5 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers for Your Feline Friend

5 Fun Stocking Stuffers for Your Canine Friend

The holiday season is the perfect time to show your furry friend just how much you care. While they might not hang stockings themselves, your dog certainly deserves a few festive surprises. Here’s a round-up of five fun stocking stuffers that are sure to make tails wag and keep your pup entertained this holiday season.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Is a Pot-Bellied Pig in Your Future? Read On!

5 Common Home Decor Items That Are Risky to Keep Around Dogs

When decorating your home, it’s easy to focus on aesthetics and forget that some popular decor choices can actually be dangerous for your dog. While many items seem harmless to us, they can pose serious health or safety risks to our four-legged friends. Here are five common home decor items that dog owners should be cautious about.

Must-Have Items Before Bringing Home a New Dog

Bringing a new dog home is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. To make the transition smooth for both you and your furry friend, there are a few essentials you’ll want to have ready.Here are some must-have items every new dog owner should pick up before day one.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Can I Keep Two Hamsters Together?

It’s a common question for new hamster owners: Can two hamsters live in the same cage? While many pets enjoy companionship, hamsters are a bit different. Whether or not they can live together depends heavily on the species, their individual temperaments, and how they’re introduced. In many cases, housing two hamsters together can lead to stress, fighting, and even serious injury - so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.Species Matters MostThe first thing to consider is what type of hamster you have. Different species have very different social behaviors.Syrian hamsters (also known as golden hamsters) are strictly solitary. They must be housed alone. Even siblings raised together will usually become aggressive once they reach maturity. If housed with another hamster, they’re likely to fight - and those fights can be severe. Syrian hamsters should never share a cage.Dwarf hamsters (such as Roborovski, Campbell’s dwarf, and Winter White hamsters) are more social and can sometimes live in pairs or small groups, but not always. Even among social species, fights can and do happen.Chinese hamsters are often mistaken for dwarfs due to their small size, but behaviorally they’re closer to Syrians. They tend to be territorial and are usually better off living alone.

Thinking Snow Protection for the Pooch This year? Check out Leggings!

(photo credit: eva_blanko / shutterstock.com)If you’re a dog owner and you live in a four-season city, you already know the challenges of getting your pooch out for a walk once the snow hits. Or rather, the snow, slush, ice, and salt.I have three dogs, and while their range of ages and different abilities typically has me trekking to the local dog park where they can move at their own pace, leash walking factors in big-time when time is tight. And that means sidewalks.Now, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) it’s not just salt, sleet, and ice that should have you checking out the shoe department for your dog. Hiking through rough terrain or on hot summer streets require the same level of protection, and there’s a shoe, boot, or legging for every one of them.But with winter coming, let’s check out some of the full-leg designs available for dogs of all sizes. Why Choose Paw and Leg Protection?Rocks, sidewalks, and rugged terrain can all cause tiny nicks and cuts in your pet’s paws. And in winter, the moment you add de-icer or salt to the equation, you may find yourself carrying your pet for a good portion of the walk. With three dogs, I’m always on high alert at this time of year when it comes to foot protection because if more than one goes lame and stops dead in their tracks at any point on our walk, I’ve got a serious problem.But in addition to the painful burning sensation of salt or the danger of frostbite, walking without foot protection can also be an issue for older or larger dogs, where a serious slip and/or fall on an icy sidewalk will make them immediately cautious on future walks. That means progressing through your daily outings becomes not only time-consuming but also stressful.Further, if your pooch immediately equates sore paws and falling with what used to be a fun daily walk, they’ll quickly become reluctant to head out. That’s never what we want to see. So, best to head off potential issues from the very start.Leggings versus BootsI love the concept of leggings. Not only do they eliminate the concern of losing boots when out trekking along trails and through dog parks, but they also protect their legs from injury – including burrs, branches, and the rough, frozen texture of deeper snow.What to Look for in Foot ProtectionJust like when purchasing your own protective foot gear, choosing proper coverage for your dog means considering a number of variables. Such as the terrain you plan to walk in – rocky, slippery, wet? As well as your area’s climate. Is it prone to wet, sloppy snow that requires a focus on water resistance or cold, firm snow that means something a little more thermal is required? Look for something that fits your pet’s feet comfortably and that stretches sufficiently to not compromise his pace, but not so much that it allows the booties to slip off or makes it awkward for your dog to walk or run.Dog Boot MaintenanceSimilar to your pet’s regular outdoor gear, be sure to wash on a regular basis and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Never dress your dog in boots or leggings that have not been thoroughly dried, and avoid storing this type of gear while it’s still wet or damp from washing. And at the start of the season, be sure to check all protective footwear for wear, including leaks or warm tread.Great Options to Consider

