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4 Hairless Cat Breeds

Although you might be familiar with the Sphynx cat, there are other hairless breeds that are just as intriguing and worth checking out if you want to add a rare hairless kitty to your household. Here are four hairless cat breeds and some of their distinctive features.   

Kevin the Gentle Giant Crowned World’s Tallest Dog

Some dogs are simply born to be famous! Some do it with their accomplishments, others with their latest tricks, but Kevin the Great Dane did it with nothing else but his size. He is officially recognized as the world’s tallest living dog, and he is described as a true gentle giant.Named after the main character from the movie “Home Alone”, Kevin officially claimed the world record title after he was measured at 3ft 2in (0.97 meters) from his feet to his withers. For comparison, that is the average height of a three-year-old child. An average Great Dane, on the other hand, is around 2ft 6in (0.76 meters) to the withers. The record was previously held by another Great Dane, Zeus, who tragically died at the age of three this past year, leaving the title to Kevin. Living in West Des Moines, Iowa, USA, Kevin is in the loving care of his owners – Tracy and Roger Wolfe, and their children, Alexander (12) and Ava (10). He is not the only pet in the family: he is accompanied by three other doggos, four cats, and a multitude of chickens, horses, and goats. And, besides being so tall and majestic, Kevin is just an ordinary pooch. He loves to snooze on the couch and won’t hesitate to protest if his favorite spot is taken. Still, his owners describe him as a real gentle giant. According to Tracy Wolfe, he is a true fan of snuggles and is very afraid of the vacuum cleaner. He was similarly spooked by the officials who came to measure him for his record. The measuring tape really gave him the heebie-jeebies. “Kevin is the epitome of a gentle giant,” Tracy said. “In fact, he is scared of most things. He is terrified of the vacuum. He won't let it come within 6 feet of him! He will jump and run to get away from it.”Kevin’s owner Tracy, herself employed at a vet clinic, says that he is just a big baby, and often acts as if he has no idea how big he is. “When Kevin, or any of my dogs, come to my clinic, I put a baby gate up in the door of my office. That way I can keep my door open, but keep the dogs in,” she added. “Kevin is hilarious. He will be in there and stay whenever I am in there. However, if I leave, he just steps right over the baby gate like it's nothing! I don’t think he’s aware he is as big as he is. He’s continuously trying to squeeze into small beds and sit on top of us, and do everything that the smaller dogs do.”Of course, as all dogs do, Kevin also has his naughty side. He is adept at snatching food off of counters, aided by his great height. “Kevin can be stubborn,” Tracy said. “He can be naughty. It’s usually food-related. Otherwise, he’s usually a pretty good kid.”

Stray Named Houdini Proves Not So Easy to Catch in the Big Easy

Six months on the lam, this little pooch gained a legion of social media fans hoping for his safe capture.

