Grooming Tips for Longhaired Cats

New Study Reveals Having A Big Brain Doesn’t Mean Your Dog is Smart

We often associate larger brains with greater intelligence, but a recent study challenges this assumption in our canine companions. The study, published November 13 th in the journal Biology Letters, aimed to explore whether there was any tangible connection between the physical size of a dog’s brain and their mental capabilities. The results suggest we may want to reconsider this common stereotype, at least where dogs are concerned. The idea isn’t entirely out of left field. Previous studies have found that in many mammals, a direct correlation has been found between bigger brains and higher survival odds due to their capacity to effectively process information and make better decisions. Considering this, the findings of the new study surprised many. “The key difference here is that dogs are not in a natural environment,” explained Ana Balcarcel, lead author of the new study. “They are a function of artificial selection… a very directed selection, evolution under human hands.” Researchers compared 14 behavioral traits from the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire and the relative brain-to-skull size of 1682 dog skulls covering 172 breeds housed at the Natural History Museum Bern in Switzerland. They found several patterns, but these patterns went against our previous understanding. Dog breeds known to be most trainable and intelligent, like working dogs bred to perform complex skills, were found to have the smallest relative brain size. This included dog breeds most likely to excel in human-assistance roles, like guide dogs, police dogs, and those involved with search-and-rescue. Meanwhile, toy dog breeds bred mainly to serve as companions, like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, were found to have larger relative brain sizes. Statistically, these breeds are also more likely to exhibit higher levels of fear, aggression, and separation anxiety. The most interesting thing about this for many researchers is that we, as a society, didn’t just choose breeds that were best suited for these working roles (which happened to have smaller brain ratios). Instead, over generations, they have been bred to be trainable, independent, and better at problem-solving. “We can say that we have really altered the brains – not just the body sizes and the proportions of different dogs, but it looks like we have also changed their brains in a significant way,” stated Balcarcel. Interestingly enough, the difference in brain size may also reflect our impact on the dogs through domestication. The study revealed that the brain of the average domesticated dog is approximately 20% smaller than that of a wild gray wolf relative to body size. However, domesticated dogs must understand and operate with higher social skills than wild dogs. Consider the unique skills your dog demonstrates daily, regardless of their breed. Domesticated dogs are expected to learn how to interpret our gaze, body language, and many verbal commands just to live as a family dog. Moving forward, the research team plans to dig further into the comparison between various dog breeds physically and their function by analyzing other physical differences, like the shape of specific parts of the brain. We’re excited to follow along and learn more about how this information could influence dog training and behavior as we know it! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

What Are the Benefits of Aromatherapy for Dogs?

Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils derived from plants, is a growing trend - not just for humans but also for pets, especially dogs. Thanks to their exceptional sense of smell, dogs are particularly responsive to scents, making them good candidates for this practice. When used correctly, aromatherapy can offer several benefits for a dog’s emotional and physical well-being. However, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and the right knowledge.Understanding Aromatherapy and Its Benefits for DogsAromatherapy works by releasing scent molecules from essential oils. Once inhaled, these molecules travel to the brain, where they can help promote relaxation and support overall psychological well-being. Here are some potential benefits for your furry friend:1. Stress and Anxiety ReliefDogs are highly sensitive creatures and can become anxious due to loud noises, travel, separation, or changes in routine. Essential oils like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties and can help soothe a nervous or hyperactive dog.

4 Hairless Cat Breeds

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

Why Are My Dogs Paws Super-Sensitive?

When injury or allergy isn't the culprit... what gives?

What Are the 10 Best Movies About Dogs To Stream for the Holidays?

Stream these 10 dog-related movies and warm your heart at Christmas.

When Should I Seek the Help of a Cat Behaviorist?

