How Can I Make My Home Safe for a Blind Dog?

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Barking When They’re Home Alone?

Dogs are very affectionate beings, and can form incredible bonds with their owners – but this also means that they would love to be by their side at all times. Sometimes, however, this is just not possible. Their owners have to  work, go to the store, or finish chores out of home and they can’t always take their pets with them. And when you leave your pooch all by their lonesome, they often think it’s the end of the world – you’ve abandoned them for good, even when you’re away for like 25 minutes. This can result in anxiety, restlessness, and a lot of barking. Some dogs – in fact – just won’t stop barking or howling until you come back. How can you bring an end to this behavior, and prevent all the excess barking? And how can you let your pet know that leaving for a little bit is no big deal? Let’s find out. Battles with Barks: Why Dogs Bark When Alone and How to Stop ItExcessive barking when a dog is home alone can be a common issue for a lot of owners, and addressing it requires a combination of training, environmental management, and sometimes, the help of professionals. Above all, it requires patience. However, there are a number of factors that come into play when such situations occur. To make your dog calmer, quieter, and ready to accept your absence, you should take a closer look at the daily routine the two of you share.First, consider if you're providing enough physical and mental stimulation. Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being. Keep in mind that a tired dog is generally a content and quieter dog. So, before you leave, make sure that they have ample exercise, fun, and outside time. If they “emptied their batteries”, they are more likely to remain calm and just snooze while you are out. Of course, to make sure you always fulfill these exercise requirements, you will have to establish a consistent daily routine. Just like humans, doggos too depend on the routine they can follow. This routine helps them feel secure and understand when to expect certain events like meals and walks. If they get used to a daily chain of events, they will expect you to leave and be okay with it.  Interactive toys that provide mental stimulation or dispense treats are also a great thing to utilize when battling anxiety or boredom-induced barking. They can help your dog stay occupied during your absence. As they get involved in playing with the toy, dogs will tire out, keep themselves busy, and not make such a big deal about your absence. With a toy, alone time can actually be enjoyable for a dog.

Pets Get Allergies Too - Here's How Owners Can Help

Our four-legged companions can get allergies, too. Allergies are a common problem in cats and dogs and are usually caused by pollen, food, mold, dust, and chemicals. But why do cats and dogs get allergies?Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance. Cats and dogs can get the same allergies as people do, and also be allergic to pests, like fleas. There is no recent data on how many pets have allergies, but research shows the problem is escalating. “I probably see allergic dogs and cats every single day, probably multiple times a day,” said Dr. Karen Woodard, medical director at Thrive Pet Healthcare-Elmhurst in Illinois. According to Woodard, 90% of pets have environmental allergies, and the rest suffer only from food allergies. Certain dog breeds, like terriers, boxers, and bulldogs, are more prone to allergies. When it comes to cats, breeds like Persians, Himalayas, and Siamese are more at risk of developing allergies.Our four-legged companions can be allergic to other animals as well. Cats can be allergic to dogs, dogs can be allergic to cats, and both can be allergic to other species. “It’s possible for them to be allergic to us, just like we are to them,” said Dr. Anthea Elliott Schick of Scottsdale, Arizona. Unlike people, allergic cats and dogs don’t sneeze or cough. More often, they lick and scratch themselves and develop pesky ear infections.  Most dogs develop classic signs of allergies, including scratching, rashes, and ear infections. When it comes to cats, too much grooming is a tell-tale sign of allergies. “Cats shouldn’t be pulling their hair out when they groom. So if you start seeing bald patches on your cat, even though the skin underneath it looks normal, that could be a sign of allergies,” added Woodard. In pets, even food allergies usually show up on the skin first. Although some cats and dogs can develop vomiting and diarrhea, too. It’s uncommon for pets to develop life-threatening reactions and go into anaphylactic shock. In most cases, allergies just make pets miserable. No one wants to see their beloved pet suffer, and luckily, there are ways you can help your furry companion deal with allergies.The first step is diagnosis. This often involves allergy testing or an elimination diet, which consists of feeding limited-ingredient foods, in case your vet suspects food allergies. There are various medications, like anti-inflammatory drugs and oral and injectable medications that block chemical signals associated with itchiness in dogs, if testing shows your pet suffers from environmental allergies. Food allergies are usually treated with special diets, like hydrolyzed food, in which proteins are chemically broken down into smaller pieces that won’t trigger a reaction. In addition to medication and a change of diet, there are things you can do at home to help ease your pet’s allergy symptoms. Washing your pet’s bedding frequently, wiping their fur with a wet washcloth, and giving them baths can help remove environmental allergens and soothe their itchy skin. “Outdoors, they are almost acting like Swiffers, getting allergens on their skin, and it goes through their skin and actually becomes a problem,” said Schick. “We say bathe your dog, at a minimum, once a week if they are allergic.”Use natural, anti-itch dog shampoos that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, and vitamin E. These ingredients will relieve itching and nourish your pup’s skin and coat.Allergies require lifelong management. Administer treatment regularly to stay on top of your pet’s allergies and to keep the issues under control in the long run.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