Puppy Blues is a Real Thing – Just Like Baby Blues, Study Shows

There is no doubt that puppies are super cute. When you first bring a tiny little bundle of fur into your home, it is a cause of great joy. But sometimes, life can change in many ways as you care for your new pet. A latest scientific study published in Mental Health Research reveals that almost half of all dog owners can experience something reminiscent of the famous “baby blues” – only related to puppies instead of babies.Many owners will experience anxiety, frustration, or weariness during those first steps of their pet’s puppyhood. The study that was conducted at the University of Helsinki confirmed that owners will experience a short-term drop in mood, and great melancholy, while their pet is a puppy - something that is akin to the famous postnatal “baby blues”. This is because caring for a puppy gives rise to a variety of worries and fears, anxiety and frustration, and difficulty bonding."The study found that these so-called 'puppy blues' manifest in three ways: anxiety, frustration, and weariness. These often occur concurrently, but in some cases, one or two of the three may be particularly prominent," said psychologist and doctoral researcher Aada Ståhl.When a puppy owner is anxious, their thoughts “are colored by concerns” about the wellbeing of their pet, and how they are developing. They can also be worried that they are not adequately looking after the fragile little being. If something doesn’t pan out, the owner would often blame themselves for it. What is more, as a result of the strain and the challenges of caring for a puppy, a puppy owner might become frustrated even further. In the initial stages, they might discover that it is difficult to build an emotional bond with the puppy, which would only make everything much more difficult.All of this makes puppyhood exhausting and very taxing mentally and physically. Owners could experience a lack of sleep and increased tiredness and anxiety."Just under half of owners report having had significant negative experiences during their dog's puppyhood phase, with only about a tenth reporting the most severe levels of strain. This is in line with the prevalence of postnatal depression. However, the negative feelings fade relatively quickly," says Professor Hannes Lohi.But the study now offers a key insight – the more time that passed since puppyhood, the more positively owners remembered it. This means that the negative emotional content of these memories “fades” as time passes. All these results were collected by examining the experiences of over 100 different dog owners, all of whom experienced emotional strain after bringing a puppy home. The survey was specifically developed to measure “puppy blues”. It collected specific responses from over 2,000 dog owners, ensuring the reliability of the survey."Capturing the phenomenon in a measurable form is important if we are to better understand its characteristics, prevalence, and duration. This will also allow us to improve understanding of the factors that may predispose owners to or protect them from the 'puppy blues,' which will help us to develop prevention and support measures," added Ståhl.The study offers a crucial new glimpse into the relationship between a pet and an owner. Exploring the puppy blues phenomenon will help raise awareness and prepare future owners for the challenges of puppyhood – as there are quite a few that come together with all that cuteness.

Pets Take Center Stage When Its Time to Vote

Its a growing social media trend: pix of pets at polling stations.

Is Dog Poop Compostable?

Dog owners often wonder if their furry friend’s waste can be “put to good use” and composted. After all, composting is an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste, be more efficient, and return valuable nutrients to the soil. But still, when it comes to dog poop, a question often comes up – is it safe and beneficial for composting? To find that out, we need to consider several key aspects.Is Dog Poop Compostable?In general, yes, dog poop can be composted. However, it is not so simple, as with general yard waste or food scraps. The main concern with composting dog poop and waste is the potential presence of harmful pathogens, such as bacteria and parasites. These microorganisms, such as Escherichia Coli or roundworms, can pose a risk to human health if the compost is not handled and processed properly. But when dog poop is composed the right way, it can break down safely and become a useful fertilizer for non-edible plants.To safely compost dog waste it is important to ensure that the composting process reaches high enough temperatures, which will kill all the harmful pathogens. This usually requires a special system known as hot composting, where temperatures in the compost pile must consistently reach around 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit). And it is these temperatures that help kill bacteria, parasites, and other nasty things found in dog poop. This then makes the compost safe for use. So here are a few basic steps to always keep in mind:#1 Always use a separate composting bin for dog waste, as this will help avoid contaminating regular compost. This is important for keeping dog poop out of compost that will later be used in gardens for growing fruits or vegetables. Also, make sure to use fully compostable dog poop bags that will disintegrate in the compost pile – plastic won’t do as it won’t break down as fast or fully.

How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?

