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Top 5 Ways Your Dog Reads Your Emotions

Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense our emotions. Some people say they know us better than we know ourselves, and science backs up that theory. The slightest increase in blood pressure alerts them when our stress level is rising, while a quick glance at our facial expression lets them know whether we are happy or angry. Our dogs can even influence our emotions just by gazing into our eyes. How do they tune into our innermost feelings? And how … Read more

Shelter Dog Has Special Unicorn Sleepover Party

For years, Sox the 11-year-old shelter dog has been in and out of the North Fork Animal Welfare League. She had been with the same family for nearly 8 years, but now, she’s all alone. She’s the sweetest pup, but she is often overlooked because of her age. However, volunteer Valerie Sanks from Rocky Point, New York knows how special Sox really is. So, she decided to give Sox her very own unicorn-themed sleepover party! Sox’s History There’s still a … Read more

Blind, Deaf Dog Provides Full-Time Comfort To Other Rescues

When people underestimate the challenges that come with raising a disabled shelter dog, and the dogs are usually the ones who end up suffering. Dogs with special needs who are just as capable of providing love may end up returning to shelters after their adoptions for a variety of reasons, all unfair to the pups. All it takes to love a disabled rescue is time and commitment. One incredible animal rights activist understands that, and she was more than willing … Read more

Dog In Wheelchair Adopted By Man With Similar Paralysis

Since 2014, Bandit has been with the Gwinnett Jail Dogs Program, dreaming of finding a forever home. This program allows select inmates to help foster and train dogs rescued from kill shelters. Bandit bonded with many people in the program, but his special needs made it difficult to find a home. He had been adopted and returned at least 3 times because he was just too much work, but finally, that bad luck came to an end! Bandit first became … Read more

16 Most Challenging Dog Breeds That Are Full Of Love

All dogs need love, attention, and training – but some dog breeds need a little more than others. Every dog breed has its strengths and weaknesses. That doesn’t make any particular breed less loveable, but these 10 dog breeds may need a lot more patience and obedience training than others. These breeds tend to be intelligent, independent, and stubborn, making then the least obedient dog breeds. Successfully training one of these breeds should win you an award! #1 – Afghan Hound … Read more

Study Shows That YOU Are Making Your Dog Jealous

It’s official, your dog can succumb to the green-eyed monster called jealousy. It’s not in your head pup parents, your dog can experience feelings of jealousy when your world is not currently revolving around them. A new UC San Diego study on canine behavior proves that your dog not only makes you the center of their universe, but they also display jealous behaviors when you give other furry friend’s attention. We’ll dive into the details of this canine study so … Read more

8 Things You Do That Really Annoy Your Dog

When we think about our dogs and annoying behaviors, we are usually thinking about how our dogs annoy us. Perhaps it’s high time that we do some personal reflection. After all, humans can be annoying, too. If our dogs could talk, we’re sure they’d tell us a long list of ways that we aggravate, annoy and trouble them. We took a dive into human behavior to reveal some highly annoying habits of dog Moms and Dads.  Avoid these behaviors to … Read more

10 Things Small Dog Lovers Will Understand

Ever heard, “Though she be but little, she is fierce!”? Shakespeare said that, and I think he was talking about dogs – maybe without knowing it. If you have a small dog then you know that size doesn’t really matter. In fact, small dogs have just as much spark, personality, and loyalty as their bigger canine counterparts – usually even more. For little pup devotees, you know what it’s like to have one of these peanuts at home. If you have … Read more

11 Things Only Big Dog Lovers Understand

They say there are two types of people: those that love big dogs and those that love little dogs. Okay, that’s probably an over-simplification. Most of us love all dogs, but most of us have a preference when it comes to size. For those of us that have a penchant for the bigger breeds, you’ve heard and seen it all before. Here are 11 things you can definitely relate to.   1. They start small, but they grow fast. Fast … Read more

11 Things Only Big Dog Lovers Understand

They say there are two types of people: those that love big dogs and those that love little dogs. Okay, that’s probably an over-simplification. Most of us love all dogs, but most of us have a preference when it comes to size. For those of us that have a penchant for the bigger breeds, you’ve heard and seen it all before. Here are 11 things you can definitely relate to.   1. They start small, but they grow fast. Fast … Read more

Can My Dog Get Coronavirus?

