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Fireworks Sent Mabel Running, but Her Community Brought Her Home

Few moments are more heartbreaking for a pet owner than watching a beloved companion disappear without knowing if they will ever come home. That was the painful reality for Russell “The Snake Chaser” Cavender after his young Border Collie, Mabel, vanished in the chaos of Fourth of July fireworks. For 18 anxious days, every unanswered lead and every passing hour tested his hope. Still, he refused to stop searching, while friends, neighbors, and strangers across the Grand Strand of South … Read more

13 Surprisingly Gentle Dog Breeds That Defy Their Tough Reputation

Rottweiler with a calm expression showing the gentle nature behind a powerful appearance.

Dogs are often judged by their appearance, size, or history, yet many powerful-looking breeds possess remarkably gentle personalities. Behind muscular builds and serious expressions are affectionate companions that thrive on love, loyalty, and family life. Responsible ownership, proper training, and early socialization help these dogs reveal their calm, patient nature. Their protective instincts are balanced by kindness, intelligence, and devotion, proving that reputation alone rarely reflects true temperament. Looking beyond first impressions reveals loving companions whose gentle hearts often surprise … Read more

How to Feed Your Dog’s Brain: 4 Science-Backed Nutrients (2026)

Your dog’s brain is always working. Even when they’re stretched out on the couch looking completely useless, their brain is processing sounds, smells, and whatever you’re doing in the kitchen. So what you feed them matters more for brain function than most people realize. The foundation is a high-quality diet with real whole-food ingredients. But targeted supplements and brain-supportive foods can fill the gaps, especially as dogs age. Veterinary nutrition research has expanded significantly in recent years, and we now … Read more

Ask A Vet: Why Does My Dog Chew My Shoes?

You walk into the room only to find your favorite sneakers shredded across the floor, the laces in one corner, and the soles in another. It’s a frustrating (and surprisingly common) problem for dog parents. But before you assume your dog is being spiteful, it’s important to know that dogs don’t chew shoes out of revenge. In fact, there are several perfectly natural reasons why your footwear is so irresistible. From fascinating scents to satisfying textures, your shoes appeal to … Read more

Malnourished Puppy Found Living in the Walls of Bank Robber’s Home Gets a Chance to Thrive

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible. FurEver Pawz Rescue saved Sammy 2 Tone from the shelter after being confiscated in a hoarding case. His owner robbed a bank, and after being caught, authorities discovered 35 … Read more

UPDATE: Someone Recommended Shooting Them. Now Ellie & Jett Are Safe, Loved, And Thriving

UPDATE 8/11/26: Ellie & Jett Are Thriving! We have the kind of update we love to share: Ellie and Jett made it safely to Colorado, and both are doing wonderfully! Jett has officially been adopted, trading an uncertain beginning for the loving home he always deserved. And an inside source tells us that Ellie is well on her way to becoming a happy “foster fail.”  After everything these sweet siblings endured, seeing them safe, loved, and settling into happy new … Read more

Is Your Dog Shedding Like CRAZY? This Can Help!

Dog shedding a lot

All dogs shed. Now, dogs that have hair that grows continuously, such as Poodles, Bichons, Shih Tzus, and Yorkies, shed very little, and what they do shed tends to get trapped in the rest of their hair instead of winding up on your sofa, but they do shed a little bit. Some breeds of dogs shed A LOT, usually with the change of the seasons, such as Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Shelties, and German Shepherds. Other dogs just shed … Read more

The Top 5 Issues Affecting Senior Dogs According To Our Survey & What Owners Can Do

Watching a dog grow older brings plenty of sweet moments, but the senior years can also introduce health changes that deserve a little extra attention. Stiff joints, changes in hearing or vision, itchy skin, and dental problems can gradually affect a dog’s comfort and quality of life, sometimes before pet parents realize how much has changed. When iHeartDogs surveyed readers about the health problems affecting their senior dogs, five concerns stood out above the rest: joint pain and arthritis, hearing … Read more