Summer is in full swing, and drinking plenty of water is very important for everyone – our dogs included. Dehydration in dogs is a very serious condition that can lead to many health issues if it is not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of dehydration early can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being. So here are the basic things to know, including symptoms, causes, and preventative measures. How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?When it comes to spotting signs of all health issues in dogs, it all boils down to being attentive and making sure you don’t miss any cues from your pooch. Knowing the symptoms of dehydration in dogs will help you tremendously as you’ll know precisely what to look for, ensuring a quick response and timely treatment for your four-legged bestie.#1 Dry nose and gums:One of the first noticeable signs of dehydration in dogs is a dry nose and gums. Normally, a dog’s nose should be moist, and the gums should be pink and moist as well. But if you notice that your pet’s nose and gums are dry, it could be an indication of dehydration.#2 Loss of skin elasticity:Skin elasticity is a key indicator of hydration levels. Gently pinch the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulders. In a well-hydrated doggo, the skin should quickly return to its normal position. If the skin, however, stays tented or takes a long time to go back, it is a sign of dehydration. #3 Sunken eyes:Dehydration can cause a dog’s eyes to appear sunken and lack their usual brightness. This is a more severe symptom and indicates that the dehydration has been ongoing or is at a critical level.#4 Lethargy and weakness:Dehydrated dogs often show signs of lethargy and weakness. They might be less active than usual, unwilling to play, or have difficulty standing or walking. #5 Panting or rapid breathing:While panting is normal for dogs, excessive panting or rapid breathing can be a symptom of dehydration, especially if it is not related to any recent physical activity or high outside temperatures.#6 Dry and sticky saliva:Dehydrated dogs may have thick, sticky saliva instead of the usual watery type. This is a noticeable change that can indicate your dog needs more fluids.It is important to remember that there can be various causes of dehydration, and one needs to consider all of them. For example, the main cause of dehydration in dogs tends to be inadequate water intake. Dogs may not drink enough water due to many reasons, such as stress, illness, or changes in their environment. Make sure that they always have a source of fresh water, even if you are outside. If your dog isn’t too keen on drinking water, try encouraging them with a pet water fountain – moving, fresh water tends to have a better taste and the novelty of the fountain usually motivates dogs to drink more than they usually do. 

What Should I Do If My Dog Is Anxious Around Holiday Guests?

The holiday season is nearly here! Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year—these festive celebrations bring joy, delicious food, and cherished moments with loved ones. But amidst the laughter and excitement, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for your dog. Unfamiliar faces, loud noises, and changes to their routine might leave them feeling stressed or anxious. So how can you ensure your furry friend enjoys the holidays as much as you do? Here are some tips to help.Recognizing Signs of Anxiety in DogsBefore you can ease your dog’s anxiety, it’s important to recognize the signs of distress in your pet and act quickly. The sooner you realize your pooch is uncomfortable in this new environment, it will be easier for you to make sure you can help them calm down and feel at ease once again. Here are some of the most common symptoms of anxiety in dogs:Pacing: Walking nervously and struggling to settle down.Hiding: Retreating to a quiet corner or another room.Vocalizing: Excessive barking or whining as a signal of distress.Trembling or Panting: Shaking or heavy breathing unrelated to heat or exercise.Aggression: Snapping or growling unexpectedly.If you notice these behaviors, it’s a sign your pup is feeling overwhelmed.Preparing for the HolidaysThe best way to reduce holiday stress for your dog is to plan ahead! Even if you’re unsure if your pet will be uneasy around festive activities and guests in your home, it pays to be prepared in case they do. #1 Create a Safe SpaceDesignate a quiet, comfortable spot where your dog can relax away from the commotion. Include essentials like water, treats, toys, and a cozy bed to make the space inviting. 

