that swimming gives for humans and dogs alike.

Can the bacteria that dog’s carry actually make your baby healthier in the long run? This correlation may seem far-fetched, however, some studies have shown that owning a dog might help better prepare your child’s immune system.

You don't have a lazy dog just a poorly trained one. As surprising as that sounds, the takeaway from our interview with Dr. Steve Neuenschwander of Brentwood Animal Hospital in Raleigh, NC, is dogs will do whatever it takes to make you happy, but they can't do something they have never been taught to do. With 36 years experience as a vet, Neuenschwander says one of the most common problems he sees is obesity in dogs from lack of exercise. But how do you motivate your dog to exercise? This time-tested vet says a lot of dog's motivation comes from her owner. Let's see what else he has to say on the topic of movtivating your "lazy dog" to exercise.

Are doggie diets really just a fad? We all know diet and exercise are important for people, but on what level is this the same for dogs? Nutrition is such an important part of dog wellness. While no two dogs are alike, there are some basic rules to follow to make sure your dog is getting the nutrients they require. As always, consult your veterinarian for any specific nutritional questions related to your furry friend.

Spring is (thankfully) fast approaching and we are all looking forward to that extra sunshine the changing season brings. It seems like everyone has a little extra pep in their step once the clock moves forward an hour  but can that change affect our canine companions? Just like humans, dogs are naturally conditioned to wake up when the sun rises and sleep after the sun sets. This natural biological clock is known as circadian rhythm. Take a little time to help your pup adjust to the routine change that comes with Daylight Saving Time. 

One of the reasons Ashley moved to New York City was for Central Park. She had always dreamed of running through the scenic park, passing the Boathouse, Tavern on the Green and all the famous sites with her dog Ella. When she moved here, however, life got busy! She found herself making excuses (especially in the winter) about why she couldn’t take Ella on a long walk. She found herself saying, “it’s cold out” or “I’m exhausted,” more often than she would like to admit.

Picture this: You’re out for a run with your dog, and notice sweat has completely drenched your new workout clothes. You look down at your pup and she looks seemingly unaffected. Sure, she may be panting and walking a bit slower, but not an ounce of sweat is seen on her body. The truth is, just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean that it isn’t still happening. There are myths floating around the internet that dogs do not sweat. That is not the case. Dogs do sweat, but it is not the main way they cool themselves down when affected by heat. Unfortunately, dogs are not that well equipped at staying cool in warm temperatures. Dogs have two types of sweat glands called Merocrine glands and Apocrine glands. Merocrine glands are similar to human sweat glands and are located on your dog’s paw pads. If you look closely on a hot dry day, you may even see wet paw prints from your dog as you walk. The Apocrine sweat glands release pheromones, so their main purpose is not to release sweat! They are all over your dog’s body and help dogs identify and recognize each other.

Those long anticipated sunny days and warmer weather are here. Spring is in the air! We can finally emerge from hibernation and begin to prepare ourselves for Summer. It’s also that time of year where our pups need some extra care and attention to get them ready.

If you have pets in your home then you probably need to clean...a lot! Not all cleaning products are created equal and many contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to you and your pup. It's incredibly important to poison proof your home and keep toxic products out your curious canine companion's reach. To help kick-start your clean-up, we've compiled a list of pet products that are safe for every member of your family. 

Father's Day is right around the corner and man's best friend can often be found at his side...waiting for a swift breeze to knock a treat (or two!) off of the barbeque. And while it may seem safe to "give a dog a bone," there are some hazards you need to know about when it comes to feeding your dog BBQ delights.

Winter can be an extremely difficult season for your dog's paws. Not only are there environmental irritants, but also certain toxic chemicals that are more prevalent such as snow and ice treatments. Don't worry though, we have you covered with these tips to keep your pup's paws pampered and protected this Winter.

When you put on a few pounds, you feel it in your favorite jeans. But it's harder to know if your dog is overweight. Is your pooch pleasantly plump or unhealthily porky? Here are four ways to find out how to make the call. 

Celebrity Trainer, Latreal Mitchell, shared her tips with us to help you get on track and treat your pup to a new workout or two in the new year. Getting up and out has never been easier and soon you'll be racing your best friend to the door in a step-for-step challenge.

