Why Some Dogs Refuse to Go Outside in the Rain (and How to Help Them)
You know the signs all too well—your dog is pacing near the door, scratching, whining, or performing the unmistakable potty shuffle. He clearly needs to go outside. Unfortunately, there’s one major obstacle standing in the way: it’s raining, and your dog wants nothing to do with it. Many dog owners experience this exact struggle, especially during wetter months in Utah when rainstorms roll through unexpectedly. In this post, we’ll explore why dogs often resist going outside in the rain and what you can do to help them feel more comfortable braving the elements. Reason #1: Dogs Learn Their Habits From ...
Pet Insurance Explained: Is Coverage Worth the Cost for Your Dog or Cat?
Recent research conducted by LendEDU revealed a surprising insight into pet ownership in the United States: more than one in four pet owners—25.59%—are unaware that pet insurance even exists. At the same time, the study uncovered a strong vote of confidence among those who do carry coverage. An overwhelming 83% of insured pet owners reported that pet insurance is well worth the cost, particularly when unexpected medical emergencies arise. Despite how common pets are in American households, pet insurance remains widely misunderstood and underutilized. This guide is designed to close that knowledge gap by clearly explaining how pet insurance works, ...
Why Do Dogs Hump? Common Causes, What It Means, and How to Stop the Behavior
It can be uncomfortable—sometimes downright awkward—when your dog suddenly starts humping your leg, a couch cushion, or another dog, especially if it happens in front of guests. While this behavior may feel embarrassing, it’s actually very common in dogs and is usually tied to excitement, overstimulation, or emotional triggers rather than anything inappropriate. You may notice it happens more often during playtime or when your dog is around other dogs. Although the behavior itself is considered normal, not every dog appreciates being mounted, and these situations can quickly escalate into conflict. In this post, we’ll break down why dogs hump ...
Silent but Serious: How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease in Dogs
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, often develops quietly in dogs. In its early stages, it may show little to no obvious warning signs, which makes it easy to overlook. However, once the condition progresses, it can cause serious harm to your dog’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health. The good news is that gum disease in dogs is both preventable and treatable when addressed early. Dogs are far more vulnerable to gum disease than people. In fact, dogs are estimated to be five times more likely than humans to develop periodontal disease. This increased risk is largely due ...
Pet Safety Month Essentials: How to Protect Your Dog or Cat at Home, on the Road, and in Emergencies
September served as an important reminder to be prepared for unexpected emergencies and natural disasters. During that time, we focused on building emergency preparedness kits for dogs and cats—kits that included essentials like pet food, litter, carriers, and other necessities. We also emphasized one critical rule above all others: never leave your pets behind if you are required to evacuate. Emergencies often happen without warning, and having a clear, well-thought-out plan can make all the difference for both you and your pets, even if that plan is never put into action. October carries its own meaningful designations. It is recognized ...
Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags: The Best Sustainable Options for Responsible Pet Waste Cleanup
We’ve all reached for them at one time or another—the familiar little green bags designed for scooping dog poop. As responsible dog owners, we understand the importance of picking up after our pets and not leaving dog waste behind in parks, sidewalks, or yards. Over the years, we’ve discussed the health and environmental risks of ignoring pet waste, but one question often goes unasked: what actually happens to those dog poop bags after we throw them away? Today’s post takes a closer look at pet waste removal bags, how they impact the environment, and which options are genuinely better for ...
Dog Ear Problems Explained: Symptoms, Causes, and How to Prevent Painful Infections
Ear problems in puppies and adult dogs are extremely common and can be very uncomfortable—even painful—for your pet. Many dogs with ear trouble will constantly scratch, rub their ears against furniture, or shake their heads in an attempt to relieve irritation. You may also notice redness, swelling, or an unpleasant odor coming from the ears. While mild itching can occur occasionally, any visible discharge is a strong indicator that something isn’t right. Ear discharge is most often linked to ear mites or an ear infection, and infections should never be ignored, as they can quickly worsen and cause significant discomfort. ...
Are Dogs Really Colorblind? What Science Says About Canine Vision
For decades, many people believed dogs could only see the world in black and white. Modern research into canine anatomy and behavior, however, has proven that assumption to be incorrect. While dogs do not experience color in the same way humans do, they are far from completely colorblind. Instead, their vision exists within a more limited—but still colorful—spectrum. Where the Colorblind Myth Began The idea that dogs were unable to see color can be traced back to 1937, when Will Judy—a well-known dog enthusiast, writer, and the founder of National Dog Week—suggested that dogs only perceived black and white. He ...
Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Dog
Naming a dog is rarely a decision made on a whim. Most pet owners give it genuine thought because a dog’s name often reflects who we are, how we think, and the kind of relationship we want to build with our pet. A name becomes part of daily life, shaping how we communicate with and relate to our canine companion. During a visit to a veterinary clinic, one memorable moment highlighted just how much personality can be wrapped up in a name. A towering man—well over six feet tall—sat quietly holding a tiny black terrier in his arms. When the ...
How to Safely Prevent and Remove Ticks From Dogs and Cats
Finding a tick on your dog or cat is never pleasant. Ticks are persistent, blood-feeding parasites that can be challenging to remove and dangerous if ignored. When ticks remain attached for too long, they can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which pose health risks to both pets and humans. Because of this, consistent tick prevention is essential. Below are several effective methods to help protect your pets and reduce the risk of tick-borne illness. Over-the-Counter Tick Treatments Many pet owners rely on over-the-counter flea and tick medications for quick and reliable protection. These ...
Fleas in Dogs and Cats: How to Eliminate Them for Good
Fleas are one of the most frustrating parasites a pet owner can face. Once they make their way onto your dog or cat, it often feels like they’ve taken over your entire home. Unfortunately, fleas don’t disappear on their own, and there’s no instant fix. Successfully eliminating fleas requires consistency, patience, and a clear understanding of how they live and spread. Before diving into treatment options, it’s important to understand what fleas are and how infestations begin. Understanding Fleas and How Pets Get Them Fleas are tiny, brown, wingless insects that commonly attach themselves to dogs and cats in two ...
Understanding Dog Body Language: What Your Dog Is Really Telling You
The way a dog communicates—whether through barking, posture, or subtle movements—reveals a great deal about their emotional state. A sharp, intense bark may signal that your dog senses a potential intruder or unfamiliar presence, while a lighter, playful bark is often nothing more than a friendly greeting. While vocal cues are usually easy to recognize, interpreting canine body language can be more challenging. Learning how to read your dog’s physical signals allows you to better understand whether they are relaxed, anxious, fearful, or ready to play. This awareness helps strengthen the bond between you and your dog while also keeping ...