Missing 80-Year-Old Woman Found Thanks to Her Loyal Dog

The dedication and loyalty shown by “man’s best friend” has been long documented, from tales of heroic police K9s protecting their handlers to dedicated service dogs. But a recent story out of Utah shows just how far a loving dog will go to keep their person safe.The Emery County Sheriff’s Office in east-central Utah received a report of a missing 80-year-old woman. The elderly woman from Colorado had been visiting family when she took the family dog for a walk and never returned. Even more concerning, the missing woman had dementia. Recognizing this was a high-risk situation, a search was quickly organized, including multiple rescue crews, Ralph Mitchell, a local neighbor and friend of the family, James Thomas, a K9 Officer with the Utah Department of Wildlife Resources, and his canine partner, K9 Kip. It was a multi-agency effort to locate the woman quickly. Temperatures in the area rose to nearly 100 degrees during the day and dropped to 55 degrees at night. The situation was dire. The hot daytime temperatures slowed the search, forcing the teams to work when it was safe at night. After searching continuously for two days and two nights, Thomas and K9 Kip heard a dog barking briefly around 3:30 AM. Listening carefully, they tried to follow the sound but were unable to find the dog before it stopped. Thomas wasn’t the only one who heard the barking—Mitchell heard it, too! “When I was out checking the outbuildings, I heard a dog bark, and it was brief,” Mitchell explained. “I was in a very good position to get a direction on where this dog bark was coming from.” While Mitchell wasn’t able to pinpoint the bark's exact location, he was able to determine an approximate zone. On day three, the search crews accessed security cameras in the area, scanning the footage for any sign of the woman. Much to their surprise, they spotted her walking with her dog, heading east. “It was the first evidence that we had of her presence, and it gave us a timeline of when she was out walking and how long she’d been missing,” Mitchell stated. Focusing their efforts on the area they had seen her walking toward, the searchers split up and covered as much ground as they could. Not long into the search, they heard the sound again—barking. This time, they were able to follow the barks over steep, rugged terrain that had already been ruled out as too challenging for a woman of her age. Against all odds, there she was. On day three, they found her lying, fast asleep, with her face down. Her dog, 5-year-old chocolate lab Elsie, was lying beside her, sounding the alarm with her barks to call for help. While the two were dirty and dehydrated, they were in surprisingly good shape. Elsie had shown her loyalty to the family, keeping the woman safe and calling for help. In fact, searchers credited the dog with saving the woman’s life. It was a happy ending and a beautiful example of the true power of the loving bond that exists between a dog and their person. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

New Research Claims That You Can “Connect” Your Brain With Your Pet’s

A team of Chinese researchers is coming forward with some really exciting claims in the field of biology. Even though it might sound unreal, their latest study suggests that when you look at your dog – or into their eyes – you can actually synchronize your brains. This complex research was undertaken in China, where they say that “neural coupling” between two different species was witnessed for the first time in history. This process happens when the brain activity of two or more individuals aligns during an interaction. In some ways, amongst humans, this is often the response to a gripping story in a conversation.Before this, neural coupling had only been seen in two members of the same species. Most commonly it was observed in humans and other primates, but also in mice and bats. Scientists agree that this “linking of brains” is likely important for shaping responses during social encounters. It is said that such behavior cannot occur in isolation and is thus essential for enhancing same-species cooperation.So, with these new surprising results, many questions pop up. For one, is the relationship between dogs and humans as simple as we previously thought? Or can we coexist on a much deeper level?After all, one of the very first animals that humans domesticated in history was the dog. That counts for a whole lot of shared history, numbering in hundreds of thousands of years. This means that dogs are much more than pet companions. Instead, they have a shared place in our society and history, and many uses that are vital to our existence, even today. All of this means that dogs have developed a set of intriguing skills throughout those centuries, including the ability to accurately understand our emotions. Using special equipment and processes, such as non-invasive electroencephalography (EEG), researchers in China were able to observe the neural signals transmitted from a beagle dog and a human, in a shared interaction. Much to their surprise, when dogs and humans would gaze into each other’s eyes, and when dogs were stroked in the process, their brain signals would synchronize. And the brain patterns associated with attention were suddenly matched in both human and dog.And as the participants got to know each other, the brain patterns only got stronger and more accurate. This means that the depth of the relationship between man and dog is very important for synchronization. Of course, it is well known that dogs are able to form strong relationships, especially with humans. This could be just one of the many ways that they do this – that we know of, that is!

Scientists Record Cat Brain Activity with Crocheted Hats

Cat parents and researchers alike often wonder what goes on in the minds of felines, and it can be hard to figure out what they’re feeling. Well, scientists have found a new way to record the electrical activity of a cat’s brain while they are awake, and they used adorable crocheted caps to do it.

Is a Rat or a Mouse the Best Pet for My Family?