You’ve likely heard about Coronavirus by now. It can be more than a little scary when a virus like this seems to spread so quickly, but as dog lovers, many of us immediately turn our thoughts to our pups at times like these. Especially if you’re familiar with the phrase, “Canine Coronavirus.” “Can my dog get Coronavirus?” Or worse, “Can I give my dog Coronavirus?” First and foremost: don’t panic. What is Coronavirus? Though people are largely referring to the … Read more

5 Signs Your Dachshund Is Head Over Paws for You

We love dachshunds as if they were members of our families—because to us, they really are! We have a good feeling they love us, but it would be encouraging to know for sure. Sometimes it might feel like a one-sided relationship, but if your dachshund does these five things for you—consider it their way of saying, “I love you!” #1 – Playing and Roughhousing With You Ding ding, the match is on! If you’ve ever watched dogs playing at a … Read more

Couple Explores Nepal With Their Rescued Pup, Then Brings Him Home To The U.S.

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Taylor and Drew Woodard set off on a year long adventure traveling around Nepal just last Spring. Though they had an idea that this would be a life changing trip, they gained more than they could have ever imagined. Taylor is an avid animal lover and would frequently ask their translator, Harry, to pull over at the sight of any kind of furry friend on the side of the road. Whether it was a dog, cat, or even an elephant, … Read more

Website Will Warn You About Sad Movie Scenes Involving Dogs

Did the film Marley & Me leave you emotionally scarred? Are you afraid to watch movies with doggie actors for fear they might face an untimely demise? You are not alone! On the website, DoesTheDogDie.com, viewers just like you crowd-source “emotional spoilers” for movies, TV, books, video games, and more. The website’s database currently has more than 4000 films and roughly 838 television series. Simply type in the title of the movie you plan to watch, and a list of comments … Read more

Adoptable Dog’s Own Daughter Serves As His Guide Dog

It happens to many of us: our parents who once gave us life and raised us now need us to take care of them. It’s the cycle of humanity. But apparently, that time occurs in the lives of some dogs too. A 2-year-old rescue pup named Pinky spends almost all of her time beside her biological dad, 5-year-old Flash. She doesn’t do this just because she loves him (though she does.) Pinky also serves as a guide dog for the … Read more

K9 For A Day: Shelter Dogs Go On Patrol

The hearts of police officers never cease to amaze us. Of course, their service and sacrifice don’t stop at the humans within their community. Their kindness and compassion often overflow into the four-legged friends that call their communities home. Another thing the boys and girls in blue are known for is their resourcefulness. No challenge is ever too big for them to find a creative solution! Mickey Won Their Hearts And Paved The Way The La Vista Police Department in … Read more

Pet Food Blessing Box Built To End Animal Hunger

While many of our furry friends get fed plenty of healthy dog food and tasty treats, that’s not the case for all animals. Every day, there are dogs that are starving. Sadly, there’s also many people that can’t afford enough food for their four-legged family members. So, Travis Combs of Kentucky decided that something had to be done about this situation. He wanted to make sure that all the hungry animals in his area were fed. Combs decided to build … Read more

Why does my dog like sniffing butts?

Most of us consider ourselves polite people in polite society. We greet each other with smiles, kind words, head nods and handshakes. Our best friend, however, has a different sort of greeting. They choose to sniff bums. I would guess that most people with dogs conclude their pups do not have manners. But there’s more to the story. What does your dog get from sniffing butts? Since our canine friends are unable to shake hands, nature has provided them a … Read more

Here’s The Reason Why Your Dog’s Feet Smell Like Fritos

Despite the weird looks you get from people who don’t own dogs when you mention that your pup’s paws smell like Fritos, you aren’t crazy. Many dogs’ paws do smell like Fritos (or popcorn, depending on who you ask). The reason why they have that smell is rather mundane, but we’ll get to that. It should go without saying, but if your dog’s feet are excessively stinky or swollen or have a discharge, a trip to the vet is definitely … Read more

“Miracle” Hospice Dog Passes Away – But Her Family Is Turning Heartache Into Hope For Another Dog In Need

It takes an extraordinary soul to open their home to a dog, knowing that at any moment they’ll have to say goodbye. Hospice fosters live for the experience. Where many of us turn away because the heartbreak is too much, some people open their homes and their hearts to dogs who need love in their last days over and over and over. Two years ago I had the pleasure of making Kay Jones’ acquaintance. Kay came to iHeartDogs’ attention when … Read more

The Healthy Hound Newsletter #14

In This Issue

● Dangerous Cleaning Product
● Emergency First Aid
● “Scary” Dog Finds Love
● Are You Causing Your Dog’s Bad Behavior?
● Adopting A Special Needs Pup
● Pet Dental Health Month

