Pumpkin and Almond Butter Dog Treat Recipe

Cranberry Peanut Butter Dog Treat Recipe

We love cranberries – there are so many benefits of this fruit for dogs. That’s one of the reasons why we love to make this Cranberry Peanut Butter Dog Treat Recipe.

Pumpkin and Cheese Dog Treat Recipe

If your dog loves cheese, have we got just the thing for you to bake up – these Pumpkin and Cheese Dog Treats!

Pumpkin and Coconut Dog Treat Recipe

My dogs go nuts for coconut! If your dog does too, you should bake up these Pumpkin and Coconut Dog Treats.

Almond Butter Dog Treat Recipe

I bought some new cookie cutters and I couldn’t wait to try them out. And the Almond Butter Dog Treat Recipe was the perfect dough to sink them into. Not only that, this is the perfect treat for your dog to sink his chompers into, especially if you’re trying to get him off the peanut butter bandwagon. This was the first time I’ve tried almond butter as a substitute and Oscar loved it. Just like the cookie promises, Oscar though these treats are “Nom Nom Nom!”Almond Butter Dog Treat RecipeMakes 30 cookiesIngredients:1 cup almond butter1 egg2 cups whole wheat flour1 tablespoon baking powder1 cup water1 teaspoon cinnamonDirections:Heat oven to 350°F. Line a non-stick cookie sheet with parchment paper.In a small bowl, mix almond butter and egg until combined. In a larger bowl, stir together flour, cinnamon, and baking powder. Stir the almond butter, egg, and water in the flour mixture. Stir until the dough is stiff.Roll out on a counter sprinkled with flour. Cut out using cookie cutters and place on a cookie sheet.Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool on racks.Is Almond Butter Good for My Dog? While almond butter isn’t a common ingredient in dog treats, it does offer some great benefits. In fact, you may read this and find yourself searching for ways to include it more moving forward!You may be surprised to learn that almond butter is high in calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium. All three of these minerals work together to improve your dog’s bone and joint health. They encourage strong, bones and teeth while also helping to prevent joint problems. It contains high levels of vitamin B3. Also known as Niacin, vitamin B3 is an important nutrient for the care and maintenance of your dog’s skin and coat health, GI tracts, and nervous tissue. It also plays an important role in the breaking down of essential fatty acids in your dog’s body. It also helps to lower cholesterol, boost energy levels, improve memory, and support proper circulation. Another major benefit of almond butter is the high levels of vitamin E that it offers. In fact, the vitamin E levels are higher than those that are found in peanut butter (a key reason why peanut butter is such a popular choice for dogs). Vitamin E contributes to the health and well-being of your dog in many different areas of the body including the immune system, heart, liver, muscles, nerves, and skin. It is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that it can help to ease some of the discomfort experienced by dogs living with arthritis. How did this recipe turn out for you? Let’s see the results – post a picture on our Facebook page!

Soft Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

Who doesn’t love soft and chewy cookies? Our senior dogs do, which is why we made this Soft Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe.

According to a New Study, Crows Can Count Out Loud

It’s no secret that crows are very intelligent creatures, and are capable of some truly stunning feats. However, a new study sheds light on a previously unknown skill of theirs – one that makes them truly unique in the world of animals. According to a team of scientists, crows can count out loud, quite similarly to human toddlers – and are the only other animal except humans to do so.This study is titled “Crows 'Count' the Number of Self-Generated Vocalizations" and was released on May 23rd, 2024 in the popular journal Science. The study found that crows are capable of producing a certain number of “caws” in response to auditory or visual stimuli. This means that they were able to count out loud between one and four. Why is that so important, though?"Producing a specific number of vocalizations with purpose requires a sophisticated combination of numerical abilities and vocal control," the researchers explained. "Our results demonstrate that crows can flexibly and deliberately produce an instructed number of vocalizations by using the 'approximate number system', a non-symbolic number estimation system shared by humans and animals."During the course of the experiment, the research team presented three crows with random auditory and visual stimuli. These included sounds from various instruments and Arabic numbers. "Through trial and error, the birds learned that each cue corresponded to a set number of caws between one and four," the team members wrote. "After crowing the vocalizations out (cawing four times for a sound or symbol associated with four caws, for example), the birds were trained to peck the screen displaying them to signal they had finished."After the training was done, the crows – much to everyone’s surprise – gave correct answers when asked to say “the proper number of caws”. Their counting skills were quickly compared to those of toddlers. "This competency in crows also mirrors toddlers' enumeration skills before they learn to understand cardinal number words and may therefore constitute an evolutionary precursor of true counting where numbers are part of a combinatorial symbol system," the team shared.This goes beyond everything that was known about crows thus far. It just goes to show that crows are much more than regular birds in their behavior and abilities. And they might be much smarter than we previously realized – and we already thought they were exceptionally intelligent to begin with.

