Viral TikTok Video Shares the Joy of a Rescue Dog Reunited with Friend

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

What to Do When Your Dog is Choking?

Naturally curious and often very voracious, dogs can get into a lot of trouble just by following their gut, so to speak. Not only will they try to munch on anything, but they will also eat at a rapid pace, often gulping down their food in seconds. Naturally, this doesn’t mix well – accidents can happen as a result and your pet could choke. Choking is a big fear for dog owners whose pets are greedy or fast eaters, but all dog owners, in general, should know how to act in case their pet is choking. After all, knowing how to act quickly and effectively can make all the difference for your pooch. What to Do When Your Dog is Choking: Step by Step ExplainedThe foremost thing for any owner to know is how to recognize the first signs of choking. The most common signs include excessive drooling, panic and agitation, difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, gagging and retching, and blue or pale gums. If you notice any of these symptoms it is paramount to act immediately and remain calm. Before you do anything, try to assess the situation. Remember that a panicking dog might accidentally bite, even if that is not their intention. So, to ensure you remain safe, approach your pet calmly and try to reassure them. Try to spot the cause of the choking. If you can see the object, and it can be easily removed, then proceed but cautiously. However, if the object can’t be removed easily and is deep in the throat, do not attempt to remove it. The same goes if your dog is panicking and biting aggressively – it’s a situation for the pros. If, however, the situation appears reasonably safe, then you can try to remove the object manually.First gently open your dog’s mouth, by holding their upper jaw with one hand, and the lower with the other. If you spot the object, use your fingers to try and remove it. But be careful – one mistake can push it further into the throat, making the situation worse. So be cautious. If, however, the object is visible but out of reach, you can use special tweezers or pliers. Still, you need to be very careful in order to avoid further injury.If the object cannot be removed manually or with tweezers, then you might want to perform the Heimlich maneuver. Depending on the size of your dog, this technique could vary slightly. For small dogs:Place your pet on their back.Place one hand on their back to support them, and then use the other hand to apply firm pressure just below the rib cage, pushing upwards and towards the chest.After a few of these thrusts, check the mouth to see if the object was dislodged.For large dogs:It is best to stand behind your dog and wrap your arms around their waist. Place your fist just below their rib cage, and grasp it with your other hand.Apply quick upward thrusts to the abdomen.After several thrusts, check the mouth cavity and see if the object is removed.When you remove the object that your pet choked on, it is crucial to check if they show signs of injury or distress. And even if they seem fine, it is advisable to seek out the help of your vet and schedule a thorough examination. This is because choking can cause damage to the throat that might not be apparent at first glance. 

Rescue Dog Goes on Tour with Pink to Find Forever Home

We often hear about musicians and artists making an impact through financial donations or participating in charitable events. But a new heartwarming story of a dog’s search for his forever home has been capturing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Graham Cracker was found by a young girl in the woods of Vilonia, Arkansas, with his mother and littermates. She had been sneaking food to the stray mama dog, trying to do what she could to help. After her mother found out about the dogs, she contacted a rescue team to find them and get the pups to safety. This was when their journey led the pups to The Bond Between, a non-profit rescue organization in Minnesota. But for Graham Cracker, this was just the beginning! On October 17th, an announcement on Instagram revealed that Graham Cracker had found a loving but very unique foster parent. After seeing the young pup’s adorable photos, Grammy-winner Pink invited the pup, who appears to be a Labrador Retriever mix, to join her and her family on tour. She went on to announce the decision to her fans during her St. Paul, MN show:“We rescued a puppy from this awesome organization called The Bond Between. His name is Graham Cracker. He’s currently peeing all over my dressing room,” Pink stated while seated at her piano on stage. “We’re actually – I haven’t told anybody this yet, but we’re gonna foster him for the tour, and he’s gonna go on this big carnival adventure with us.”

What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?