Address Problems and Improve Your Cat’s Life with a Cat BehavioristIf you’re concerned about your cat’s behavior, please don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your cat’s health and well-being. After all, many of these behaviors are rooted in your cat’s mental and emotional health due to stress, anxiety, fear, and other factors.Most cat behavior problems can be addressed and resolved with patience, consistency, and a little professional guidance. With the right support, your cat can overcome whatever challenges they face and thrive! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Rescue Dog Goes Viral After Demanding Pets from Owner

There are few things as heartwarming online as a heartwarming pet video, and the internet has once again delivered. This time, it comes in the form of a viral video featuring a rescue dog named Cactus and his irresistible way of demanding cuddles from his dog dad. The short clip was posted by user @cactustherescue and has quickly earned nearly 80,000 likes on Instagram and over 81,000 likes on TikTok. It proves just how much a simple act of affection can resonate deeply with an audience of pet lovers. Since capturing the hearts of thousands of pet lovers, it caught the attention of online publications and news platforms, including Yahoo, AOL, DogTime, and more. With a look of determination on his face and the charm of his adorable puppy eyes, he approaches his dad, pawing gently at him as if asking for something. Eventually, after a little persuasion, he falls back into the cuddle position with his head against his dad’s, melting hearts around the world.

Why Won't My Dog Stop Scratching His Ears?

That relentless scratching. Every pet parent knows the sound – the constant thump of a dog’s leg against their ear (and the floor), often followed by a headshake. It’s a sound that instantly triggers worry, and rightfully so! A dog who is constantly scratching their ears is clearly uncomfortable, but this scratching could also be a sign of something more concerning.Ear health is an important focus for dog parents; it affects everything from their balance and hearing to their overall happiness and well-being.From pesky ear mites and irritating yeast infections to allergies and foreign objects, there are many possible reasons for itchy ears. While several different issues can cause ear scratching, they all require your attention. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step to effective treatment and long-term relief. Let's look at the potential causes…The Anatomy of a Dog’s EarBefore we discuss the many causes of ear irritation, let’s take a moment to understand why dogs are so prone to ear problems due to their basic anatomy. Like our own, a dog’s ear is divided into three sections: the outer, middle, and inner ear. The outer ear is the part of the ear that we can see. It serves as a funnel, directing sound into the ear canal. This canal, however, is where the biggest difference between a dog’s ear and a human’s ear can be found. Unlike the relatively straight ear canal in a human’s ear, a dog’s is L-shaped, taking a sharp turn. The unique shape helps to protect your dog’s ear drum. Unfortunately, it also creates the perfect trap for debris, moisture, and anything else that may find its way in. Adding to the risk, the ear canal is lined with extremely delicate skin, which can quickly become inflamed or irritated from exposure to these trapped substances. The combination of the L-shaped canal and sensitive lining makes dogs particularly susceptible to suffering from ear issues. Because of this heightened risk, regular ear cleaning is necessary to maintain their ear health and prevent problems before they start. After all, who wants to see their pup experiencing pain or discomfort? Not me! Common Reasons for the Itch The biggest challenge in identifying the cause of your dog’s ear discomfort is the long list of potential culprits. From microscopic parasites to fungal infections and allergic reactions, understanding the possible causes is the first step toward giving your pup some much-needed relief. Let’s explore some of the most frequent offenders behind itchy ears in dogs. Ear Mites These tiny parasites are a frequent source of ear irritation in dogs. They are so common because they are highly contagious, spreading easily between pets. In addition to causing intense itching, their presence is