3 Fun DIY Cat Toys You Can Easily Make at Home

There are plenty of great store-bought toys out there, but some of the most stimulating and satisfying playthings for your feline friend can actually be crafted right at home, with minimal effort and common household items. Here are three fun, easy, and safe DIY cat toys you can make in a matter of minutes.

How to Safely Introduce Young Kids to Old Dogs

(photo credit: Skydive Erick / shutterstock.com)Whether you share space with an older dog or have chosen to adopt a senior pet (congrats, on that!), introducing kids to your pooch for the first time isn’t as easy as opening the front door and declaring “he loves everybody”. Because when it comes to new experiences, not all dogs react in a positive manner. Particularly as they age and have less tolerance for noise, activity, and uninvited cuddles.So, how do you facilitate a positive meet-and-greet – whether it’s to be a long-term relationship or just a short visit with the kiddos?Well, it takes effort on both parts – not just your dog’s – and the rewards of patiently winning over a cautious pooch are exponentially positive for kids.How to Prep An Older Dog to Meet a Younger ChildThe introduction of new faces to older dogs can be a challenge – especially when high-energy activity is involved. Ideally, it should be done on neutral ground versus his home turf where he may be inclined to feel protective. And scent can be a good way to help familiarize your pet with a visiting child. If time permits, offering him a soft toy or piece of the child’s clothing in advance of the arrival will help when the meet-up happens.

Are Grain-Free Diets Good for Dogs?

Grain-free diets have become a huge trend in the pet world over the past few years. You’ve probably seen the ads: glossy bags of dog food promising “ancestral,” “natural,” or “clean” nutrition - all without a single grain in sight.The message seems clear: Grains are bad, and grain-free is better. But is it really that simple?Let’s take a closer look at what grain-free dog food actually is, why it's so popular, and what the science (and vets) have to say about whether it’s the right choice for your pup.What Does "Grain-Free" Actually Mean?Grain-free dog foods leave out common grains like wheat, corn, rice, oats, and barley. Instead, they rely on other carbohydrate sources like:PeasLentilsChickpeasPotatoesThese ingredients provide fiber and energy, and many brands market them as a more “natural” alternative - the idea being that dogs, descended from wolves, didn’t evolve eating grains.It sounds convincing. But modern dogs aren’t wolves, and their digestive systems have adapted over thousands of years of domestication. So the truth is more nuanced than that.Do Grains Cause Allergies in Dogs?One of the main reasons people choose grain-free is the belief that grains cause allergies or sensitivities. But here’s the catch: true grain allergies in dogs are extremely rare.Most food allergies in dogs are caused by animal proteins - like chicken, beef, or dairy - not grains. If a dog’s symptoms improve on a grain-free food, it might be because the new food removed another problem ingredient, not the grains themselves.That said, some dogs do genuinely feel better on a grain-free diet - but it’s not always for the reason people think.Marketing and MisconceptionsGrain-free foods are often marketed as premium, higher-quality options. They sound healthier, and many owners feel good about feeding them. But grains like brown rice, oats, and barley can actually be very nutritious for dogs.In fact, these whole grains provide:Easily digestible carbohydratesFiber for gut healthB vitamins and mineralsSupport for healthy skin and a shiny coatSo the idea that “grain-free equals better” isn’t always grounded in fact - it’s often rooted in branding.