2 Simple Ways To Protect Your Dog Against Painful Springtime Ear Infections

Every veterinarian knows spring has arrived through one simple indicator: a dramatic rise in dogs battling painful ear infections. In fact, ear infections are among the top 2 most common reasons that owners take their dog to the vet. Ear infections in dogs are not something that should be taken lightly. They are painful and uncomfortable for your dog, and if you have a breed prone to ear infections, it can be difficult and time-consuming having to treat them repeatedly. … Read more

Have an Itchy Dog with Allergies? Here’s Why They Need Krill Oil Daily

Seasonal allergies are the bane of existence for dogs, dog owners, and veterinarians alike.  Especially in the warmer months, many pups suffer immensely from atopic dermatitis, an allergic skin condition that often flares from pollens, molds, or foods in the dog’s environment. If left untreated, it can lead to lesions, hair loss, or bacterial infections.  Studies over the past decade have begun to reveal the importance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in regulating our immune response to allergies. Sadly, however, most dogs … Read more

A Tiny Red Sea Creature Might Help Your Dog Beat Seasonal Allergies & Itching

Canine allergies are the bane of existence for dogs, dog parents, and veterinarians alike.  Especially in the warmer months, many pups suffer immensely from atopic dermatitis, an allergic skin condition that often flares from pollens, molds, or foods in the dog’s environment. If left untreated, it can lead to lesions, hair loss, or bacterial infections.  Studies over the past decade have begun to reveal the importance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in regulating our immune response to allergies. Sadly, however, most dogs … Read more

Putting This In Your Dog’s Food Could Substantially Reduce Itching & Allergies

When the days start getting longer, and the sun seems to shine just a little brighter, I know summer is approaching. More importantly, it’s pool time. Countless hours in the pool with my two favorite fur balls. In and out of the pool, chasing a ball or some improvised chew toy. Their coats hold so much water that each time they get out of the pool, I swear I see the water level drop an inch. I love it. What … Read more

Dropping This In Your Dog’s Food Bowl Could Help With Painful Skin Itchiness

When the days start getting longer, and the sun seems to shine just a little brighter, I know summer is approaching. More importantly, it’s pool time. Countless hours in the pool with my two favorite fur balls. In and out of the pool, chasing a ball or some improvised chew toy. Their coats hold so much water that each time they get out of the pool, I swear I see the water level drop an inch. I love it. What … Read more

7 Secrets That Help Minimize Dog Dander

Dog dander has a way of getting everywhere. It can settle into carpets, furniture, bedding, clothing, and even become airborne, which can be especially frustrating when someone in your household is sensitive or allergic to dogs. And while keeping a clean home can help, dander isn’t simply another name for dog hair, so vacuuming up loose fur alone won’t completely solve the problem. Dog dander is made up of tiny flakes of dead skin that dogs naturally shed. These microscopic … Read more

Senior Dog Constantly Scratching? Here’s How to Help

dog with allergies itching

The effects of aging can wear down your senior dog, but dedicated dog owners are choosing a popular supplement to keep their pups living happy and healthy. Omega fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties paired with natural healing qualities that make them an essential part of a dog’s nutrition. Senior dogs often suffer from skin issues including hair loss and itching. The older they get, the more serious skin problems are and the more frequently they bring your dog down. Omega … Read more

13 Things You Stop Caring About Once You Have a Dog 

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Nobody tells you that getting a dog changes your standards in the best possible way. Dog hair on your clothes? It happens. Muddy paw prints on the floor? They’ll be cleaned up eventually. The backseat of the car? It’s basically reserved seating for your four-legged copilot now. Dog parents quickly learn that the little messes and inconveniences … Read more

Is Your Dog Constantly Biting Their Paws? Here’s How You Can Help

If your dog is constantly biting or chewing their paws, it can be frustrating to watch, especially when nothing seems to provide lasting relief. While occasional paw licking is a normal part of grooming, frequent or obsessive chewing may be your dog’s way of responding to itching, irritation, pain, or general discomfort. Allergies, dry skin, environmental irritants, small wounds, and even anxiety can all contribute to excessive paw chewing. Unfortunately, all that licking and biting can make an already uncomfortable … Read more

