Your Dog’s Graying Might Not Be Normal

3 Things That Might Be Causing Your Dog To Dig Up Your Yard

If you’re a dog owner who’s ever walked outside to find craters scattered across your lawn, you’re not alone. Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can quickly become frustrating. Before you can put a stop to the behavior, it helps to understand why your dog might be digging. Here are three of the most common reasons.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

3 Strange Things Your Dog Might Do When They’re Sick

Dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell, but they often express discomfort in ways that seem odd. As a pet parent, recognizing these subtle signals early can make all the difference. Here are three unusual behaviors that might mean your dog isn’t feeling their best.

Why Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Might Be Right For Your Dog

What Is Nature’s Blend?With so many dog food options on the market these days, it can be hard to know which one is right for your canine companion. Nature’s Blend is a dog food that stands out from the pack due to its high quality formula and the unique way it is made. In this Dr Marty: Nature’s Blend article, we’ll take a close look at one of the most popular freeze-dried pet foods available on the market.What Makes Nature’s Blend Stand Out From Other Dog Foods? Nature’s Blend is a premium dog food that contains real cuts of raw turkey, ranch-raised beef, salmon, duck, fruits, vegetables, and seeds to help deliver a rainbow of nutrition to your canine. Dr. Marty’s team receives all of these raw ingredients fresh, and then gently freeze-dries them to create delicious food that’s bursting with flavor. This cutting edge formula contains natural ingredients and is free from artificial dyes, artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, and grains. What Are The Potential Health Benefits Of Using Nature’s BlendFeeding your dog Nature’s Blend is as convenient as kibble – but the nutritional quality is worlds apart. Nature’s Blend is designed to mirror what your dog might eat in the wild. It contains a variety of fresh protein sources and plenty of real fruits, vegetables, and seeds. While many dry dog food companies overcook their food and strip out essential vitamins and minerals, this food is gently freeze-dried. The result is a delicious food that maintains its content of amino acids, enzymes, fats, and other nutrients. When your dog eats a high quality food like this, you may notice more defined muscle tone, a shiny coat, calm skin, and more compact stool.*1-3*All dogs are unique. Your dog’s results can and will vary.What Are The Ingredients In Dr. Marty's Dog Food?Here’s the list of ingredients contained in Nature’s Blend: Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Duck, Beef Liver, Turkey Liver, Turkey Heart, Flaxseed, Sweet Potato, Egg, Pea Flour, Apple, Blueberry, Carrot, Cranberry, Pumpkin Seed, Spinach, Dried Kelp, Ginger, Salt, Sunflower Seed, Broccoli, Kale, and Mixed Tocopherols (natural preservative)Frequently Asked Questions

New Research Shows Stress Can Turn Your Dog’s Fur Gray

You know how you always tell the kids that they’re making you go gray prematurely? Research has found that stress can also affect the color of your dog’s coat. Most of us can easily recognize the tell-tale signs of a pooch who is stressing out; they pace, whine, hide and can nip at uninvited fingers. But did you know that research conducted by the Northern Illinois University suggests our four-legged kids may also experience a little premature “salt and pepper” as a result of worrisome situations. Published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, the study of 400 dogs found that those who exhibited higher than typical signs of anxiety were prone to a little more greying around the muzzle than their chilled out peers. Researchers gathered data on the pooch’s behaviors from the pet parents and had independent graders then rate the extent of muzzle grayness based on pix of the pooches taken while on-site. Related: Research Finds Fear and Anxiety Negatively Affects Dog Health and Lifespan The canine subjects were all between one and four years old (so age wasn’t a factor) and results showed that those whose owners reported higher signs of anxiety displayed premature muzzle graying. This was the same research team who published an article in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior that examined the effectiveness of swaddling and pressure wraps such as Thundershirts, on heart rate levels and symptoms of anxiety in pooches. Their findings concluded that use of such applications does in fact have a notable decrease in heart rate in anxious dogs as well as other measures of stress. So before you reach for the Grecian Formula, why not try de-stressors recognized by veterinarians and dog trainers including the above-mentioned Thundershirt, physical activities or providing your pooch with his very own “safe space”, toys or blankets until the situation has defused.

