5 Easy Ways to Stop Pet Odors Taking Over Your Home

White Dog Clean Up! Here's How to Keep Your Pooch Looking His Best

(photo credit: Good Focus / shutterstock.com)Want to know why we don’t furnish our homes in top-to-bottom white? Because, as we all know, darker colors hide the dirt better. Not to say we don’t vacuum and clean regularly… but all those crumbs and dust don’t stare back at us quite so intently on a dark background as they do when sitting atop a stark white surface. You know I'm right!It’s the same with dogs. We bathe them, brush them, clean out their ears and wipe down their paws because even though we can’t see all the bits and pieces they’ve brought back on them from the great outdoors, we know it’s there.And if your dog is white - we’re talking head-to-toe white - how do you stay on top of it? Well, care for white dogs gets a lot simpler if you establish a routine and invest in a few key pet care products for that tool chest of yours.Surface CleaningWhile brushing alone won’t produce the level of "clean" we’re striving for, it is a good first step in eliminating visible dust and debris clinging to your dog's face and coat. For dogs with a curly, wiry, or medium-to-longer coat – thinking Samoyed, Poodle, or American Eskimo - a good slicker brush is the way to go. This type of brush consists of tightly packed wire pins that are great at digging down through thick, dense fur yet angled to prevent contact with skin. Something like this self-cleaning brush (good for both cats and dogs) from Swihauk is perfect for quick touch-ups after walks or outdoor play.And if your pooch is of the finer, short hair variety, you’ll want a good natural or nylon bristle brush. Options such as this ergonomically designed bristle brush are perfect for breeds including Bull terriers, Westies, or Maltese, where your goal is to remove all that surface dust, dander, and loose hair.So brushing quite literally, skims the surface!Deeper CleaningBut in addition to regular maintenance (including that daily brushing), your white dog is going to need to be bathed at a minimum, every six weeks. More frequently, if your pet’s coat becomes stained or they are highly active outdoors, and require a soapy intervention.Now, these baths should include a shampoo that’s been specifically formulated for white dogs - yes, there is such a product – and for that, we’re loving this pear-scented whitening shampoo from Wahl. pH-balanced and paraben-free, its rich lather brightens dull, dirty coats… and who doesn’t want their dog to smell like a ripe pear?For those on the go, tackling dirt, stains, and smells never takes a break, and that’s when something like this dry dog shampoo spray from Arm & Hammer delivers a brilliant solution. It’s a mist infused with baking soda. You simply spray it on, massage it in, and brush it out. Perfect for RV travel when a bathtub full of suds isn’t practical, yet clean still needs to happen.Facial CleaningRegardless of the products you use, daily clean-ups are a must when tackling runny eyes and the resultant staining. Especially on white dogs, where the streaks are highly visible. Tip – keep a soft wash cloth on the ready for a quick overall refresh of your pet’s face at the end of meals when facial fur can become gunky and result in stains.But let’s start with a more in-depth preventative measure. Introducing easy, effective clean-ups into your routine is the best way to stay on top of staining - and pre-moistened dog eye wipe s are just the ticket. This biodegradable option from Opula is loaded with natural extracts including Aloe Vera, Avocado and Dead Sea salts. Used daily, it removes dried mucus (AKA eye boogers), discharge, tear stains and saliva stains from your pet’s fur.

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.

Survey Shows Cat Parents Consider Their Pets’ Opinions When Dating

Does your cat influence your decision to continue dating someone? According to a survey by Whisker, maker of the popular Litter-Robot automatic litter box, the answer is yes for most cat parents. Here’s what they discovered.

