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How to Safely Transition Your Dog to a New Food

Switching your dog to a new food might seem simple, but doing it the wrong way can lead to digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat. Whether you’ve adopted a dog from a shelter, discovered a food allergy, or are simply upgrading to a higher-quality diet, a slow and thoughtful transition is key to keeping your dog healthy and comfortable. Below, we’ll walk through how to transition dog food safely, why transitions are sometimes necessary, and how to handle … Read more

Ask A Vet: How Do I Know If My Dog Has A Food Allergy?

Food allergies in dogs are often misunderstood and frequently overdiagnosed. Many pet parents assume that itching, ear infections, vomiting, or diarrhea automatically mean their dog is allergic to something in their food. In reality, true food allergies are relatively uncommon and should only be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Unnecessary food restrictions or frequent diet changes can do more harm than good, potentially leading to nutritional imbalances without addressing the real issue. Understanding how food allergies actually work, how they differ … Read more

20 Fruits & Veggies Your Dog Will Love!

They say that sharing is caring, and we love sharing yummy treats with our dogs! However, there are two potential problems with feeding Fido extra snacks. For starters, table scraps can contain ingredients that are safe for us, but dangerous for our dogs (for instance, onions and chocolate). Second, too many treats can make our pups pack on the pounds, which can lead to a host of health problems. The good news is, there are plenty of fresh, healthy “human foods” that … Read more

10 Ingredients You NEVER Want To See In Your Dog’s Food

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Knowing what goes into your dog’s food is just as important as choosing a trusted brand. Certain dog food ingredients have been linked to poor nutrition, digestive issues, and long-term health concerns, making label awareness essential for pet owners. Understanding which ingredients to avoid in dog food can help support better digestion, stronger immunity, and overall wellness. … Read more

Could Your Dog’s Diet Be Shortening His Lifespan? Here’s How To Tell.

Obesity in dogs is a very serious problem, and its rates are increasing daily. It’s estimated that roughly half of all dogs in the United States alone are obese – that’s 35 million dogs! Obesity can cause many illnesses, such as diabetes, and even worsen joint and back problems. Obesity is also one of the most common reasons injuries occur in our dogs. Most importantly, obesity leads to an increase in many diseases, including cancer, and can rob years off … Read more

Pros And Cons Of Different Types Of Dog Food

german shepherd with all types of dog food

Choosing the right dog food can feel overwhelming. From kibble and canned food to raw, air-dried, and homemade diets, there are more options than ever for feeding your dog. Each type of dog food comes with its own benefits and potential drawbacks, and what works best depends on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and nutritional needs. Below, we break down the pros and cons of the most common types of dog food to help you make a more informed decision. There’s … Read more

Dog Food Nutrition Labels 101: What You Need to Know

dog reading a dog food label on food bag

You know about the Food and Drug Administration, right? It’s the federal government agency responsible for protecting and promoting public health through the supervision of food safety (among other things). The FDA rules don’t only apply to humans — the agency regulates dog food, too. That’s good to know. But what does a dog food nutrition label actually mean? You probably have an understanding of what calories, carbs, sodium, sugar, and an ingredients list indicate for a human diet, but … Read more

5 Best Dog Foods for Dogs with Cancer – 2026

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Choosing the best dog food for dogs with cancer can play an important role in supporting strength, comfort, and overall well-being. Dogs with cancer often need diets made with high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and easily digestible ingredients to help maintain energy and body condition. The right nutrition can also encourage appetite and support daily nourishment during treatment … Read more

What Is AAFCO? Here’s Why It Matters When Choosing Dog Food

If you’ve ever turned over a bag of dog food and noticed the term AAFCO, you’re not alone, and you’re probably wondering what it really means. Is AAFCO a brand? A certification? Or just another confusing pet food acronym? AAFCO plays a major role in what ends up in your dog’s bowl, even if most pet parents don’t realize it. Understanding AAFCO standards can help you avoid nutritionally incomplete foods, spot misleading labels, and make more confident choices when selecting … Read more

Best Dog Foods With No Vague or Low-Quality Proteins

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Feeding your dog well means starting with the very first line on the ingredient panel. The quality and identity of proteins in dog food matter. Dogs thrive on specific, named animal proteins like chicken, beef, turkey, and salmon, ingredients you can recognize. On the other hand, vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal digest” can mask low-quality … Read more