Spotify Creates Personalized Playlists For Your Dog

Leaving your furry friends at home is always difficult. It’s hard not to worry about whether or not they’ll be lonely while you’re away. However, many people have realized that music can help soothe animals, especially when they’re feeling lonely. So, Spotify launched a special feature specifically for the animals in your life. You can now make a playlist for your dog, cat, and even your hamster! How Does it Work? If you visit Spotify’s Pet Playlist website, setting up … Read more

Pawlicious Poochie Pet Rescue: A Refuge For The Least Adoptable

If you’re reading this, then you’re likely a dog lover and you’ve seen just about every rescue around. But what if I told you there’s a rescue unlike any other? A saving grace for the most critical, elderly and least likely to survive. Take a trip just a couple of hours southwest of Walt Disney World and you’ll find the superwoman who is making miracles happen.  Sunny St. Petersburg, Florida is home to some of the best beaches in the … Read more

Possible Punishment For Service Dog Fraud Is In The Works

service dog cover

It’s a frustrating time for those with service dogs and their trainers. It’s becoming easier and easier for a dog to pass as a bona fide service dog, and receive the same benefits as those who rely on them for medical necessity. There are now 39 bills nationwide that are currently in the works to crack down on service dog fraud.  Over the years, the public has become increasingly frustrated with the blurred lines of what makes a true service … Read more

Two Puppies Wander Off but Only One Comes Home

In the small New England community of Phillipston, MA, the Gelman family runs an auto business called Grace Quality Used Cars. The people who live in Phillipston love to visit the showroom at Grace Quality because there are always some very friendly faces there to greet them. If customers are nice, they may even get a nuzzle or a wet kiss by these furry greeters. The Gelman family breeds long-haired German Shepherds. Adult male Clyde can always be found close by … Read more

Man Cropped a Litter of Puppies’ Ears with Scissors, Now Facing Criminal Charges

WARNING: Graphic images below.  A Niagara Falls man is facing a variety of animal cruelty charges after unethically and cruelly cropping 7 puppies’ ears. After further researching the practices of the man in question, the procedure was worse than you could even imagine. A local animal control officer was contacted by authorities, stating that a breeder had to seek veterinary care after her puppies’ ear cropping. She dropped them off with Michael Anthony Paonessa with the understanding that this procedure … Read more

Husky Finds a Kitten at the Shelter and Now They’re Best Friends

When Raven the Tamaskan Husky was just a puppy, she was lonely. She wanted a best friend to be able to run around and play with. So, Christina, Raven’s Mom, decided to take Raven to a shelter in Lubbock, Texas to allow her to select a best friend herself. Christina wanted Raven to find a kitten she could grow old with, but of course, Christina couldn’t just pick a friend for her. Raven had to choose her new friend on … Read more

Abandoned Disabled Pup Gets Lego Wheelchair Designed By 12-Year-Old Boy

Raising and caring for a disabled dog can often be a challenge. They may require additional assistance that fully abled dogs don’t. However, the reward of seeing these disadvantaged pups thrive and enjoy life in spite of their disabilities is extremely powerful. A few wonderful people in Georgia would be glad to tell you how great it felt to help an abandoned two-legged puppy overcome her challenge. That puppy’s name is Gracie, and she was dropped off at a veterinarian’s … Read more

Flight Policy Changes After Two Dogs Die in Three Days

Duke was a large male boxer. He was cherished by his human, Australian Kay Newman. She watched in horror as her dog was left in a crate on the tarmac during a delay. Temperatures soared to over 102℉. Her sweet boy could not handle the heat, especially inside a kennel that radiated inside like an oven. Duke died and the airline thinks sympathy alone is enough.  Kay Informed Qantas that Duke’s Breed Was High Risk Kay and Duke were booked … Read more

Beagle Adopts Baby Possum After Losing Her Puppies

Dogs are very protective over their loved ones, but those loved ones are typically just humans and other dogs. However, Molly the Beagle loves a baby possum! Molly recently had a litter of puppies that died at birth, which was heartbreaking for her. While she was looking for her puppies, she came across a baby possum that had been abandoned by her own mother. Without hesitation, Molly took her in. Molly lives on a farm in Australia, so she’s used … Read more