The Top-Performing Breeds in Westminster Dog Show History

The energy in New York is shifting as the purple and gold banners announce the arrival of the 150th year of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, starting this weekend. For those of us dedicated to the health and happiness of our favorite dog breeds, it is the event of the season.While many view this as a high-stakes competition, it’s also a masterclass in breed history and preservation.This year, the action starts at the Javits Center with the Masters Agility and early breed judging, before moving to Madison Square Garden on February 2-3 to crown the “Best in Show.” But before we go all in on the 150th year, let’s look back at the history of the show and the breeds that have stolen our hearts.The Dominance of the TerrierIf you’ve ever wondered why certain breeds seem to have a permanent spot in the winner’s circle, look no further than the Terrier Group. Throughout the show’s 150-year history, Terriers have secured 47 Best in Show titles, far more than any other group.Leading the pack is the Wire Fox Terrier, a breed that has claimed the top prize an impressive 15 times. Other notable winners include: Scottish Terrier: 8 titles English Springer Spaniel: 6 titles Standard Poodle and Pekingese: 5 titles eachInterestingly, the Herding Group (which includes favorites like the Border Collie and Corgi) remains the least represented, with only two wins in history. Many enthusiasts are watching closely this year to see if a new or unexpected breed rises to take the title this year, like the Berger Picard or the Xoloitzcuintli.What Are the Judges Looking For?It is a common misconception that dogs are competing against each other in the show to determine the winners. In reality, each dog is being judged against a written breed standard. This document outlines the ideal physical and mental traits for that specific breed, rooted in their original historical purpose.For a dog parent, understanding these standards can be incredibly educational, especially if you have fallen in love with a specific breed. For instance, a judge isn’t just looking at a Terrier’s coat. They are looking for that characteristic “terrier fire,” the feisty temperament required for their original job of hunting rodents. When you see a working dog, like a Doberman Pinscher, the judge is looking for an alert, watchful presence.Watching these dogs perform helps us recognize the natural instincts and physical needs of our own furry companions. A dog bred for high-speed agility or deep-scent tracking will be happiest when provided with outlets for those specific behaviors.Beyond the “Best in Show”While the main event that most people associate with Westminster Week is a celebration of purebred excellence, the event has expanded to include the Masters Agility and Obedience Championships, where dogs of all backgrounds (including mixed breeds) gather to showcase their intelligence and the special bond they share with their handlers.Whether your dog is a championship athlete or a beloved rescue, watching these events can offer insight into your dog’s natural instincts and new ways to offer breed-specific engagement. From specialized “Dog TV” segments designed to new training techniques, there is always something new to learn to improve your dog’s life!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here. 

5 Fun Ways To Celebrate Your Pet's Birthday

Celebrating your pet’s birthday is a great way to show them some extra love. With a few simple gestures, you can make the day memorable for both you and your furry friend. Here are some easy ways to make it special.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cat Doesn't Like Clumping Clay Litter? Check Out These Alternatives.

Here’s Why Cats Have Favorites

If you live with a partner and a cat, you’ve probably noticed something… suspicious. While one of you gets the slow blinks, and the cuddle invitations, the other gets politely tolerated at best. Here’s the reason behind it. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

4 Reasons Why a Pet Camera is Worth It

Ever find yourself wondering what your pet gets up to when you’re not home? Are they snoozing on the sofa all day, barking at every car that passes, or quietly getting into mischief? That curiosity is exactly why pet cameras have become so popular lately.But it’s not just about satisfying your curiosity. Pet cameras help you stay connected with your furry friend, keep an eye on their behaviour, and check in on their wellbeing.Here are four reasons a pet camera can be a great addition to your home.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Do Ducks Make Good Pets?

If you’re thinking about getting a pet, ducks might not be the first animals that come to mind. Dogs and cats tend to steal the spotlight, but ducks can actually make pretty interesting companions. Before you rush out to adopt one, though, there are a few things you should know.

How to Support Your Senior Dog This Winter

Thoughtful comfort, easier mobility, and purposeful play for pets in their golden years.As temperatures drop, many senior dogs slow down even more. Colder weather can stiffen aging joints, reduce mobility, and make everyday routines feel harder than they used to. So, as winter approaches, many pet parents look for ways to help their older dogs stay comfortable, active, and content.And that’s where Petmate steps in as a thoughtful solution. Known for practical, well-designed pet products, this brand is focused on supporting aging dogs with comfort-driven essentials. Their senior-focused winter collection is curated specifically to meet the needs of older pups when they need support the most. 

New Puppy Checklist: Everything You Need Before Bringing Your Pup Home

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but also a bit overwhelming. However, with a little preparation, you can easily start things off on the right foot. This new puppy checklist covers all the essentials you need so you won’t forget anything before your new furry friend arrives.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Obstinate Dog? Here's How To Get His Cooperation.

(photo credit: By-_-BY / shutterstock.com)I love my feisty dogs. Two Schnoodles that are completely bonded, and while confident, spirited, and totally outgoing, both are happy to immediately fall in line when instructions are given. Then there’s my Miniature Schnauzer, who moves to the beat of a different drum. She’s quick to push back when she disagrees with me, ignores my calls at the dog park, and can deliver a blistering stink-eye when she knows she’s about to lose her way – like when she realizes we’re going for a walk versus a car ride.Now, some of this may be breed-specific. Many dogs have, in fact, been bred to be independent thinkers – particularly those raised for hunting and herding. Understandably, scent- or sight-hounds inherently zero in on their surroundings when tracking prey and, as a result, tend to fob off human interference.But according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), while dogs can be stubborn and focused, they aren’t intentionally disobedient. It’s more likely that your pet simply doesn’t understand what you want from him. With that in mind, how do you work around this breakdown in communication to get your pet to respond to instructions? Responsiveness is particularly important if your pet gets loose and needs to be called back because a willful pooch can put themselves in harm’s way if they venture into traffic and refuse to listen.It’s not just down to training the five basic commands (sit, stay, down, come, leave-it) but effectively training your pooch.How Do You Make Training Effective?