What To Expect as a First-Time Dog Parent

Are you planning on bringing a dog into your family for the first time? That’s awesome! But before you do, it’s wise to learn about the things you should expect as a dog parent. These pets need a lot of care and attention, so you’ll want to know what you’re getting into.

New Treatment Offers Hope for Dogs with Herniated Disks

If your dog suddenly yelps for no reason, starts limping, or, worst of all, begins dragging their back legs, your mind goes straight to panic mode. You Google, you call the vet, and the word surgery comes up faster than you can say “walkies.” It’s terrifying, and not just for your dog. But there’s something new stirring hope at Texas A&M University: a promising clinical trial using a special enzyme injection to treat herniated disks in dogs. No surgery. No long hospital stays. Just a targeted injection and the potential for a new chance at life.“This could change how we treat spinal injuries in dogs,” says Dr. Nick Jeffery, the neurologist leading the study at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “We’re using a naturally derived enzyme to dissolve the herniated material that’s pressing on the spinal cord. It’s quick, minimally invasive, and so far, the results have exceeded expectations.”Herniated disks, technically known as intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, are heartbreakingly common, especially in small breeds with long backs: think dachshunds, beagles, French bulldogs, and corgis. One wrong jump off the couch, and suddenly your happy-go-lucky pup can’t walk, can’t stand, and might be in serious pain.Traditionally, surgery has been the only real option. But it’s costly, carries risks, and recovery can be rough. Not every dog is a good surgical candidate, and not every family can pay a multi-thousand-dollar vet bill, even if they desperately want to.That’s where this trial comes in, and it already has promising results.Oscar, a five-year-old dachshund, is living proof. One morning, he just couldn’t walk. “He tried to get up and collapsed,” recalls his owner, Ashley. “He looked confused and scared, and I was a wreck.” Her vet referred her to Texas A&M just in time. Oscar received the enzyme injection less than 48 hours after his symptoms began, and within days, he was wagging again.According to the study, which involved 54 small-breed dogs, the success rate has been remarkable. Nearly all the dogs who still had feeling in their back legs recovered mobility quickly. Even a few with more severe symptoms showed significant improvement. And so far, no dog has experienced any major side effects.Of course, there are caveats. Timing is everything; dogs need to receive the injection within about three days of symptoms showing up. The trial is currently limited to small dogs, and it’s only happening at Texas A&M’s teaching hospital for now. But if the results continue to be this strong, there’s real potential for wider availability in the near future.“It’s not a magic fix, but it’s the closest thing we’ve seen,” Dr. Jeffery says. “We want owners to know that if their dog shows signs of back pain or weakness, time matters. Getting to a vet right away can make the difference between a simple injection and a much more complicated road.”The treatment, called chondroitinase injection therapy, works by dissolving the gel-like center of the slipped disk that’s putting pressure on the spinal cord. Think of it like deflating a balloon that’s gotten stuck in the wrong place. Once the pressure is off, the spinal cord can start to recover, and so can the dog.And while it’s still early days, the results are exciting. Less invasive care, lower costs, shorter recovery time, and a whole lot less trauma for everyone involved. For dog lovers, that’s huge.For now, the team at Texas A&M continues its work, hoping to expand access and gather more data. But the message for pet parents is clear: if something’s off, don’t wait. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Learn How to Recognize the Early Signs of Heart Disease in Your Dog

