Dog Lost in the Woods? Here's How to Find Him Quickly!

Study Reveals The Best Way to Get a Dog's Attention

Whether it’s teaching a new trick or simply guiding them away from something they shouldn’t be chewing, getting our dog’s attention is a fundamental part of daily life as a dog parent. But it’s not always that easy, is it? We’ve all experienced the slight frustration of a dog who seemingly has selective hearing, haven’t we? Well, new research out of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna might offer us a more effective strategy. A new study in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B has shed light on the most successful way to grab your dog’s attention and direct their focus: a combination of pointing and looking directly at the desired object. This may seem intuitive, directing their gaze through your own body language. After all, dogs are masters of reading body language. However, this study went a step further by tracking the dogs’ gazes with specialized headgear, providing concrete evidence for this recommended two-step approach. The research team, led by Christoph J. Völter, outfitted a total of twenty dogs with cameras to record where their eyes were directed during a treat-finding experiment. This group included eight mixed breeds, four terriers, two Australian shepherds, two poodles, a collie, a flat-coated retriever, a German shepherd, and a Rhodesian Ridgeback. An experimenter would hide a treat in one of two bowls and then use different cues to signal to the dog which bowl held the reward. The cues included pointing, gazing at the bowl, pretending to throw a ball towards it, and combining pointing with gazing. The results were quite interesting! When the experimenter both pointed and stared at the correct bowl, the dogs were significantly more successful at locating the treat. The researchers noted that the dogs’ gaze would typically shift from the experimenter’s face to their hand (the point) and then directly to the bowl containing the treat. This clear sequence suggests that the combined cues effectively guided the dogs’ attention to the intended target. Pointing alone did prompt the dogs to look towards the hand, but it wasn’t as effective in directing their gaze to the specific bowl. Similarly, the pretend ball throw, while often getting the dogs to look in the general direction, didn’t lead to a focused gaze on the treat-containing bowl. Instead, their gaze quickly searched for the invisible ball before giving up and returning to the experimenter. This highlights the power of a clear, directional cue like pointing, especially when reinforced with direct eye contact. “Is it for them more like an imperative directive to go somewhere? Or do they understand it more in a communicative way?” Völter explained when discussing the results of the study. The research team believes more studies are needed on the topic before that question can be definitively answered. What does it mean for us, dog parents? The next time you need to direct your dog’s attention to a specific object, remember the power of combining a clear point with direct eye contact. This scientifically-backed yet straightforward technique could be the key to clearer communication, more effective training, and a stronger bond. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How Do Cats Mark Their Territory?

Cats don’t just mark territory for the sake of claiming things - they do it to feel safe, reduce stress, and communicate with other cats. Territory marking can include physical actions like rubbing, scratching, or spraying, as well as more subtle cues like patrolling or lounging in favorite spots.Scent Glands and BuntingCats have scent glands in several parts of their body, including:CheeksChinForeheadPawsBase of the tailWhen a cat rubs its face against furniture, walls, or your leg, it’s not just being affectionate - it’s bunting, a behavior that deposits pheromones onto objects. These chemical signals tell other cats, “I’ve been here,” and help the marking cat feel more secure in its surroundings.Subtle Scent MarkingNot all marking is obvious. Cats also claim territory by:Rubbing their body along walls, furniture, or peopleRolling on the floor in familiar areasSleeping or lounging in favorite spotsPatrolling certain routes in the home or yardThese behaviors distribute their scent and help maintain a sense of ownership and comfort.Scratching: More Than Just Claw MaintenanceScratching isn’t just about keeping claws sharp - it’s also a key way cats mark their territory. Their paw pads contain scent glands, so when a cat scratches a surface, it’s leaving behind both a scent marker and visible signs. These scratches act as a dual message: a warning to other animals and a familiar signal that helps the cat feel more secure in its space. That’s why you’ll often see repeated scratching on furniture, door frames, or posts - those spots become regular territory markers in your cat’s environment.Spraying: A Stronger MessageUrine spraying is a more intense form of territorial marking and, for many owners, one of the more frustrating ones. It’s different from normal urination - when spraying, a cat typically stands upright and releases a small stream of urine onto a vertical surface. This behavior is especially common in unneutered males, but it can happen with any cat, particularly when they’re stressed or feeling territorial. Spraying may be triggered by changes in the environment, the presence of new pets, or even the sight or scent of outdoor cats. Neutering often helps reduce spraying by lowering hormone-driven behaviors, but it doesn’t always eliminate it entirely - especially if the cat feels its territory is being challenged.Visual Marking and PresenceIn addition to scent, cats leave visual signals. Scratched furniture or posts are a clear message to other cats, and simply spending time in a space also marks it. Outdoor cats, in particular, will often follow the same paths and rest in specific spots to reinforce their presence.