These are the Most Popular Dog Breeds In Different US Cities

There’s no doubt that dogs are by far the most popular pets in the U.S., with roughly 65.1 million homes having one or more dogs as pets. But not all breeds are loved equally, according to the latest studies from the American Pet Products Association. Certain dog breeds seem a bit more loved by Americans than others and these rankings are a great insight into their popularity in different cities. The North American Pet Health Insurance Association also reports that the number of insured pets in the U.S. has increased around 22.6% annually since 2020, which indicates that doggos are continuing to steal the spotlight as the most famous pets around. In fact, the vast majority of insured pets in the country are dogs.  U.S. News & World Report analyzed all this data to reveal the five most popular dog breeds in 25 major U.S. cities, indicating some very unique dog ownership trends. 1. Austin, Texas:GoldendoodleFrench BulldogLabrador RetrieverGolden RetrieverSiberian Husky2. Boston, MassachusettsGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdShih TzuBichon FriseCavalier King Charles Spaniel3. Charlotte, North CarolinaGolden RetrieverGoldendoodleEnglish Springer SpanielBrittany SpanielFrench Bulldog4. Chicago, IllinoisGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogMiniature Dachshund5. Columbus, OhioGolden RetrieverRottweilerAustralian ShepherdBernese Mountain DogSilken Windhound6. Dallas, TexasFrench BulldogLabrador Retriever (Yellow)Cane CorsoGolden RetrieverPembroke Welsh Corgi7. Denver, ColoradoGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogGerman ShepherdMalteseAmerican Pit Bull Terrier8. El Paso, TexasShih TzuGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogSchnauzerLabrador Retriever9. Fort Worth, TexasGoldendoodleGerman ShepherdMaltesePugBeagle10. Houston, TexasGoldendoodleGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogChihuahuaPomeranian11. Indianapolis, IndianaShih TzuChihuahuaAmerican BullyAmerican Pit Bull TerrierGoldendoodle12. Jacksonville, FloridaGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogBoxerToy PoodleAmerican Bully13. Las Vegas, NevadaFrench BulldogGolden RetrieverGoldendoodleAustralian ShepherdShih Tzu14. Los Angeles, CaliforniaFrench BulldogGolden RetrieverChihuahuaEnglish BulldogGoldendoodle15. Nashville, TennesseeGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverLagotto RomagnoloLabrador RetrieverSiberian Husky16. New York, New YorkGolden RetrieverYorkshire TerrierGoldendoodleShih TzuFrench Bulldog17. Oklahoma City, OklahomaGerman ShepherdEnglish BulldogGreat PyreneesMiniature SchnauzerYorkshire Terrier18. Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaGolden RetrieverYorkshire TerrierChihuahuaShih TzuAmerican Pit Bull Terrier19. Phoenix, ArizonaGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdChihuahuaAustralian ShepherdFrench Bulldog20. San Antonio, TexasLabrador Retriever (Yellow)PugFrench BulldogChihuahuaGerman Shepherd21. San Diego, CaliforniaGolden RetrieverPugFrench BulldogLabrador Retriever (Yellow)Labrador Retriever22. San Francisco, CaliforniaGoldendoodleChihuahuaShih TzuGerman ShepherdPomeranian23. San Jose, CaliforniaGerman ShepherdGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverPembroke Welsh CorgiToy Poodle24. Seattle, WashingtonGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogDachshundGoldendoodlePoodle25. Washington, D.C.French BulldogPoodle Golden RetrieverSoft-Coated Wheaten TerrierGoldendoodleIt's clear that in many of America’s largest cities, certain breeds are more popular than others, like the Goldendoodle, Golden Retriever, and French Bulldog. Poodles, Pugs, and German Shepherds are also close at the top. We can also spot some regional trends as well. For example, the German Shepherd is quite popular in Texas, mainly for its role as a working and service dog.What about you? What is your favorite dog breed and why? Does your personal fave align with your city’s most popular breeds? Tell us in the comments!

