This Fluffy Highland Cow Was the Ultimate Surprise

Does Your Dog Have Allergies? Here's How To Find Out At Home

DNA My Dog's low-cost Canine Allergy Test gives pet owners answers without the expense of a veterinary allergy panel

Bobcat Fever, Caused by Ticks, Is a Threat to Pet Cats

Ticks can transmit multiple diseases to people and animals, and you might already be familiar with threats like Lyme disease, Alpha-gal syndrome, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. But there’s another disease that you should be aware of if you have pet cats: bobcat fever.

4 Reasons Why a Thief Might Target Your Pet

It’s not something most pet owners like to think about, but pet theft does unfortunately happen. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons pets are targeted, so you can understand what makes an animal vulnerable—and how to stay one step ahead.

Common Signs of Mobility Loss in Dogs That Most Parents Miss

We all know that moment when it hits that our dogs are no longer the high-energy puppies they once were. It usually starts quietly. Maybe they hesitated for a second longer than usual, jumping on the bed this morning, or they took a little longer to find their footing after a nap. While these could simply be signs that your dog is slowing down naturally with age, they are also signs that their bodies may need a little extra support to keep up with their inner puppy. Seeing our best friends struggle with mobility can be heartbreaking, but aging doesn’t automatically mean they have to give up joy in their lives. It just means we need to change our approach. By catching issues like stiff joints or muscle loss early, we can make simple changes in our homes and lifestyles to keep them comfortable and confident. This post will help you do just that. Let’s look past the “old age” labels and talk about the real, actionable ways we can help our dogs stay mobile, happy, and right by our side for as long as possible. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.The Most Common Mobility Challenges Faced by Senior Dogs Understanding the reason why your dog is moving differently is the first step toward helping them. While we often group everything under the umbrella of “getting gold,” there are a few distinct physical hurdles that most senior dogs will face during this stage of life. Recognizing which ones are affecting your dog allows you to tailor your care to best support their needs. Osteoarthritis and Joint Wear Osteoarthritis is perhaps the most common cause of limited movement in senior dogs. Over the years of hiking, playing fetch, and jumping, the protective cartilage that cushions their joints begins to thin. This leads to inflammation and bone-on-bone wear during movement, which causes them to feel stiff and uncomfortable. You might notice your dog hopping with their back legs together instead of stepping with each leg separately. This is commonly called “bunny hopping.” They may do this when trying to go up the stairs or when attempting to run across the yard after a squirrel. You may also notice your dog seems extra stiff on cold, damp mornings. This isn’t a loss of flexibility; it is a structural change in the joint that makes certain movements feel like a chore. The Hidden Impact of Muscle Wasting Many pet parents are surprised to see their dog’s hips looking sunken or their shoulder blades becoming more prominent during their golden years, even if their pup is still eating well. This is a condition known as sarcopenia, or age-related muscle wasting. As dogs age, their bodies become less efficient at maintaining muscle mass, especially in the hindquarters. This loss of muscle is more than just a change in their appearance. Your dog’s muscles act as the primary shock absorbers for their joints. When the muscle disappears, the joints have to take on the full impact of every step, which can contribute to the development of arthritis. The solution? Maintaining muscle through gentle, consistent, age-appropriate movement (more on that to follow). General Age-Related Decline Sometimes the change isn’t a limp or a specific weak spot, but a general loss of energy. This can be a combination of physical aches and pains and a possible mental gap. You might see your dog standing in a room and seeming to forget why they are there. This could range from a slight age-related fogginess to the development of canine cognitive dysfunction. If your dog feels unsteady on their feet, they may lose the confidence to explore as much as they once did, leading to a more sedentary life that further weakens their body. Less movement leads to more stiffness, which in turn leads to even less movement. Breaking this cycle is key to preserving your pup’s zest for life. When we look at these issues, it’s easy to see that mobility is a “use it or lose it” scenario. This means that by identifying mobility struggles, like joint pain, muscle loss, or a loss of confidence, you can begin making the adjustments needed to help your pup move forward more comfortably during this stage of life.  Creating a Safer Home EnvironmentOnce you understand the physical challenges your dog faces, the quickest way to improve their quality of life is to make small changes within your own four walls. Most modern homes are designed for human preferences, not for aging paws. At this stage of life, which is more important? Your home aesthetic or your best friend’s comfort? By performing a home audit, you can identify the daily obstacles that turn a simple walk to the water bowl into a stressful event and find solutions that work for both of you. Here are a few of the more common challenges many senior pups face: Traction and Slippery FloorsFor a senior dog with muscle wasting or stiff joints, a hardwood or tile floor can feel like walking on a sheet of ice. The constant little slips and missteps that happen while trying to stay upright can put an incredible strain on their hips and shoulders. If you notice your dog pacing the edges of a room or refusing to cross a certain hallway, they are likely afraid of falling. Instead of a full renovation, focus on creating safe trails throughout your home. Use non-slip rug runners or even affordable yoga mats to create a clear path between their favorite spots. For example, you can create a comfortable route from their bed to the food bowl and out the door. For areas where rugs aren’t an option, specialized toe grips or non-slip socks can give your pup that extra bit of confidence they need to move through their space without fear.