When the celebrations begin and the fireworks are brought out, they can become a source of anxiety and fear for many dogs, and it is not uncommon for them to run away in panic. If your pet happens to run away because of fireworks, it can be a distressing experience for sure – both for you and them – but it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and take action to find them as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know in order to locate your pet quickly and to prevent any future escapes.What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?Fireworks are a big part of festivities such as Fourth of July, New Years Eve, and even smaller celebrations, such as people’s weddings and birthdays. Often, you cannot prevent this, as fireworks can be released by neighbors or at the town square. And even if you are near your pooch, one moment can be enough for them to bolt off. Here is what to do if that happens:#1 Stay calm:First of all, it is essential to stay calm and composed. Keep a level head, as panicking won’t help you think clearly or act effectively. Take a few deep breaths and start your search methodically.#2 Check your home and immediate surroundings:Dogs often don’t go far at first. Thoroughly search your home, yard, and nearby areas. Look under porches, in bushes, and any hiding spots they might find comforting. #3 Call and listen:Walk around the neighborhood calling your dog’s name. Pause and listen for any sounds of movement or barking in response. Sometimes, a frightened doggo may be nearby but too scared to come out immediately.#4 Use a familiar scent:Leave out your dog’s bedding, favorite toys, and some pieces of your clothing. The familiar smells can lure them back home. Placing their food and water outside can also help. Remember that dogs have super powerful noses and will pick up scents with ease. To help broaden your search, you can also inform your neighbors about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and your contact information. Neighbors can keep an eye out and may have already seen your pet. Similarly, you can post about your missing dog on local social media groups, such as Facebook community pages, Nextdoor, and other neighborhood forums. Include a clear photo, a description, and your contact details. The more people are aware, the better the chances of finding your dog. If enough time passes, you can also visit the nearby animal shelters, rescue organizations, and vet clinics. Bring a recent photo of your dog with you or easier identification. Leave your contact information and check back regularly.Another great idea is to make flyers with a clear photo of your pooch, a fitting description, and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighborhood, in local businesses, and public areas. This traditional method can still be very effective.Preventing Your Pet Runs Away Or Gets Lost Due to FireworksOnce you find your pet it is important to take steps to prevent this from ever happening again. Here are some basic steps to take:#1 Secure your home and your yard: Ensure that your house and yard are secure. Check for any weak spots in the fence, or find areas where your pet could escape. #2 Microchip:Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the information is up-to-date. In addition to a microchip, your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

Should I Be Worried if My Cat's Nose is Dry?

We often refer to our cat’s noses as adorable and irresistible, but have you ever stopped to consider what else they can tell us? Those cute “boopable” snouts are complex organs with many vital functions, including breathing, smelling, and regulating body temperature. They can also serve as a barometer of their overall health, warning us when something’s wrong. A persistently dry nose can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem. Understanding the potential causes and when to seek veterinary help is crucial for ensuring your cat is happy and healthy. This guide will explore the common reasons for a dry nose in cats and how to determine if it’s a cause for concern (as not all dry noses are). We’ll also discuss additional factors related to your cat’s nasal health and how to keep your feline friend feeling their best. Why Are Cat Noses Wet? Whether you’re a first-time cat parent or have had cats for years, you’re likely familiar with the wetness that most cats have on their noses. But why exactly are their noses wet?When you touch a healthy cat’s nose, they often feel slightly wet and cool. This wetness could result from several factors, including sweat, licking their noses, drinking water, drainage from their tear ducts, or outside environmental factors (like rain and snow). Their noses are obviously used to breathe and smell things, just like humans. However, there is one significant difference: A wet nose can help keep your cat cool on a hot day. Our kitties don’t sweat all over like we do. Instead, they sweat solely through their noses and paw pads. Luckily for your cat, that wet nose can improve their sense of smell. When scent particles come in contact with the damp surface of their nose, they stick. This allows your cat to get an even better whiff of whatever smell they have encountered. Causes of Dry Nose in Cats Your cat’s nose may be a little dry or even cracked for several reasons, ranging from everyday experiences to potentially life-threatening health complications. To identify whether your cat’s dry nose is an issue, you’ll need to watch for other symptoms of trouble. Here are a few of the most common causes of dry nose in cats and what to look out for: It’s Your Cat’s “Normal” I will list a wide variety of reasons to consider here, but first, let’s get this one out of the way. Some cats will have a dryer nose naturally, even when they are completely healthy. You know your cat best. If you have kept up with your cat’s annual vet visits, been given the all-clear, and your cat still has a dry nose, it may be the way it is. Dry Air Conditions One of the most common causes of a dry nose is the air conditions in your home. Whether you are running the central heating system excessively during the cold of winter or relying heavily on the air conditioning unit during the summer, you can unintentionally create dry air conditions in the home. While dry air doesn’t require an emergency vet visit, it is something that you should address. Dry air can cause many problems for both you and your cat, including dry skin and respiratory issues. One of the easiest ways to correct the problem is to purchase a warm or cool mist air humidifier. Close Proximity to a Heat Source Do you have a cat who enjoys sleeping on the air vents or in front of your fireplace? Your cat’s dry nose may simply be the result of the moisture drying up while basking in the heat. Given a bit of time, the moisture will return on its own. If you suspect this is the case, keep an eye on your cat to ensure everything returns to normal and no other underlying causes are at play. Dehydration Cats are notoriously bad for not drinking enough water, resulting in many living in various states of dehydration. If your cat isn’t taking in as much water as they need, they may not have the moisture to sweat as much, resulting in a dry nose. Unaddressed, this could lead to severe consequences, including organ failure, heat stroke, cardiac problems, or neurological damage. Additional signs of dehydration to watch out for include: Sticky, pale gums Sunken eyesLoss of appetiteDark colored urine  ConstipationLethargy Weakness or collapseThere are many potential causes of dehydration, including health conditions that require veterinary treatment. Call your vet and share your concerns. To prevent dehydration, consider feeding canned food or a mix of canned food and kibble to include more fluids in their diet. Try different water bowls, water bowl locations, or water fountains to find your cat's preferred arrangement. Our cats use the Catit Flower Fountain, which has significantly increased their water intake!Sunburned Nose Think back to the last time you suffered a sunburn. You can probably recall how dry the damaged skin felt. We often overlook the risks of the sun’s UV rays because our cats are protected by their fur. However, some body parts are still left exposed – including the nose. Other signs your cat has suffered a sunburn include swelling, redness, irritation, or skin flaking.  Even if your cat doesn’t enjoy spending time outdoors in the sun, they may still be exposed to sun damage while basking in the hat indoors. You can reduce the risk of sunburn by closing the blinds to keep the sun out, installing a UV protective window film, or using a pet-friendly sunscreen on your cat’s nose.