Can My Dog Get Jealous?

You’re giving attention to a new puppy, petting the neighbor’s dog, or maybe even cuddling a baby - and suddenly, your own dog pushes in, whines, or wedges themselves between you and the “intruder.” It definitely feels like jealousy.But is it? Can dogs actually get jealous? The short answer: Yes - sort of.While dogs don’t experience jealousy in quite the same way humans do, they can show possessive, competitive, or attention-seeking behaviors that look a lot like it. Let’s break it down.What Jealousy Looks Like in DogsJealousy in dogs often shows up in subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways. You might notice your dog:Pushing between you and another person or petWhining or barking when you give someone else attentionPawing at you or demanding cuddles Guarding toys, food, or even peopleActing out with sudden behaviors like peeing indoors or ignoring commandsThese aren’t just “bad manners” - they’re signals that your dog is feeling insecure, left out, or uncertain about their place in the social circle.Why Dogs Act JealousAt the heart of it, jealousy-like behavior in dogs is often rooted in:Attention shifts - especially if they were once your one-and-onlyChanges in routine - a new baby, pet, partner, or roommateResource guarding - not just food, but people tooA need for reassurance - dogs are incredibly social animals who crave connectionThey’re not being dramatic - they’re responding to what feels like a threat to their bond with you.What the Science SaysResearch backs up what dog owners have long suspected. A 2014 study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs exhibited jealous behaviors - like pushing or interrupting - when their owners showed affection to what appeared to be another dog (in reality, a stuffed dog). The behaviors mirrored how young children react to divided attention.While dogs may not experience jealousy in the full, emotional complexity humans do, it’s clear they can feel possessive, left out, or protective of their relationships.How to Help a “Jealous” DogThe good news is, jealous behavior can be managed - and even prevented - with the right approach. Here’s how:1. Acknowledge Their Feelings (Without Reinforcing Them)It’s okay to comfort your dog, but try not to reward pushy behavior with attention every time. Instead, calmly redirect and reward calm, patient behavior.2. Give One-on-One TimeMake sure your dog still gets regular undivided attention - walks, play, snuggles - especially if there’s a new pet or baby in the house.

Research Shows Dog and Owner Heart Rates are Synched

Finnish University discovers more than an emotional bond between pets and ownerss.

San Francisco Animal Shelters Full of Pandemic-Era Puppies and Kittens

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people became new pet parents or acquired more pets that could provide companionship and bring more joy during a very trying time. Unfortunately, things have changed, with many pandemic-era puppies and kittens filling animal shelters to capacity in California, including in San Francisco. Keep reading to learn about what has happened and why things have changed.