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Harness?

Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. From choosing the right harness to mastering the process of putting it on, you’ll be prepared to hit the pavement with your canine companion in style and comfort.What Are the Benefits of Using a Harness?Let's take a step back before I walk you through training your dog to wear a harness. Why should you consider using a harness for your dog? What benefits does it offer over a typical collar?The most significant difference between a collar and a harness, and the reason why most veterinarians and dog trainers recommend harnesses, is the risk of injury. When your dog wears a collar, all pressure is put directly on their throat. If your dog pulls or tries to take off after a temptation (like a squirrel or to play with another dog), the pressure on their throat can cause significant damage. In the most severe cases, the impact of the collar on your dog’s throat can cause a life-threatening injury.Harnesses, on the other hand (or the other paw), disperse the pressure across your dog’s chest. Not only is this a more extensive area, but it’s better suited for handling this pressure without injuries (assuming the harness is properly fit to your dog).Depending on the activities you plan to enjoy with your dog, a harness could introduce additional features. This could include harnesses and support to assist a senior dog with mobility, a cooling harness for hot summer days, a harness with built-in backpacks to carry their gear while hiking, seatbelt attachments for safe car travel, and more. What Age Should Your Dog Start Wearing a Harness?Eight weeks old is the earliest age you should put a harness onto a young puppy. At this age, puppies are generally very open to new skills and experiences, making it the perfect time to introduce something new. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t train your dog to wear a harness if you are considering making this change later in life. Many adults and even senior dogs learn to wear and love their harnesses with a bit of time and a little patience.How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness? The time it will take for your dog to get used to a harness will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will accept the harness quickly, comfortably wearing it and running around confidently right away. However, this isn’t true for every dog.If your dog is older and set in their ways or nervous when faced with new experiences, working through these steps may take a lot longer. Be patient and focus on creating a positive association with the harness by introducing praise and rewards. Allow your dog to set the pace, moving from one step to the next only when they are ready. This is the best way to set them up for long-term success (the ultimate goal).How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Harness: Step-By-StepBefore you start training, take a moment to consider what motivates your dog. While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

How Much Water Should a Cat Drink?

Drinking plenty of water is very important for cats, especially in the hot summer months. Of course, it’s up to you to ensure that your feline friend stays properly hydrated, as they are usually not big on drinking water – but it ensures their well-being and good health. Cats can often be picky and peculiar when it comes to their drinking habits, which makes their owners unsure as to how much water a cat should drink in the first place. This amount can vary based on several factors, including the cat’s diet, weight, age, and their health. Taking all these aspects into account can help you provide the best possible care for your furry feline friend.How Much Water Should a Cat Drink Each Day?It has to be said right away that one of the most significant factors that influences a cat’s water intake is its diet. Cats primarily eat either dry kibble or wet food, and each type of food has a very different moisture content. For example, dry kibble contains just 10% moisture, while wet cat food can contain up to 80% moisture. Because of this, kitties that consume dry food will naturally need to drink much more water to compensate for the lack of moisture in their diet. In contrast, cats that eat wet food may drink less water, since they get a lot of their hydration from their food. Incorporating wet cat food into your pet’s diet can increase their liquid intake. Even mixing a small amount of wet food in their dry kibble can help up the moisture content. For those particularly finicky felines, liquid treats are always a good way to entice them into hydrating, the unconventional way – if they are stubborn when it comes to drinking more water, they might be more open to liquids if they have a savory flavor they love.

