Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

The Subscription Box Every Pup Deserves— Get Yours Today

Rachel M.
by Rachel M.
Published:  March 19th, 2026

Discover the Subscription Box That Turns Every Month Into a Surprise Party for Your Pup.


Has your dog destroyed a favorite toy…again? Or already polished off a jar of treats?


Keeping pups happy, entertained, and mentally stimulated is a challenge for dog owners everywhere—and finding toys and treats that actually last isn’t always easy.


That’s where BARK comes in. This subscription service makes dog joy simple and stress-free.


Whether your furry friend loves to chew, fetch, or explore, BARK delivers a monthly surprise straight to your door, tailored to your dog’s size and play style.


Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

The Brand Co-Owned by Dogs

BARK isn’t your average dog subscription box. Founded with the mission to “make all dogs happy,” BARK has built a quirky, playful world where pups have a real say.


From a “Chairdog” to a subscriber-led “Dog Committee,” dogs are literally co-owners of the brand—voting on exclusive toys and perks.


The company offers two subscription options:


  1. BarkBox: A monthly delivery of 2 new toys and 2 bags of healthy treats. Perfect for most dogs, it’s customizable by size and play style and comes with free shipping.
  2. Super Chewer: Tailored for aggressive chewers who need durable toys that last. Each box includes 2 tough enrichment toys plus 2 bags of treats for longer-lasting fun.


Trusted by over 8 million dogs and their humans, BARK is a brand that delivers both joy and reliability.

Boxes That Make Tails Wag—and Life Easier for Dog Parents

BARK makes it easy to keep your dog happy. Every box is curated for play, enrichment, and surprise, so you never have to scramble for last-minute treats or replace destroyed toys.


Here’s why dog parents love it:

  • Tailored Fun: Toys and treats selected to match your dog’s size and chewing habits.
  • Durable Options: Super Chewer’s tough toys mean less frustration and more safe playtime.
  • Monthly Joy: New themed surprises keep dogs excited and engaged.
  • Convenience: Delivered to your door with free shipping—no running to the pet store.

Extra Tail-Wagging Joy, Delivered Monthly

If you’re a dog parent looking to pamper your pup, BARK has you well and truly covered.

 

With subscription options like BarkBox, perfect for general dog fun and surprises, or Super Chewer, designed for aggressive chewers and dogs who need longer-lasting enrichment, there’s something for every furry friend. 


Plus, new subscribers can snag the Free Extra Toys for a Year offer—an extra reason to treat your pup!


Every box is thoughtfully packed to keep your dog happy, entertained, and mentally stimulated. Get yours today.

Don't miss out on spoiling your pup!

Sign up today

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.



WOW
Rachel M.
Rachel M.

More by Rachel M.

Treating Dog Cancer. Is Chemo A Good Choice?
Treating Dog Cancer. Is Chemo A Good Choice?
View Article
Next
Related articles
5 Checks You Can Do At Home To Help Keep Your Dog Healthy

Your dog relies on you for care, love, and a little extra attention to stay happy and healthy. While regular vet visits are essential, you can also do simple checks at home to make sure your furry friend is feeling their best. These little routines help you spot changes early so your vet can step in if needed. Think of them as a way to stay tuned in to your dog’s well-being and strengthen the bond you share. Here are five regular checks you can start doing today.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

New York's Bodega Cats Are a Social Media Sensation

Drawing tourists and followers to more than 10,000 area convenience stores, these hard-working felines are going viral (in a good way).

Treating Dog Cancer. Is Chemo A Good Choice?

Unlike human-grade chemo, the options for your dog may be just the ticket to improving his life.

The Pros and Cons of Automatic Litter Boxes

Automatic self-cleaning litter boxes are popular these days. But like all products, they come with benefits and drawbacks you should consider before making a purchase decision. Here’s a guide to some of the pros and cons of automatic cat litter boxes to help you make the right choice for your feline friend.

Cats and Bum Slapping. It's a Thing!

A surprising number of felines love the rough and tumble action of lower back scratching and swatting their behinds around.