How To Help Your Rescue Dog Gain Weight

“Skin and bones” are words to describe a specific population of rescue dogs. They’re the ones found staggering near death on the side of the street or rummaging through the dumpster looking for scraps of anything remotely edible. They’ve known what true hunger feels like, and recovering from near starvation isn’t an easy process. Helping a rescue dog gain weight isn’t tossing them a few McDonald’s burgers and letting them go to town. It isn’t even leaving a limitless supply … Read more

Forgotten Dog Waited Alone at a Train Station Until Hope Finally Arrived

The moment one family saw Mango’s face, something about him stayed with them. Standing alone at a quiet train station in Spain, the young Galgo looked tired, uncertain, and far too young to have already experienced so much hardship. At only a year old, he had been left behind with no family to protect him and no clear path forward. Thin, exhausted, and quietly waiting, Mango’s story could have ended in loneliness. Instead, one rescue effort and one compassionate family … Read more

Found Barely Clinging to Life, Now This Puppy Can’t Stop Playing

Life can change in the blink of an eye, especially for a helpless animal with no one to protect it. That was the heartbreaking reality for a tiny puppy discovered on the side of a road in Morocco after suffering a devastating brain injury. She lay completely motionless, leaving little reason to believe she would survive. Yet one compassionate rescuer refused to give up on her. What followed was an incredible journey filled with courage, patience, and hope as the … Read more

11-Year-Old Spent 100 Hours Reading to Shelter Dogs for the Sweetest Reason

Some heroes make a difference in the quietest ways. While many children spend their free time playing games or watching videos, one 11-year-old has dedicated hundreds of hours to bringing comfort to homeless animals through the simple act of reading aloud. His remarkable commitment has not only reached an inspiring milestone but has also touched the hearts of shelter staff, volunteers, and the dogs patiently waiting for families of their own. For the past two years, Nehemiah Turner has been … Read more

Think You Have the Cutest Pet? Here’s Your Chance to Prove It

If your camera roll is filled with photos of your dog making goofy faces, your cat curled up in a sunbeam, or your newest puppy striking the perfect pose, you’re in good company. Pet parents love showing off the animals that make them smile every day, and now there’s a place built just for that. PupVote is an online community where pet lovers can upload photos of their dogs and cats, vote for other adorable pets, and even have the … Read more

Can Dogs Have Hairballs?

While hairballs are less common in dogs than in cats, dogs can get hairballs. What sort of dogs are more prone to hairballs? What causes hairballs? Should you be worried if your dog vomits one up? How can you prevent hairballs in your dog? Don’t worry, we have the answers you’re looking for. Here’s what you need to know about hairballs in dogs. What is a hairball? When a dog (or a cat) licks or chews on themselves, they may … Read more

6 Reasons Your Senior Dog May Be Slowing Down

As your dog enters their senior years, you may start noticing subtle changes in their everyday routine. Maybe they take a little longer to get up after a nap, hesitate before climbing the stairs, move more slowly on walks, or simply prefer lounging on the couch to chasing their favorite toy. While some decrease in energy is expected with age, significant changes in activity or mobility shouldn’t automatically be dismissed as “just getting older.” There are many reasons a senior … Read more

Common Causes Of Dry Paw Pads + Natural Remedies

Socks, slippers, sandals, boots… we humans have many ways of protecting our feet, but our dogs don’t! Sure, you can try to put booties over your pup’s paws, but even if they don’t kick them off, those precious pads can still get dry and cracked. For this reason, home remedies for dry dog paws are essential. In addition to coming into direct contact with all types of surfaces and terrain, pooches sweat through their paws and depend on them to … Read more