Mexico's President Says Sí to Caring for National Palace's Feral Cats

Living Fixed Asset designation provides felines with care and shelter for life.

Rare Six-Month-Old Puppy With Five Legs Gets Adopted

Bella is no ordinary dog. This six-month-old pup is the first five-legged dog brought to the Wisconsin Humane Society in its 145 years of operation. The extraordinary puppy was recently surrendered to the Wisconsin Humane Society in Kenosha. One thing stuck out from the start - the pup’s right back leg was wider than the other three legs and her paw had extra toes. “I’ve never seen anything like this in a dog,” said Nancy Weiss, the shelter’s medical director. “Her radiographs are extraordinary.” Bella’s X-rays revealed that she suffers from an extremely rare congenital condition called dimelia, which causes the duplication of bones. Because of this congenital anomaly, Bella has what some might consider an extra leg. Typically, a dog’s hind leg consists of one femur, one tibia, one fibula, and four or five toes. In Bella’s case, her right back leg consists of two femurs, two tibias, two fibulas, and nine toes. Basically, it's like Bella has an extra leg inside her right hind leg. “There’s only a few documented cases in veterinary literature of [dimelia] being found in dogs. It’s more primarily seen in cattle. It’s also a condition humans can have as well,” said Angela Speed, the vice president of marketing and communications at the Wisconsin Humane Society. During their research, the organization only discovered one other case of dimelia in a dog. But while Bella’s whole leg is affected, the Cocker Spaniel, the organization found, only had dimelia in their paw. “There may be other cases that we’re not aware of, but it’s exceptionally rare. She’s like a unicorn of a dog. She's also beautiful and playful and wonderful.”This condition causes Bella to have an abnormal gait while she walks or runs but it wasn’t the reason why the pup was surrendered to the shelter. Even though Bella technically has an extra leg, she is still active and likes to play and run, just like any other puppy.The Wisconsin Humane Society consulted with a specialist to see if Bella could benefit from surgery or amputation. The veterinarians determined that since Bella doesn’t seem to be in any pain, the leg can stay as-is. “Because she gets around just fine, she uses that leg when she runs and plays, and the risks of surgery like that, we are not pursuing amputation,” said Speed. Bella is a one-of-a-kind dog, and it’s hard to say what her future will look like. “But we know that today she’s a happy, otherwise healthy girl,” added Speed. Once she was deemed healthy Bella was put up for adoption and has found her furever home. Bella’s new owner, Mellisa, went to pick up Bella wearing a sweatshirt that read “Adopt the Special Ones”. The sweatshirt’s message references Bella’s unique physical appearance which sets her apart from other pooches. Interestingly, Bella wasn’t surrendered to the shelter because of her rare condition, but because she was very boisterous. This friendly pup will make an active and loving companion and fit right in her new family.The Wisconsin Humane Society staff hopes that Bella’s adoption story will encourage other people to consider adopting a shelter animal looking for a furever home. “We’re hoping that Bella’s story does shed a light on the fantastic animals who are available at animal shelters. Across the country, shelters have been experiencing really high dog intake but slower dog adoptions and we’re feeling that same pressure right now so we’re hoping that this inspires people to consider adopting a shelter dog,” said Speed. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