Is Your Dog Scared of Loud Noises? This New FDA-Approved Drug Might He

Initially created to treat epilepsy, Pexion turned out to be quite effective when it comes to treating anxiety, as well. As Christmas and New Year holidays get near, a lot of pet owners are dreading the inevitable noise of firecrackers and fireworks that come with them. For some pets, there’s nothing more horrifying than loud noises, and someone’s festive mood might be their greatest terror. Fortunately, just in time for the festivities, The Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug that’s meant to help dogs petrified by loud sounds. Pexion, as the drug is called, was initially meant to be used for treating epilepsy. While this is the primary use of the medicine in other countries where it’s approved, studies have shown that this drug is quite effective at treating anxiety in canines, as well. This drug is similar to Valium and other benzodiazepines but works in a different way that turned out to be perfect for pets suffering from noise aversion. According to the FDA, 66 percent of owners of dogs participating in the Pexion trials rated the overall treatment effect as “excellent or good, compared with 25 percent of dogs receiving the placebo.” Pexion will be available by prescription only and the therapy should start 2 days before the noisy event in question. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if your pooch is a good candidate for this type of medication and let you know what the proper dosage is- tablets are given out according to your pet’s weight. Additionally, FDA warns owners who opt for Pexion to treat their pet’s noise aversion to be on the lookout for potential behavioral side effects. While it’s highly unlikely, your pet might become aggressive while on this medication. 3 out of 90 dogs in the trial were reported to exhibit aggressive behavior such as growling after taking the drug. Drugs used to treat anxiety can lead to “lack of self-control of fear-based behaviors” in general, so it’s best to keep your eye on your pooch while they’re taking it.

Pyrenees Becomes Super-Hero After Finding Toddler Missing in Desert

Portly Pyrenees ranch-hand find missing toddler while doing the rounds... and brings him home.

Patio-Worthy Picks to Keep Your Pooch Chill This Summer

Pets Can Get Sunburned Too - Here’s What You Need to Know

Most pet owners know the dangers of overheating and hot pavement during summer, but there’s another seasonal risk that often flies under the radar: sunburn. While it’s common to think of sunburn as a human problem, animals, especially dogs and cats, can suffer the same painful effects of too much sun exposure.And it’s more than just an occasional red nose. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to peeling, inflammation, long-term skin damage, and in some cases, even skin cancer in pets.“Pets with light-colored fur or thin coats are particularly at risk,” warns Peony Melbourne, a veterinary surgeon with the RCVS in the UK. “Areas like the nose, ears, and belly are especially vulnerable, these spots aren’t protected by fur and can burn easily.”Sunburn tends to affect areas where an animal’s fur is thin or absent, such as the tips of the ears, the nose, the belly, and around the eyes. Animals with light-colored fur or pink skin are at the highest risk, as are certain breeds with very short or sparse coats. Hairless breeds, such as the Chinese Crested dog or Sphynx cat, are particularly vulnerable, although even well-coated pets can be at risk in certain areas.The most common signs of sunburn in pets include reddened or warm skin, excessive licking or scratching at the affected area, sensitivity to touch, or visible peeling. In more severe cases, skin may blister or scab, which can require medical treatment.According to veterinary professionals, the best way to protect pets is to limit their exposure to direct sunlight during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If pets are outside during these hours, access to shade is crucial.In addition to minimizing sun exposure, pet-safe sunscreen is another line of defense. These products are formulated without ingredients toxic to animals, such as zinc oxide or certain essential oils, both of which are commonly found in human sunscreens. Sunscreen made specifically for pets can be applied to high-risk areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Some formulations come in wipes or sticks, making application less of a battle.For pets who spend extended time outdoors, whether hiking, at the beach, or just lounging in the yard, lightweight UV-protective clothing is becoming more common. These garments are especially helpful for dogs with exposed skin or recent hair loss due to surgery or allergies.Although most sunburns are mild and heal with time, they should not be ignored. Owners who notice any unusual redness, discomfort, or behavior changes in their pets after sun exposure should contact a veterinarian. Self-treatment with home remedies is not recommended, as many over-the-counter products can be harmful if licked or absorbed.Heat stress is also a concern during summer months, and it often goes hand in hand with sunburn. Ensuring pets have access to fresh water, cool resting spots, and ventilation can prevent more serious complications like heatstroke.While the idea of sunburn in pets may seem surprising, the truth is that animals are not immune to the same environmental risks humans face. As more research focuses on pet skin health, veterinarians hope awareness will grow.In short, if you’re applying sunscreen before heading outside, it might be time to think about your pet, too. A few simple precautions can make all the difference—and help keep those noses pink, but not burned.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Cats

