Genetic Research Aims to Improve Health of Working Farm Dogs

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. 

Do Our Pets Experience Phantom Pain?

Studies are helping us understand this neurological phenomenan and what we can do to help our pets post-surgery.

Camping with Cats Really Is That Easy!

(photo credit: Dee Browning/ shutterstock.com)From camping to glamping to a simple road trip to explore the great outdoors, ensuring your feline is comfy, cozy, and totally chill with the experience is a big part of enjoying the adventure. That said, we’ve all heard the expression “like herding cats” when describing a situation that’s almost impossible to get back under control. And that has to be the biggest fear when planning any type of trip that will include the family cat. Because we know her determination to go where she pleases, when she pleases… and to return at her leisure. You’re nodding your head yes..!But it’s particularly concerning when you’re not on the familiar turf of your own backyard. Her wandering off can be not only inconvenient but downright dangerous. So, what to do? Of course, we still want to find a way to have our feline fur kid travel with us and enjoy the mental stimulation that comes with new experiences. That’s why we’re lucky the pet industry has covered off our need for pussy-cat portability, on a number of levels.

How to Trim Your Cat’s Nails Safely

Cats are meticulous groomers, usually handling their hygiene like little pros. But there’s one grooming task they can’t quite manage on their own - trimming their nails. While it might feel intimidating at first, regular nail trims are an essential part of feline care. They help prevent painful overgrowth, protect your furniture (and your skin), and support your cat’s overall well-being. With the right approach, trimming your cat’s nails can become a calm, even routine, part of your care routine.Why You Shouldn't Skip Nail Trimming Your cat’s claws serve many purposes - from climbing and scratching to marking territory. But for indoor cats, those claws don’t wear down naturally as they might for outdoor explorers. Left unchecked, nails can grow too long and even curl into the paw pad, which is painful and can lead to infections.Overgrown nails can also get caught in fabric or carpet, causing distress or injury. And of course, sharp claws can mean shredded furniture and surprise scratches during playtime. Regular trims help prevent all of this.How Often Should You Trim?Most indoor cats benefit from a nail trim every 2 to 4 weeks. A good sign it's time? You hear clicking sounds when they walk on hard floors or you see their claws snagging on blankets or upholstery.What You’ll NeedBefore you start, gather your tools:

New Research Reveals the Most (and Least) Trusted Dog Foods

As loving dog parents, we want to ensure our pups are getting the best of the best – including the best toys, the most comfortable beds, and, of course, the best nutrition. But with so many dog food brands on the market, deciding which ones truly deliver on their promises can be overwhelming.A recent study has shed light on this very issue. By analyzing a massive amount of market feedback and online customer reviews, it highlights which brands are earning – and losing – the trust of dog parents. Reviews.ai, a consumer data analysis firm, recently published their Dry Dog Food Report 2025 – Best Seller Performance. It analyzed over 135,000 online customer reviews from 2024, covering 26 pet food brands and 89 specific dry dog food products. The report painted a clear picture of what brands are meeting the expectations of dog lovers across the country and which brands are falling short. The report sorted the pet food brands into four main performance groups: LeadersBrands with high customer satisfaction and strong loyalty. These brands consistently received positive reviews, revealing that dog parents were satisfied not only by the products but also by the brands responsible for them. Examples include:  Purina, Hill’s, Iams, Nutro, Royal Canin, and Rachel Ray Nutrish.NicheThese are smaller companies that have a strong customer sentiment. Brands in this group cater to specific needs or preferences and, in doing so, have built a strong, loyal customer base. Examples include: Merrick, Pedigree, Health Extension, and Natural Balance.At RiskDespite having high visibility, brands in this group were found to have declining customer trust. These brands face challenges related to customer satisfaction and loyalty, which may suggest potential issues with their products or brand practices. Examples include; Blue Buffalo, Taste of the Wild, Orijen, and Open Farm.LaggardsBrands in this group were found to have low engagement and poor consumer sentiment. They are experiencing significant difficulties in building and maintaining customer trust and satisfaction. Examples include: Signature, Diamond Naturals, Cesar, Canidae, and Wagg.So, what do these rankings really mean? What decides which group each pet food brand is sorted into? Researchers combed through a wealth of market research and customer review data, focusing on the feedback provided on various online retailer websites. The rankings were based solely on the feedback offered by dog parents. In addition to sorting the brands into four categories, the report also revealed that nearly all reviews could be sorted into six primary areas of concern: Dog Preference and Satisfaction: Many pet parents shared frustration with dogs rejecting food due to taste, smell, or texture. Dog Health and Wellness: Pet Parents showed a higher level of loyalty to brands that had strong veterinarian endorsements and clear nutritional health benefits.Brand and Trust: Pet parents are increasingly skeptical and desire brand transparency. Frequent formula or ingredient changes and the use of vague marketing terms can lead to a loss of trust. Product and Experience: Some of the most common complaints seen in reviews included packaging issues, formula changes without notice, and inconsistent food quality. Price and Purchase: Looking behind the “premium” label, pet parents are carefully weighing price vs quality to find the best option for their pets while keeping to their budgets. Service and Fulfillment: When making a purchase, pet parents want to receive their products in a timely fashion. Their opinions can be influenced by delays resulting from slow delivery times and stock shortages. They may also drop due to poor customer support. This research highlights the importance of doing your own research and due diligence when choosing the best food for your best friend. Most importantly, the best dog food is the one that meets your pup’s individual needs (and preferences). By staying informed and paying attention to changes in the pet food industry as well as to your dog’s response to their food, you can make the best decision for their health and happiness. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Remember Hurricane Milton's Abandoned Dog, Trooper? Here's the Latest