More And More Pets Are Having Allergies, Trupanion Reports

The time when spring blooms and summer comes to the doorstep is an idyllic period for most, but a lot of people dread this time of the year because of seasonal allergies that cause s lot of sneezing, headaches, and all-around discomfort. Now, it seems, it’s not just us humans that can experience nasty spring allergies – data indicates that our four-legged best friends are also affected by them. Dogs, in particular, are very susceptible to  spring allergies and are increasingly treated for their symptoms, such as itchy skin.Are All Dogs At Risk for Spring Allergies?It is important to be aware that the trees and flowers that bloom in spring can be a source of allergies for your pet. Not only are spring allergies very uncomfortable for dogs, but they can potentially lead to many secondary issues, the most dangerous of which is a skin infection.And if you think that chances for a spring allergy affecting your dog are low, consider a recent report issued by the pet insurance company Trupanion. They claim that there was a 45% increase in allergy claims for insured pets over the course of four years since 2019. This means that allergies are on the rise, both for pets and their owners. In fact, as  Axios reports, according to the insurer Nationwide, spring allergies are at the top of the list of health conditions that end in vet visits. Another key fact is related to allergy drugs. Since two of the major allergy drugs were released in 2013 and 2018, more than 20 million dogs have been treated by them, in an effort to battle spring allergy effects. Of course, if you suspect that your pet is suffering from a spring allergy, it is key to visit your vet as soon as possible. Depending on the effects, your vet can prescribe topical, injectable, or chewable treatments that help reduce  itchiness and other issues. And, considering that such allergies are seasonal, be ready for them with the arrival of spring and the blooming of trees. Learn to spot the symptoms such as itchiness, and to react quickly!

'PrePup' Agreement Helps Owners Co-Parent After a Breakup

When you end a relationship, things can get messy – even more so when you have a pet whose ownership you share with your ex. Your pooch shouldn’t be affected by the new state of things, though, which is why Rover.com created the “ PrePup Checklist”, specifically for this reason – to help couples that want a pet together consider what they would to ensure their dog’s well-being do in case their relationship doesn’t work out. The classic prenuptial agreement requires couples to think ahead and consider what would happen to their shared assets, specifically in the case of the death of a spouse or divorce. Similarly, Rover’s “PrePup Checklist” helps couples to consider how the shared responsibilities of pet ownership would be handled if – somewhere down the line – they were to split up. Of course, in difference to the prenuptial agreement, the “PrePup Checklist” is not a legally binding contract. Kristina Bergsten of The Animal Law Firm advises those who look to protect their pets legally to add “some paragraphs about who any pets belong to or what you're going to do if you adopt a pet during the marriage" to a prenuptial agreement. In August 2023, Bergsten told PEOPLE that if pets are not mentioned in a prenup, “the property settlement agreement will determine who gets the pet” in a divorce. And now, the “PrePup Checklist” wants to avoid making couples rely on property agreements so they can determine what happens to their pets during a divorce. Rover came to the idea of the checklist after conducting a survey that revealed that 56% of pet owners never discussed with their partner who would get the pet if they broke up.Rover’s checklist starts with prompts specifically asking owners to assign responsibilities for each “pet parent”. For example, who would be in charge of the walking schedule, and who would be in charge of the feeding, etc.The second part of this agreement asks new couples to consider “having difficult conversations about the future”, which includes the splitting of financial responsibilities of pet ownership, and deciding who the pet will live with in case of an eventual breakup."It's important for couples to elevate animal well-being and commit to co-parenting in healthy ways for the health and well-being of their dogs. It is widely recognized in animal welfare science that dogs and other animals can self-regulate and find innate strategies for coping with stress and anxiety when they are feeling safe, secure, and familiar with their social relationships," said Philip Tedeschi, a professor, and researcher on the human-animal bond who works with Rover."One of the most prominent indicators of their sense of security comes from their proximity to other members of the family. Having conversations about the future and what may happen if there is a disruption to a pet's life would benefit them, offer predictability, and keep them close to the ones they connect with," he added.The PrePup Checklist also includes a place where the couple’s new pet can “cosign” on anything that was discussed and agreed upon. The ultimate goal of Rover is to strengthen the bond between couples, but also between pets and their new owners.