Have you ever listened to our dog cough and wondered if it’s just a little tickle or a sign of something far more serious? As loving dog parents, we want the best for our pups. This means we’re constantly on the lookout for trouble, which can sometimes make us a little overly cautious. But when it comes to understanding the early signs of heart disease in dogs, that diligence could save a life.Early detection allows you and your veterinarian to address the problem sooner, potentially slowing the progression of the disease and giving your best friend many more happy, healthy years by your side.I understand that the thought of heart disease can be daunting, but knowledge is power! This post will guide you through the information you need to be your dog’s best advocate, including the most common types of heart conditions, early warning signs to watch out for, how heart disease is diagnosed and treated, and most importantly, the proactive steps you can take to support your dog’s heart health and prevent a problem before it starts. Common Types of Canine Heart Disease Just like humans, dogs can develop different heart conditions and heart-related illnesses, each with unique challenges and care needs. This ranges from congenital defects that were present at birth to acquired diseases that develop over time (although possibly preventable), negatively impacting the heart’s ability to function correctly. Here are some of the most common types of heart disease your dog may experience: Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)One of the most common heart-related illnesses that dogs may experience is Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), a degenerative condition that affects the heart valve that separates the left atrium and left ventricle (aka the mitral valve). This valve’s job is to prevent blood from flowing backward, keeping blood flow in the body moving as it should. As the valve deteriorates, it may start to leak, allowing blood to flow back into the atrium. Some small breed dogs are at a higher risk of developing MVD, especially as they get older. This includes Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)Another significant heart condition in dogs that has been gaining attention lately is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). This occurs when the heart muscle weakens and becomes enlarged, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. It has been in the news a lot in recent years as researchers evaluate the potential links between DCM and your dog’s diet. While it was once believed that grain-free diets increased the risk, it was later found that there was no clear link between the two. In fact, many grain-free diets were found to have no link to heart problems at all. New research now focuses less on the absence of grains and more on the ingredients used to replace them. This condition is more commonly seen in large and giant breed dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Irish Wolfhounds. Congenital Heart DefectsPresent from birth, congenital heart defects can range from minor to life-threatening. The term is used to describe abnormalities in the heart’s structure, such as holes in the heart or abnormal blood vessel connections. Early detection is crucial for these conditions as some can be corrected with surgery or other interventions, while others require ongoing management. Heartworm Disease Unlike the other conditions on the list, heartworm disease isn’t caused by issues with the heart itself. This parasitic infection occurs when worms live in the heart and lungs, dramatically impacting their ability to function effectively. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. While it would be nearly impossible to keep your dog mosquito-free throughout their entire life, there are preventative medications that will protect them against heartworms. This is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being, as the worms can cause severe and life-threatening damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, resulting in heart failure and death. Early Warnings Signs: What to Look or As I mentioned, recognizing the early signs of heart disease is key for early diagnosis and timely intervention. The sooner your dog receives the necessary veterinary care, the better their prognosis in most cases. Unfortunately, many of these warning signs are subtle and easily overlooked.Changes in Breathing One of the most common early warning signs is a change in your dog’s breathing patterns. This could include an increased respiratory rate (tachypnea) or difficulty breathing (dyspnea). To measure your dog’s respiratory rate, count the breaths they take in one minute while resting. A normal resting respiratory rate for a healthy adult dog is between 10 and 30 breaths per minute. If your dog’s rate is consistently faster than this, especially at rest, it’s a sign that something is medically wrong, and you need to contact your veterinarian. Difficulty breathing is always a red flag. This can manifest as panting excessively, especially when resting, flared nostrils, or abdominal breathing (where the abdomen moves significantly with every breath). Even if your dog’s difficulty breathing isn’t caused by heart-related issues, it is a medical emergency. A persistent cough, especially one that sounds wet or hacking, can also be a sign of trouble. A cardiac cough is often worse at night or after any physical activity, as fluid builds up in the lungs, making the issue worse. Of course, not all coughs are connected to heart issues. But if your dog’s cough is persistent and doesn’t go away, you should make an appointment to get to the root of the problem. Becoming Easily Tired or Lethargic Have you recently noticed your dog is becoming tired much easier after physical activity? Are they showing less enthusiasm for activities or play that they once enjoyed? As the heart struggles to keep up with the demands of your dog’s body, failing to pump oxygenated blood efficiently, it can decrease their stamina. They may be reluctant to play or even go for walks. In the most severe cases, a dog may faint or collapse after minimal activity.  