Best Puppy Dog Foods for American Staffordshire Terriers

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. If you’ve adopted a puppy recently or one will soon join the family, it’s time to consider the best puppy dog foods for American Staffordshire Terriers because these furry cuties love to eat! And puppies need lots of calories to support healthy growth and development. After all, think about all the changes your little one will undergo … Read more

Top 4 Tips For Avoiding Dementia In Your Senior Dog

As dogs age, their muzzles grow grey, their bodies slow down, and some are at risk of developing dementia. Also referred to as canine senility or Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), dementia is a condition that can cause stress, anxiety, confusion, and put a dog’s safety at risk. It’s heartbreaking to watch a senior dog suffer from the effects of dementia, but it’s a painful reality everyone who loves an aging dog needs to prepare for. The exact cause of dementia … Read more

10 Cancer Preventing Foods For Your Dog

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. We know it by many names and fear it by them all. Cancer. The word alone has the power to conjure up deep and dark feelings in those of us whose lives have been impacted by it, which is most of us. Statistics show that the majority of American families have relatives who have been diagnosed by … Read more

5 Low-Cost Ways To Boost Your Dog’s Existing Food

All of us want to give our dog’s the best nutrition possible. However, we all have budget limitations. While store bought kibble is very convenient and relatively low priced (compared to canned or fresh diets) it does have several nutritional shortfalls. In this guide, we’ll discuss 5 low cost ways to make any dog food better.f 1. Add Sources Of Fresh Protein Surprisingly, most kibble contains less than 25% protein. That means that most dry foods contain carbohydrates in the … Read more

The Dog One Family Couldn’t Keep Became Someone Else’s Greatest Joy

Bringing home a rescue dog is often the beginning of two new lives. One belongs to the dog learning to trust again, and the other belongs to the person discovering just how much love can fit inside a tiny companion. That is exactly what happened when Victoria welcomed Nori, a gentle Italian Greyhound whose quiet personality soon transformed her home into a place filled with laughter, comfort, and unforgettable moments. Although Nori’s journey started with uncertainty, it quickly became a … Read more

Her Ex Surrendered Their Dog. She Drove 8 Hours to Get Him Back.

Some bonds refuse to fade, even after heartbreak, distance, and unexpected setbacks. When Sarah stumbled across a familiar face on a Colorado shelter’s website, her heart sank. The dog staring back at her was Banjo, the companion she had once shared with her former partner. In that moment, she knew she could not let his story end behind kennel doors. Without hesitation, she made plans for a long journey that would change both of their lives. After Sarah and her … Read more

Lost Dog’s Wild Journey Included Fireworks, Drones, Boats, and Determined Seagulls

For nearly two weeks, one frightened dog faced an unimaginable struggle after disappearing from home. What began as a terrifying escape on the Fourth of July ended with an extraordinary rescue in the middle of San Francisco Bay, where firefighters spotted the exhausted pup still fighting to stay afloat. Thanks to quick thinking, modern technology, and a determined rescue crew, the dog’s incredible journey came to a heartwarming conclusion that its family feared might never happen. The Menlo Park Fire … Read more

These Puppy Songs Perfectly Capture What’s Going On in Your Dog’s Head

If you’ve ever made up a silly song about your dog while filling the food bowl or heading out for a walk, you’re not alone. Matt Hobbs has simply turned that everyday habit into an internet phenomenon. The award-winning songwriter is the creator of Puppy Songs, a wildly popular collection of original songs written from a dog’s point of view. What started as a creative outlet during the pandemic has grown into a global community of dog lovers who happily … Read more

11 Homebody Dog Breeds That Prefer Netflix Over Nature

A French Bulldog with a relaxed expression capturing the cozy, content spirit of staying home

Not every dog dreams of endless hikes or action-packed adventures. Some are perfectly content relaxing beside their favorite people, enjoying peaceful routines and familiar surroundings. These easygoing companions appreciate leisurely walks, cozy naps, and quiet evenings far more than constant excitement. While regular exercise and mental enrichment remain important, these breeds rarely demand nonstop activity to stay happy. Their calm temperaments, affectionate personalities, and love of home make them ideal companions for anyone who enjoys slower days, comforting routines, and … Read more

5 Tips To Minimize Dog Shedding

Does your dog shed excessively? Most dogs shed at least a little, but some breeds shed more than average. After you’ve ruled out health issues like allergies, immune disease, or parasites (like fleas), there are some steps you can take to reduce your dog’s shedding. From WikiHow, WebMD, and Drs Foster and Smith, here are some ways to limit the amount of dog hair floating around your house. 1 – Change their diet Many cheap dog foods are made using … Read more

My Dog Is Always Chewing On Their Paws – What Can I Do To Help?