Brazil Bus Station Provides Strays With Shelter From The Cold

Brazil has not always been known for kindness to stray animals, but employees at a bus terminal in the city of Curitiba prove that warm-hearted humans can always be found. When a trio of friendly street dogs began hanging around the station, the staff opened their doors – and their hearts – to help protect them from the cold. The three dogs were dubbed Max, Pitoco and Zoinho by their new friends who provide them with food, water, and cozy … Read more

Rescue Dog With Terminal Cancer Becomes Police K9

Eddie the rescue dog had spent at least a month wandering the streets of Washington on his own after being abandoned. When Carin Brown with Benton County Animal Control finally rescued him, she could tell that he was in rough shape. At first, she thought he had gotten hurt as a stray, but she soon discovered that it was much worse. Poor Eddie had an inoperable tumor, and he only had 6 to 12 months to live. Eddie’s Bucket List … Read more

Therapy Dogs Submit to Procedures to Help Young Patients

We are all familiar with therapy dogs and the important work they do in schools, hospitals, homes, and more. One team from Southhampton in the UK have a special set of skills that put their young patients at ease. They aim to make the children they serve feel comfortable and unafraid when facing a battery of medical tests and procedures. How do they do it? By submitting to the procedures themselves first! They Are Called “Dog-tors” There are six Golden … Read more

Puppy Bowl XVI Recruits Over 90 Adorable Adoptables

I’m not a big football fan, but that doesn’t mean I don’t look forward to the day of the Super Bowl every year. No, it’s not for the commercials. It’s not entirely for the snacks either. I get excited to watch the annual Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet! Erin Wanner, a senior production executive for Animal Planet, told Patch how this annual tradition came about over 15 years ago. “We put down some turf on the office floor and let some puppies … Read more

Loving Dog Dad Walks His Paralyzed Pup In A Cozy Wagon

Walks are the highlight of the day for many dogs. They love having the opportunity to explore outside and take in lots of new smells. In fact, walks can be fun for all dogs, even if they are unable to walk on their own. This is especially true for a man and his paralyzed dog in Nova Scotia, Canada. He made a cozy wagon specifically so his dog could still enjoy going on her daily walks. He says that he … Read more

New Colorado Bill Would Ban Puppy Mills, Retail Sale Pets

A bill introduced January 10th, 2020 aims to prevent the sale of dogs and cats by pet stores in Colorado. The “Humane Pet Act” also establishes new standards for the care and treatment of dogs and cats by breeders and prohibits animal sales in public places. For breeders, this means limiting the number of dogs or cats managed at one time to 25. It also prevents the animals from breeding more than once a year and more than six total … Read more

Teenage Boy With Cancer Searches For Lost Dog

The Martin family of Algonquin, Illinois has three amazing dogs, all of which are loyal members of the family. However, Xena the Coonhound-Rhodesian Ridgeback mix has a special bond with 13-year-old Jack Martin. Their bond became even stronger when Jack was diagnosed with stage 4 Ewing’s sarcoma, which is a rare bone cancer. So, when Xena got lost one day, Jack didn’t know what to do without her. Xena had gotten loose when she was in the car with Jack’s … Read more

Two Missing Dog Cases Unite Their Communities With Very Different Results

Meadow and Bella are two of many dogs that went missing around the holidays. What sets them apart is the incredible support their respective communities provided in helping to bring them home. The city of Birmingham, Alabama rallied around Atlanta resident, Lauren Johnson when her dog Meadow became lost. Residents of Charleston, SC did the same when a Yellow Lab Mix named Bella was stolen along with her owner’s truck. Their efforts eventually resulted in both dogs being recovered. Sadly, … Read more

Man Jumps Into A Freezing River To Save Dog That Was Trapped In The Water

river rescue cover

Austin Russell’s day took a drastic turn when he came across something splashing in the Grand River. Though he originally planned to just continue along with his bike ride, a bark in the distance changed everything. Austin quickly realized that the splashing in the water that he had chalked up to floating debris was actually a canine that was in dire need of help. As he approached the river, he began to hear a dog barking and the sound of … Read more

The 10 Most Stubborn Dog Breeds

Obedience isn’t everything. These dogs might be lazy, some are playful, some are independent, but the one trait they all share for sure? Stubbornness! All these breeds are completely loveable and have other traits that could still make them your perfect compaion… if you don’t mind a training challenge! #1 – Beagle Lovingly independent, the Beagle will find amusement anywhere if left to their own devices. There will be trouble with a indifferent owner who doesn’t appreciate what the Beagle … Read more