Dog left tied to fence during Florida evacuation, living his best life.

Tips for Managing Kidney Disease in Cats

Have you noticed that your once playful cat is recently becoming a little less energetic than usual? Are they spending more time at the water bowl? If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for signs of trouble in your cat’s behavior. After all, these small changes can sometimes be warning signs of a larger underlying issue. More specifically, these are signs often associated with kidney disease.Despite being surprisingly common in cats, especially those in their senior years, kidney disease isn’t a minor issue. This serious health challenge can significantly impact their quality of life. This post will offer practical advice and support to help you understand and manage kidney disease in your best friend, empowering you to ensure they can continue to live their best life after diagnosis.Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease Early detection of kidney disease in cats is crucial, allowing you to address the problem before it becomes more advanced and harder to manage. The difficulty in catching this disease early is that the initial signs can be subtle and often mimic normal aging. This can make it incredibly challenging to catch in senior cats, who are the highest risk factor. One of the first signs is an increase in thirst and urination, medically known as polydipsia and polyuria. You may notice your cat spending more time at the water bowl, the bowl needing to be filled regularly, or larger, more frequent clumps in the litter box. This is an excellent example of why, as a loving cat parent, you need to pay careful attention to your cat’s eating, drinking, and bathroom habits. They can often act as an early warning sign of trouble. Some other early warning signs include: Loss of appetiteWeight loss LethargyDecreased grooming habits DepressionRestlessness, especially at night As the disease progresses, more severe signs may emerge. Common symptoms of advanced kidney disease include vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. This is a dangerous cycle for your cat to become trapped in, as dehydration itself can make kidney problems worse. Other signs of advanced disease include oral ulcers and a distinct, unpleasant odor in their breath, often referred to as uremic breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, even seemingly minor ones, take them seriously. Contact your veterinarian and explain your concerns. Even if it’s found that your cat is just experiencing the impact of aging, it will still provide you with important information to help improve their quality of life. Diagnostic Tests and Procedures When your veterinarian suspects your cat may be suffering from kidney disease, they can use several diagnostic tools to confirm that diagnosis and assess the extent of any kidney damage. Blood tests are generally the first step and the cornerstone of this process. Specifically, they will test the creatinine levels and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in the blood as these waste products accumulate in the bloodstream when the kidneys aren’t functioning properly. Your vet will also check phosphorus levels, as elevated phosphorus can contribute to further kidney damage. Finally, they may test the proportion of red blood cells in the total blood volume, also called the packed cell volume (PCV), as it can help assess for anemia, a common complication of kidney disease. Next, they will conduct urine tests to better understand your cat’s kidney function. They will test the concentration as diluted urine is common in cats with kidney disease. Protein levels in your cat’s urine can also indicate trouble, as healthy kidneys would work to prevent protein from leaking into the urine. Blood pressure monitoring is a crucial part of the diagnostic process, as high blood pressure is both a cause and a consequence of kidney disease. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend X-rays or an ultrasound. X-rays can be used to identify whether there has been a change in kidney size or if any kidney stones are present. Ultrasounds make it easier to assess the internal structures of your cat’s kidneys and ensure there are no abnormalities or reasons to be concerned. It’s important to remember that these tests aren’t meant to overwhelm you but rather to give your vet a clear picture of your cat’s kidney health. Completing all the necessary testing will help stage the disease and create a personalized treatment plan. Supporting Your Cat’s Kidney Health with their DietOne of the most important things you can do as part of your cat’s care team (after all, you and your veterinarian are a team) is to focus on dietary management. Unlike standard cat foods, renal diets are specially formulated to address their unique nutritional needs. They are typically lower in phosphorus, restricted in protein, and supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids, all of which play an essential role in slowing the progression of kidney damage and maintaining overall health. As already mentioned, high phosphorus levels can worsen kidney damage and contribute to other health complications. When damaged, the kidneys struggle to eliminate any excess phosphorus in the body, one of their key roles, which can cause it to build up. Renal diets are formulated to minimize phosphorus intake, but may not be enough. Your veterinarian may also recommend medications called phosphate binders that help to reduce the amount of phosphorus your cat absorbs from their food. Protein management may seem counterproductive, considering the fact senior cats generally struggle to maintain muscle mass as they get older. However, excessive protein can actually overload your cat’s kidneys, pushing them to work harder and ultimately causing further damage. Instead, the ideal diet will balance providing the high-quality protein your cat needs while reducing the burden on the kidneys. Most renal foods will be supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. However, your vet may recommend additional supplementation, especially if they feel the levels offered by the food won’t be sufficient to see the benefits. They may also suggest a supplement for B vitamins. One challenge many cat parents face is that cats can be picky eaters! This has been an ongoing struggle in our house with my sweet senior girl, Pippen, who has big opinions on the brand and flavor of her meals. While a renal diet is clearly the best option in most cases, your cat may have other plans. What do you do then? Here are some solutions that can help encourage your cat to eat more: Warm their food slightly can help release enticing smellsExperiment with different textures and flavorsOffer smaller but more frequent mealsChange the dish you use or where they are being fedElevate their food dish in case they are reluctant due to aches and pains Try hand-feeding If your cat is still reluctant to eat after trying all the options listed, reach out to your veterinarian. They may be able to offer advice on additional strategies or prescribe an appetite stimulant.