With the arrival of spring and blooming trees, seasonal allergies make their return - and believe it or not, cats can have them too! Just like humans, our feline friends can suffer from allergies triggered by pollen, dust mites, and mold. While cat allergies aren’t as commonly recognized as those in dogs or people, they can still cause significant discomfort. Understanding the symptoms can help you take the right steps to keep your cat happy and healthy. Here’s what to look out for!Common Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Cats1. Persistent Scratching and Over-GroomingOne of the first signs of allergies in cats is constant itching. If your cat is scratching, licking, or biting their skin - especially around the face, ears, paws, or belly- it could be due to allergens in their environment. Excessive grooming can lead to hair loss, bald patches, and even skin infections.2. Skin Irritation and InflammationAllergic reactions often cause redness, swelling, or rashes on a cat’s skin. Some cats may develop scabs, sores, or flaky patches due to repeated scratching. If left untreated, these irritated areas can become infected, requiring veterinary care.3. Watery Eyes and Runny NoseSimilar to hay fever in humans, seasonal allergies can make a cat’s eyes watery and irritated. Their eyes may appear red or swollen, sometimes with a clear or slightly cloudy discharge. Some cats also develop a runny nose, sneezing, or mild congestion, which can easily be mistaken for a respiratory infection.4. Sneezing, Coughing, and WheezingAllergens like pollen and mold can trigger sneezing fits, coughing, and even mild breathing difficulties. If your cat is sneezing more than usual, especially during allergy season, it could be a reaction to environmental allergens. Cats with asthma or other respiratory conditions may experience worsened symptoms, such as wheezing or labored breathing.5. Ear InfectionsInflammation from allergies can lead to excessive wax buildup in a cat’s ears, increasing the risk of ear infections. If your cat is shaking their head frequently, scratching at their ears, or if you notice an unusual odor, it’s a sign that their ears may need medical attention.6. Paw IrritationAllergens can affect a cat’s paws, causing itching and discomfort. Excessive paw licking or chewing, redness, or swelling can indicate an allergic reaction. In more severe cases, open sores or infections may develop.When to See a VeterinarianMild seasonal allergies can often be managed at home, but if symptoms become severe or persistent, a vet visit is essential. Excessive scratching, hair loss, open wounds, breathing difficulties, or recurrent ear infections may require medical treatment. Your veterinarian can perform allergy tests to identify specific triggers and recommend treatments such as antihistamines, medicated creams, or dietary adjustments.How to Reduce Allergic Reactions at HomeThere are several ways to help minimize allergens in your home and keep your cat comfortable:

Why Is My Fish Lying at the Bottom of the Tank?

Fish can have all sorts of quirky behaviors, but spotting your fish lying motionless at the bottom of the tank can be a cause for concern. While it might look alarming, this isn’t always a sign of illness. In fact, many fish naturally rest or explore near the substrate. That said, if this behavior is sudden, prolonged, or comes with other signs of distress, it’s worth taking a closer look.Normal or Not? Understanding the BehaviorFirst, it’s helpful to know what’s normal for your particular fish species. Bottom-dwelling species like catfish, loaches, and other scavengers often spend much of their time at the bottom. They’re built for it - searching for food, resting, or hiding among decorations. But if a fish that typically swims in the upper or middle areas suddenly starts lying low, that could signal a problem.Some red flags to watch for include:Clamped finsDiscolorationGasping at the surfaceLoss of appetiteLabored breathingErratic or unusual swimmingIf any of these symptoms accompany bottom-sitting, it's time to investigate.

Cat Care For Seniors Made Easy

(photo credit: InesBazadar / shutterstock.com)Let’s talk seniors. Regardless of age, they all have different abilities. Some are still highly active while others may be less so. Cognition levels can also vary from one individual to another as can favorite pastimes. Bridge champion, master gardener, or avid swimmer…when talking about the ideal feline for an older adult, it’s not necessarily down to finding a low-maintenance, easygoing breed that will be content to sit on a lap and receive cuddles. Maybe it’s something a little more playful or interactive yet not as demanding in terms of time and maintenance.One of the easiest ways to suss up how appropriate a new feline will be for a senior is to check out the rescues and shelters. You will find a mix of mid-life and older animals with a personality and/or attitude already baked in. So, you know just how feisty – or not – said puss is going to be when she gets home.You will also find that most relinquished cats are of a mixed breed status. Mixed breeds have a broader gene pool and fewer heredity health issues -hence the reason for the number of “designer” dogs you now see. For cats, brachycephalic breeds such as Persians or Burmese can inherit respiratory issues while Siamese are prone to dental disease and Maine Coons to hip dysplasia. Of course, the cost to adopt a rescue is also considerably less expensive than purchasing a pure-bred feline which can often be a deciding factor for anyone on a fixed income.