Are you thinking of adding a small animal to the family? Congratulations! Rodents and other small, furry friends are often overlooked in a pet industry that focuses on cats and dogs – but they can be amazing companions!Now that you’ve decided to welcome a new pet into the home, it’s time to determine what pet is the right fit for your household. For some, this is easy. If you have fallen in love with a specific pet, you likely already have your mind made up. If you haven’t decided, we’re here to help.Two pets that are often lumped together (mistakenly) are rats and mice. While both are intelligent, social, and surprisingly clean animals, there are some significant differences.Keep reading to learn more about owning a rat or a mouse as a pet, including a comparison of key factors like lifespan, personality, and care requirements. By the end, you’ll have the information needed to confidently choose the perfect pet for your family.Is a Rodent Right for You?Before digging into the details of these two adorable options, the first question you need to consider is whether any rodent is the right pet for you. While dogs and cats are the most popular pets, rodents have been gaining popularity.These pocket-sized pets are generally more affordable to care for and require smaller living spaces, although this could vary depending on which rodent you choose. Many rodents are surprisingly social, allowing you to enjoy that human/animal bond while still making it easy to keep “their space” to a contained area in your home. If you are worried about the struggle of pet fur or muddy paw prints everywhere, that may be a huge win!However, not all aspects of rodent care are considered benefits. For those with young children, handling a rodent may lead to trouble, including injuries to the rodent from being mishandled or to your child if the rodent feels unsafe, causing them to bite.Finding a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals and can provide your new rodent with the care they require can be challenging. I recommend contacting local veterinarians and veterinary hospitals to make sure that you have someone available in your community who can provide the care your pet may need.Small animals have a shorter lifespan, allowing you to experience the joy of sharing your life with a pet without a long-term commitment. Unfortunately, that does mean dealing with the grief of losing a pet much sooner.Ultimately, the decision of whether a rodent is the right pet for you and your family will depend on your lifestyle, individual circumstances, and personal preferences. If, after reading all this, you still believe that a rodent is the perfect choice, it’s time to consider your options… Rats vs Mice: A Closer Look There are many different rodents to consider when searching for your ideal pet, but two often-confused pets are rats and mice. While these furry friends do have a lot in common, there are also many differences that set them apart. Here are a few essential factors to consider when deciding on the best choice for your household:Average LifespanAs already mentioned, rodents, in general, do have shorter lifespans than the average dog or cat. However, there is also a difference between rats and mice. Most domesticated rats live approximately 2-4 years, but some live considerably longer than twice that. According to the Guinness World Records, the oldest rat (named Rodney) lived to be seven years and four months old. Domesticated mice have a slightly shorter lifespan of approximately 1-3 years. This, too, can vary considerably. Guinness World Records lists the record holder of the world’s oldest mouse as a San Diego mouse named Patrick Stewart, who lived 9 years and 180 days. But this shouldn’t be considered normal, as Patrick Steward lived over 2 years longer than the former world record holder, Fritzy.Ideal HabitatBoth rats and mice can live a long, happy life with a cage as their primary habitat, assuming the cage provides enough space. Many of the cages you will find on pet store shelves are not actually adequate for a rodent’s needs. This includes not only cages for rats and mice but also cages available for rabbits, guinea pigs, and even hamsters. It’s a common problem in the pet industry across all small animals.The exact measurements of the ideal habitat for a mouse or rat will vary slightly from expert to expert. However, a general rule of thumb is that the minimum cage size for a mouse is 18 inches long x 12 inches wide x 12 inches high. For each additional mouse, add ½ square foot to the total floor area. You must also pay close attention to the width of the cage bars, as mice are skilled at slipping through even the smallest spaces.The space required to keep a rat is larger, which may need to be factored into your decision. The recommended minimum cage size for a single rat is 20 inches long x 14 inches wide x 24 inches high. You should add one square food to the floor area for each additional rat.Both species need plenty of tunnels, tubes, branches, and hideaways. They are prey animals, always needing to be alert and stay safe in the wild. While it’s true that no one is hunting your new pet in their cage, you still need to provide them with several hiding spaces to feel safe and secure. These structures also offer much-needed mental enrichment.Rats and mice also need items they can chew on, like mineral blocks or wooden structures, to keep their teeth from becoming overgrown.Many of the cheaper and more commonly used wood shavings for bedding are unsafe for your rodent. Improperly dried pine shavings and cedar expose them to toxic dust and odors that can lead to severe or life-threatening upper respiratory infections. They have very sensitive respiratory systems, making them highly susceptible to issues. Both rats and mice will thrive with an absorbent, chemical-free soft paper bedding like Kaytee Clean & Cozy White Paper Bedding. You can also mix in some aspen shavings to make tunneling easier. The bedding should be at least 6 inches thick across the bottom of their habitat.