How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?

Cats are generally considered self-sufficient, independent, and somewhat aloof pets. In many cases, they won’t ask for constant attention, and will sometimes act as if they own you. Still, even though these can be very smart and free-spirited pets, the question remains – how independent are they really? Some owners wonder whether it is a smart decision to leave their cat alone at home even if they are not clingy, and if they will be able to stay safe in that case. Here’s what to know about leaving your feline friend home alone. How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?Sure, cats are independent and quirky. But like all animals and pets out there, they will require your attention and regular care. And even though they are much more independent than dogs, they will still rely on a steady routine that provides them with water, food, and a clean litter box. Usually, adult cats can be left alone for up to 24 to 48 hours, but it's essential to provide sufficient food, water, and clean litter before you leave.

Study Finds Pet Pigs Don't Bond with Their Humans Like Dogs

Have you always dreamt of bringing a pet pig into your home? Have you seen any adorable social media videos of cute companion pigs behaving like dogs as they interact with their people? A recent study published in Scientific Reports reveals that these videos may be misleading. Comparing the behaviors of companion pigs and dogs, the researchers discovered that the two species respond with noticeably different behavior patterns when interacting with people, including their owner and a stranger. Most importantly, they found that pet pigs don’t develop the special pet-owner attachment with their humans that we see in dogs. The findings are significant when you consider the role that pets play in society today. Once seen as valuable for their work in farming, protection, and other tangible roles, most pets today are kept instead solely for companionship.

Hilarious Trend Reveals Most Cats Wouldn't Survive the "Quiet Place"

“A Quiet Place: Day One,” the third entry in the popular post-apocalyptic series, took box offices by storm this summer. The film shows the people of New York City as they fight to survive an alien invasion in which blind extraterrestrial beings with a powerful sense of hearing hunt them down by listening for their movements. While the film blew away expectations at the box office, one character truly stole the show – Frodo, the leading kitty. Throughout the movie, Frodo (played by feline actors Nico and Schnitzel) is challenged to stay quiet as he and his human companions (Sam and Eric) try to escape the city and flee to safety. This has raised a question online among cat parents—in the event of a similar alien invasion, would your cat be able to survive? This curiosity has inspired a new trend on TikTok and other social media platforms. In the videos, cat parents pick up their cats and pretend to run for safety. The concept is simple: While either holding your phone camera or strategically setting it up to capture the attempt, pick up your cat and make a run for it. The good news is that no cats were harmed in the making of these videos. There are obviously no real aliens hunting people down as they flee their homes. The bad news? Very few cats would survive if this movie were to become a reality! If you are in need of a good laugh, the videos won’t disappoint. While some cats stayed silent, ensuring they and their beloved owners would flee safely, others were unimpressed that they were even picked up to begin with. Cats of TikTok can be seen vocally expressing their disapproval while others fought to be released, believing they would survive better on their own without the extra “baggage” of a human to hold them back (or at least that’s how the comments describe their response). One TikTok user, @birchcanread, created a video testing each of her six cats. The video, which now has over 7 million views, demonstrated why most cat parents would be doomed in this scenario.