Study Finds Owning a Pet Is As Good For You As Being Married

Owning a pet cat or a dog can be as satisfying as being married, or regularly seeing your friends, or family, a new study shows. The study, published in the journal Social Indicators Research, also found that having a four-legged companion offers the same psychological benefits as being married or earning an extra $90,000 a year. Researchers at Kent University used the “life satisfaction” approach, which economists use to measure intangible assets like family and friendship, to calculate a hypothetical income. The study analyzed data from 2,500 British families and found that owning a pet comes with an increase in life satisfaction of 3-4 points on a scale of 1-7. Similar values were acquired for meeting with friends and family regularly.In other studies, economists have shown that marriage, compared to being single, is worth around $90,000 a year. On the other hand, separation is equal to around minus $170,000. The lead author of this study, Dr Adelina Gschwandtner, an economics professor at the University of Kent, told The Times she was inspired by a recent research paper that put a price tag on human friendships. “I thought, ‘well, if it’s possible for friends, why not for pets?’”“I understand why some people may be skeptical,” she added. “Given that pets are considered by many as best friends and family members, these values appear to be plausible… I also suspect that many people don’t actually realize how important their pets are for them.”Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet offers many health benefits. Research shows that spending time with a dog relieves stress, keeps you active, and helps you live longer. Stroking a cat has been proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Having a cat at home can reduce the risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children exposed to allergens. A simple act of petting a cat or a dog helps lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, promoting calmness and reducing stress. Dr Gschwandtner added, “This research answers the question whether overall pet companions are good for us with a resounding ‘Yes’.”“Pets care for us, and there is a significant monetary value associated with their companionship. This information can be used for health care practices and policy aiming to increase well-being and life satisfaction of humans involving pets.” This study also shed some light on the personality traits of pet owners, noting that cat owners appear to be more open, while dog owners tend to be more agreeable, extroverted, and less neurotic. The study’s authors also pointed out that pet owners in general appear to be more open, conscientious, and extroverted than people who don’t own a pet.While the mental and physical benefits of owning a dog are well-known, scientists are still debating the overall impact pets have on their owners’ well-being. According to Megan Mueller, an associate professor at Tufts University who studies the relationship between people and animals, things are more complicated than they seem. “A lot of us see our pets as contributing to our life satisfaction, but depending on how you measure that in the research, it comes out different ways.” But rather than comparing pet ownership and life satisfaction, the authors of this study decided to prove a causal link. If the results of this study are correct, and pets improve satisfaction as much as data suggests, Dr Gschwandtner hopes policymakers will make it easier for people to own cats or dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Does Clicker Training Actually Work?

Training your furry friend can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially if you're met with inconsistent results.Among the myriad of options, clicker training is a firm favorite among many pet owners but does it really work? Let’s take a look. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How to Tell If Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

Ear infections are common in dogs and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. Knowing the signs early can help prevent complications and ensure your pet gets the care it needs. Here’s everything you need to know about recognizing, treating, and preventing ear infections in dogs.Signs of an Ear Infection in DogsDogs with ear infections often display clear symptoms. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly:Frequent Scratching & Head Shaking: Excessive scratching at the ears or frequent head shaking can indicate irritation or pain.Redness & Swelling: Healthy dog ears should be light pink and free of inflammation. If the inner ear appears red, swollen, or warm to the touch, it may be infected.Foul Odor: A musty, yeasty, or foul smell from the ears is a strong indicator of an infection caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth.Unusual Discharge: Thick, dark discharge (yellow, brown, or greenish) often signals an infection. Be mindful, however, that some dogs naturally produce more earwax than others.Pain & Sensitivity: If your dog whimpers, pulls away, or reacts negatively when you touch its ears, it could be experiencing discomfort from an infection.Hearing & Balance Issues: In severe cases, an untreated ear infection can affect a dog’s hearing and balance. Signs include disorientation, head tilting, or difficulty standing.Common Causes of Dog Ear InfectionsSeveral factors can contribute to ear infections in dogs:Bacteria & Yeast Overgrowth: Moist, warm environments inside a dog’s ears create the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to thrive, especially in floppy-eared breeds.Allergies: Dogs with food or environmental allergies are more prone to chronic ear infections due to inflammation.Ear Mites: These tiny parasites are a common cause of infections, particularly in puppies.Moisture & Poor Hygiene: Water trapped in the ears after swimming or bathing can promote bacterial growth. Regular cleaning is essential.Foreign Objects & Debris: Grass seeds, dirt, and other debris can get stuck in a dog’s ear canal, leading to irritation and infection.Preventing Ear Infections in DogsPrevention is key to keeping your dog’s ears healthy. Here are some simple steps you can take:

