This is the first of a monthly series in which we will introduce you to one of the 340 dog breeds in existence as recognized by the World Canine Organization. Today’s star is the Beagle. The Beagle is one of America’s top 40 most popular dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club; so if you get one of these guys, you know you’re in good company. Introducing the Beagle A member of the Hound group, the Beagle is a small- to medium-sized hunting dog, weighing between 20 and 24 pounds and reaching heights of 13 to 16 inches. It…

Is Brutus really happy to see you when you come home because his tail is wagging furiously? Or does it mean something else? That’s a question asked more frequently about dogs than anything else, ranking first in Google’s 2015 list of dog things that people searched for. While dogs actually do use their tails to communicate, a wagging tail doesn’t always mean that Rover is happy. That tail is only part of the communication and it’s important to look at the whole dog before you reach down and pet your neighbor’s pooch. A dog that is tense, has its ears…

You’ve wondered, perhaps, if your dog was a little pudgy. But he doesn’t seem to mind it; he runs and plays as well as he always has. Besides, he loves to eat and he’s adorable, to boot! Being overweight is harmful to his overall well being and puts your dog at risk for many diseases; among them diabetes, cardiovascular disease and arthritis. How can I determine if my dog Is overweight? The most effective way to determine if a pet is obese is by using a 9-point scoring system used by veterinarians in evaluating the body condition of pets. A…

Do you want to include your dog in your Christmas photos this year? Are you hunting for creative ideas that don’t require a great deal of work or involve a trip to see Santa at the local pet store? There are plenty of easy options you can try at home; it’s just a matter of putting on your thinking cap (or Santa cap?) to conjure up awesome ideas. Check out the following fur-friendly photo options if you want to incorporate your canine into your holiday images. – Pose your pup in the back of a pickup truck atop a cozy…

A New Risk To Your Best Friend: E-Cigarettes Over the past two to three years, the use of e-cigarettes has increased exponentially among smokers who wish to quit the habit and believe they can do so by getting their nicotine hit through a vaporizer. However, this means more people are likely to have e-cigs lying around on coffee tables or other surfaces accessible to their dog. This can lead to catastrophic consequences, as a vaporizer represents a threat to your dog’s health on two fronts: the lithium ion battery and the flavored liquid high in nicotine. The Lithium Ion Battery…

Sometimes having allergies is just the worst. Not only do you have to endure sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms whenever you come into contact with your allergens, you are also excluded from many of the activities “normal” people get to do without thinking about it. High up on that list is having a dog when you are allergic to them. Luckily for you, there are several great dog breeds that are almost hypoallergenic. Consider getting one of these breeds and gain a new companion without your allergies getting in your way. 1. American Hairless Terrier –…

With so many available dog shampoos in the market, it can truly be confusing on the part of owners to pick which one is most suitable and would give the best benefits. One of the most favorite options these days is the oatmeal shampoo, which you’ve probably heard of already. It’s highly recommended by many vets too. Why is the oatmeal shampoo beneficial for your dog? Moisturizing of Skin Just like humans, the dog’s largest organ is the skin. Hence, it needs to be given proper care and attention. Oatmeal has always been helpful when it comes to moisturizing the…

Although we tend feel we need to follow an exercise program to keep ourselves physically fit, the truth is that regular physical activity makes us happier too. And, the impact of exercise on our dogs is no different. Your dog needs daily exercise to stay healthy and to be happy. In fact, this is so true that there is an axiom saying just that, “A tired dog is a happy dog.” And, just between you and me, another truth is that a happy dog equals a happy owner. But, just how much exercise does your dog need? Well, it depends…

Your dog’s behavior doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase (or seen it written here): “The dog is always right”? The reason is that dogs are simply responding to what is happening in their environment. And, specifically, how their environment makes them feel. Whatever your dog is doing, it is ALL about the relationship that you have with your dog. And the relationship that you have with the significant people in your life. And the relationship that you have with yourself. The obvious relationship that matters here is how you are with your dog. Are you nervous?…

While dogs serve as friendly and wonderful companions, their presence can also provide pet owners with sleepless nights and uncomfortable moments. When your cute dogs become agitated, threatened or scared, they start to act wildly, act defensively and even aggressively act by biting anyone who shows up or threatens them. Dog bites are no longer surprising; according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, nearly 5 million Americans are bitten by dogs annually. And of this number, more than 800,000 individuals require medical attention, and most are children. In short, dog bites are serious issues that require understanding and constant monitoring.…