After 10 Loyal Years, Sweet Dog Was Left Behind When the Family Packed Up

A quiet home tour turned into a life-changing moment for April Morgan and her fiancé, J.C. What began as a simple walkthrough of a property they were considering buying quickly became something neither of them could ignore. As they stepped into the backyard, expecting to evaluate the space and imagine their future there, their attention shifted to an old, weathered doghouse in the corner of the yard. Inside was a senior dog, tied up and watching them closely, as if … Read more

Meet Tilly, The Little Pup With A Short Spine Who Loves Life

Before Anna Marie Giannini ever held the tiny Tibetan Spaniel in her arms, something about the little puppy had already reached her heart. She had answered a simple online listing for free puppies, expecting a routine visit and a quick decision. Instead, she walked into a moment that would change her life. While the other puppies tumbled around with playful energy, one small fluff ball seemed set apart. She was quieter, visibly different, and described as unwanted. To Anna, that … Read more

Poor Dog Was Freezing On A Dumpster Couch Until Someone Finally Noticed Her

On a bitterly cold Mississippi evening, while most people were settling in under warm blankets, a small stray dog was fighting to endure the night alone. Curled tightly on a torn couch abandoned beside a dumpster, she tried to shield herself from the biting wind that cut through the darkness. The worn cushions offered little protection from the freezing air. Her thin body trembled without pause, and her wide, uncertain eyes scanned the empty lot around her, as if silently … Read more

7 Fermented Foods That Can Supercharge Your Dog’s Gut Health

Your dog’s gut does far more than simply digest food. It plays a central role in nutrient absorption, immune defense, inflammation control, and even mood regulation. In fact, a large portion of your pup’s immune system lives in the digestive tract, making gut health one of the most important foundations of overall wellness. When the gut microbiome is balanced and thriving, dogs are more likely to experience healthy digestion, firmer stools, better energy levels, and stronger resistance to illness. That’s … Read more

Silly Dog Wants the Ball So Bad He’ll Balance Literally Anything On His Head

It is not every day you meet a dog who can turn an ordinary household object into a moment of pure wonder. Yet that is exactly what Mendo does each time he carefully lifts his chin and steadies something on top of his head. What looks like a simple trick is actually the result of intense focus, playful devotion, and a deep love for one very special thing. The first time it happened, his family had no idea they were … Read more

7 Best Dog Foods for Joint Health

Best Dog Foods for Joint Health

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you As our furry friends age or encounter physical challenges, joint health becomes a critical concern that can significantly affect their quality of life. While exercise and regular veterinary care are essential, the role of nutrition in supporting joint health cannot be overstated. The right balance of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, can make all … Read more

Recent Study Raises Questions About High Levels Of Heavy Metals in Dry Dog Food

Why This New Dog Food Study Should Matter to Every Dog Owner A recent report from the nonprofit Clean Label Project has sent ripples through the pet-food world. Their comprehensive dog food category study found elevated levels of heavy metals and industrial contaminants in many popular dry dog foods. This is the same kibble that more than 85% of dog owners serve their dogs every day. The organization tested 79 different dry, air-dried, freeze-dried, and fresh/frozen products and compared their … Read more

7 Best Foods for Dogs with Kidney Disease

Best Foods for Dogs with Kidney Disease

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.  Kidney disease can pose significant health challenges for our beloved canine companions, but an appropriate diet can play a key role in managing the condition and improving their quality of life. As kidney function diminishes, the need for certain dietary adjustments arises to reduce the workload on these vital organs. Tailoring … Read more

15 Top-Rated Calming Chews on Chewy for Anxious Dogs

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Many dogs experience anxiety, and the right calming supplement can make a noticeable difference in everyday stress triggers like thunderstorms, fireworks, separation, travel, or unfamiliar visitors. Calming chews are one of the easiest options for pet parents because they are simple to serve, taste like a treat, and often include ingredients commonly used for relaxation support, such … Read more

12 Top-Rated Large Breed Dog Foods for Big Dogs

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 share your life with a big dog, you already know the truth: they take up more space on the couch, more room in your heart, and somehow more of your grocery budget than seems scientifically possible. But when it comes to feeding them, “good enough” just does not cut it. Large breed dog foods are … Read more