Top 10 Most Popular Pet Names for Dogs and Cats in 2026

Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting time, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities, some of which begin on day one. One of the first big decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the perfect name. This name is going to be spoken thousands of times, written on vet records, and shared with friends and neighbors. It’s your pet’s new identity. So, it’s not a decision that loving pet parents take lightly! In fact, a 2026 report by MetLife Pet Insurance revealed that 54% of US pet parents put as much thought into naming their pet as they would into naming a child. Not only that, but 56% believe a pet’s name reveals a lot about their guardian’s own personality. It shows just how much we love and value the individuality of our best friends. According to the study, which analyzed a year of Google search data and surveyed over 1000 pet parents, the top three most-searched pet names in the US right now are Coco, Ginger, and Bluey. The data also highlighted distinct differences between dog and cat parents. Coco led the searches for dogs (followed by Bluey, Bear, and Rocky), while Ginger topped the list for cats (followed by Princess, Luna, and Mochi). Interestingly, our current taste in names as a society appears to be heavily influenced by our favorite foods and pop culture. The fastest-growing names this year include Boba, Aurora, Kiko, Bluey, and Nugget, with other food-inspired choices like Churro and Miso also gaining popularity. There was also a strong showing for the names of fictional characters from Marvel, Disney, and nostalgic television shows, including: Loki (Marvel)Rocky (Rocky Balboa franchise)Nala (The Lion King)Salem (Sabrina and Hocus Pocus)Simba (The Lion King)Maverick (Top Gun)Moana (Disney)There were also locally driven trends in some parts of the country. For example, the name Bear was searched 2.2x more often in Idaho than the national average, while Mochi was searched 2x more often in Oregon and searches for Rocky were 1.7x higher in New Jersey. Beyond trends, names can also carry highly personal and sometimes humorous stories. While many people name pets after special people in their lives, like family members and friends, 16% of respondents admitted to naming a pet after an ex-partner. In comparison, only 4% named a pet after a current spouse or partner. Additionally, 56% of pet parents would consider naming a pet after a fictional villain like Voldemort or Darth Vader. If you’re currently struggling to find that perfect name before bringing your newest family member home, remember, there is no need to rush! Many families spend several days getting to know their new pet, including their unique personality, habits, and quirks, before choosing a name that fits. Whether you choose to go with something classic, popular, food-inspired, or truly one-of-a-kind, you’ll know when you come across the name that feels “right.” It’s the first step in a long, happy journey together! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here. 

9 Things Dog Owners Should Always Keep in the Car

Whether you’re heading to the park, bringing your dog along to a cafe or taking a longer road trip, a few well-chosen supplies can make traveling with your dog safer and less stressful. Keep these essentials together in your car so they are easy to find whenever you need them.

Spotted a Dog Locked in a Hot Car? Here's What to Do Next

Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Despite what some people say, leaving the windows cracked doesn’t provide enough airflow to keep a dog safe, and heatstroke can happen quickly. If you spot a dog alone in a hot car, staying calm and taking action could make all the difference.

This Baby Cow Has the Sweetest Morning Routine

For this baby cow, mornings are all about cuddles, adventures, snacks and plenty of attention.In a video shared by The Husky Fam, viewers get a look at the adorable little cow's morning routine, and it sounds like she has a pretty great start to the day.