Miniature Shetland Ponies as Therapy Dogs?

In the UK, this unexpected service animal is a hit in the long-term care homes.

12-Year-Old Rescue Cat’s Reaction to First Toy Melts Hearts

It’s a heartwarming tale of second chances that will tug at the heartstrings of cat lovers everywhere. From sharing the story of a senior cat finding the love he deserves to revealing his “inner kitten” in an adorable video – The story of “Loaf” will surely bring a smile to your face. As a golden oldie, Loaf appears to have had a rough start to life. The 12-year-old cat was discovered recently by Maria Torres, from Miami, during a mother/daughter beach trip. The two spotted the black cat peaking out from the mangroves, and it was clear that he needed help. A rescue owner herself (Torres runs Love N Light Furever Rescue in South Florida), she knew she couldn’t leave the sweet senior behind to fend for himself. The two took Loaf home to better assess his condition and help him live out the rest of his senior years with the love and care every cat should receive. After addressing his immediate needs, they decided to give the senior cat a little something special to call his own – a catnip-filled rainbow toy, recording his first reaction. But they never could have imagined how it was going to go. “To give him his first toy was pretty extraordinary and kind of scary because I didn’t know how he was going to feel about it,” Torres explained. “The truth is, a cat who lived on the streets for 12 years sometimes doesn’t even recognize toys, so I was actually pretty shocked that he took a liking to it right away.” Torres shared the video on TikTok, and it wasn’t long before the heartwarming comments started to roll in.

Liberty Dogs Foundation Is Training First 4 Puppies for Veterans

Liberty Dogs in Reno, Nevada is a new training program that will provide service dogs to veterans. Though the facility isn’t expected to open until 2026, they are already training four puppies who will go on to help veterans with various disabilities.  

Do Hypoallergenic Dogs Really Exist?

