Humans have been hunting with dogs for at least 20,000 years, and the relationship between hunter and dog has changed throughout the ages. Around 10,000 years ago, when man first began domesticating animals, dogs were tasked with overseeing the herd. By about 6,000 years ago there were at least 5 distinct breeds of hunting dogs …
My dog Kyra absolutely loves swimming. Any time we are near the water, she’s chasing frogs in the shallows or paddling around in her lifejacket. It’s a common misconception that all dogs are natural swimmers. Some are made for the water, some can be taught to love it, and some should never be left alone …
As anyone who has had and loved a dog will tell you, the only terrible thing about dogs is that they don’t live as long as people. But things are changing, with dogs living longer than ever before. With pet education, proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle, pet parents are able to help their fur kids …
In recent years, wolf hybrids have become somewhat of an intriguing phenomenon in the dog-owning community. The topic is a controversial one, yes, but that hasn’t stopped dog lovers and some wild-at-heart animal enthusiasts from taking a step towards the wild side and adopting a pooch that is part dog and part wolf. Crossbreeding isn’t …
When most of us think of terriers, we have a certain type of dog in mind. Those of us who have experience with the small terrier group will conjure up an image of a Yorkie or a West Highland White Terrier — feisty, fearless little dogs with a distinct stubborn streak. Medium-sized dog lovers might …
There is a certain allure that wolf-dogs possess. Their majestic build, wild eyes, and dignified presence attract owners from all walks of life. And is likely the reason these types of dogs have grown in popularity over the last few decades. But these canine chimeras aren’t without controversy. Some see these magnificent beasts as just …
Many of us with kids, and probably many of us without kids, are familiar with the epic one-liner from Disney-Pixar’s movie Despicable Me . “It’s so fluffy I’m gonna die!” Little Agnes screams as she clutches her newly won fluffy unicorn toy. Why is that line so popular? Because so many of us can relate! …
Working dog breeds are intelligent, trainable, outgoing and high-energy dogs. The working dog class is extensive, made up of over 50 breeds including everything from the Old English Sheep Dog to the Komondor with their impressive coats, all of which would have been typically bred to carry out very specific jobs. This is also the …
Everyone who loves dogs has a favorite breed. Some of us like fuzzy little pooches like Pomeranians and Maltese, while others go for the sleek, almost hairless looks of whippets and greyhounds. And then there are the daring souls who can’t resist the giant dog breeds — those 100-plus-pound bundles of joy that are so …
Every dog-lover knows the internal struggle of seeing a service dog with a “DO NOT PET” vest on. As hard as it is, it’s super important to know that service dogs aren’t defined as pets, but as workers. And for some people, they’re absolutely essential to everyday life. According to the American with Disabilities Act …
Congratulations on starting your search for a breeder! It’s hard to know what to look for when choosing a breeder, and it can feel like a lot of pressure to find an ethical breeder with healthy, happy dogs. If you’re willing to put in the work, though, you can help support a small dog-loving business …
Bully breeds are remarkable dogs with an unfortunate reputation. Unpopular to many, the bull breeds are surrounded by stigma and suspicion. It is a disservice towards these dogs who are much more gentle than their widespread stature would suggest. Breeds such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Pit Bull Terrier are said to have been …
Wondering which are the most popular dog breeds in the world? This list of the 50 most popular dog breeds is one of the most comprehensive out there. What makes some dog breeds popular? Sometimes, dogs are popular despite having some health or other issues. Studies of dog choices reveal that breeds seem to be …
If you have a dog that has an accident or illness (often bone cancer or some other type of bone disease) that requires them having to have a leg amputated it can be extremely distressing for both you and your dog. Sometimes, even when amputation is being recommended as the best course of action, owners …
Therapy dogs are used in a wide variety of environments and circumstances but, broadly speaking, they are dogs whose presence is designed to help alleviate stress, promote feelings of well-being and sometimes help with a process of rehabilitation or healing in humans other than their owners. Physical contact with dogs has been shown to help …