How to Crate Train Your Dog Without Losing Your Mind

We’ve all been there: it’s 2:00 AM, and you’re staring at the ceiling while your new pup cries out, heartbroken, from inside their crate. In those moments, it’s easy to feel like the villain and wonder if you’re doing more harm than good. You’re not alone!As a new dog parent, you want the best for your dog. You do everything you can to set them up for a life filled with comfort, safety, and confidence, but the path to getting there can feel incredibly overwhelming. Especially when you’re operating on caffeine and sheer willpower (I see you)!The truth is that crate training isn’t about locking up your new best friend; it’s about providing them with a safe space where the world feels a little smaller and a lot safer. When introduced with patience and positive reinforcement, the crate becomes a place where your dog can truly decompress, away from the chaos of a busy household. It’s also a great tool to support your potty-training efforts.This guide will help you navigate this chapter of your pup’s life without losing your mind, ensuring that both you and your dog can finally get a good night’s sleep.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Why Crate Training is a Win for Your Dog’s Well-BeingIt is a common misconception that crating a dog is a restrictive or negative practice. When we look at it through the lens of canine psychology, we can see it from a different perspective. Dogs are naturally den-seeking animals; they instinctively look for small, enclosed spaces where they can rest without having to watch their backs from every angle. By providing a crate, you are essentially giving your dog their own bedroom, a place where the rules of the house don’t apply, and they can simply exist in peace.Beyond the psychological comfort, there are several practical reasons why a dedicated crate routine is one of the kindest things you can do for your pup.A Natural Safety NetThe most immediate benefit is safety. We all want to believe our dogs are perfect angels when we step out to run errands, but even the best-behaved pup can succumb to curiosity or separation anxiety. Whether it’s chewing through an electrical cord, discovering a toxic household cleaner, or ingesting a rogue sock, the home can be a minefield for unsupervised dogs. Our family dog, as I was growing up, even chewed up the stairs once! The crate acts as a safety net, ensuring that while you are away, your dog is tucked in a space where they can’t get into any trouble.Developing the Internal Off-SwitchIn our modern, high-stimulation world, many dogs struggle to relax. Between delivery drivers at the door, squirrels in the yard, and the general hum of a busy household, a dog’s nervous system can stay in a constant state of “alert.” Crate training helps teach a dog how to settle. By creating a routine where the crate represents downtime, you are helping your dog develop an internal off-switch. This leads to a more emotionally regulated pet who knows how to prioritize rest, which is just as important for their health as physical exercise.Preparedness for Life’s Unexpected MomentsLife isn’t always predictable. At some point, your dog may need to stay overnight at a veterinary clinic for a procedure, travel in a vehicle, or even stay in a pet-friendly hotel. In all of these scenarios, being comfortable in a crate is a vital life skill. If a dog is already crate-trained, even if they don’t regularly spend time in the crate at home, a stressful situation like medical recovery becomes significantly easier. It allows them to feel comfortable and safe in the crate rather than feeling like it is an added punishment.Supporting a Clean and Predictable HomeLogistically, the crate is a valuable tool for potty training. Because dogs have a natural instinct to keep their sleeping space clean, the crate encourages them to develop bladder and bowel control, going to the bathroom in a better-suited spot. This doesn’t just save your carpets; it reduces the friction between you and your pup during those early, testing months. When expectations are clear, and your dog is rewarded for regular successes ( positive reinforcement), the bond between you and your pet will grow much faster!How to Choose the Right CrateChoosing a crate isn’t just about picking the one that matches your living room décor; it’s about understanding your dog’s specific needs and finding a crate that addresses them. Think of it like shopping for a new mattress or a favorite armchair. If it’s too cramped, they won’t want to use it. If it’s too big, it loses that cozy den feeling that makes them feel safe.Choosing the Right MaterialThere are three main types of crates you’ll encounter at the pet store, and each is suited for a slightly different lifestyle and purpose: Wire Crates: These are the most common for a reason. They offer excellent ventilation, which is vital if your dog has a thick coat or tends to run warm. They also provide a full view of the room, though many pet parents choose to put a breathable cover over the top to create a more “cave-like” atmosphere. Plastic Travel Crates: These are often sturdier and more enclosed. If you have a dog that gets overstimulated by seeing movement across the room, the solid walls of a plastic crate can provide a much-needed sense of privacy. Plus, they double as airline-approved carriers if you plan on travelling together. Furniture-Style Crates: For the minimalist home, these wooden or wicker crates blend seamlessly into your home décor. While aesthetically pleasing, these are best reserved for dogs who are already fully crate-trained and aren’t prone to chewing, as wood isn’t quite as durable as metal or heavy-duty plastic.The Goldilocks Rule of SizingSizing is where most dog parents feel a bit of analysis paralysis. The goal is to find the “Goldilocks” fit: not too big, not too small, but just right.Your dog should be able to stand up fully without hitting their head on the top, turn around in a complete circle without struggling, and lie down flat on their side with their legs extended. If you are crate-training a puppy who is still growing, consider looking for a crate that comes with a divider panel. This allows you to start with a smaller space that grows alongside them, preventing them from using one far corner as a bathroom while they sleep in the other.Finding the Perfect Spot in Your HomeWhere you place the crate is just as important as the crate itself. You want to find a low-traffic but high-visibility area. Tucking the crate away in a dark, isolated basement can make your pup feel banished from the family pack, which triggers anxiety. On the other hand, placing it right in the middle of a busy kitchen might be too loud for a nap. A quiet corner of the living room or a spot in your bedroom usually provides the perfect balance of being included in the family while offering a quiet, cozy getaway. 