There has been a recent surge in dog lovers and prospective dog parents interested in hypoallergenic pups. The allure of a hypoallergenic dog is undeniable for those who may feel limited due to allergies. But does the perfect allergy-free pet truly exist?While there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, certain breeds are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. This could open the door for pet allergy sufferers to add a furry companion to the family. This guide will explore the reality of hypoallergenic dogs and help you choose the dog that best suits the needs and sensitivities of your family.What is a “Hypoallergenic Dog?”Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a hypoallergenic dog? Contrary to popular belief, the term hypoallergenic, when applied to a product or item, does not mean that it absolutely cannot cause an allergic reaction. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “hypoallergenic” is defined as “having little likelihood of causing an allergic response.”These are dog breeds that are less likely to cause problems for allergy sufferers due to various physical characteristics. For example, the breed may be low shedding, have shorter coats (or be considered hairless), or the coat type naturally catches and traps allergens like loose hair and dander, controlling its spread around your home.While these qualities make it more likely that these dogs could co-exist peacefully with an allergic family member, it is important to note that they are not 100% free from allergens.Which Dogs are Considered to be HypoallergenicDeciding which dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic is a bit of a grey area. Some breeds will make the list when speaking with one expert, and not the list shared by the next. This can make it difficult to determine if a dog you are considering will be a good fit for your home.Even if the dog breed you are considering is well-known for their hypoallergenic coats, I recommend having a conversation with the breeder, the shelter/rescue you are adopting from, and your doctor (or allergist) to prepare yourself to take precautions and minimize any risk. Individual dogs may have unique grooming needs or considerations even within a breed.Here is a list of breeds commonly referred to as hypoallergenic: Affenpinscher Afghan Hound American Hairless TerrierBarbado da Terceira Barbet Bedlington Terrier Bichon Frise Bolognese Chinese Crested Coton de Tulear Irish Water Spaniel Kerry Blue Terrier Lagotto Romagnolo Lowchen Maltese Peruvian Inca Orchid Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard) Portuguese Water DogRussian Tsvetnaya BolonkaSchnauzer ( Miniature, Standard, Giant) Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Xoloitzcuintli Yorkshire TerrierWhat about mixed-breed dogs? With the current buzz surrounding poodle mixes like Golden Doodles, Bernedoodles, Labradoodles, and more, many interested in finding a hypoallergenic companion have been told they are the perfect option. The truth is that no one can give you an honest and definite answer that can be applied to all dogs of a specific mix.While “doodle” dogs do have poodles in their genes, it can’t be guaranteed that the hypoallergenic qualities of a poodle coat will be present in every puppy. For example, a Golden Doodle (Golden Retriever/Poodle) could be born with a hypoallergenic poodle-like coat or a coat that resembles the Golden Retriever more. If you live with allergies, you know that Golden Retrievers are definitely not a hypoallergenic option.This isn’t to say that mixed breeds won’t be hypoallergenic. However, you need to consider each dog's physical attributes individually instead of making an assumption based on their breed makeup. Dog Breeds Commonly Mislabeled as HypoallergenicOf course, while people generally mean well when making recommendations of the best dog for people with allergies, mistakes are going to be made. Some dog breeds are often recommended that shouldn’t be given this label.As we just discussed, the first group of dogs that should be mentioned here are mixed-breed dogs. While mixed breeds can be born with the hypoallergenic characteristics of a parent, there is no guarantee that the puppies will inherit those physical traits. Many families have adopted poodle mixes with the promise of purchasing a hypoallergenic dog, only to find their new beloved family member is badly triggering allergies in the home.Dog breeds often mistaken for hypoallergenic may share traits or commonalities with dogs on the previous list. However, they have other characteristics that contribute to allergic reactions in those around them. For example, a dog could have a very short coat but produce larger amounts of dander, a common dog-related allergen.Purebreds that are often mistaken or mislabeled as hypoallergenic include: Basset Hound Boxer Doberman Pinscher Labrador Retriever Pug Shih TzuIf in doubt, speak with the breeder or rescue worker about your needs. A reputable breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed they produce and committed to only placing their dogs in homes that are an ideal fit. Shelter and rescue workers are dedicated to finding the best home for the dogs in their care. Even if the dog you’re considering adopting isn’t a good fit, they will likely have recommendations for others you should consider.

10 Downing's New PM Better Like Cats!

13-year resident Larry the Cat isn't going anywhere. And that's perfectly fine with new PM.

Scientists Developing AI Technology To Decipher Your Dog’s Barking

There is no dog owner out there who doesn’t wish to understand their pet’s bark! And now that artificial intelligence is evolving and expanding with each new day, it seems that this seemingly impossible feat can now become a reality.A research team at the University of Michigan is now studying how exactly artificial intelligence can be used to help understand the way dogs communicate. The scientists are developing special AI tools that will ultimately help understand whether a dog’s bark is aggressive, or shows playful intentions. And that is not all – AI will help gather crucial information from the bark, such as the breed, age, and sex of the dog. “By using speech processing models initially trained on human speech, our research opens a new window into how we can leverage what we built so far in speech processing to start understanding the nuances of dog barks,” said Rada Mihalcea, director of the University of Michigan’s AI laboratory.Throughout the course of the study, the team studied vocalizations from 74 different dogs, all in various contexts. They quickly realized that AI models that were originally trained on human speech could now be a great starting point to help train new AI systems made specifically to understand animal communication.“There is so much we don’t yet know about the animals that share this world with us,” said Mihalcea. “Advances in AI can be used to revolutionize our understanding of animal communication, and our findings suggest that we may not have to start from scratch.”Mihalcea also adds that all their findings indicate that “the sounds and patterns originating from human speech can form the basis for examining and comprehending the acoustic patterns of other sounds, including animal vocalizations”.But even so, using AI to analyze dog communication is hindered, as there is still a lack of data available publicly.“Animal vocalizations are logistically much harder to solicit and record,” said Artem Abzaliev, lead author of the study. “They must be passively recorded in the wild or, in the case of domestic pets, with the permission of owners.”Besides this, scientists were also able to reuse a model that analyzed human speech. This helped them to “tap into” major voice-enabled technologies that can actually recognize spoken words and those speaking them.“These models are able to learn and encode the incredibly complex patterns of human language and speech,” Abzaliev adds. “We wanted to see if we could leverage this ability to discern and interpret dog barks.”What is more, according to the study the research will also have major implications for animal welfare. If we can understand dog vocalizations, it can help us respond better to the needs of our pets.