Is Your Cat Bored? Why a Calm Cat Isn’t Always a Happy One

Every cat parent knows the joy in seeing their best friend curled up in a sunbeam, seemingly lost in a world of happy dreams. They wake up, stretch, and enjoy a bite to eat before searching out another cozy spot to settle in. It’s easy to look at this picture and think, “My cat has it made.” And in many ways, they do. Our beloved house cats today are safe from the dangers of the outdoors. They receive regular vet care, and their every need is met. But what if we’re missing a subtle cry for something more? While we’ve done an excellent job protecting our cats from physical harm, we may have inadvertently created a life that lacks the mental and instinctual stimulation they need to be happy and healthy. This can lead to behavioral issues, like scratching, chewing, overgrooming, or acting out aggressively. In this post, we’ll explore why so many modern house cats are struggling with boredom, how to identify the signs that your cat is feeling unfulfilled, and most importantly, how to enrich their world and help them lead their best possible life. The Growing Problem of Boredom in Cats If you stop and consider the journey the cat population has taken, it’s an impassive one full of change! For thousands of years, cats were valued for their predatory skills, living a life that balanced the benefits of co-existing with humans with a wild, instinct-driven way of life. They were hunters, explorers, and navigators. Over the last several decades, however, our desire to keep our cats safe and healthy has led to a shift in their lifestyle. We’ve brought them indoors, protecting them from the very real dangers of traffic, predators, and communicable diseases. This move indoors has undeniably led to longer, safer lives for our cats. But it has come with an unintended trade-off. We have domesticated a wild animal without fully replacing the crucial stimulation that interacting with their natural environment once provided. A cat’s brain was hardwired for certain behaviors – stalking, chasing, pouncing, climbing, and exploring. Many modern homes fail to give them a positive outlet for these desires. This is where boredom takes root. It's not about failing to give our cats a good life; we’re all working hard to do right by our best friends. It’s about learning that they may have more needs than we are currently aware of and taking steps to improve moving forward. Is Your Cat Bored? The Most Common Signs While I would love it if our three cats could just speak in everyday English and let me know what is bothering them, our communication is far less obvious. Instead, they often express their concerns or inner turmoil through body language and changes in behavior. Learning to spot these subtle signs is the first step toward helping them. If you’ve noticed any of the following common signs of boredom in cats, your best friend may be trying to tell you something: Destructive Behavior: Is your cat scratching your furniture, knocking items off shelves, eating your houseplants, or chewing on things they shouldn’t? While we often associate these behaviors with just being grumpy or “bad,” they are often a way to release pent-up energy and frustration.  Over-Grooming: A bored or stressed cat may engage in excessive licking and grooming, leading to bald spots or skin irritation. This is a common coping mechanism for boredom, stress, and anxiety. Changes in Eating Habits: A lack of mental enrichment can lead to overeating out of boredom, or conversely, a loss of appetite due to a general feeling of disinterest. These are behaviors often seen in people, too! Increased Vocalization: Is your cat suddenly far more talkative? Are they constantly meowing or howling, especially at night? This could be a cry for attention or a way to express frustration with their current lack of activity and entertainment.  Lethargy and Depression: While cats sleep a lot, an unfulfilled cat may suddenly spend even more time napping, hiding, or showing no interest in their usual toys and activities. Aggression: A bored cat might suddenly start acting differently toward people or other pets, even their favorite people. They may start swatting, hissing, or ambushing, acting in ways that can be described as aggressive. This is often a way to create some excitement and release pent-up energy tied to their desire to hunt. Litter Box Issues: Do you have an otherwise well-trained cat suddenly having accidents outside the litter box? This could be a sign of a medical issue, but it’s also a common sign of a cat feeling stressed and unhappy with their environment. If you’ve noticed one or more of these behaviors, it’s a good idea to reach out to your veterinarian. While signs of boredom, many of are also signs of underlying health problems that you will need to rule out. Once you have confirmed your cat is physically healthy, you can confidently turn your attention to enriching their day-to-day life. Preventing Boredom and Providing Daily Enrichment The good news is that combating boredom doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your life or your home. It also doesn’t require breaking the bank, although there are some products you may be interested in picking up for your cat. But the truth is that this isn’t about just buying a new toy; it’s about providing opportunities for them to tap into their core instincts, allowing them to hunt, climb, and explore. The Power of Play Play is not just a game. It’s a critical outlet for your cat’s predatory drive. During play, your cat is provided with an outlet for their need to stalk, chase, and pounce on “pretty.” If this opportunity isn’t available, they may become destructive or struggle with feelings of frustration. By incorporating regular playtime into your cat’s routine, you are directly fulfilling one of their fundamental needs, which, in turn, leads to a happier cat. Of course, there isn’t just one form of play, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it’s about discovering what your cat enjoys most. Interactive Play: You can use wand toys, laser pointers, and other interactive toys to mimic the movement of their prey. Engage your cat in short, frequent play sessions, making the “prey” of choice hide, dart, and pounce. Always end these sessions with a tangible reward, like a treat or their dinner, to reinforce the success of the hunt. Solo Play: While playing with your cat is an essential piece, you must also consider how to prevent boredom when you’re not home. Provide toys that encourage independent hunting. Puzzle feeders and treat balls force your cat to use their brains to get food. You can also hide treats around the house to encourage a daily “treasure hunt.” Rotate Toys: Don’t leave your cat’s toys out all at once. Instead, keep a few available and rotate them weekly to keep them feeling new and exciting.