People Magazine Launches their 2026 World's Cutest Rescue Contest

Want to win a photo spread in an issue of People Magazine? Start taking your pet's picture and writing up their backstory, because the editors want to hear from you!

Living with a Tiny Dog? Here's How to Snuggle Up Safely

Why You Should Start Blinking More at Your Dog (According to Science)

Have you ever caught your dog staring intently at you from across the room and wondered what is actually going on behind those expressive eyes? We often assume they are simply waiting for dinner, hoping for a walk, or keeping an eye out for an accidentally dropped kitchen scrap. However, fascinating new science has revealed that our pups track our behavior in ways far more subtle than we ever realized. A study published in Royal Society Open Science by researchers at the University of Parma (Italy) examined how dogs respond to one of the most basic and involuntary human movements: blinking. While blinking is fundamentally an automatic reflex designed to keep our eyes lubricated and protected from dust and other foreign irritants, scientists wanted to see if it doubles as a social cue or body language signal between dogs and humans. To find out, the researchers had dogs watch video clips of three different people: their primary caregiver, an unfamiliar woman, and an unfamiliar man. In one set of videos, the person stared neutrally; in the other, the person blinked every three seconds. The results were striking. The dogs blinked significantly more when watching a person who was blinking compared to one who was staring blankly, returning the communication. More importantly, this increase was strongest when the dogs were watching their own person. It was not just the physical movement of the eyelids that caught their attention; it was the person behind the movement. While the dogs were not necessarily synchronizing their blinks with the person or communicating in real-time Morse code, their increased blinking rate showed just how much they were tuned into the smallest facial movements, especially from their person. They notice subtle shifts that most humans would overlook entirely. Why Subtle Canine Body Language Matters Understanding these tiny cues can transform how we interact with our dogs. Communication among dogs relies heavily on visual nuance and non-verbal cues: Softening the Gaze: In dog communication, an unblinking, direct stare can be perceived as confrontational or threatening. Blinking softens their gaze, signaling safety, relaxation, and neutral intentions. Calming Signals: Blinking, turning their head away, or lip-licking are subtle body language cues, known as appeasement behaviors, that dogs use to de-escalate tension and communicate that they feel peaceful. Building Emotional Connection: Mutual attention and subtle facial mimicry can serve as social glue, reinforcing the special bond shared between a dog and their person. The next time you share a quiet moment on the sofa with your dog, take a second to soften your face and blink slowly in their direction. You are communicating on their wavelength, in a way that they can understand. Even if they don’t immediately blink back on cue, science confirms that they are watching, noticing, and quietly processing every detail simply because they care about you. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here. 

The Reason Your Dog Training Isn't Working (Hint: It's Not Your Dog)

You've watched the YouTube videos. You've read the books. You're using the same commands as the professional trainers. So why does your dog still look at you like you're speaking a foreign language?