5 Cat Breeds with Unique Features

Every cat breed has its own set of distinguishing features, but there are some breeds that are especially eye-catching because of their standout characteristics. Here’s a short list of some unique cat breeds that are sure to grab your attention and your heart.

Young or Old? These Outdoor Toys Are Perfect for Dog Park Action

(Photo credit: Lunja / Shutterstock.com)Young or old, big or small...regardless of the breed, all dogs love visiting a leash-free park where they can move at their own pace. For me, my Schnoodles love the idea of a dog park, but once we arrive, they tend to stick like glue and walk at a slower pace beside (or often behind) me. They’re not afraid of getting lost – they know the trails of our regular haunt inside out – but the idea of running and frolicking seems to have disappeared into the ether the moment they jumped out of the car.Whether you live with a large, highly active dog that needs a hard run to burn off energy or like me, a smaller, older pet that needs a little more incentive to come out of their shell, we’ve found eight different motivators that are sure to maximize your time in a leash-free zone.

Help! My Dog is Aggressive Over Toys! What Now?

Is your once-playful pup turning into a snarling toy hoarder? Do they become possessive anytime your family or other pets come near their favorite squeaky toy?Dog aggression over toys can range from mild guarding to full-blown attacks. It’s a common problem – one that can be frustrating and sometimes scary to experience. The best thing you can do for your furry friend is to tackle the issue as soon as you notice the first signs of trouble.In this guide, I’ll share tips and tricks to turn your toy-obsessed pup into a more social and relaxed companion. It’s not easy and won’t be solved overnight, but it is possible!Understanding Resource GuardingResource guarding is a common behavior that many dog parents struggle with. It happens when a dog protects a resource they see as valuable from a perceived threat. This is a deeply rooted survival instinct, ensuring they have access to the resources needed to meet their basic needs. While this describes the reason for the behavior, it can become problematic if it escalates to aggression.Common triggers for resource guarding include food, toys, bones, bedding, and specific locations within the home. Dogs may also guard people, especially “their person.”The intensity of resource guarding can vary wildly. Some dogs will exhibit mild displays of possessiveness. Mild resource guarding may involve growling, snapping, or posturing when a person or other animal approaches the resource.However, others will display severe aggression to protect what they see as theirs. This can involve aggressive biting and can pose a serious risk to others. Recognizing the signs of resource guarding and taking appropriate steps to address the issue before it escalates is crucial.Preventing and Managing Toy AggressionOnce you have identified that your dog is exhibiting toy aggression, it’s time to take proactive steps to prevent and manage this behavior. After all, we all want to create a safe and happy living environment for our dogs and the rest of the family. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it will be to modify your dog’s behavior.In the following sections, I’ll offer strategies and techniques to help you prevent and manage toy aggression that I have learned over my many years fostering rescue dogs. By understanding the underlying reasons for this behavior, managing the behavior to prevent trouble short-term, and training for long-term success, you can effectively address this common problem.Early Socialization and TrainingOne of the most effective ways to prevent resource guarding is through early socialization and training, which is excellent news if you’re bringing a young puppy home!Expose your young pup to various people, animals, and environments from a young age. This will help them develop positive associations with different triggers and situations, ultimately reducing their fear and anxiety. It will help them be more comfortable in unknown situations instead of making them feel like they have to step up and protect themselves and their treasured belongings.Positive Reinforcement TechniquesChoosing the right approach to training is almost as important as the training process itself. Positive reinforcement is a powerful training method that rewards desired behaviors and creates positive associations.When your dog displays calm and relaxed behavior around their toys, reward them with treats, praise, or playtime. In time, your dog will begin associating sharing with positive things, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.Why specifically positive reinforcement? Punishing or scolding your dog for guarding their toys can escalate their anxiety, making the problem worse.Basic Obedience CommandsIn addition to focusing on training specifically related to your dog’s resource guarding behaviors, you should continue working on obedience training. Many basic commands, such as “drop it” and “leave it,” will help you manage these situations.Throughout this training, the goal is to convince your dog to trade for something better. Practice these commands regularly, starting with having your dog leave low-value items in exchange for treats. As they show they are more willing to make the trade, gradually progress to higher-value items like toys.You can effectively prevent and manage their resource guarding by teaching your dog to hand over or drop items on cue.Desensitization and CounterconditioningAn extension of your dog’s training, desensitization and counterconditioning are powerful techniques used to help your dog overcome their fear and anxiety. As these feelings can trigger resource guarding or make a situation involving resource guarding even worse, they are important to acknowledge and address.If you have a dog who can share with others in some situations and not others, you will need to find the reason why. If your dog is in a situation where they are feeling fearful, they are more likely to try to feel the need to protect their belongings.  These techniques involve gradually exposing your dog to their triggers while maintaining a calm and relaxed environment. These exposures are paired with positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to create positive associations and teach them that the trigger does not need to be feared.For example, if you have a small dog afraid of large dogs, you may start by standing across a field from larger dogs while rewarding your dog for staying calm. Over time, you can slowly close the gap between them while praising and rewarding them for calm behavior. Eventually, your dog will be able to be close to larger dogs without feeling nervous or afraid because the emotions they feel when seeing them have been rewired – feeling excitement for the rewards they know they will receive instead of fear.When you have successfully worked through this process, your dog will no longer feel the need to guard their toys just because a larger dog comes near.Try Calming Products to Reduce Anxiety For dogs who experience heightened anxiety or stress, calming products can help them feel more relaxed temporarily while you work toward a longer-term solution. Calming treats infused with natural ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help soothe your dog and promote relaxation. Another option is to use pheromone diffusers or sprays to mimic the calming pheromones that dogs naturally produce. These chemical signals tell the brain they are safe and secure, helping them feel calmer and relaxed in their surroundings. This can help prevent situations from escalating into something serious. For more severe cases of anxiety, I recommend consulting with your veterinarian about the potential benefits of CBD products specifically formulated for dogs.