Chewing of the toes and paws is a common behavior among dogs. While some biting and licking is normal, dogs with red, swollen paws or chronic saliva staining are likely to have an underlying medical problem. There are several reasons a dog may chew their paws, such as dry skin, wounds, growths, irritants like burrs or ticks, anxiety, and allergic skin disease. Whatever the cause of the irritation, paw-chewing can lead to pain, limping, and secondary yeast or bacterial infections. It is … Read more

Improved Project Paws® Omega 3-6-9 Powder – What You Need to Know!

You may have noticed our Project Paws® Omega-3 Select chews have been out of stock for some time now. We’d like to apologize for any inconvenience and tell you that it was for a really good reason! We’ve been working on the recipe to make our omega chews even better, and we believe we really hit it out of the park with what we’ve come up with. Introducing our improved Project Paws® Omega 3-6-9 Powder! With the same quality of … Read more

You’re Helping Teach Buddy How Good Life Can Be

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible. Buddy was at two animal control shelters, three other rescues, and five adopted homes before coming to Tina’s Bed and Biscuit. He has been in the rescue system since … Read more

Is Your Pup Prone to Ear Infections? Try Adding These 2 Simple Daily Routines

Ear infections in dogs are not something that should be taken lightly. They are painful and uncomfortable for your dog, and if you have a breed prone to ear infections, it can be difficult and time consuming having to treat them repeatedly. A regular infection of the outer ear can become an inflammation of the inner ear, and can lead to deafness, vestibular disease, and other serious issues if left untreated. Prevention is best when it comes to ear infections, … Read more

Top 10 Gifts For Dog Lovers That Show You Care

Finding the perfect gift for a dog lover means celebrating the special bond they share with their four-legged friend. From personalized keepsakes to practical pet accessories, thoughtful dog lover gifts can bring joy to both devoted owners and their pups. These top gift ideas offer meaningful ways to show how much you care. Thoughtful Gifts for Dog Lovers 1. Second Chance Movement™ Necklace This necklace is perfect for those who are passionate about rescue. Not only will this chic piece of … Read more

5 Tips For Easing Your Senior Dog’s Allergies

Senior dogs can become more sensitive to allergens as they age, leading to itchy skin, watery eyes, irritated paws, or recurring ear problems. Easing your senior dog’s allergies often requires gentle care that considers their changing skin, immune system, and overall health. These five practical tips can help reduce allergy symptoms and keep your older pup comfortable. If your senior dog is suffering from dry, itchy, irritated skin due to allergies, the following 5 tips can help provide relief. 1. … Read more

How Omega-3 and Krill Oil Can Help Your Pup Fight Off Ear Infections

We love dogs with floppy ears because they make our companions even more adorable and expressive. Unfortunately, those endearingly velvety soft ears can also be the source of ear infections — but there are things you can do to help. In order to prevent ear infections, it’s helpful to know what causes them. Water can get trapped inside floppy ears, enabling bacteria or yeast to flourish. Ear mites can also lead to this itchy, painful condition, and food or environmental … Read more

Does Your Pup Have Missing Hair And Hot Spots? This Nutrient Might Help

You’re used to shedding, but some dogs suffer from more severe hair loss. Patches of missing fur on your pup’s chest, belly, shoulders, or legs could mean a number of different things. Infections, irritations, and allergies all cause bald spots, and there’s also the risk of your dog developing painful hot spots. You’ll need to discern the exact cause of the issue to find the most efficient solution, but there’s one nutrient that could help bring back your pup’s healthy … Read more