5 Signs You Love Your Dog More Than Your Family Members

We can all agree that we love our dogs like family, but do you prefer the company of your canine companions over your human family members? You may be afraid to admit this out loud, but for the record, we can totally relate! Dogs are our best friends, confidants, and furry family members, and their love and loyalty is unconditional and everlasting. They don’t judge, they’re always happy to see us, and they never, ever let us down – even … Read more

10 Dog Breeds Who Are Absolute “Drama Queens”

Which dogs breeds have the most tendency to be drama queens (or kings?) We put this question to our fans recently on Facebook, and you responded with no shortage of answers! The below list is a result of our own research and your votes, along with a few stories from our community users! Would you add any to our list? Tell us in the comments on Facebook. #10 – Pomeranians Community user FabiolaJM loves her “diva” Pomeranian Peluche – but … Read more

Artist’s Breathtaking Pics Remind Us To Appreciate The Little Moments With Our Dogs

It can be difficult to put into words just how much you love your dog. The pure joy they inject into our lives can elevate even the most everyday moments into something worth telling everybody about. Los Angeles based artist Yaoyao Ma Van As tells the story of her and her beloved pooch in incredible illustrations on Instagram. The cute, colorful pictures are guaranteed to give you warm, fuzzy feelings when you see yourself and your favorite companion in the … Read more

Step-By-Step: How To Be A Dog In 21 Hilarious Illustrations

If you’ve been thinking about a career change, now’s a great time to consider becoming a dog. It’s the good life. Lisa Swerling & Ralph Lazar, the New York Times bestselling authors and artists behind the creative studio Last Lemon, have created a simple and funny user-driven guide for “How To Be A Dog”. Dog owners, experts and dogs themselves submit ideas from around the world, and if the Last Lemon team likes the concepts (i.e. if they are funny … Read more

10 Dog Breeds That Are Extra Clingy

While every dog loves being with their human, there are some that really, really love to be with you. Dogs are sensitive creatures, and their desire to be near you is very strong–but for some, it’s more than that. Like a dog that clings to your side, ready to be your pal wherever you go? Then one of these breeds might be just the one for you! #1 – Labrador Retriever Labs are known for their easy going personality and attachment … Read more

Brave German Shepherd Races To Save Her Trappped Pitbull BFF From Snow

snow rescue

If you’re a dog parent that’s lucky enough to have two canine friends in your home, you’ve probably noticed the wonderful bond that two pups can share. Well, this bond was put to the test when an adorable Pittie named Knuckles found herself in a bind that only her furry BFF could rescue her from. Knuckles and Kanawha were enjoying a snow day with their dad, Brian Wagner, when their frolic through a winter wonderland took a turn. As Kanawha, … Read more

Woman Arrested For Punching Boyfriend After He Leaves Her Dog Outside In The Rain

An Oregon woman is facing assault charges for punching her boyfriend not once, but twice after he left her dog outside in the rain. While there are likely more details about this situation that have yet to be released, this is what we know so far. The Coo’s County Sheriff’s Office released the arrest report of a Myrtle Point woman named Melissa, and the obvious grin that she was sporting soon after the incident. According to police, when Melissa returned … Read more

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

Obesity in dogs is a very serious problem, and it’s 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

N.Y. Dog Walkers Take The Most Epic “Pack” Photos

Walking dogs professionally can be a fun and rewarding job on its own. Still, a dog walking company in Saratoga Springs, upstate New York found a way to make even more fun for themselves and their canine clients daily: amazing pack photographs. Tim Pink and his assistant Erin Prevost typically walk around 50 dogs in a week. They don’t have any breed restrictions, but walking packs are divided by size. These often-photographed afternoon walks are part of Saratoga Dog Walkers‘ … Read more

Dogs Missing From Accident Scene Reunited With Family

Roads become packed with travelers during the holidays. Sadly, this opens the doors for more traffic accidents. Even our worst days have a silver lining even if we don’t see it right away. One man in North Carolina thought he lost it all when his vacation was interrupted by a car accident that ended with both of his dogs missing. With a little patience, a lot of help from the community, and a bit of luck, Brian Shelton’s worst day … Read more

Medevac Helps K-9 Beat Death For The Second Time

The work that dogs can do is absolutely mind-blowing. Take 6-year-old Kylie for example. She’s a cadaver dog that works with D.C Fire and EMS. Her passion is helping bring closure to families after a tragedy. Kylie has a superhero nose and bravery that is unwavering, as you’ll soon find out. Train Like Your Life Depends On It Because It Does The number one rule first responders live by is safety. But, even if you take all precautions known to … Read more