15 Small Breed Dog Foods That Help Little Dogs 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. Tiny dogs may come in pint-sized packages, but their personalities, opinions, and appetites are anything but small. Finding the right small breed dog food can feel like a full-time job when you want shiny coats, happy tummies, and that confident little strut. Amazon shoppers know that quality nutrition matters, especially for small dogs with fast metabolisms and … Read more

Best Dog Foods for Extra Large Dogs: Top Adult & Puppy Picks for Giant Breeds

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Feeding an extra-large or giant breed dog is very different from feeding a smaller pup. Dogs that grow to 90 pounds or more place far more stress on their bones, joints, and hearts, which means their food needs to do more than simply fill a bowl. The right formula can help support joint health, maintain a healthy … Read more

8 Feeding Tips To Help Manage Dog Diabetes

Dog feeding tips for diabetes

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Diabetes in dogs is a common but manageable condition, often caused by the body not producing enough insulin or not using it properly. While many diabetic dogs need insulin injections to stay stable, diet and feeding routines play a huge role in keeping blood sugar levels consistent and helping prevent complications. From meal timing to carb intake, … Read more

Best Dog Foods With No Artificial Colors or Additives

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Choosing the right dog food isn’t just about protein or price. For many pet parents, what isn’t in the bag matters just as much as what is. Artificial colors, synthetic flavors, and chemical preservatives are added purely for visual appeal or shelf life — they don’t offer nutrition and can contribute to sensitivities, digestive upset, or skin … Read more

7 Best Dog Foods for Heart Health – 2026

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Supporting heart health starts with choosing the right dog food made with balanced nutrients and quality ingredients. The best dog foods for heart health often include appropriate protein levels, controlled sodium, and essential nutrients that support cardiovascular function. Ingredient sourcing and careful formulation play an important role in promoting long-term wellness. Thoughtful nutrition choices can help dogs … Read more

Best Dog Foods Without Added Sugars

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Many commercial dog foods include added sugars, like cane sugar, molasses, dextrose, or corn syrup, to enhance palatability or texture. While dogs don’t have the same sweet cravings humans do, unnecessary sugar serves no nutritional purpose and can contribute to weight gain, dental issues, inflammation, and blood sugar fluctuations. Choosing dog foods without added sugars helps promote … Read more

9 Best Dog Foods for Pancreatitis

Best Dog Foods for Pancreatitis

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. When your four-legged friend is diagnosed with pancreatitis, it’s essential to reconsider their dietary habits. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can occur in dogs and may lead to digestive problems and nutrient malabsorption. This article will guide you through the best dog foods for pancreatitis, specifically designed to support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and … Read more

7 Best Dog Foods for Urinary Tract Health – 2026

Senior dog next to food and water

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Urinary tract health is vital to your dog’s comfort and overall wellness, especially for breeds prone to infections or urinary stones. Choosing the right dog food can reduce the risk of painful symptoms, support kidney function, and promote healthy hydration. The best dog foods for urinary tract health are made with quality proteins, controlled mineral levels, and … Read more

Fresh Cooked Dog Food Is Best. Nom Nom Does The Work For You.

Offering Nom Nom to dog

Feeding your dog the healthiest, most nutritious meals doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen or decoding complicated labels. Fresh-cooked dog food offers the perfect balance of quality and convenience, giving your pup the whole-food nutrition they need without the hassle for you. That’s where Nom Nom comes in—this vet-developed, freshly-prepared meal delivery service takes all the guesswork out of feeding your dog right. With thoughtfully portioned recipes made from real ingredients and delivered straight to your door, … Read more

9 Best Homemade Dog Food Recipes

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Homemade dog food recipes offer pet owners more control over ingredients while supporting balanced nutrition and freshness. Many dog owners choose homemade meals to avoid fillers, address food sensitivities, or tailor recipes to their dog’s specific needs. Preparing the right homemade dog food recipes can help promote better digestion, energy levels, and overall well being when done … Read more

Amazing Homemade Dog Cookie Recipes

What dog doesn’t love a good dog treat? Exactly! In honor of International Dog Biscuit Day (February 23), we have rounded up some delicious recipes for you to try at home. The great thing about making treats yourself is that you can tweak the recipe as needed for your dog’s allergies or dietary needs. Homemade Dog Cookie Recipes Erica Kei for Fetch! Pet Care’s Funfetti Doggie Donuts Ingredients: 1 cup water ¼ cup coconut oil or olive oil 1 ½ … Read more