often accompanied by dark, crusty debris that can be seen in the ear canal. If your dog is dealing with ear mites, they may scratch at their ears obsessively and/or shake their heads frequently. You may also notice dark discharge or inflammation in the ear. Veterinarians diagnose ear mites by taking a sample of the dog’s ear debris and examining it under a microscope. If this is the diagnosis, they will typically recommend medication to kill the mites and a thorough cleaning of the dog’s ears. Because they are so contagious, all pets in the household will need to be treated if one is diagnosed with ear mites. Yeast InfectionsYeast is a fungus that can overgrow in your dog’s ear. It thrives in warm, moist environments. Several factors could predispose a dog to yeast infections, like allergies or weakened immune systems. Symptoms of a yeast infection often include itching, redness, discharge (which may have a distinct odor), and head shaking. Veterinarians diagnose yeast infections through a physical exam, and sometimes, they take a sample from the ear for cytology and examine the cells under a microscope. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications to take care of the current infection and steps to address any underlying conditions that may have contributed to the overgrowth to prevent it from reoccurring. Bacterial Infections Bacterial infections in the ear are often secondary to other issues, such as allergies or mite infestations. Bacteria exploit the compromised ear environment, becoming a full-blown (and very uncomfortable) infection. Symptoms of a bacterial infection resemble those of a yeast infection, sometimes with the addition of pus or a foul odor. Diagnosis typically requires a vet exam, and the vet may also perform an ear culture to identify the specific bacteria involved. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria and a thorough cleaning of the ear canal. AllergiesAllergies, whether food-related or environmental, can manifest in many different ways. Ear irritation and problems are common symptoms. When dogs have allergies, their immune system overacts to certain substances, leading to inflammation and itching, which can be particularly noticeable in the ears. Chronic ear infections, redness, and inflammation are all common signs of allergies affecting the ears. Diagnosing allergies can involve food-elimination diets or environmental allergy tests. Treatment focuses on managing the allergies themselves, which might include dietary changes, medication, or immunotherapy. Foreign ObjectsForeign objects like foxtails, grass seeds, and other debris can become trapped or lodged in your dog’s ear canal, causing sudden pain and discomfort. The most common signs your dog has a foreign object stuck in their ear include rapid onset of scratching, headshaking, and pain. If you suspect your dog has a foreign object in their ear, you should seek veterinary attention promptly for safe and effective removal. Attempting to remove any of these items yourself could push the object further in or damage the delicate tissues of the ear canal, leading to further health complications. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Less Common but Important Causes While the previously listed issues are the most frequent causes of excessive ear scratching in dogs, it’s important to be aware that less common but potentially even more dangerous problems can also be at play. Ear canal tumors or polyps, while not common, can cause significant pain and discomfort. They require veterinary intervention as soon as you spot them (or suspect they may be there) for diagnosis and treatment. These growths can obstruct the ear canal, leading to inflammation and secondary infections. Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, can sometimes affect your dog’s ears. They can cause inflammation and other symptoms. Additionally, hypothyroidism may contribute to your dog’s itchy ears. This is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, which can manifest in skin and ear problems. If your dog’s ear irritation results from either of these conditions, you must address the underlying medical concerns to reduce the risk of future ear problems. Consult your vet if your dog’s ear problems persist or don’t respond to typical treatments (more on those to come). A proper diagnosis is essential to address these underlying issues effectively.