Why Do Cats Love Cardboard Boxes?

If you've ever brought home a shiny new toy for your cat only to find them more fascinated with the box it came in, you're not alone. Cats and cardboard boxes go together like peanut butter and jelly, but why? What is it about these humble containers that make them irresistible to our feline companions? Let’s dig into the science and behavior behind this quirky obsession.

How to Safely Welcome a Skittish Rescue Cat into Your Home

From Tuxes to Dresses - Chewy’s Wedding Line for Pets Is Beyond Cute

An increasing number of couples are making their furry friends a part of the big day. These days, pets are more than just wedding guests; they are ring bearers, flower pets, and full-on wedding party members.Couples wanting their pet to walk down the aisle as their barking best men or pets of honor will be especially interested in Chewy’s new wedding collection for pets. From doggy-sized wedding dresses and tuxedos to bow ties and adorable bandanas, the wedding line has everything a dog or a cat needs to look their best on their owner’s big day. The new wedding line, designed by Chewy’s exclusive Frisco brand, has 16 adorable items. Along with full-body outfits like formal tuxedos and tulle wedding dresses for cats and dogs, the new collection also features leashes and harnesses. There’s also a variety of dog and cat bandanas available, including one that proudly says “My Humans Are Getting Married!”Couples planning for their pet to walk down the aisle as their ring bearer will love the white velvet wedding ring pouch with a pearl snap fastener. The pouch comes in one size, suitable for both cats and dogs, and can be attached to a collar, leash, or harness thanks to its hook-and-loop fastening. For pets not suited to carry wedding rings, there’s an array of other accessory options available. Grooms looking for a cute outfit for their four-legged best man should get the “Best Dog” bandana. Brides who have chosen their pets to serve as their maid of honor can get the “Pet of Honor” bandana. It’s perfectly clear to Chewy that some owners can’t imagine their big day without their pet present, whether their four-legged companion will attend as a guest, a wedding party member, a flower girl, or a security guard.According to a Chewy survey, one in five couples includes their pets in their wedding. So, the company wanted to give people options that would go with their wedding theme. To mark the launch of the new collection, Chewy is giving one fortunate couple a chance to win a VIP wedding package. If you’re getting married and plan to include your pet in the ceremony, you’re in luck!The VIP wedding package includes a personal pet stylist and a custom pet wardrobe from the Frisco Wedding Collection, a professional photoshoot including the pet, a custom portrait painting of the happy couple with their pet on the wedding day, a pet attendant to help on the big day, and last but not least, a $5,000 Chewy eGift Card for the pet’s favorite essentials. To join, happy couples need to fill out Chewy’s wedding contest submission form, explaining in detail how their pet is going to take part in the wedding celebration. A winner will be selected after the close of submissions on May 31.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Shelters Seeking Fosters - Could You Help Raise a Newborn Kitten?

T'is the season for shelters to be seeking out kitten fosters for the tiniest kittens. Do you have what it takes?