12 Best Raw Dog Food Brands

Best raw dog food

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Raw dog food has become a trusted option for pet parents who want to offer meals rich in real meat, organs, and fresh produce. These carefully formulated diets support digestion, skin and coat health, and overall vitality by mirroring what dogs might eat in the wild. With numerous brands offering freeze-dried and frozen options, selecting the best … Read more

Amazon’s Best Airtight Dog Food Storage Containers for Freshness

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you Keeping your dog’s food fresh is one of those quiet acts of love that makes everyday life better for both of you. Stale kibble loses flavor, attracts pests, and can even affect your pup’s health, which is why airtight dog food storage containers matter so much. Dog parents know that feeding time should feel joyful, not stressful … Read more

5 Best Homemade Dog Food Supplements

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.  When it comes to our furry friends, providing them with the best nutrition is a top priority for many pet owners. Homemade dog food has become increasingly popular, as it allows for complete control over the ingredients and ensures a fresh, wholesome diet. However, even the most balanced homemade meals might lack … Read more

Celebrate Your Lucky Dog With These St. Patrick’s Day Goodies

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just for humans; it’s the perfect excuse to spoil your lucky pup, too. Whether your dog is big, small, or somewhere in between, there’s something extra sweet about celebrating the season with a little green-themed fun. From shamrock-shaped treats to festive toys and cheerful surprises, these St. Patrick’s Day goodies are a playful … Read more

11 Best Dry Dog Foods

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 dog food remains one of the most popular feeding options due to its convenience, affordability, and long shelf life. The best dry dog foods are made with quality proteins, balanced nutrients, and carefully selected ingredients that support overall health. Many formulas also help promote dental health while delivering complete and balanced nutrition. Choosing the right dry … Read more

Best Dog Foods for Dental Diets: Vet-Approved Picks for Healthier Teeth

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Bad breath, yellowing teeth, and plaque buildup aren’t just cosmetic issues; they’re often the first signs of dental disease in dogs. In fact, most dogs show signs of oral health problems by age three. While brushing is still the gold standard, the right dog food can make a real difference in keeping your dog’s teeth cleaner every … Read more

Woman Charged After Abandoning Dog at Airport and Attempting to Board Flight

Airports are places where thousands of lives briefly intersect each day, filled with hurried footsteps, rolling luggage, and emotional farewells. In the middle of that constant motion, one small dog experienced a moment that would change his life forever. Surrounded by strangers and the overwhelming noise of a busy terminal, he was unknowingly about to be left behind by the very person he trusted most. What should have been just another travel day quickly turned into a heartbreaking scene that … Read more

Sloths Keep Showing Up in the Strangest Places, So This Man Steps In Every Time

It is not every day that a fire station becomes a temporary sanctuary for a creature of the treetops, yet that is exactly what has been happening in Miranda, Venezuela. Firefighters and rescue workers have grown used to surprising visitors arriving slowly and silently from nearby neighborhoods. Instead of alarms and smoke, they sometimes find themselves face to face with a wide-eyed sloth clinging gently to a pole or structure, far from the forest canopy where it truly belongs. The … Read more

He Went to Check on a “Sheep” and Found a Dog in Chains

At first, it was hard to believe she was a dog at all. In a quiet rural area of Bulgaria, a small, motionless figure stood alone in the dirt, her body so matted and thin that she blended into the landscape. From a distance, she resembled a stray farm animal more than a pet who once belonged to someone. A heavy collar clung tightly around her neck, and a long chain dragged at her feet. She was so still that … Read more

Street Dog Disappears But Returns Painted Like a Rainbow

In the sunlit coastal town of Patillas, Puerto Rico, compassion moves quietly through the streets each morning. Long before most people begin their day, Yesenia Pacheco Morales is already thinking about the dogs who rely on her. She has made it her mission to care for the strays who have no one else, offering them food, shelter, and steady kindness. Alongside a small group of devoted volunteers, she travels the same familiar routes daily, stopping at street corners and empty … Read more

13 Chill Dog Breeds That Won’t Stress You Out

A calm dog resting peacefully with soft eyes, embodying relaxation and stress-free companionship.