Can Dogs Suffer From Asthma?

We often associate asthma with humans, but have you ever considered whether our dogs can also experience this respiratory struggle? Can dogs suffer from asthma?While less common than in people, canine asthma can occur. If it does, it can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life. Luckily, with effective management strategies and approaches, you can reduce the symptoms and help your dog breathe easily.This post will explore the symptoms, causes, and best approach to managing this often-overlooked condition. Understanding the basics of asthma in dogs is the first step towards providing the necessary care and support to ensure your asthmatic dog lives the best possible quality of life.Can Dogs Have Asthma?Yes! It is possible for dogs to suffer from asthma attacks. This condition can vary significantly from a mild inconvenience to potentially life-threatening breathing problems like it does in humans. However, it is far less common for our canine companions to experience these problems (luckily).The condition is much more common in middle-aged dogs but can occur at any age. It’s also more common in smaller dogs than large or extra-large breeds. Many experts believe this is simply due to the fact that smaller dogs are lower to the ground, meaning they are closer to the allergens and environmental triggers that irritate the airways when inhaled.There are some notable differences between human asthma and canine asthma, which we will discuss in more detail throughout the article. But to answer the question in the most basic sense, yes, dogs can have asthma.What Causes Asthma in Dogs?This is one area where we see a difference between human and canine asthma. Humans may experience asthma due to a genetic predisposition. This means that while their activities or environmental factors may irritate their airways and trigger an asthma attack, their experience with the condition may originate from their genes.Experts don’t believe there is a genetic component to canine asthma. Instead, it is a condition that develops due to exposure to environmental factors that irritate and damage the airways.The most common causes of asthma in dogs include:Pollen and other environmental allergensExposure to mold spores Cleaning productsSecond-hand cigarette smokeAir pollutionHeavy perfumes or air fresheners Candles, wax melts, or incenseDust from cat litter (especially clay litters)Airborne pesticides or fertilizersSmoke from fireplaces and wood stovesLimiting exposure to these elements is critical if you suspect your dog may be suffering from asthma. While this likely won’t reverse the damage and “cure” their condition, you can avoid making it worse.

What Are Appeasement Behaviors in Dogs?