Researcher Warns: Pet Cats and Dogs Are at Risk of Getting Bird Flu

The recent bird flu outbreak has spread like wildfire through dairy cows in the United States, affecting more than 90 herds in 12 states. In addition to cows, several other species and at least three farmworkers got infected. The outbreak that has been sickening and killing wild birds has also caused mounting casualties in cats. In fact, on some dairy farms, sick and dead cats were the first sign that something was wrong.Data shows that at least 21 cats in nine states have caught the disease since the first dairy cow outbreak was detected in March. For scientists, it’s no secret that cats are highly susceptible to bird flu viruses. A few years ago, a new type of bird flu virus, known as H5N1 emerged. The new strain spread quickly around the world, infecting different types of mammals, including cats.“Domestic cats are actually highly susceptible to avian influenza, and essentially H5N1,” said Kristen Coleman, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Maryland. “But there has been a recent uptick in domestic cat infections, a drastic uptick.”There have also been several reports of infected dogs.For now, bird flu infections in pets remain rare, but they can be detrimental, especially in cats. Coleman warns that infected cats can develop symptoms that oftentimes cause death.Bird flu is a very serious infection that must be taken seriously. Luckily, there are several ways pet parents can prevent their cats and dogs from contracting the infection.Cats infected on dairy farms became sick after drinking unpasteurized milk, also known as raw milk, which contained very high levels of the virus. However, this isn’t the first time cats come into contact with bird flu.Even before the recent dairy cow outbreak, there were reports of infected cats. These cats probably got the virus after they came into contact with infected birds. Felines infected by the bird flu usually become extremely sick, and in several instances, the mortality rate was alarmingly high. Coleman found that the new version of H5N1 has a 67% death rate in domestic cats. These findings are available in a preliminary form on MedRxiv and are awaiting peer review. Infected cats mostly develop fevers, loss of appetite, and respiratory issues, which may include difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, and pneumonia. Neurological symptoms also accompany the infection, including tremors, stiffness, and seizures. Often, the symptoms of bird flu are confused with rabies.Some cats remain asymptomatic, but scientists still don’t know how often that happens since these mild cases often remain undiagnosed. Scientists still don’t know whether cats can transmit the newest version of bird flu to people and other animals. But, previous studies have shown that they can spread some bird flu viruses to other cats and people. In addition to cats, dogs are at risk, too. But the good news is that dogs seem to be less susceptible to the virus than cats. In a recent study, researchers analyzed blood samples from nearly 200 hunting dogs, looking for antibodies that would show that the dogs previously had been infected by bird flu. The results showed that only four dogs had antibodies. None of those dogs developed any symptoms or transferred the virus to other canines in their home. These findings suggest that the virus doesn’t affect dogs the same way it affects cats. According to experts, indoor-only pets are at an extremely low risk of getting bird flu. However, owners should still avoid feeding their pets raw meat or raw milk, which could transmit the virus. When it comes to outdoor pets, keep them away from sick or dead birds. Removing bird feeders and baths can also help stop the spread of the disease. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Siblings Reunited After 13 Years Apart Thanks to a DNA Test