How to Know If You're Feeding Your Dog The Good Stuff

With so many brands and formulas to choose from, it’s tough to know if what you’re feeding your furry friend is really the best. Knowing what’s in their food and what makes it high quality can help you feel confident that you’re giving them the good stuff.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Your Cat Still Scratches The Furniture—Even With a Scratching Post

If you’ve bought a scratching post but your cat still goes after your sofa or dining chairs, you’re not alone. Many cat owners are puzzled when their feline companion ignores a perfectly good post in favor of a favorite armchair. So why do cats scratch furniture, and what can you do to redirect those claws?Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Giving Animals an Exit Strategy from Deep Water Is Simple

City of Amsterdam's famous canals are now safer for animals. How safe is your pool or pond?

Black Cats, Halloween, and a Bum Wrap

Why your jet-black feline deserves a little respect this month.

The Future of Pet Care: How PetSafe® Tech Is Making Homes Smarter

Our homes are getting smarter, and now pet care is too.From self-cleaning litter boxes to GPS-enabled fences, PetSafe® is redefining modern pet care with connected solutions that simplify routines and bring greater peace of mind—making everyday life easier, cleaner, and more joyful for both pets and their people.

Is a Degu a Good Pet for Children?

Furry, cuddly, fun... and you don't have to walk them. What could be easier?

New Genetic Test Can Detect Kidney Disease Risk in Cats

Kidney disease is common among cats, and it’s a progressive condition without a cure. Catching it early may give you the chance to work with your veterinarian to slow its progression, but even that can be a challenge, which is why experts have been working on ways to diagnose chronic kidney disease sooner. Now, there’s a new genetic test that can help you do just that. It may even give pet parents a heads-up years in advance of kidney disease symptoms.

How To Get Your Dog Used to Wearing Boots

Tiny dog boots are so cute, and they serve an important purpose: protecting your pet’s paws from harsh conditions in all seasons. Whether it’s hot pavement in the summer or snow in the winter, the right pair of protective boots help keep your dog’s feet dry and help reduce the risk of injuries. Plus, they provide traction on hikes and protect paws from ice melt products.The tricky part is getting your dog used to wearing boots. It’s normal for your companion to be reluctant to have strange things on their feet, but with the right strategy, you can help them feel at ease in their new footwear. 

Why Your Dog Is Suddenly Grinding Their Teeth

If you’ve noticed your dog suddenly grinding their teeth, it can be worrying. Just like humans, dogs can grind their teeth—something called bruxism. This behavior often signals that something isn’t quite right, and figuring out the cause can help keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Let’s get into it.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Household Items That Could Be Triggering Your Pet’s Allergies

Pets make our homes brighter, but sometimes everyday items can trigger allergies we don’t expect. It might show up as itchy skin, watery eyes, sneezing, or tummy troubles. While we often think about food, common household products can also cause problems. Here are five everyday things that could be affecting your pet.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Surfing Pups Ride Waves at World Dog Surfing Championships 2025