Cats Could Play a Role as Therapy Animals

Could cats become more common in animal-assisted services and therapy work? Keep reading to learn about some recent research into feline therapy.

Can Dogs Really Tell Time?

You might have noticed your dog waiting by the door just before you get home, or staring at their food bowl exactly when dinner should be served. It’s almost as if they can read the clock - but can dogs really tell time?Well, not exactly in the way humans do. Dogs can’t glance at a wall clock or count the hours, but they do have an impressive sense of timing - one that’s rooted in routine, body rhythms, and environmental cues. Let’s take a closer look at what science (and real-life dog behavior) tells us.Dogs and the Rhythm of RoutineDogs thrive on routine. They may not know it’s 7:00 PM, but they do know what 7:00 PM feels like. Their internal sense of time is shaped by:Habitual patterns (waking, eating, walking, sleeping)Biological rhythms (like hunger or energy cycles)Environmental changes (shifting light, temperature, or sounds)So when your dog waits at the window just before you return from work, it’s not because they’ve checked the time - it’s because their body has learned the rhythm of your schedule. Over time, their brain connects environmental clues and physical sensations with your arrival.The Power of Scent and SoundDogs also rely heavily on scent and sound to track time.As strange as it sounds, some scientists believe dogs might use the fading of your scent in the house as a marker of how long you’ve been gone. The longer you’re away, the weaker your scent - helping your dog estimate the passage of time.They’re also sensitive to audio cues: the rumble of a familiar car engine, footsteps in the hallway, or even the click of a neighbor’s routine can signal what’s about to happen.Do Dogs Understand “Later” or “Soon”?Dogs don’t think about time in the abstract the way we do - they live very much in the moment. So while your dog may understand that a certain cue (like you grabbing the leash) means something is about to happen, they probably don’t understand “in five minutes” or “after dinner” the way a child might.

Can Dogs Have Nightmares?

If you’ve ever watched your dog sleep, you might have noticed them twitching, whimpering, or even paddling their legs as if they were running. It’s easy to wonder - are they dreaming? And if so, could they be having nightmares?The idea of dogs experiencing nightmares is fascinating, and while we can’t ask them directly, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that they do, in fact, dream just like we do. But what exactly happens when a dog has a bad dream, and should you be concerned? Let’s take a closer look.Do Dogs Dream?Scientists believe that dogs, like humans, go through different sleep cycles, including REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. This is the stage of sleep when most dreaming occurs. Research on brain activity in sleeping dogs has shown that their sleep patterns are strikingly similar to ours, which suggests that they likely dream as well.In fact, studies on rats have demonstrated that these small animals replay activities from their waking hours in their dreams. Since dogs have even more complex brains than rats, it’s highly likely that they also relive experiences in their sleep - both good and bad.What Do Dogs Dream About?Though we can’t say for certain, experts believe dogs dream about their daily experiences. Your dog might dream about chasing a ball, going for a walk, or interacting with people and other animals. A hunting breed might dream of tracking prey, while a herding dog could be rounding up imaginary sheep in its sleep.Because dogs process emotions much like humans do, it’s also possible that they dream about stressful or frightening experiences. If your pup had a rough day at the vet or encountered an aggressive dog at the park, those moments might play out in their dreams.Can Dogs Have Nightmares?Yes, dogs can have nightmares. Just as happy moments can appear in their dreams, so can fears and anxieties. If you’ve ever seen your dog whimper, growl, or suddenly jolt awake from sleep, it’s possible they were having a bad dream.Common triggers for nightmares in dogs might include past trauma (especially in rescue dogs), loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms, or stressful situations they’ve recently experienced. A dog that has had negative interactions with other animals or humans may also relive those moments in their sleep.Should You Wake a Dog from a Nightmare?It’s tempting to wake up a dog that seems distressed in their sleep, but it’s usually best to let them wake up on their own. Suddenly waking a dog from a deep sleep, especially during a nightmare, can startle them, causing them to react instinctively by snapping or growling.If your dog frequently has nightmares and appears very distressed, you can try gently calling their name from a distance to wake them gradually. Avoid touching them abruptly, as this can be disorienting.How to Help a Dog That Has Frequent NightmaresIf your dog seems to have bad dreams often, there are a few things you can do to help:

Hamsters vs Guinea Pigs: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Hamsters and guinea pigs are two of the most popular small pets, especially for young children. While they both may be small and cute, they have notably different personalities, needs, and care requirements. Understanding their differences will help you decide which furry companion suits you best.