New Screening Tool Can Predict Imminent Pet Mortality

Developed to help guide health care in senior pets, it raises the question of whether we really want to know.

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

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

Are We There Yet? Keeping Your Pup Happy in the Back Seat is Easy!

Microchip Company Closes: Do You Need to Re-Register Your Pet?

Microchips help reunite lost pets with their families, but they only work if they are active and registered to the right household. So, when a microchip company suddenly closed down and their database disappeared, word spread fast to let pet parents know that they need to take action if their pet now has an inactive microchip.

Research Shows Cats Learn Words Faster Than Toddlers

Connecting the dots is childs play for our feline friends.

How to Build Your Cat's Confidence

Do you have a cat who runs to hide under the bed at the slightest noise, avoids eye contact, or hides out in fear anytime you have guests over? While some shyness is normal, a lack of confidence can hurt your cat’s overall quality of life. Imagine going through life afraid of everything and anything.Luckily, with a bit of understanding and effort, you can help your cat build confidence and blossom into a self-assured, happy companion.Building your cat’s confidence starts with creating a safe, enriching home environment that encourages exploration and positive association. It also requires plenty of opportunities for play (both with and without you) and mental stimulation. In addition to the right environment, your cat’s confidence can be boosted by approaching any interactions with people or other pets with patience and respect. Avoid forcing them into something that makes them scared or uncomfortable, and use positive reinforcement to encourage positive behaviors.Whether you’re dealing with a newly adopted, nervous rescue or a long-term feline family member that you believe could benefit from a confidence boost, the following tips will help you get started!Is My Cat Confident? What to Look ForBefore I start sharing tips for building your cat's confidence, let’s start with a foundation for feline confidence and what it looks like. After all, if you have a cat displaying a high level in their daily routine, you may approach the action steps here differently than a cat who communicates with their body language that their confidence is lacking.Signs of a Confident CatIf your cat is confident and self-assured, you may notice them displaying the following behaviors:Curiosity: Confident cats are comfortable enough in their surroundings to feel safe exploring. They may venture into new rooms and explore new places in your home, climb up on shelves or furniture to check out their space from a new angle, or readily explore bags and other objects you bring into your home.Playful and Energetic: In addition to being curious, a confident cat feels safe and secure enough to drop their protective barriers and tap into that inner playful kitten. They may spend hours batting around their favorite toys, show signs of the zoomies (yes, cats get them, too), or try to entice you into a play session.Approaches People Confidently: A confident kitty will willingly approach people, including new people, with curiosity. This could include carefully sniffing and checking them out, rubbing against their legs, or even climbing into their lap. Of course, remember that some cats are naturally more affectionate than others.Using Scratch Posts Freely: Scratching is an important natural behavior for cats. In the wild, it’s used to mark their territory, maintain their claws, and stretch out their paws (and the rest of their bodies). A confident cat will use their scratch post or cat tree without hesitation, knowing it is their space.Positive Vocalization: Do you have a chatty or talkative cat? If so, they may be expressing their confidence. Positive vocalizations like purring, chirping, and gentle meowing are like casual conversations – your cat is confident in their home, and your relationship and just wants to connect with you.Signs a Cat’s Confidence is LackingOn the flip side, your cat may be trying to tell you they are unsure or their confidence is lacking. Here are a few signs your cat may benefit from a confidence boost:Hiding: One of the biggest signs that a cat feels insecure is their need to hide, especially when confronted with someone new. If your cat spends all their time in dark, secluded corners of your home, take note.Aggression (Fear-Based): When you or someone you know reaches over to pet your cat, how do they respond? While it’s not uncommon for a confident cat to move away slightly while sniffing to want to know who is trying to touch them, a cat who lacks confidence may feel like they have to defend themselves. This can manifest in aggressive behaviors like swatting, hissing, growling, or even biting.Over-Grooming: While grooming is a positive and necessary behavior, a cat who is feeling stressed or anxious may take this to an extreme. Excessive grooming or over-grooming is often an attempt to calm themselves when uncomfortable in a situation or environment. You may notice the behavior itself or the side effects, like hair loss, bald patches, or irritated/inflamed skin.Loss of Appetite: When cats are stressed or afraid, they may lose all interest in food. You may notice their food bowls sitting untouched or that they are losing weight. A cat lacking confidence will often turn down treats as well.Bathroom Accidents: A stressed or anxious cat often displays unwanted behaviors, one of the most common being doing their “business” outside the litterbox. You may notice this as an ongoing problem or only when something triggers their anxiety, like when you have guests over.If you recognize any of these signs in your cat, it isn’t a poor reflection on you as a cat parent. There are many reasons a cat may struggle to feel confident in our busy, fast-paced world. However, it is a sign that your cat needs a little extra support to live their best life.

What's the Scoop on Dog Food Toppers?