There has been much discussion on social media recently about the importance of understanding your dog’s body language and recognizing a problem situation before it happens. For example, acknowledging when a dog is becoming frustrated and upset, leading to a potential bite.But what you may not know is that your dog uses many far more subtle behaviors to communicate that they are feeling anxious or uncomfortable.Understanding these cues is crucial for protecting your dog’s safety and well-being and building a solid bond. After all, we all want our dogs to know we are here to protect them from any dangers they face!Let’s examine these subtle behaviors, known as dog appeasement behaviors, in-depth. We will discuss the signals to watch out for, what your dog is trying to communicate, and the best response in these situations.What Are Dog Appeasement Behaviors?As mentioned, dog appeasement behaviors are subtle actions your dog takes to signal that they are feeling stressed, anxious, or uncomfortable. Many of these behaviors serve two purposes: communicating their feelings to those around them and acting as a self-soothing activity to try to calm themselves.Appeasement behaviors are an attempt to acknowledge a threat that they are encountering and signal that they have no desire for confrontation.Picture yourself out for a walk in your favorite local park with your dog when you come across another dog. If that dog demonstrates a dominant or aggressive posture, they may be non-verbally questioning your dog’s intentions in that space. To avoid conflict, your dog may use appeasement signals to tell this dog that they are just passing through and aren’t trying to start any trouble.From here, the situation can go one of two ways – either both dogs go their separate ways with a clear understanding that no conflict is needed, or (if the problem isn’t addressed) it continues to escalate into something potentially dangerous for all involved.As dog parents, we are responsible for learning what to look out for, understanding our dog’s attempt to communicate with us, and responding quickly to keep our best friends safe.Common Dog Appeasement Signals and BehaviorsThe first step in keeping our dogs safe is to learn how to understand their non-verbal communication.While it would be FAR easier if our dogs could speak with us in clear English (I'm not denying this), they use many different methods to “talk to” us. They rely on body language to tell us what they are thinking and feeling—using their ears, tails, body posture, eye contact, and other physical signals.Here are some of the more common appeasement signals to watch out for:Avoiding Eye ContactOne of the more widely recognized ways of communicating that you are challenging someone is to look them directly in the eyes. Therefore, it makes sense that a dog trying to avoid conflict would avoid eye contact entirely. Your dog may avert their gaze to the ground or appear to be looking around, their eyes moving to everything but the perceived risk.

Animal Activists Push Back on Culling Strays

From Turkey to Puerto Rico, Tackling Homeless Animals Requires Humanity

Do Dogs Sweat?

As the hot summer months roll in with a bang, you might find yourself drenched in sweat. With the climate going haywire, it is a common thing all across the world. While trying to cool down, you might be wondering if your pet is doing the same– do dogs sweat like humans do? To answer this question, it is important to understand how dogs regulate their body temperature and to dive deep into the intriguing aspects of canine physiology. Do Dogs Sweat?Humans have a well-developed system of sweat glands that are distributed across the skin’s surface. These glands are known as eccrine glands and they play a crucial role in thermoregulation by secreting sweat, which cools down the body as it evaporates. Dogs, however, have a totally different “mechanism” for managing heat.Of course, they also have sweat glands, but these are primarily located in their paw pads. They are called merocrine glands and are similar to human eccrine glands but are less numerous and less effective at cooling the body. While doggos can produce a small amount of sweat through their paw pads, it is still not enough to significantly impact their overall body temperature.So how do they cool themselves? Well, the primary way dogs regulate their body temperature is through panting. When a dog pants, it rapidly breathes in through the nose and out through the mouth, allowing moisture to evaporate from the tongue, mouth, and upper respiratory tract. This process effectively dissipates heat and cools the dog down. Panting also increases the airflow over the moist surfaces, enhancing evaporation and heat loss. 

What Are the Top Cleaning Products for Pet-Based Households?

(photo credit: New Africa / shutterstock.com)Living in a home with three dogs and two cats, believe me, I understand the challenges of eliminating funky pet odor. The thing is, I’m a big proponent of cleaning versus masking. I don’t want my house smelling like someone set off a rose-scented Glade bomb to cover up the smell of my fur crew. In fact, I think the only thing worse than pet smells, is a heavy artificial scent layered on top of those smells, thinking it covered them up. You know what I’m talking about.So, when I can find an effective way to actually clean and freshen my shared living space, I’m all in. Especially when I can do it myself by simply rotating it into my usual house-cleaning regimen. And that’s why finding products that are quick, easy and more importantly effective, is the order of the day in my home. Because we all know that our efforts can be thwarted in the blink of an eye if your pet has a dicky tummy or trots something icky into the house and across your carpets and soft furnishings.Location, Location, Location!