Virus-Hunting Cat Helps Scientists, Again

Most cats bring their humans dead lizards, half-eaten mice, or, if they’re generous, a slightly crumpled leaf. But Pepper isn’t like most cats. This adventurous feline has helped scientists discover not one, but two previously unknown viruses, and she’s done it without even trying.Pepper lives a seemingly normal cat life in Gainesville, Florida. She naps in sunny windows, patrols her backyard like a tiny panther, and occasionally brings “gifts” to her humans. But her owner just so happens to be Dr. John Lednicky, a virologist at the University of Florida. So when Pepper dragged in a lifeless shrew one day, instead of recoiling in horror, Lednicky did what any virus researcher would do, he swabbed it.What he found was a new strain of orthoreovirus, a virus typically found in mammals and birds, and one that has occasionally been linked to gastrointestinal or neurological illness in humans. The new virus, officially dubbed Gainesville shrew mammalian orthoreovirus type 3 strain UF-1 (try saying that three times fast), was living in that unlucky Everglades short-tailed shrew. And thanks to Pepper’s keen hunting skills, scientists now know it exists.“We wouldn’t have found it if not for Pepper,” said Dr. Lednicky. “It’s funny, because this is the second time she’s done this. I don’t think she knows she’s contributing to science, but she’s certainly making her mark.”Last year, Pepper brought home a cotton rat, which led to the discovery of another rare virus called a jeilongvirus, the first of its kind found in North America. At this point, her batting average is better than some research grants.The latest find was part of an ongoing project led by Lednicky and researcher Emily DeRuyter, who studies viruses in wildlife. They’re interested in how viruses move through animal populations and what that means for human health. And while no one is saying Pepper is the next big epidemiologist, she has inspired a new wave of curiosity in “backyard biosurveillance.”“We’ve started taking a second look at what comes through the door, whether it’s roadkill or something Pepper drags in,” said DeRuyter. “I never thought I’d be thanking a cat for contributing to my research, but here we are.”Orthoreoviruses are common in many species and typically don’t cause illness in healthy people. Still, discovering new strains helps researchers understand how viruses evolve, spread, and occasionally jump between species.“There’s still so much we don’t know about the viruses living quietly in wild animals,” said DeRuyter. “Every new one we identify gives us another piece of the puzzle.”Back at home, Pepper seems unfazed by her growing reputation. According to Lednicky, she continues to bring in specimens, though not all of them are useful.“Sometimes it’s a frog, sometimes it’s a plastic fork from the neighbors’ trash. You never know what you’re going to get,” he said with a laugh.On social media, Pepper has become something of a folk hero. A tweet featuring her photo next to the words “Virus Hunter” has gone viral, and fans have suggested everything from honorary degrees to a dedicated lab named in her honor.“Someone even asked if she could be part of a research team,” said Lednicky. “I told them only if the pay includes salmon treats.”So, what’s next for Pepper? More prowling, probably. Maybe another rodent-shaped contribution to science. For now, she’s enjoying her status as the most unintentionally helpful cat in Florida.As Lednicky put it: “She’s not a trained lab assistant, but she’s definitely earned her place in the team photo.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Ever Wonder Why Your Cat Sleeps That Way? Science Has Some Answers!

If you’re like me, you’re probably obsessed with every little thing your cat does – how they clean themselves, how they eat, and, of course, their impressive napping skills. After all, they are practically pros! They can snooze anywhere, anytime, for hours on end. But what does how they sleep say about your cat? We all know that cats are masters of finding the perfect spot to nap. They love high perches, such as the top of their favorite cat tree, the back of your favorite recliner, or even squeezed onto a bookshelf. It’s instinctual. They want to see everything around them, keeping an eye out for anything that might be a threat, just as their ancestors would when watching out for predators. Researchers from Ruhr University Bochum in Germany recently published a study in Current Biology that focused on better understanding how our cats sleep, specifically when sleeping on the ground. After watching hundreds of cat videos on YouTube and analyzing the way cats sleep, researchers found that two-thirds of cats prefer to sleep on their left side. So, why the left-side lean? It all comes down to their brains. When a cat sleeps on their left side, their vision on that side stays open. This “visual information” goes straight to the right side of their brain, which is the part of the brain responsible for tasks such as knowing their location in space, identifying potential danger, and preparing to make a quick escape.  When you stop to think about it, it makes sense. When cats are in a deep sleep, they are very vulnerable. By keeping this left visual field clear, they are keeping a little bit of their danger radar active. It means if something startles them awake, whether it’s a loud noise, a shadow, or even us trying to sneak up to take a picture of their adorable faces, this direct line to the right side of the brain might give them an extra second to react. It’s a great example of how evolution continues to impact our cats, even as they settle into their comfortable domesticated lives. Knowing all this, how can we help create the absolute best nap spots for them? Here are a few tips to help you craft the perfect cozy sleep spot that still allows them to tap into those natural instincts for safety and awareness:Offer Elevated Options: Don’t overlook their natural desire for a good vantage point. Consider a cat tree with multiple levels, window perches, or even a soft bed placed up on a sturdy bookshelf. The higher, the better, as it gives them a sense of security and a better view of their surroundings. Provide Places to Hide: Enclosed beds, cat caves, or even a cozy box can offer a sense of security and privacy. These spots allow your cat to enjoy a deeper sleep where they feel completely safe from any threats. Placement Matters: Pay attention to which side your cat prefers to sleep on. While the study suggests a left-side bias, every cat is an individual. Ensure the spot you are setting up allows them to lie on their preferred side while still being open to observe the room. Comfort and Warmth: Consider plush beds, blankets, or even a heated cat bed, especially during cooler months. A comfortable surface encourages longer, more restful sleep. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How Do I Stop My Puppy from Biting?