Labrador retriever golden retriever mixes, Mozart and Maddy have a lot to catch up on. After being adopted into separate homes as puppies, the brother and sister spent 13 years apart.The male pup, Mozart, was adopted by Ann MacLean, a high school science teacher in Freehold,  New Jersey. After losing her previous dog, MacLean started looking for a new pooch to bring into her home. She found a litter of five eight-week-old puppies listed on Petfinder.com. The litter consisted of four males and one female puppy. Two pups were golden in color and three were completely black. MacLean and her family decided to adopt one of the black puppies and named him Mozart. When they went to pick up Mozart, they noticed his sister Maddy, and immediately fell in love with her. But when, two days later, they expressed interest in adopting Maddy as well, they were informed that someone else was already interested in her and was going to pick her up the following weekend.  MacLean believed she would never see Maddy again, but the Universe had other plans! After adopting Mozart, MacLean was curious to learn more about her new pup’s genetic makeup, so she used a dog DNA test. The test revealed Mozart is a mix of Labrador retriever, golden retriever, collie, German shepherd, chow chow, and boxer. Embark test also has a relative finder feature, which informs the owner if a dog related to their pooch submitted a DNA test. “In January 2024, I logged into Embark. I had not logged into the Embark website in over a year. I thought the chance of Mozart reuniting with one of his siblings was becoming small as Mozart was now 13 years old. I was so excited to see ‘immediate family’ listed,” MacLean told PEOPLE. Maddy’s owner, Sheila McNeil, was over the moon to hear from MacLean. “As soon as I saw a picture of Mozart, I told Doug this is definitely her brother as they look exactly alike. I was so excited to find her littermate and even more excited to reunite them,” said McNeil. During their conversations, MacLean and McNeil learned how similar their dogs are. Both canine siblings love the snow, can’t stand the heat, and have hip arthritis. McNeil and her husband Doug, only started caring for Maddy two years ago, when the pup’s original owner, Sheila’s adopted aunt, died. The biggest surprise, however, is that both dogs live near Freehold, and even go to the same vet! The owners had already planned to meet and were committed to getting the dogs together regardless of the distance. “It was a given that these two would reunite once we knew of the other’s existence, but this close distance makes regular meets easier to do. The Universe works in such serendipitous ways,” said McNeil. The siblings were finally reunited on January 14th, nearly 13 years after their separation. The pups met at a local park and needed a few minutes to become comfortable with one another, which was in line with their personalities. “A dramatic reunion of the dogs exhibiting uncontrolled joy was not a realistic expectation, nor was it either Maddy’s or Mozart’s personality,” explained McNeil adding that after only 10 minutes of walking, the siblings seemed like “two old souls who have known each other for years.”Since their reunion, Maddy and Mozart have seen each other three times and have more meet-ups planned for the future. Their owners are happy that the friendship between the canines grows stronger each time they see each other. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Who "Cried Endlessly" at Indiana Shelter Gets Adopted

Being in a shelter is extremely stressful for dogs. In most shelters, dogs spend a better part of their day alone, with little to do. The lives of shelter dogs are more stressful and frustrating than is normal and these pooches are often afraid, anxious, and sad.That’s exactly what happened to one Indiana shelter dog. After spending more than 260 days in the shelter, Major, who was once a jolly-ball-loving boy, started to sit in his kennel and cry endlessly. Major, a four-year-old pitbull mix, was brought to the Humane Society for Hamilton County as a stray. Although Major was brought as a stray, the shelter staff discovered he had a microchip. They promptly contacted the pup’s family, who said they would come to pick up their dog ASAP, but they never showed. According to a Facebook post shared by the Humane Society for Hamilton County, Major has become filled with stress and anxiety after spending night after night alone in his room. Although lonely, Major evenings were never quiet as he cried himself to sleep every night.In an attempt to find Major a loving home, the shelter shared a video of a sorrowful Major lying in his bed. The post went viral, giving the staff hope that Major would find a loving, forever home. And that’s exactly what happened! In an updated Facebook post, the shelter shared that Major has finally found a loving family and a forever home.“Today, we are overjoyed to share some MAJOR news with you: After capturing the hearts of people worldwide, Major has found his forever home! As he walked out the door with his new family, we couldn’t help but feel a major-sized hole in our hearts, but it’s quickly filled with happiness knowing that he’s found his perfect match.”The wonderful news reached hundreds of thousands of animal lovers worldwide who have been following Major’s story since the beginning.“To everyone who shared Major’s story, your support and kindness made all the difference. Because of you, Major’s tale reached far and wide, leading him straight to the loving arms of his new family. Thank you for being a part of Major’s journey and for helping us make miracles happen.” The shelter also reminded its followers that many other dogs are patiently waiting for their person and a forever home. The surge in unwanted cats and dogs and low adoption rates are fueling the nationwide shelter crisis. Many shelters, including the Humane Society for Hamilton County, are overflowing with pets and operating at maxed-out capacity. “Every single dog here has their own story,” the shelter added. “They might not all have gone viral, but they are all just as deserving of love, care and a safe space to call home. The shelter is a stressful environment for them and every day they wait for their turn. They have so much affection to give and are waiting for someone like you to change their world.” The shelter’s staff encourages anyone who applied to adopt Major to visit them and meet other adoptable dogs who are just as deserving of love and a place to call their own.“Major, we’ll miss your playful antics and wagging tail, but we know that your new family will cherish you just as much as we have. Farewell, sweet boy, and may your days be filled with endless love and happiness,” the shelter wrote.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Dogs Have ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, is commonly discussed in relation to humans, children in particular. And just as its name suggests, this mental disorder is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, in recent years pet owners and veterinarians have begun to wonder if similar behavioral issues can also affect dogs. Can dogs have ADHD? Here’s what the facts say.Can Dogs Have ADHD?In humans, ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and is usually diagnosed in childhood. Symptoms typically include difficulty focusing, excessive energy, and impulsive actions. It is often treated with a combination of behavioral therapy and medications. And, understanding these traits in humans can help us look for analogous behaviors in dogs as well.Just like humans, dogs can also exhibit a range of behaviors that might seem similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Common behaviors that concern pet owners include excessive barking, restlessness, an inability to settle down, destructive behavior, and an apparent lack of focus or attention. However, it is essential to recognize that dogs naturally have higher energy levels compared to humans, for example, especially certain dog breeds. For instance, Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers are known for their high energy and require significant physical and mental stimulation. This is why it is crucial to distinguish between normal breed-specific behavior and potential behavioral disorders. Veterinarians and animal behaviorists have mixed opinions on whether dogs can genuinely have ADHD. Dr. Nicholas Dodman, a veterinary behaviorist who wrote the revolutionary book “ Pets On the Couch”, has suggested that dogs can exhibit behaviors akin to ADHD in humans. He points out that some dogs may show persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that go beyond typical high-energy behavior. 