How to Tell if Your Dog's Play is Healthy or Heading for Trouble

Play and socialization aren’t just luxuries; they are core components of a happy, well-adjusted life. We know how much joy it brings to watch our dogs run, chase, and wrestle with their friends. Yet the sounds and movements of dog play can be loud, fast, and sometimes intimidating. It often leaves dog parents standing at the sidelines, wondering: “Is that fun, or is that stress?” and “Should I step in right now?”The truth is, distinguishing between a healthy, mutually enjoyable play session and an interaction that’s headed for trouble can feel like trying to decipher a secret canine code.In this post, I am going to share practical, actionable information to help you better understand your dog’s body language during play. I’ll uncover the clear, unmistakable differences between “good play” and “bad play,” a skill that not only prevents fights but also protects your dog’s confidence and ensures they develop the social skills necessary for fun, enjoyable interactions with others. Defining “Good Play”If you’ve ever watched two dogs wrestle and thought, “Wow, that looks rough,” you’re not alone. The truth is that the biggest difference between healthy play and problematic play isn’t the intensity; it’s the quality of the interaction. For a play session to be considered healthy, it needs to include two key elements: reciprocity and self-regulation. When both dogs are on the same page with these concepts, they can have a shared, positive experience.ReciprocityThe most vital sign of good play is reciprocity, meaning both dogs are equally invested and equally enjoying the play session. Think of it like a dance where both partners are taking turns leading and following. A healthy play session should never be entirely one-sided, where one dog is constantly chasing or instigating play while the other is continually on the defensive.Instead, you should see the dogs taking turns. If one dog is doing the chasing, they should soon become the chased. If one dog is playfully pinning the other, they should soon allow themselves to be pinned in return. This constant shifting of roles signals that both dogs are actively consenting and interested in keeping the game going.Another powerful sign of mutual consent is the play bow. This is when a dog lowers their front end while keeping their rear end in the air, as if they are bowing to their playmate. A play bow is a universal canine invitation to play. A confident dog will often use a play bow to initiate an interaction or to punctuate a pause during more intense play. It’s their way of saying, “Just checking that we’re still having fun, right?”Self-RegulationHealthy play requires dogs to have excellent self-control, often called self-handicapping or bite inhibition. Self-handicapping is when a larger, stronger dog deliberately makes themselves more vulnerable so that they are on an even playing field. They are purposefully decreasing their physical advantage to keep the game fair and fun for their playmate. It’s a beautiful display of social intelligence and self-regulation.For example, my two dogs are significantly different in size, with Willow being twice as big as Lucifer. When they play, Willow will roll on her back, slow down mid-run (or stop), or let him pin her down as they wrestle.Equally important is inhibited action. While play biting is a regular part of dog-to-dog play, it must be soft and controlled. A healthy player understands the boundary and will not bite with enough pressure that it causes pain, a yelp, or a sudden change in the other dog’s demeanor. If you see a dog making sharp, uninhibited contact that causes distress, even if it was meant playfully, the interaction is crossing the line into “bad play” territory.Pay Attention to Body Language The most important cue you can look for is your dog’s overall body language. Good play is loose and floppy. When two dogs are having a great time, their muscles are relaxed, their movements are fluid, and they have an open, relaxed posture.  Here are some signs of good play you can watch out for: Their tail wags will be wide, sweeping motions or circular “helicopter” tails. Their mouths will often be slightly open in a soft, “smiling” look. Their eyes will appear soft, not pinched or staring. Even during an intense wrestling match, their bodies should move freely without tension or rigidity. If you can see the effortlessness and ease in their movements, you can usually relax knowing that your pup is enjoying themselves. The Warning Signs of “Bad Play” While we want our dogs to have fun, we must also learn to recognize when play shifts from a positive experience to one rooted in stress, fear, frustration, or even aggression. The moment their actions stop being reciprocal and start being one-sided, you need to pay close attention. “Bad play” isn’t always overt aggression; sometimes it’s simply a lack of consent that pushes a dog into uncomfortable territory or increased anxiety in one dog. The Shift from Fun to Stress One of the first signs that play is heading south is the disappearance of that loose, floppy body language I just discussed. When a dog becomes stressed, their body posture changes dramatically. This is the moment to step back and evaluate whether the situation is still safe for your pup, preparing to intervene if necessary. Keep an eye open for the following: Stiffening and Freezing: This is the biggest visual cue. The dog’s body becomes rigid, their legs straighten, and their movements become jerky rather than fluid. They may momentarily freeze, which is a sign of tension, not relaxation. Hard Stare: A playful gaze is soft and darting; a stare is fixed, intense, and often accompanied by a lowered head. This is called a “hard eye” and is a clear sign of serious intent or discomfort. Vocalization Changes: Playful barks are usually high-pitched and bouncy. Watch out for deep, guttural, or constant low growls, or sharp, high-pitched yelps that signal your pup is experiencing pain or fear, not just excitement.