Is Your Dog at Risk for IVDD? A Guide to Breeds and Prevention

We all love seeing our dogs living their best possible lives, one full of happy zoomies, comfortable naps, and pain-free adventures. But to make that a priority, we must also familiarize ourselves with the common health conditions each breed may face and how to keep our pup safe. One such condition worth being fully informed about is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD).While the medical name of this condition may sound intimidating, it’s an all-too-common spinal condition among some breeds that requires proactive care.In this guide, I’ll break down what IVDD is, highlight the breeds that are at the highest risk, teach you how to recognize the signs (even the most subtle), and provide you with a clear, actionable plan for making changes in your home and daily routine that will help to significantly lower your dog’s risk. Think of this as your essential roadmap to protecting your dog.What is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)?To protect your dog’s back, it's helpful to first understand what’s happening underneath their fur. Think of your dog’s spine not just as a column of bone, but as a flexible, shock-absorbing system. More specifically, consider the cushioning intervertebral discs in the spine, the same discs that allow your dog to run, jump, and twist. These are specialized structures that sit between each bony segment of the spine.Each disc is like a miniature, tough, fluid-filled pouch. It has a tough outer layer (like a tire wall) and a soft, jelly-like center. These discs serve an important role, cushioning the impact of your dog’s every movement. They also allow the spine the flexibility needed for your dog to move freely, including turning its head and arching its back.Explaining IVDDIVDD, sometimes referred to as a “slipped disc,” happens when these essential cushions break down and stop doing their job. It’s a progressive, degenerative condition, meaning it continues to get worse over time, especially if it’s left unaddressed.Degeneration: The first problem is often the disc itself. The jelly center begins to dry out, harden, and calcify. This causes the disc to lose its shock-absorbing ability and become brittle.Herniation (The Rupture): A degenerated disc is highly vulnerable. Any sudden force, or even normal movement over time, can cause it to either bulge or rupture.Spinal Cord Compression: When the disc material bulges or bursts, it pushes upward into the space occupied by the delicate spinal cord. This pressure is what causes the symptoms we see, ranging from agonizing pain to complete paralysis. The severity will depend on how much the material pushes out and how violently it impacts the cord.The Two Main Types of IVDDVeterinarians classify IVDD into two main types, named after the human pathologist, Hans Hansen. Understanding the type helps explain the onset and risk factors.The first type is Type I IVDD, which is characterized by the sudden, explosive rupture of the hardened, jelly-like center. The onset is typically sudden, often triggered by a seemingly minor movement, like jumping. This type is most common in small, short-legged breeds, like the dachshund.The second is Type II IVDD, which involves the slower, more gradual bulging of the outer ring of the disc into the spinal canal. The onset is slow and progressive, with symptoms that may appear as increasing stiffness or weakness over several months. Type II is typically seen in older, larger dogs.High-Risk Dog Breeds Any dog can develop IVDD, particularly as they get older. However, genetics and body shape mean that certain dog breeds carry a much higher risk, specifically to the acute Type I IVDD. By familiarizing yourself with your dog’s risk, you can better understand the need for prevention and how to keep your pup safe. The Chondrodystrophic Predisposition Dogs most vulnerable to Type I IVDD are those with a genetic trait called chondrodystrophy, which causes disproportionately short legs and long backs. This body type means there is constant, uneven stress placed on the dog’s spine. It has also been linked to premature degeneration and hardening of the spinal discs, which could cause them to rupture much earlier in life. The following dog breeds are considered to be the most at-risk due to this body structure: Dachshunds: They are the poster child for IVD, with the highest prevalence of all breeds. Their extreme length and short legs make them highly susceptible to disc issues throughout the entire length of their spine. Corgis ( Pembroke and Cardigan): Not only do these dogs have a chondrodystrophic body shape, but they are also a highly active breed, which adds to the force put on their spine daily. French Bulldogs: While their bodies are not as long as a Dachshund, their compacted bodies and structure still put them at a higher risk, especially for issues in the cervical (neck) spine. Basset Hounds: Their heavy frames and short legs mean their spines are facing persistent stress, often leading to disc issues. Beagles & Miniature/Toy Poodles: These breeds don’t have the appearance that would raise a red flag as being an issue, but they do carry a genetic predisposition that puts them at a higher risk. Small “Fluffy” Breeds: Breeds like the Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and Lhasa Apsos are also genetically predisposed to trouble. In these breeds, IVDD is often experienced in the neck, causing severe pain and making it harder for them to lower their heads to eat or drink. High Risk Breeds for Type II IVDDWhile Type I IVDD is a genetic lottery for the breeds listed above, Type II IVDD is a little different. It’s much more similar to disc disease in humans, a slower, age-related degeneration that can affect any breed. That said, there are still some breeds that are at a statistically higher risk. Older large-breed dogs, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Doberman Pinschers, can develop Type II or IVDD. In these cases, the symptoms are often more gradual, appearing as subtle hind-end weakness, stiffness, or an unsteady gait. It’s not uncommon for it to be mistaken for simple arthritis. However, I want to stress again that any breed can experience IVDD.

Thinking Snow Protection for the Pooch This year? Check out Leggings!