Some dogs bring chaos and nonstop motion into a home, while others offer calm steadiness and a soothing presence that softens daily life. Chill breeds are not lazy, but balanced, patient, and emotionally grounded companions. They adapt well to routines, respond thoughtfully instead of reactively, and prefer relaxed connection over constant stimulation. Their temperaments are steady and even, making them less likely to overreact to noise or change. Bred for companionship or patient work, they value closeness without intensity, creating … Read more

The 11 Best Fresh Dog Food Brands in 2026

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Fresh dog food has become a popular choice for pet owners who want minimally processed meals made with real, recognizable ingredients. Many fresh dog food brands focus on human-grade proteins, gentle cooking methods, and balanced nutrition to support digestion, energy, and overall health. Choosing the best fresh dog food often comes down to ingredient quality, sourcing transparency, … Read more

3 Tips To Successfully Train Your Dog With Treats

Positive reinforcement is scientifically proven to be one of the most effective and humane ways to train your dog. It builds trust, strengthens your bond, and creates a dog who wants to work with you. But even when you’re committed to positive methods, small mistakes can slow your progress — especially when it comes to treats. Food rewards are one of the most misunderstood parts of positive reinforcement training, yet for most dogs, they are also one of the most … Read more

Rescued Lab Beagle Refused To Walk, Now She Walks For Treats

The first time Dora stepped beyond the only building she had ever known, the world must have felt impossibly large and bright. For years, her life had been confined to the quiet, controlled environment of a medical testing lab, where days passed under artificial lights and her identity was reduced to the number tattooed inside her ear. She had never felt grass beneath her paws or heard the rustle of trees in the wind. Outside was not just unfamiliar to … Read more

Shelter Dog on Borrowed Time Stops a Volunteer in Her Tracks With One Plea

Madeline Smith had spent years walking through the familiar doors of her local animal shelter, guided by a quiet promise she made to herself long ago to help as many dogs as she could. On this particular afternoon, she arrived with her usual checklist in hand, mentally organizing her limited volunteer hours so no pup would be overlooked. The sounds of barking echoed through the halls, and the scent of disinfectant lingered in the air. It felt like any other … Read more

Woman Wakes Up to a Dog Chilling on the Patio Set Like He Paid Rent

Amy Haden thought she was stepping into an ordinary winter morning, expecting nothing more than the usual quiet stillness that settled over her patio in January. Instead, she was met with a sight that instantly stopped her in her tracks. Curled up comfortably on her outdoor furniture was a dog she had never seen before, resting as if he had always belonged there. He looked relaxed and completely at ease, as though he had carefully chosen this home and decided … Read more

15 Dog Breeds Known For Dramatic Reactions To Bath Time

A dog with an exaggerated, unhappy expression that humorously captures the dramatic bath-time resistance.

Some dogs accept bath time with quiet dignity, while others react as if a great betrayal has occurred. The sight of running water can trigger sighs, side eye, dramatic flops, and bold escape attempts. For certain breeds, bathing becomes emotional theater rather than simple cleanliness. Temperament, coat type, and sensitivity shape these reactions. Strong personalities and independent streaks often lead to louder protests. Even when they eventually cooperate, their flair for drama turns routine grooming into a memorable performance. Siberian … Read more

Emaciated Dog Was on the Brink, Now He’s Living Proof of Second Chances

For nearly three years, one resilient dog has been quietly holding onto hope, waiting for the day someone finally chooses him. Felix has spent 930 long days dreaming of a forever home, enduring setbacks, celebrating small victories, and showing up to countless adoption events with the same gentle optimism. He has healed from devastating illness, learned to trust again, and even stepped into the spotlight on television, all while wondering when it will be his turn. Through it all, he … Read more

Is Freeze-Dried Dog Food Right For Your Dog? Get All The Facts!

hungry dog freeze-dried food

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Freeze-dried dog food has gained attention from pet owners who want nutrient-rich meals made with minimal processing. By preserving the natural qualities of real ingredients, freeze-dried dog food offers a feeding option that appeals to dogs and supports overall health. Understanding how it works, who it is best suited for, and what to watch for can help … Read more

12 Best Raw Dog Food Brands for Samoyeds

Best raw dog food for Samoyeds

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Many Samoyed parents are turning to the best raw dog food brands for Samoyeds for their pet’s dietary needs. Kibble might be the convenient option, but it often lacks the protein and nutrients that dogs benefit from. Raw dog food is a diet that can help keep your Samoyed in shape while also appealing to picky eaters. … Read more