What Pet Owners Should Expect and How to Prepare for a Vet ER Visit

Emergency Specialist Muhammad Harfoush offers insight into emergency room vet visits.

How to Introduce a Cleanse to Your Dog's Health Regimen

Your Dog Is Changing Your Brain (And Your Gut) For The Better

Our dogs bring countless joys into our lives. From excited tail wags at the door to comforting snuggles on the sofa, our pups are truly part of the family. But what if I told you that your dog isn’t just making you happier, they may be making you more caring and sociable through an invisible, microscopic link? Recent research from Japan’s Azabu University has revealed a promising possibility: living with a dog might alter our microbiome (the ecosystem of bacteria inside us) in ways that actually promote better mental health and social behavior! The study focused on adolescents aged 12 to 14. Researchers found that teenagers who lived with dogs had significantly lower scores on social problems, aggressive behavior, and social withdrawal compared to their non-dog-owning peers. People who lived with dogs ranked as less socially withdrawn and behaved less aggressively. “Adolescent children who keep dogs exhibit higher mental well-being, and we also found that dog ownership alters the gut microbiota,” said Dr. Takefumi Kikusui, a study co-author and animal behaviorist at Azabu University. “Since the gut microbiota influences behavior through the gut-brain axis, we conducted this experiment.”Saliva samples revealed distinct differences in the microbial makeup of teens, including higher levels of certain bacteria like Streptococcus, which have been previously linked to reduced depressive symptoms. Interested in digging deeper, the research team then conducted a follow-up experiment. They transplanted oral microbes from people who lived with dogs and people who were dog-free into germ-free laboratory mice. The results were fascinating. The mice that received microbes from “dog people” exhibited behaviors that demonstrated greater empathy and sociability. For example, in one test, these mice were more likely to approach and try to assist a trapped cage-mate. They also spent more time sniffing unfamiliar mice, a sign of increased social interest. The gut microbiome is a busy community of microorganisms living primarily in our intestines. This community doesn’t just help us digest food; it also influences our immune system and, crucially, communicates with our brain. This communication pathway is known as the Gut-Brain Axis. The bacteria in our gut can produce various chemicals, including anti-inflammatory compounds and even neurotransmitters, which directly impact our mental state and behavior. The theory is that dogs, through licks and close contact, expose us to their diverse microbial communities. These microbes then travel to our gut, influencing our own microbiome and potentially boosting the production of those beneficial chemicals that support mental well-being and encourage empathetic, social responses. While the researchers agree that more studies are needed, incorporating different geographic locations, the research adds a new layer to the already well-documented benefits of life with a dog. They also acknowledge that adopting a dog isn’t a guaranteed solution for everyone. Bringing a dog into your home is a significant commitment that should be taken seriously. However, these findings also reinforce the idea that the bond between humans and dogs is profound, right down to a microscopic level. It’s a heartfelt reminder that the companionship you share with your dog is good for you, both inside and out! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here. 

Pet Cam Captures the Moment Dogs Invite in Unexpected Guests

When you prepare to leave the house, even for a few hours, you likely have a careful routine. You ensure your pets are fed, exercised, and that their environment is enriched to prevent boredom or accidents. You carefully put away anything they shouldn’t chew and ensure all necessary barriers are firmly closed, confident that your preparation will guarantee a safe and peaceful time while you are gone. But what happens when all that preparation goes out the window in a moment as your pets open the door, welcoming in some unlikely friends for an impromptu house party? That’s the very real, very hilarious scenario that recently unfolded for Australian politician Andrew Mackay. Mackay, who lives on a rural property, was out enjoying a quiet dinner with his partner when he decided to check his pet-cam feed, a common move for loving pet parents. However, he couldn’t have predicted what he would see! Moving across the screen of his indoor pet cam wasn’t just his two dogs, but the unmistakable head of a bull. The security cam footage, which Mackay shared on his Facebook page (and has since generated thousands of shares across platforms, with popular news outlets like CTV sharing the content on TikTok), captured the unlikely escapade. The primary culprits? His two dogs, with his resourceful mutt, Thunder, leading the charge.

FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization to Treat Screwworm in Dogs

On October 24, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement regarding the use of Credelio for screwworm in dogs. By issuing an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for this medication, they are making a treatment available in the United States for dogs who are diagnosed with New World screwworm (NWS).