It was a day of high-fives, wagging tails, and impressive displays of balance on the coast of California as water-loving dogs gathered for the World Dog Surfing Championships. The annual event was held at Lina Mar Beach in Pacifica on August 2nd. It was nearly cancelled this year due to increased event permit costs, but was saved by sponsors and donations, allowing thousands of spectators and their furry friends to gather and celebrate their love of surfing. The crowd was a mix of serious competitors and casual observers, all gathered to share in the excitement. Dogs dressed in swim trunks and sunglasses mingled on the beach, but it was the canine athletes on the water who truly stole the show. Over a dozen pups, from small terriers to large Labradors, paddled out on the water with their owners, preparing to catch the perfect wave. The judges carefully watched each performance, evaluating how long the dogs managed to stay on their boards, their balance, and any impressive maneuvers they performed. “It’s subjective,” explained judge Sam Stahl when asked what they were looking for during the judging process. “It’s a feeling. You’re looking for ability to stand, ride, move in the wave. You’re looking for style. How panicked or how calm the dog is. That makes a difference.” While all the competitors were incredible, some really blew the crowd away. One such exceptional pup was Koa, a chocolate Labrador Retriever who tied for first place in the extra-large dog category and won second place overall. Koa’s enthusiasm and excitement were infectious, with her tail wagging furiously as she rode the waves, fueled by the cheers from the crowd. Her human partner also helped her take home second place in the human-dog tandem category, an event that showcases teamwork and trust. The event’s overall winner, Cacau, a chocolate lab, traveled all the way from Brazil to compete! While the competition was amazing, the stories behind the surfers were just as compelling. Charlie, a 10-year-old yellow lab, loves surfing so much that his parents admit they sometimes have to hide his board if they want to enjoy a quiet day hanging out on the beach. Charlie and his human partner, Jeff Nieboer, shared their adorable pre-wave ritual. Jeff finds a good wave, turns the board, and tells Charlie to get ready. Charlie then leans to steer the board, demonstrating a remarkable level of skill that most wouldn’t expect to see from a pup. Another remarkable story was that of Iza, a 5-year-old French Bulldog who won the medium-size dog category. Her dog dad, David Fasoli, taught her how to balance on a surfboard in a swimming pool during the pandemic. The World Dog Surfing Championships aren’t just about winning medals and bragging rights. It’s a celebration of the powerful connection between pets and their parents. Each dog that rode the waves that day, from the seasoned competitors to the newcomers, shared a moment of trust, teamwork, and accomplishment with their parents. It goes to show just how far people will go to provide their pets with a life full of adventure and joy! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Doorbell Cam Catches Emotional Moment as Mailman Delivers Dog’s Ashes

When Krysten Klapatauskas opened her front door earlier this month, she wasn’t expecting to break down in tears. But there was her mail carrier, Malachi Knox, standing quietly on the porch with a box in his hands. A small box. The kind no pet owner ever wants to receive.Inside were the ashes of her dog, Stoli, a German shepherd who had been part of her life for a decade.Stoli died on the Fourth of July after a battle with cancer. She was ten years old. Her remains had been shipped back to Krysten’s home in Wausau, Wisconsin, and by some twist of fate, the person tasked with delivering them was the one person outside her family who had known Stoli best.Knox had been delivering mail in the neighborhood for years. He and Stoli had a daily ritual, one that both of them seemed to enjoy. “She’d bark at him, but it wasn’t serious,” Krysten said. “When she was out on the porch, she’d wait for him. She’d roll over for belly rubs. It was their thing.”So when Krysten saw him standing there with the box, it all hit at once. The grief she had been holding back, the finality of what she was receiving, and the unexpected comfort of a familiar face. She broke down and started to cry.The moment was captured by her doorbell camera. In the video, Knox doesn’t rush away. He steps closer, sits down beside her, and places a gentle hand on her shoulder. After a few seconds, she leans into him, and they sit together quietly on the steps. No one says much, there’s not much that needs to be said.“It meant everything to me that it was him,” Krysten said later. “He knew her. She wasn’t just a name on a label. And he didn’t treat it like just another delivery.”Knox later commented on the video, which Krysten shared online. “I know how it feels to lose a fluffy friend,” he wrote. “Please show compassion and kindness. It means the world.”That comment, and the video itself, struck a chord. People from all over started sharing it, sending messages of support, and sharing their own stories of pets they had lost and small moments of kindness that helped them through it.But what made this moment so touching wasn’t just that it was caught on camera. It felt so honest, there was no plan, no performance. It was just a man, doing his job, who understood what that small box meant to the person standing in front of him.Krysten didn’t post the video for attention. She shared it because, in her words, “we need more of this in the world.” More people who pause. More people who show up in quiet, simple ways.She still misses Stoli every day. “It’s a strange kind of silence,” she said. “You go to open the door and you expect her to be there.”But she’s grateful for that final moment and the way it unfolded. And for the person who brought Stoli home one last time.This video is a reminder that kindness doesn’t need to be loud or dramatic to be powerful. Sometimes it’s just sitting down next to someone when they need it most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.