Improve Your Dog’s Skin & Coat With This One Simple Hack

So many dog breeds have health concerns – some minor, some major. My dogs, Golden Retrievers, don’t necessarily have a common problem, but because they love, love, love the pool or any other water source, I have to keep a close eye on them. The water and the chlorine wreak havoc on their skin and coats. I tried rinsing off the chlorine water, but that didn’t help much. They would often develop hot spots. Their coats were dull and thin, … Read more

Is Your Pup a Constant Paw Biter? Here’s How To Help

Licking and chewing of the toes and paws are common behaviors among dogs. While some licking is considered normal, dogs with red, swollen paws or chronic saliva staining are likely to have an underlying medical problem. There are several reasons a dog may chew their paws, including dry skin, wounds, growths, irritants such as burrs or ticks, anxiety, and allergic skin disease. Whatever the cause of the irritation, paw-chewing can lead to pain, limping, and secondary yeast or bacterial infections. … Read more

What Natural Ingredients Can I Give A Dog With Itchy Skin?

When your dog cannot stop scratching, natural ingredients may offer gentle support for itchy, irritated skin. Omega-3 fatty acids, soothing oatmeal, and other skin-friendly options can help moisturize dry skin, support a healthy inflammatory response, and promote a softer coat. Understanding which natural remedies for itchy dog skin are safe can help you give your pup relief without adding unnecessary ingredients to their routine. In a market saturated with thousands of products promising dramatic results, how do you know which … Read more

Astaxanthin For Dogs: The Powerhouse Super-Nutrient Everyone’s Talking About

It’s hard to pronounce and even harder to spell, but dog owners, vets, and behaviorists are spreading the word about an antioxidant called astaxanthin. It’s the natural red pigment that gives lobsters, shrimp, krill, and flamingos (from the shrimp they eat) their color, but turning things red and pink isn’t what people are talking about. Evidence shows that dogs, cats, and people can benefit from the antioxidant’s powerful ability to protect the body from free radicals. And don’t worry, it … Read more

Why Omega-3 Can Help A Dog Who Is Constantly Biting Their Paws

If your dog frequently chews on his paws, you know how painful it is to watch, let alone how excruciating it can be for your pup. Once you’ve ruled out infections and environmental/food allergens, one of the most effective ways to soothe the itch is to ensure your dog is getting enough essential fatty acids in his diet. Sadly, most dogs aren’t. Omega-3 -6-9 fatty acids are derived from fish oils and plant-based sources. They benefit dogs’ skin by helping … Read more

Itchy Dog? For 50 Cents a Day, These Tasty Chews from Amazon Prime Might Bring Allergy Relief To Your Pup

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. A Simple, Natural Solution for Your Itchy Dog When the days start getting longer and the sun seems to shine just a little brighter, I know summer is approaching. More importantly, it’s pool time. Countless hours in the pool with my two favorite fur balls. In and out of the pool, chasing a ball or some improvised … Read more

Dog won’t stop itching? These popular ‘dog allergy treats’ on Amazon Prime might be the fix you need

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Dry, itchy skin can turn a happy dog into an uncomfortable one, especially during allergy season or after frequent outdoor adventures. Constant scratching, licking, and chewing are often signs that something is irritating your dog’s skin. While allergies have many possible causes, proper nutrition can play an important role in supporting healthy skin and a strong coat. … Read more

7 Reasons You Should Start Your Dog On A Krill Supplement

Dog licking nose

All marine oils are not created equal. While supplements derived from salmon and cod oils are rich in essential fatty acids, they lack natural antioxidants and are susceptible to contamination. Krill supplements for dogs are a safer, highly renewable way to deliver the Omega-3 fatty acids your dog needs to maintain healthy skin, a shiny coat, strong joints, and a powerful immune system. 1. Krill is less likely to accumulate heavy metals. Many of the fish used to create fish … Read more