Puppy Blues is a Real Thing – Just Like Baby Blues, Study Shows

There is no doubt that puppies are super cute. When you first bring a tiny little bundle of fur into your home, it is a cause of great joy. But sometimes, life can change in many ways as you care for your new pet. A latest scientific study published in Mental Health Research reveals that almost half of all dog owners can experience something reminiscent of the famous “baby blues” – only related to puppies instead of babies.Many owners will experience anxiety, frustration, or weariness during those first steps of their pet’s puppyhood. The study that was conducted at the University of Helsinki confirmed that owners will experience a short-term drop in mood, and great melancholy, while their pet is a puppy - something that is akin to the famous postnatal “baby blues”. This is because caring for a puppy gives rise to a variety of worries and fears, anxiety and frustration, and difficulty bonding."The study found that these so-called 'puppy blues' manifest in three ways: anxiety, frustration, and weariness. These often occur concurrently, but in some cases, one or two of the three may be particularly prominent," said psychologist and doctoral researcher Aada Ståhl.When a puppy owner is anxious, their thoughts “are colored by concerns” about the wellbeing of their pet, and how they are developing. They can also be worried that they are not adequately looking after the fragile little being. If something doesn’t pan out, the owner would often blame themselves for it. What is more, as a result of the strain and the challenges of caring for a puppy, a puppy owner might become frustrated even further. In the initial stages, they might discover that it is difficult to build an emotional bond with the puppy, which would only make everything much more difficult.All of this makes puppyhood exhausting and very taxing mentally and physically. Owners could experience a lack of sleep and increased tiredness and anxiety."Just under half of owners report having had significant negative experiences during their dog's puppyhood phase, with only about a tenth reporting the most severe levels of strain. This is in line with the prevalence of postnatal depression. However, the negative feelings fade relatively quickly," says Professor Hannes Lohi.But the study now offers a key insight – the more time that passed since puppyhood, the more positively owners remembered it. This means that the negative emotional content of these memories “fades” as time passes. All these results were collected by examining the experiences of over 100 different dog owners, all of whom experienced emotional strain after bringing a puppy home. The survey was specifically developed to measure “puppy blues”. It collected specific responses from over 2,000 dog owners, ensuring the reliability of the survey."Capturing the phenomenon in a measurable form is important if we are to better understand its characteristics, prevalence, and duration. This will also allow us to improve understanding of the factors that may predispose owners to or protect them from the 'puppy blues,' which will help us to develop prevention and support measures," added Ståhl.The study offers a crucial new glimpse into the relationship between a pet and an owner. Exploring the puppy blues phenomenon will help raise awareness and prepare future owners for the challenges of puppyhood – as there are quite a few that come together with all that cuteness.