Benefits of Raised or Elevated Cat Bowls

Have you seen the many elevated cat bowls, or the stands designed to elevate your pet’s bowl or dish a few inches off the floor? If so, you might’ve wondered why these newer designs are available—after all, cats have been eating and drinking from food and water bowls placed flat on the floor without any problems, right? There are actually many benefits that can be derived from using raised bowls for pets, and it’s worth considering switching to these or adding them to your rotation of bowls if you haven’t already. Plus, with so many styles to choose from, you can find products that will be just right for your cat.

How to Find a Lost Dog

It can happen in just a second, even to the most aware and responsible pet parents… the backyard gate is open, the front door was left open a crack, or perhaps a sudden noise startled them on a walk. But before you know it, they’re gone! That immediate, gut-wrenching panic and dread is a feeling no pet parent ever wants to experience. But the truth is, no matter how vigilant you are, it can happen to anyone. In those first terrifying moments, it’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to acknowledge that fear and distress. However, while those emotions are valid, quick action is crucial. The moments immediately following the realization that your dog is missing are critical. This guide will help you navigate that critical time, equipping you with the knowledge and concrete steps you need to take to maximize your chances of a successful and heartwarming reunion with your pup. Why Every Second Counts When your dog goes missing, the clock starts ticking immediately. I’m not saying that to add to your anxiety, but to underscore an important truth: the chances of finding a lost dog drop significantly with each passing hour and day. While stories of incredible reunions after weeks or months do exist (like the heartwarming stories of pets being reunited with their people after the Eaton Fire), they sadly are the exception. The reality is that the longer your dog is gone, the further they may travel and the more dangers they may encounter, making a reunion more challenging. Understanding the typical instinctual behavior of a lost dog can help you better understand the urgency:Fear and disorientation: A lost dog is often scared and disoriented. Even the most well-trained pup may not respond to their name or familiar commands while experiencing this state of panic. Their world has suddenly become unfamiliar and threatening, which can be overwhelming. Flight response: Many dogs will activate a “flight” response due to intense fear. If they feel threatened (which could result even just by you calling their name too loudly or approaching them too quickly), they may run further away, putting more distance between themselves and safety.Hiding: A frightened dog will often look for safe shelter. This could mean hiding under cars, in dense bushes, under porches, in culverts, in open sheds and garages, or any secluded spot that offers a sense of security from the unknown around them.  Beyond their fear-driven actions, which could quickly make the situation far more dangerous, lost dogs face many dangers loose in an unfamiliar environment. This includes: Traffic accidents: Roads pose an immediate and severe threat. Exposure to the elements: Depending on the weather, dehydration, extreme heat, or freezing temperatures can quickly become life-threatening. Injury from other animals or environmental hazards: They might encounter aggressive wildlife, predators, other domestic animals, or injure themselves on fences, sharp objects, or uneven terrain. Ingesting harmful substances: Lost dogs, driven by hunger or thirst, may consume toxic plants, garbage, or chemicals like antifreeze. Theft: While less common than other dangers on this list, the possibility of someone taking your dog, especially if they are a desirable breed, does exist. This is why experts in locating and trapping lost dogs emphasize the importance of the first 24 to 48 hours after your dog goes missing. Acting quickly and strategically during this window significantly increases the likelihood of a successful and timely reunion. Immediate Actions: What to Do in the First HourThe moment you realize your dog is missing, your mind can start racing, and panic can set in. While it’s easier said than done, the