Puppies are adorable, silly, and full of energy - but sometimes, their little needle teeth can be a lot to handle. If your new furry friend keeps using you as a chew toy, you’re definitely not alone.Why Do Puppies Bite?There are several reasons puppies bite:Exploration and play: Puppies use their mouths to interact with their environment, just as they did with their littermates.Teething discomfort: Between 3 and 6 months, puppies lose their baby teeth and grow adult ones. Chewing helps soothe sore gums.Excitement or frustration: Puppies are still learning impulse control. Sometimes, biting is just how they express big feelings.In a litter, puppies learn bite inhibition by playing with each other - when one bites too hard, the other yelps and stops playing. That’s where your training starts.Step 1: Teach That Biting Ends the FunIf your puppy bites you during play, let out a sharp, high-pitched “ow!” - mimicking the way littermates would react - and immediately stop the interaction. Turn away or walk out of the room for a few seconds.This teaches your puppy that biting ends the fun, and over time, they’ll begin to soften their bite - or stop entirely. And don't forget that consistency is key: every family member should react the same way so your puppy receives a clear message.Step 2: Redirect with Chew ToysAlways have appropriate chew toys on hand. If your puppy goes for your fingers or clothes, calmly offer a toy instead. This helps them learn what’s okay to chew.Try a variety of textures - plush toys for soft chewers, rubber toys for teething relief.Rotate toys to keep them interesting.Reinforce good choices by praising your pup when they chew the right thing.

Your Relationship With Your Dog is Suprisingly Important to Him

Research shows that a strong, loving relationship with our pets is more important to them than what type of person you are.

What Are the Best Beginner Birds for Pet Owners?

Birds can make wonderful companions, bringing color, intelligence, and lively energy into a home. But if you're considering your first feathered friend, choosing the right species is important. Some birds are naturally easier to care for, while others require more time, experience, and patience.For beginners, it's essential to consider a bird’s temperament, noise level, social needs, and care requirements. To help you get started, here are five bird species that make great pets for first-time owners. Budgerigar (Budgie)

Can I Keep Two Hamsters Together?

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

How To Prevent Dog Boredom?

Just like humans, dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Without enough activity, they can become bored, leading to destructive behaviors such as chewing, excessive barking, apathy, and even anxiety. Preventing boredom is essential for their well-being, and with a few simple strategies, you can keep your dog engaged and content.#1 Provide Sufficient ExerciseOne of the best ways to prevent boredom in dogs is to ensure they get enough exercise. Different breeds have varying exercise needs, but all dogs require daily walks or playtime. Taking your dog for a walk twice a day, playing fetch in the yard, or letting them run freely at a dog park can help burn off excess energy and keep them engaged. If you have a spacious yard, consider setting up an obstacle course to give your pet a fun and challenging way to stay active.#2 Engage Them with ToysToys are not just for fun — they also provide essential mental stimulation. Puzzle toys that require dogs to work for treats, such as treat-dispensing balls or interactive feeders, are excellent for keeping their minds active. Classic Kong toys filled with peanut butter or kibble can keep a dog entertained for hours, promoting problem-solving skills and preventing boredom.