As 2018 approaches, many people are starting to think about making changes. A fresh page on the calendar inspires fresh starts; it's a great time to make the best of your career and home life. This includes relationships with your pet care service providers.

As pumpkin-flavored treats fill local coffee shops and grocery stores, your dog doesn't have to and shouldn't be left out of the seasonal delights. There are great reasons to add pumpkin to your dog's diet that have nothing to do with being on trend and even better, pumpkin dog treats are easy to make at home. Be sure to always purchase plain canned pumpkin, nothing "pie-ready".

Dogs have an incredible sense of smell; it's been common knowledge for centuries our canine pals can pick up on scents like no other domesticated animal. But how exactly do they do this? While scientists haven't completely figured it out, we do have many intriguing insights that explain a great deal about our dogs' sniffing super powers.

You know that inner clock pushing your hunger and sleep buttons? Scientists attribute that to circadian rhythms, which are pretty much a 24-hour inner clock that runs in the background of our brain. It cycles between sleepiness and being alert at regular intervals. Circadian rhythms are also known as our sleep/wake cycle. But humans can't claim exclusivity. Plants, fungi and even certain strains of bacteria also display evidence of circadian rhythms. It stands to reason your canine buddy does as well.

Dogs are lovable whether thin or pudgy, but even a few extra pounds can do damage to your pup's long-term health. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention's 2016 survey, 53.9% of dogs were either classified as overweight or obese by their vet. That means roughly 42 million dogs are carrying excess weight, increasing their risk of health issues for joint injuries or cancer. But don't panic and think crash diet. You'll want to move your furry friend from chunky to hunky slowly. One of the wellness features in the LINK AKC app can get you started with a daily goal for activity, which comes as a custom recommendation for your dog. Next step - create a diet plan for your pup with these steps:

Fall is a great time to get out of the house and exercise with your dog. The cool weather is ideal for long walks, leaf-peeping hikes, and epic games of fetch. As you venture out into the wild outdoors (or you know, your own backyard) keep these common Fall hazards in mind in order to keep your pup safe and happy all season long.

It's fall and that means it's time to enjoy the sweet smells and flavor of pumpkin everything! The best part? Your pup can join in on the fun!

To insure, or not to insure? That is no longer the question. Whether Roscoe has you on edge after almost catching that car he's been chasing for years, or you're looking for a way to keep routine vet bills manageable, affordable and effective, pet insurance is like poetry to a dog owner's ears.

As a dog pawrent, it can be challenging to know when to call pet poison control experts, especially when each incident can cost $59 and up. Luckily, the LINK AKC Smart Collar provides you with the support you need, whenever you need it. Our service plan not only provides you with GPS tracking capabilities through our app, but also complimentary 24/7/365 direct access to the Pet Poison Helpline.

Many household hazards are dangerous or even deadly for your dog. Is your home safe for your pooch? Would you recognize dog poisoning symptoms? Dr. Ahna Brutlag, board-certified veterinary toxicologist, offers these helpful tips to keep your pup safe.

We've all seen how excited dogs can get when it's time to go for a ride. Most canines love to feel the breeze in their fur, but it's crucial no dog is left in a car - even for a moment.

Did you know that more dogs run away on the Fourth of July than any other day? Dogs can easily be scared by fireworks even if you're not the one setting them off. Here's a complete guide (with products!) to help you keep your dog safe and calm this Fourth of July.

Does your dog dread getting a bath or going to the groomer? Upscale dog spas and indulgent natural dog grooming products are a trend dog owners are soaking up to the delight of their pups. Transform grooming into pampering with a trip to one of these relaxing retreats around the country. After all, a day at the spa is always the remedy for a "ruff" day and treatments include help with health concerns, including paw pad therapy and skin conditioning treatments.

Ever wonder if it's okay to give your dog a sip of beer, a handful of popcorn or scrambled eggs? It's hard to resist Rover when he is drooling at your feet, intently watching you munch a bag of chips. We asked nationally acclaimed pet wellness advocate Tracie Hotchner, aka Radio Pet Lady and author of The Dog Bible: Everything Your Dog Wants to Know, which foods for dogs are forbidden and which are pooch-approved.