most important thing to do in this moment is to take a deep breath and focus. Panicking can cloud your judgment, whereas clear thinking will allow you to take the steps necessary to increase the chances of bringing your dog home safely. Designate a Command CenterIf more than one person is involved with your search, “Command Center” will be important. Ideally, one person should remain at home or the last known location for this purpose. This person can answer phone calls, prepare digital alerts, and be ready in case your dog returns on their own. The other person, or persons, should immediately head out to begin the physical search, checking in with the command center regularly. The Physical Search: Using the Grid MethodYour initial physical search of the area should use the popular “Grid Method,” starting at your dog’s last known location and carefully expanding that area outwards. Call their name loudly and clearly, using familiar commands they associate with positive experiences like “treat” or “come” to entice them to come out of hiding. Bring familiar scents with you. A favorite toy, a piece of their bedding, or even your unwashed clothing can offer a comforting and recognizable smell that might help draw them out or provide a scent trail for them to follow home. As you search, think like a dog: where would they go if they were scared or curious? Check dense bushes, under parked cars, open fields, or areas near water sources. If there are familiar places within your search area (like a dog park or a friend’s house you visit frequently), pay careful attention to those spots. Don’t forget to meticulously check any potential hiding spots you come across, such as under decks, inside sheds, within thick shrubbery, or even culverts. After all, your pup may be too nervous or fearful to come out even if they hear you calling. Alert Your Neighbors and Local Community Begin contacting your neighbors and the local community as part of your search. Knock on doors immediately in your direct vicinity, explaining the situation, providing a clear description or picture of your dog, and asking them to keep an eye out. Request that they check any garages or sheds where your dog may be hiding. Ask each person you speak with to call your Command Center if they see anything. The more eyes and ears you have on the ground quickly, the better.Prepare for Digital OutreachWhile the physical search is underway, the person at the “Command Center” should be preparing the information necessary for digital outreach. Gather a few recent, clear photos of your dog. Also, compile all relevant information, including: your dog’s breed(s), size, color, distinguishing marks, collar/harness information, and their microchip number. Having this ready will make posting online or contacting official channels quicker and easier.

Daring Rescue of Dog from Freezing Water Highlights Major Winter Risk

We all know the love and joy our pups bring into our lives. But with that joy comes the responsibility of keeping them safe, especially during the harsh winter months. A recent viral video out of Vermont is a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in many of the most beautiful winter wonderland landscapes.Imagine this: a man, Chris McRitchie, and his family are simply going through a drive-thru when his son looks over and spots a dog struggling in the freezing waters of the Winooski River. Being animal lovers themselves, they knew they had to act fast.“It was like one of those moments everyone probably has in their life like you’re going to make a decision,” MacRitchie described. “I felt I was obligated to at least try to fetch this dog out of the river, as I have two dogs myself, and I would hope someone would do that for them if they were in that spot.”Without hesitation, Chris jumped into the frigid water, braving the bitterly cold conditions, to pull the distressed dog to safety. The whole rescue was caught on video, which has since gone viral, and for good reason!“The only real stress I had about it wasn’t getting in the cold water. It was the depth. I did not know if it was 20 feet deep or it was 2 feet deep,” explained MacRitchie. “When I broke through, and I got my feet, and it was like waist-high, I was actually relieved by that. In my mind, during the moment, I thought, ‘OK, this isn’t that bad. Yeah, it’s cold, but I feel this is a very doable situation.’”