Does Your Cat Need a Hygiene Trim? Quite Possibly!

Feeling Down After Getting a Puppy? Here’s What Puppy Blues Are

Bringing home a puppy is supposed to be all tail wags, snuggles, and sunshine, right? But if you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or even a little regretful after adding a furry new member to the family, you're not a bad pet parent; you might just be dealing with the puppy blues.Yep, it’s a thing. And it happens to more people than you’d think!The term “ puppy blues” describes the emotional rollercoaster some people experience after getting a puppy. It can hit days or even weeks after your new dog arrives, and it often includes feelings of stress, guilt, frustration, and exhaustion. Some pet parents even find themselves crying in the laundry room while their pup is busy tearing apart a slipper.Common symptoms of puppy blues include physical exhaustion from constant feeding, potty breaks, and training, emotional burnout, feeling guilty for not doing enough, worrying you're not raising your pup the right way, doubts about keeping the puppy, and wondering if they’d be better off with someone else. The good news is that these feelings are normal! And most importantly, they’re temporary.Yes, puppies are adorable, but they’re also a handful. They come with accidents on the rug, sleepless nights, teething, barking, and a need for constant supervision. That pressure, especially if you’re trying to do everything perfectly, can lead to burnout fast.Add to that the reality that many pet parents are doing this without much help, and it's no wonder some new owners feel totally overwhelmed.One of the best ways to ease the puppy blues is to stop doing it alone.Talk to friends or family members who can step in for short puppy-sitting breaks. It’s amazing what a two-hour nap or walk alone can do for your mental state. Got a neighbor who loves dogs? Don’t be afraid to ask for help.And make sure you’ve got a vet you trust, preferably one with behavior training experience. They’re your go-to for everything from weird health questions to training tips that don’t involve yelling or leash-jerking.Online puppy communities can also be a lifesaver. Sharing stories with other puppy parents going through the same struggles can make you feel a lot less alone.The thing many first-time dog owners don’t know is that when you’re raising a puppy, the right tools can make a huge difference. Some go-to items for making life easier include long-lasting chew toys, snuffle mats, food puzzles, and playpens. If possible, take a few days off work when your puppy comes home, and if not, consider getting help with walks or crate time so you’re not trying to be everywhere at once.Another thing you need to know is that no one raises a perfect puppy. Some days, your pup will rock their training. On other days, they’ll eat your shoelaces and forget what “sit” means. Puppies aren’t just little dogs, they’re babies with developing brains. They’re not ignoring you to be difficult, they’re still learning how the world works.Interestingly, while there’s less research on the subject, many cat owners say they’ve experienced something similar, sometimes called the “kitten blues.” Like puppies, kittens can be a lot of work, and the same advice applies.Raising a puppy can be chaotic, messy, and overwhelming. But it also brings joy, laughter, and the start of a bond that can last a lifetime.Hang in there. You’re doing an amazing job!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hide and Seek for Dogs - Let's Make it Fun!

Keeping your dog mentally stimulated can be a challenge. Especially, I’ve discovered, during heat waves when outdoor activity is curtailed, rainy weather when it’s down to a quick trip around the block, and of course, icy winters when once again, outings tend to be utilitarian versus a day of fun and adventure (unless your pooch is of the Husky variety).What to do? Rather than rely on puzzle games or chew toys that will probably keep him occupied for a little while but are pretty much a solo activity, consider a rousing game of hide and seek (H&S). Yes, just like when we were kids, this seek-and-discover type of fun ticks so many of his sensory boxes. Smell, sight, sound, hunting, capturing… and, of course, the excitement of discovery.Now, if you’ve never done anything more than tuck behind a door, then spring out in front of him (that’s okay, we’ve all done it), it’s time to ratchet up your H&S skills. And have we got some tips for you.Let’s talk rules. It has to be fun (not scary), he needs to have to really work at it, win meaningful rewards, and you have to challenge him by amping up the “seek” portion over time.