Stocky Swimming Bulldog Raises Questions on Social Media

Ideal solution for joint health or possible danger to flat-faced breed.

How Often Should You Clean a Rat Cage?

Rats are clean, intelligent pets - but they still need a tidy environment to stay healthy. A dirty cage can lead to unpleasant smells, bacterial buildup, and even health issues, especially respiratory problems. Knowing how often to clean a rat cage - and how to do it right - is a key part of responsible rat care.Daily: Spot CleaningYou don’t need to deep-clean your rats’ cage every day, but daily spot cleaning is essential. This includes:Removing soiled bedding or litterWiping up urine or droppingsCleaning food dishes if neededThese quick, daily tasks help control odors and reduce the buildup of waste, making weekly cleanings faster and more effective. Plus, a cleaner cage helps keep your rats comfortable and less prone to illness.

Grooming Tools for that Self-Sufficient Feline

(photo credit: lucky_pics / shutterstock.com)Do you brush your cat? Let me rephrase that. Does your cat let you brush her? Because if she’s longer-haired she should be brushed daily – regardless of how annoyed she becomes with you. And for shorter-haired felines, at least once a week to keep both cat and home, reasonably free from flying fur.But there’s more because beyond ensuring your fluffball looks her very best, brushing out all that loose fur stimulates the natural oils for a healthy, shiny coat and reduces the likelihood of her developing those dread hairballs. Yes, due to how frequently a cat licks and preens her fluffy coat throughout the day, hairballs are not uncommon. At best, they pass through her system and straight into the litter box. More typically, they build in her digestive tract until they’re too large to move through her. At this point, she regurgitates them back up as a slimy mass of hair you’re almost certain to step in. And then there are the extreme cases where the mass grows to become a solid blockage that requires veterinary intervention. So, let’s not let it get to that point.If you’re trying to keep your feline well-groomed but she won’t tolerate brushing for more than a few seconds, what can you do? Don’t give up for starters. Choose to move through the process in increments. Start with gentle brushing in the areas she approves of, then gradually increase the coverage while praising and offering treats along the way. At the same time, build the duration up from just a few seconds to a few minutes.Now, kitty may well have plans for primping that don’t include you. When that’s the case, a little hands-off assistance may be just the ticket and thankfully the pet industry has developed some cat-friendly tools your feline will actually enjoy using.

A Grooming Brush with Steam? Count Me In!

(photo credit: Julie Zavalishina / shutterstock.com)My trio of gal pals love a good romp at the leash-free park. And while a robust brushing will usually dislodge the bits of twigs and dried leaves they bring home, those muddy paws and stinky coats often require a trip upstairs and the dreaded bath. But let’s be honest, the sound of running water and the pop of the shampoo bottle cap is such a buzz-kill after a fun day out at the park.Now, I’ve always believed that dogs don’t need regular baths. In fact, it’s best not to lather them up too often because it depletes their natural oils and can result in dry skin and dull coats. While typically that’s the case, there are certain breeds that do require more in-depth cleaning (translation: baths). That’s because they have oilier skin that, if not kept clean, will start to smell funky over time and could develop into a flaky, itchy skin condition called seborrhea. Breeds such as Yorkshire terriers, Basset Hounds, German Shepherds, Cocker spaniels, and even Golden Retrievers will all benefit from regular baths.But for those in-between times where brushing isn’t enough yet a bath isn’t really necessary, there’s something called a steam brush that works wonders on both dogs and cats. Just like it sounds, the brush component works to remove loose hair and debris – just like a regular brush - but when you activate the steamer feature, you get a gentle stream of mist. It’s ideal for taking grooming sessions to the next level when it comes to eliminating loose hair and dust from your pet’s coat. And for longer-haired cats, it helps reduce their need to over-groom and brings an end to hairballs.For me, I love that you can combine your pet’s love of grooming (what pet doesn’t?) with a deeper clean. And because these units are anti-static, they naturally eliminate loose fluff from flying around the house.

Pet Passports Are a Real Thing!

If you plan to travel outside of North America with your best buddy, this super-convenient travel document eliminates any roadbumps.