Study Finds Most Pet Owners Underestimate the Lifetime Care Costs

We love our pets and treat them as members of the family, but owning a four-legged companion can get costly. Furthermore, the lifetime cost of owning a pet has increased, according to a new study conducted by Synchrony, a financial company.Synchrony’s Lifetime of Pet Care study found that nearly eight in 10 U.S. pet owners underestimate the lifetime cost of caring for their pet. The report also shows that lifetime care costs have increased significantly since 2022, by 11,65% for dogs and 19,4% for cats. This increase reflects a growing investment in veterinary care, technology, and wellness products. The study, which surveyed 4,861 U.S. pet parents, found that caring for a dog over a 15-year period can cost between $22,125 and $60,602. Meanwhile, caring for a cat over a 15-year period is estimated to cost from $20,073 to $47,106. For the first time, the study also included the lifetime care costs for small animals, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits. Caring for pocket pets over a six-year lifespan can cost between $7,600 and $14,938.Most pet owners, however, estimated much lower spending. According to Synchrony’s report, dog owners expect to spend only $8,000 on their pups’ lifetime care, while cat owners estimate spending just $6,000 on lifetime care costs. “Pets enrich our lives in countless ways, and it’s natural for pet owners to want to provide them with the best possible care,” said Jonathan Wainberg, senior vice president and general manager of Synchrony’s pet division. “Our research shows that while 60% of dog owners, 61% of cat owners, and 59% of ‘pocket-pet’ owners see them as family, many are unaware of the actual financial commitment.”The report also uncovered increased financial worry among pet parents, with 48% saying they feel anxious about unexpected expenses. Although 74% of owners report they’ve had unexpected pet care costs over $250, only 31% admit they could comfortably cover a large veterinary bill. A growing number of pet owners, 58% revealed they used a credit card to pay for their pet’s veterinary expenses. Meanwhile, only 20% of dog and cat owners reported having emergency savings or insurance to cover unexpected veterinary bills. Cats are becoming increasingly popular as pets, with 37% of U.S. households reporting owning a feline. The increase in cat ownership is responsible for the increase in tech spending, which has doubled since 2022.More and more cat owners are opting for products like automated cat feeders and litter boxes. According to the report, cat owners are now spending between $350 and $480 on high-tech products for their cats.Dog owners, on the other hand, are spending more on wellness plans and health insurance, contributing to the overall rise in care costs. An average dog owner spends $701 a year on wellness plans for their pooch and $313 a year on dog insurance. “The best asset you can give your pet is their health,” said Dr. Courtney Campbell, board-certified veterinary surgeon. “Preventative care is the bedrock of a vibrant life. If we can prevent costly emergencies before they start, we can help ensure a lifetime of joy and comfort for our multi-species family members.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Lifestyle

Bringing a pet into your life is exciting, but it's also a big decision. Pets aren't just cute companions; they depend on us for their health, happiness, and daily care. That’s why it’s so important to make sure the pet you choose actually fits your lifestyle, your home, and your long-term plans.Choosing thoughtfully can mean the difference between a joyful experience and a stressful one, for both you and your future pet. Here's what to think about before you say yes to a new furry (or scaly, or feathered) friend.Start by Looking at Your LifestyleBefore you even start thinking about breeds or species, ask yourself: what does a typical day look like for you?If you’re someone who loves being outside, running, hiking, or going on long walks, an active dog like a retriever or a border collie might be the perfect adventure buddy.But if your schedule is packed, you travel a lot, or you just love cozy nights at home, a lower-maintenance pet — like a cat, a hamster, or a fish - might be a better match.Be honest about how much time and energy you can consistently offer, not just on your best days, but every day.Think About Your HomeNext up: where do you live?Your living space plays a huge role in what kind of pet will thrive with you.If you’re in an apartment, a giant dog who needs room to run might not be the best fit.Smaller pets like birds, reptiles, or small mammals can often do great in smaller spaces, as long as their setups are thoughtfully designed.