No matter the breed, size or age, dogs need to chew. Puppies use their mouths to explore the world around them. Young dogs with incoming chompers bite to relieve pain. Older dogs gnaw to keep their teeth clean. So what chew toy will work best for your dog? While it ultimately depends on your pet's habits, there are basic guidelines to help you select the right chew toy to help relieve your pooch and keep a picture-perfect smile.

A great poet once said, "It's not easy being green." Ok, it was Kermit the Frog, but he had a point. With chemicals you can't pronounce in almost everything, how do you know your four-legged friend is living his best doggone life? Mary Wolff, founder of Honest Dog Products, is helping us spread the green gospel with four tips for being eco friendly. 

Your dog is an important part of the family, so keeping him healthy is paramount. While exercise and regular vet visits are essential for overall health and wellbeing, Lyme disease in dogs may also be a concern, especially if you live in or travel to a high-risk region of the country. We asked Dr. Kelly Grisham, Medical Director of the Greenville Humane Society in Greenville, SC, how to identify symptoms and the best way to prevent Lyme disease in dogs. 

This would be easy, they said. Kayaking with your dog is a walk in the park if you've got the right gear, they said. Now here you are, furry friend in tow, navigating unknown waters and wondering if you are up for the challenge. Hope you did your homework. Even if you and your dog aren't seasoned explorers, these tips for kayaking with your dog will make you a regular Lewis and Bark...get it?

Fostering or adopting rescue dogs can be a rewarding experience. It provides a bonding opportunity for the family and gives an animal a loving home. While hiccups are inevitable, there are things a family can do to ensure things go as smoothly as possible. 

We've never met a dog that doesn't love treats. But when it comes to what to buy, you'll find pet store shelves are lined with a dizzying array of options. The simplest solution? Show your dog extra love by baking homemade dog treats.

After you bring home and then cuddle and play with your new pup, you need to learn the ins and outs of how to potty train your puppy. We spoke with professional dog trainer Krystal Nierman and posed 10 questions new dog owners have about how to potty train a puppy.

Each stage of a dog's life prompts questions because we want the absolute best for our canine companions. When we realize our best friend is showing signs of aging, there are suddenly new questions, such as: When is my dog considered a senior canine? As dogs age, do nutritional demands change as well? Can diet help to manage physical issues like arthritis as well as behavioral changes? How do I sort through a bewildering number of choices to find the best dog food for our older dogs?

Q: If the family has a dog before kids, what are the best steps they can take to prepare for the new addition?

We spoke with Krystal Nierman, owner and director of Dog Psychology and Training Center in Greenville, SC, on what to consider when choosing the best dog for your family. Here are the first two pieces of advice she offered.

And hiking and running and generally anything else your pooch likes to do with you. You don't go jogging, hiking or playing in the snow without foot protection, and your dog needs the same consideration against the elements and injury. Just as you make sure that your best friend wears his LINK AKC Smart Collar, you should ensure he's got the appropriate dog boots on as well.

Games are a wonderful way to build a strong and loving bond between you and your dog. The keys to successful dog games are developing a shared vocabulary, gaining control of when the game starts and stops and using a consistent reward system. Recent studies suggest high praise is a more effective reward than treats. Your approval is the best motivator.

If you love your pup, you'll want to avoid her contracting heartworm, a parasite spread by mosquitoes that could end her life. Yes, heartworm in dogs is serious, but it's also easily preventable.

Let’s face it - there are few things more enjoyable on a cold winter’s day than to curl up inside and stay warm. Don’t give in to the couch temptation though, at least until after you’ve spent some quality exercise time with your best friend. Finding ways to stay active in winter is tough, for you and your pup. Here are some fun ways to survive the winter cold and keep you both in shape.

Watching your dog suffer through a thunderstorm is almost as terrible for you as it is for them. You want to tell them that everything is ok and that there’s nothing to be afraid of…but how? Understanding our dogs’ fear of thunderstorms is the first step toward comforting them in their time of need.

When your dog starts dreaming, does he make soft sounds and wag his tail? Or does he sometimes snarl and growl in his sleep? Given that dogs dream, have you ever wondered if yours has nightmares as well?