(photo credit: eva_blanko / shutterstock.com)If you’re a dog owner and you live in a four-season city, you already know the challenges of getting your pooch out for a walk once the snow hits. Or rather, the snow, slush, ice, and salt.I have three dogs, and while their range of ages and different abilities typically has me trekking to the local dog park where they can move at their own pace, leash walking factors in big-time when time is tight. And that means sidewalks.Now, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) it’s not just salt, sleet, and ice that should have you checking out the shoe department for your dog. Hiking through rough terrain or on hot summer streets require the same level of protection, and there’s a shoe, boot, or legging for every one of them.But with winter coming, let’s check out some of the full-leg designs available for dogs of all sizes. Why Choose Paw and Leg Protection?Rocks, sidewalks, and rugged terrain can all cause tiny nicks and cuts in your pet’s paws. And in winter, the moment you add de-icer or salt to the equation, you may find yourself carrying your pet for a good portion of the walk. With three dogs, I’m always on high alert at this time of year when it comes to foot protection because if more than one goes lame and stops dead in their tracks at any point on our walk, I’ve got a serious problem.But in addition to the painful burning sensation of salt or the danger of frostbite, walking without foot protection can also be an issue for older or larger dogs, where a serious slip and/or fall on an icy sidewalk will make them immediately cautious on future walks. That means progressing through your daily outings becomes not only time-consuming but also stressful.Further, if your pooch immediately equates sore paws and falling with what used to be a fun daily walk, they’ll quickly become reluctant to head out. That’s never what we want to see. So, best to head off potential issues from the very start.Leggings versus BootsI love the concept of leggings. Not only do they eliminate the concern of losing boots when out trekking along trails and through dog parks, but they also protect their legs from injury – including burrs, branches, and the rough, frozen texture of deeper snow.What to Look for in Foot ProtectionJust like when purchasing your own protective foot gear, choosing proper coverage for your dog means considering a number of variables. Such as the terrain you plan to walk in – rocky, slippery, wet? As well as your area’s climate. Is it prone to wet, sloppy snow that requires a focus on water resistance or cold, firm snow that means something a little more thermal is required? Look for something that fits your pet’s feet comfortably and that stretches sufficiently to not compromise his pace, but not so much that it allows the booties to slip off or makes it awkward for your dog to walk or run.Dog Boot MaintenanceSimilar to your pet’s regular outdoor gear, be sure to wash on a regular basis and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Never dress your dog in boots or leggings that have not been thoroughly dried, and avoid storing this type of gear while it’s still wet or damp from washing. And at the start of the season, be sure to check all protective footwear for wear, including leaks or warm tread.Great Options to Consider

Dirty Socks Draw Lost Dog Home

Missing for over a week, Labrador retriever named Sunny instantly picks up scent of owner's unwashed socks for a happy rescue.

Why Your Dog Follows You Everywhere (And When It’s a Problem)

Some dogs follow their people around like they’re glued to them. Most of the time, this is normal canine behavior, but it can sometimes mean your dog is anxious, insecure, or not feeling well. Here’s what you need to know.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Christmas Decor Items to Keep Well Away From Dogs

While decorating your home for Christmas makes the season feel magical, it’s important to remember that not all holiday cheer is safe for our furry friends. Dogs are naturally curious, and their love of sniffing and chewing can turn even the most harmless decoration into a hazard. Here are five decor items you should keep well away from dogs this festive season.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Vegan Dog Food? Don't Rule it Out!

Research out of the UK claims that nutritionally speaking, its not that different than a meat-based diet.

The Secret to a Healthier, Happier Dog? It Might Be in Their Bowl

Discover how fresh, raw meals can transform your pup’s health—without the guesswork.If you’ve ever looked at your dog’s kibble and wondered whether it’s truly healthy, you’re not alone. Many pet owners worry about additives, contaminants, and whether their dog is actually getting the nutrients they need. That frustration—wanting the best for your dog but feeling stuck in a sea of processed options—is exactly what We Feed Raw addresses.

Here's Why Your Dog's Nails Keep Splitting

Have you noticed your dog having issues with their nails lately? Broken or split nails aren’t just uncomfortable for your furry friend, they can also lead to infections if left untreated. Understanding why it happens is the first step toward keeping your dog’s paws happy and healthy.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Helpful Things to Donate to Animal Shelters This Fall

During fall, many animal shelters experience an increase in animals needing care. Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or simply want to make a difference this season, your donations can have a meaningful impact. By giving even a few essential supplies, you’ll help shelters provide the best possible care for their furry residents. Here are five thoughtful items you can donate to your local animal shelter. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

It's Turkey Time! Here are the Holiday Foods Your Pet Can Eat!

As pet owners, we're all familiar with saying no to holiday treats... but what if we could say yes!

Why Your Cat Still Scratches The Furniture—Even With a Scratching Post

If you’ve bought a scratching post but your cat still goes after your sofa or dining chairs, you’re not alone. Many cat owners are puzzled when their feline companion ignores a perfectly good post in favor of a favorite armchair. So why do cats scratch furniture, and what can you do to redirect those claws?Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Your Cat Loves to Knead Things

Cats have a lot of quirky habits, but few are as curious and as cute as kneading. That rhythmic motion of pressing their paws in and out on a blanket, pillow, or even your lap might make you wonder why they do it. While it looks a bit odd, kneading is actually a normal and meaningful behavior that tells you a lot about how your cat feels.

Is Viva Raw the Upgrade Your Pet’s Bowl Has Been Missing?

What If Your Pet’s Food Isn’t Delivering the Nutrition You Thought It Was? Viva Raw Is Here To Help. Many pet parents spend time scanning ingredient labels, comparing brands, and trying to choose the best possible meals for their dogs or cats—yet still feel unsure about what those ingredients actually mean. Fillers, vague sourcing, and highly processed formulas can make it difficult to know if pets are truly receiving the nutrition they need. As more pet owners look for clearer answers about what goes into their pets’ meals, Viva Raw is stepping forward with a fresh, transparency-driven approach to raw nutrition. Known for combining certified nutritionist formulation with visibly real ingredients, the fast-growing brand is helping reshape how modern pet parents think about feeding. 

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2026  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.