Kevin the Gentle Giant Crowned World’s Tallest Dog

Some dogs are simply born to be famous! Some do it with their accomplishments, others with their latest tricks, but Kevin the Great Dane did it with nothing else but his size. He is officially recognized as the world’s tallest living dog, and he is described as a true gentle giant.Named after the main character from the movie “Home Alone”, Kevin officially claimed the world record title after he was measured at 3ft 2in (0.97 meters) from his feet to his withers. For comparison, that is the average height of a three-year-old child. An average Great Dane, on the other hand, is around 2ft 6in (0.76 meters) to the withers. The record was previously held by another Great Dane, Zeus, who tragically died at the age of three this past year, leaving the title to Kevin. Living in West Des Moines, Iowa, USA, Kevin is in the loving care of his owners – Tracy and Roger Wolfe, and their children, Alexander (12) and Ava (10). He is not the only pet in the family: he is accompanied by three other doggos, four cats, and a multitude of chickens, horses, and goats. And, besides being so tall and majestic, Kevin is just an ordinary pooch. He loves to snooze on the couch and won’t hesitate to protest if his favorite spot is taken. Still, his owners describe him as a real gentle giant. According to Tracy Wolfe, he is a true fan of snuggles and is very afraid of the vacuum cleaner. He was similarly spooked by the officials who came to measure him for his record. The measuring tape really gave him the heebie-jeebies. “Kevin is the epitome of a gentle giant,” Tracy said. “In fact, he is scared of most things. He is terrified of the vacuum. He won't let it come within 6 feet of him! He will jump and run to get away from it.”Kevin’s owner Tracy, herself employed at a vet clinic, says that he is just a big baby, and often acts as if he has no idea how big he is. “When Kevin, or any of my dogs, come to my clinic, I put a baby gate up in the door of my office. That way I can keep my door open, but keep the dogs in,” she added. “Kevin is hilarious. He will be in there and stay whenever I am in there. However, if I leave, he just steps right over the baby gate like it's nothing! I don’t think he’s aware he is as big as he is. He’s continuously trying to squeeze into small beds and sit on top of us, and do everything that the smaller dogs do.”Of course, as all dogs do, Kevin also has his naughty side. He is adept at snatching food off of counters, aided by his great height. “Kevin can be stubborn,” Tracy said. “He can be naughty. It’s usually food-related. Otherwise, he’s usually a pretty good kid.”

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