The Pros and Cons of Catios for Feline Companions

“Catio” is a cute term for an enclosed patio for cats—in other words, it’s a “cat patio.” It can stand on its own as an outdoor cat enclosure, or it can be connected to a window or door that leads to your backyard space. Either way, it lets your kitty spend time outside while remaining safely confined.

Are Communal Water Bowls Safe for Dogs? Not Really!

Mars Is Conducting a Global Study on the Human-Pet Bond

Mars, Incorporated recently released news about their Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS) research program, which will focus on studying the effects that pet dogs and cats have on people’s mental health. Keep reading to learn more about this study and what the researchers are hoping to find out.

Study Shares Quick Trick to Getting Your Dog's Attention

Researchers found the sweet spot that captures your dogs attention and gains the results you're looking for.

How to Introduce a New Pup Without Making Your Resident Dog Jealous

Bringing a new dog into your home is a big decision—one that affects not just you, but also your current four-legged family member. While dogs are naturally social animals, they’re also sensitive to changes in their environment, routine, and your attention. Without the right approach, your first dog might experience jealousy, stress, or even behavioral issues.Here’s how to keep tails wagging on both sides.

Dog Banned from Crufts after Losing Tail to ‘Happy Tail Syndrome’

The dream of Crufts glory has been shattered for Welsh dog mom Sophie Scott-Thomas and her Dalmatian/Vizsla cross Gwen – but they aren’t giving up that easily! Scott-Thomas started obedience training with Gwen when she was just a young puppy, and after years of hard work and dedication, the two were selected for the Crufts 2025 Welsh team. Unfortunately, their celebrations were quickly short when, just hours later, they were informed that Gwen wouldn’t qualify for competing due to her tail. Gwen, an overly happy and joyful pup, ran into trouble when her excessive happiness led to medical trouble. The pup suffered from a condition known as “happy tail syndrome,” where a dog’s tail becomes severely injured due to excessive tail wagging. After suffering wounds and dislocations in her tail, her vet recommended having the tail medically amputated to prevent future injuries. Unfortunately, that medical decision would cost Gwen her chance to compete at Crufts. Docking a dog’s tail is illegal in the UK for most dog breeds, leading to a DEFRA (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) placing a blanket ban on dogs with docked tails being shown at a fee-paying event. This means that the removal of Gwen’s tail disqualified her. Now, Scott-Thomas has made it her mission to draw attention to how unfair this blanket ban is for dogs who had their tail docked for reasons other than aesthetics. "It feels like we're being penalized for doing something in her best interests," Scott-Thomas shared. "I now feel as though all the time, effort, and energy we’ve invested has been wasted. This rule is unfair, outdated, and deeply discouraging for dog owners and handlers like me who have worked tirelessly to pursue their passion for competitive obedience."When questioned by the media about the rule, DEFRA officials doubled down, stating that it is in place to discourage unnecessary tail docking for cosmetic reasons. They clarified that the intention with the band isn’t to restrict those who make medical-based decisions but rather to limit the popularity of tail docking for aesthetic or cosmetic reasons. The Kennel Club, organizers of Crufts, emphasized their obligation to comply with the Animal Welfare Act of 2006. "Sadly, there is no provision within the legislation for a dog which has had its tail docked on medical grounds to be shown at an event where the public pay admission fees, unless it is a certified working dog as defined within the regulations," a spokesperson explained.But Scott-Thomas wasn’t ready to give up on her dream. She has now launched a petition to amend the legislation to recognize and make an exception for dogs with medically docked tails, allowing them to compete in shows. The petition has quickly gained support, making it clear that she isn’t the only dog lover feeling this way! While the petition may appear to focus on a very specific situation on the surface, it opens the doors for a much bigger conversation by calling for a more nuanced approach to animal welfare regulations. If you want to show your support for Gwen and believe that dogs with medically necessary tail amputations should be allowed to compete in events like Crufts, you can sign the petition HERE. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Health Agency Warns of Werewolf Syndrome Caused by Dog Treats

China-based Barkoo dog chews seem to be root cause in aggressive behavior in multiple pets throughout Netherlands.

What Are the Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners?

Bringing home your very first dog is a big moment - exciting, joyful, and maybe just a little overwhelming. With so many breeds to choose from (not to mention all those adorable mixed-breed pups out there), how do you know which one is the right fit?If you're new to dog ownership, it helps to start with breeds known for being friendly, trainable, and relatively easy to care for. While every dog is unique, certain breeds tend to be more beginner-friendly thanks to their temperament and adaptability.Here are some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners - plus a few things to think about before making your choice.1. Labrador Retriever