The Science Behind Freeze-Dried Dog Food, Explained

Ever wonder what freeze-dried dog food is all about? Why it has such a devoted following among pet parents? Read on to learn more about this popular option as we take a step-by-step peek at how it transforms from ingredient selection to the sealed bag on your grocery store shelf.Let's start with the "why" behind freeze-dried dog food's growing popularity. In a nutshell, it offers the convenience of kibble but in a healthier format, without the heavy processing. These lightweight, shelf-stable nuggets start as fresh meat, fruit, and vegetables, and the way they get from a farm to your dog's bowl is a careful blend of food science and preparation.It starts with the manufacturer freezing the ingredients solid, then exracting the frozen water without the need to melt anything first. The scienctific name for this process is lyophilization, and the concept is actually simpler than the term suggests.First, the material is frozen; next, the surrounding pressure is reduced; and a small amount of heat is applied so the frozen water can leave the food directly.It then moves into what's called the sublimation, phase change in which a solid turns straight into vapor without passing through a liquid stage. In freeze drying, the ice in the food skips melting entirely and becomes water vapor, which is what makes the finished product so light and dry.Every batch starts with carefully selecting high-quality ingredients including fresh meats, fruits, vegetables, and sometimes grains, then checking that each is suitable for consumption before it goes any further.From there, the ingredients are cleaned, chopped, and blended to reach the right consistency. Meat is often ground into a finer texture, while fruits and vegetables, in contrast, may be diced or pureed depending on the formula.Next, the prepared mixture is spread across trays and frozen quickly. Speed matters here, because rapid freezing produces small ice crystals rather than large ones.And that size matters in freeze-drying because those small crystals help preserve the food's cellular structure during the drying that follows. If the crystals are too large, they disrupt the texture that gives freeze-dried food its quality once rehydrated.The frozen trays then go into the freeze dryer, where a vacuum pump removes air and creates a low-pressure environment. Next, the chamber is warmed slightly, and, that, combined with the gentle heat and reduced pressure causes the ice to sublimate into water vapor.That vapor is captured on cold condensation plates so it cannot re-enter the chamber. Afterward, a secondary drying phase follows at a higher temperature, targeting the bound water molecules that are harder to pull out and ensuring the food is thoroughly dry.Clear as mud? Well, the mechanics may be a bit tricky for you and me to pick up on, but the end result is a top quality product that's both healthy for our pets and convenient for us.And rest assured that before anything is sealed, manufacturers test moisture levels rigorously. The food must be dry enough to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage, which is the whole point of the process.Packaging is just as important. It has to be airtight to keep atmospheric moisture out, and manufacturers often add oxygen absorbers to guard against mold and bacteria. Without moisture, therefore, many of the pathogens responsible for decomposition cannot survive, which is why freeze-dried food is trusted for space travel, military rations, and emergency kits. It also has a longer shelf-life both at your grocer and at home.And when it comes to feeding time, you have options. You can offer it dry like a kibble or rehydrate it with water to produce a texture that's closer to fresh food and something that's often more palatable for dogs. Either way, the nutrient content stays high and that means whichever way you choose to serve it, your pooch won't be short-changed when it comes to nutrition.So, if you're considering making the switch to freeze-dried dog food, we're thinking that knowing what goes on behind the scenes will help you make a more informed choice. One that's right for both you and your dog.

U.S. Pet Parents Can Now Get Their Pets’ Prescriptions at CVS

Pet parents in the United States have a new option for picking up prescriptions for their furry friends. CVS Health announced that common prescriptions for cats and dogs are now being sold at thousands of CVS Pharmacy locations around the country, giving people another convenient way to have their pets’ prescriptions filled efficiently when they need them.

Mexico and Brazil Duke it Out Over The Carmelo Street Dog

A battle between two nations that has nothing to do with soccer balls and sports heroes? Read on?

This Major City in China Hopes to Foster a More Dog Friendly Culture

In a country reviled for its “dog meat festivals”, can a single city turn that culture around? Well, if it has the hyped-up energy of Hong Kong, I’d say that’s a pretty safe bet.

Why Your Cat Stands Guard Outside the Bathroom