Florida Cruise Line Announces Pet Friendly Cruises in 2025

Have you always dreamt of going on a cruise with your best friend by your side? It’s a struggle faced by dog parents everywhere – torn between their favorite form of travel and making memories with their best friend.But we have good news… A recent announcement from a Florida cruise line will make this struggle a thing of the past! Starting November 2025, dog parents can set sail on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander with their pup. This dog-friendly cruise opportunity has been made possible by a partnership between Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails. Not only does this cruise welcome canine travelers, but they have also gone above and beyond to create a truly unique dog-friendly experience. “We are proud to pioneer an experience where every guest feels welcomed, cared for, and celebrated,” announced Dawn von Graff, owner of Expedia Cruises of West Orlando. “This cruise is more than a vacation – it’s a celebration of the unbreakable bond between people and their dogs.” The pet-friendly cabins will have a pet relief station on the balcony for easy access. Plus, each guest will be assigned a pet butler to keep the cabin and ship clean. Outside of your cabin, additional features have been incorporated into the ship with our canine companions in mind, including dog-friendly grooming stations and a dog grooming salon. Dog-focused events like training sessions, puppy massages, guest speakers, costume contests, and dog shows will occupy your day during the cruise. Top vendors will join the excitement, offering gifts and samples for pet parents. “I consider my Yorkie, Louis, to be part of my family, and for years, I missed out on the ‘family reunion’ cruise because I will not travel without him,” explained Steve Matzke from Cruise Tails. “I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers.” Are you a dog lover whose pup isn’t comfortable in a public setting, like a cruise? This cruise also provides a unique opportunity. Enjoy your cruise surrounded by up to 250 adorable pups (the maximum capacity of canine cruisers). When ready for a little dog-free break, head to the designated dog-free spaces like the pool decks and the ship’s casino. This inaugural dog-friendly cruise will depart from Tampa, Florida, in November 2025, although the specific dates and cost are still TBA. How do you get to sail on this history-making cruise? Dog parents interested in taking part can apply to participate. All travelers chosen to participate in this first “Proof of Concept” cruise will be considered Ambassadors, so Cruise Tails is carefully selecting the lucky sailors. A few key details about pet eligibility: All dogs must have a valid veterinary health certificate issued within 30 days of their sailing date. Dogs must be up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Only dogs 6 months old and older are eligible. One dog is permitted per cabin. All dogs must be microchipped or have an approved identification tag, including the dog’s name, cabin number, and contact information. Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior toward people or other animals are prohibited. For more information or to join the waitlist for consideration, visit the Cruise Tails website. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How To Care for a Hairless Cat

Are you thinking about bringing a hairless cat like the Sphynx, Peterbald, or Donskoy into your family? That’s great! But before you adopt one from a shelter/rescue or purchase one from a reputable breeder, take some time to research the needs of these unique cats. That way, you’ll know what to expect when it comes to properly caring for them.Here’s some helpful information and tips on caring for a hairless cat. You might be surprised by what they need. 

Dog Achieves Internet Fame with Her "Puppy Parkour"

The internet has opened the door for a new type of celebrity, making it easier than ever for individuals (humans and pets) to achieve fame and recognition on a global scale. Thousands of people around the world log onto social media each day to enjoy funny, adorable, and unique pet videos.  One such internet sensation that has recently captured the attention of thousands is Nola, a Treeing Walker Coonhound mix from New York. Vanessa and Ryan Marquette first met Nola when they brought her into their home as a foster. She was adorable and well-behaved, quickly connecting with the couple and making herself at home. It didn’t take long for the couple to fall in love. It was only three months after first bringing her home that they made it official and adopted her. “We could tell right away she felt so at home,” Ryan stated, “and she quickly became part of the family.” Not long after welcoming Nola into the family, a pet sitter mentioned that she was exhibiting an interesting (and potentially problematic) skill. They warned the couple that the pup had managed to jump over the tall fence that surrounded their property. Given the height of the fence and the fact that they had never seen Nola making any impressive jumps in the house, it was hard for the Marquettes to believe that she could leap over the fence in one bound. It seemed like an unbelievable feat. So, they pushed the idea aside and didn’t give it another thought. “I didn’t believe that she was jumping the fence. That’s a four-foot jump. That’s significant. She’s not the biggest dog in the world. So, I remember going out and walking the entire fence perimeter, looking for holes because I was like, there’s no way. She’s slipping out underneath somewhere doing something, and that’s how she’s getting out. Then I found nothing,” Ryan explained. However, after moving to a new home in Syracuse, New York, with a larger yard and trees around the property, they noticed something interesting. It wasn’t that Nola was “jumping” over the fence. Instead, she was using her own take of puppy parkour to scale the fence with the help of a nearby tree.