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Why Do Dogs Kick When You Scratch Them?

No dog lover can resist doling out a good belly rub when their pup flops onto the floor and shows their stomach. It’s always your goal to find that magic spot that gets their leg moving like Thumper in “Bambi.” When you find it, and your dog’s leg starts going crazy, you assume you’re giving them exactly what they asked for. The secret most dog owners don’t know, however, is that kicking their leg during a belly rub doesn’t always … Read more

How Long Is It OK To Leave My Dog Home Alone?

Even though more and more stores, restaurants, and workplaces are becoming dog-friendly, sometimes leaving your dog home alone is unavoidable. How long is it OK to leave your dog home alone for? There is actually no easy answer. It depends on a lot of factors such as your dog’s age, breed, health, and whether or not he has separation anxiety. Puppies In general, puppies need to pee one hour for every month of their age. That means your two-month-old puppy … Read more

How Long Is It OK To Leave My Dog Home Alone?

Even though more and more stores, restaurants, and workplaces are becoming dog-friendly, sometimes leaving your dog home alone is unavoidable. How long is it OK to leave your dog home alone for? There is actually no easy answer. It depends on a lot of factors such as your dog’s age, breed, health, and whether or not he has separation anxiety. Puppies In general, puppies need to pee one hour for every month of their age. That means your two-month-old puppy … Read more

Every Dog Owner Needs To Know The Doggy Heimlich Maneuver

Dogs will chew on just about anything they can sink their teeth into, and it often gets them into trouble. Yes, they occasionally destroy a favorite shoe, but that’s nothing compared to the risk of them choking. They can break bones into barely swallowable pieces and try to quickly gobble down the smelly sock they know you won’t like them having, and all of those things are potential choking hazards. Many dogs also accidentally swallow balls and other toys that … Read more

If You’ve Ever Bought a Toy from iHeartDogs, YOU Helped Give This Abandoned Dog An Unforgettable Day!

If you haven’t been watching Dog’s Day Out, you’ve been missing something really incredible! In each episode, Rocky Kanaka takes a shelter dog out to spend one day doing some of the things they love to do most, and showing people that these dogs have so much to offer a new family. In this episode, Rocky took out Wade, an adorable Frenchie at Marley’s Mutts who is being treated for Valley Fever, and has a long road to recovery ahead. … Read more

7 Secrets That Help Minimize Dog Dander

Whether you have a family member who is allergic to your dog or you just like a really clean home, dog dander can be a big problem. What can you do to help reduce your dog’s dander to help keep your home clean and allergen free? Luckily, we have some solutions. Here are 7 secrets that help minimize dog dander. #1 – Brush your dog regularly Brushing your dog helps loosen up dander and spread your dog’s natural oils. Brush … Read more

10 Tips For Camping With Your Pup

The summer season is in full swing, and that means it’s time for camping! Luckily, camping is one thing you and your pup can enjoy together. There are a lot of things you need to keep in mind though to keep your dog safe, healthy, and happy on your camping trip. Here are 10 tips for camping with your dog so you can have the best possible camping experience. #1 – Check in with the vet first You’ll want to take … Read more

Dog & Abandoned Baby Moose Become “Fast Friends”

It’s not every day you find a moose in your backyard. But Shannon Lugdon, who lives in northern Maine, is one of the few people who can say it happened to her! Now, anyone who knows anything about these majestic animals knows that they’re big, and can get aggressive if they’re feeling threatened. That’s why, when she discovered a 6-day-old, 27-pound baby moose, her initial instinct was to leave her alone and call the wildlife wardens. https://www.facebook.com/shannon.lugdon/videos/pcb.10156362399148350/10156362397738350/?type=3&theater Lugdon explained on a … Read more

Stray Dog With No Tongue Impresses Rescuers With Her Ability To Survive

Liz Oeffner was driving through Detroit’s West Side when she noticed a filthy dog limping along the road at a busy intersection. Concerned for her safety, she scooped up the gentle pooch and brought her home. As the hungry stray ate, Oeffner noticed there was something strange about her mouth. “She was eating weird,” Oeffner wrote on Facebook. “I assumed she didn’t have any teeth. Then she yawned. She didn’t have a tongue.” Oeffner brought the dog to her veterinarian … Read more

5 Ways You Didn’t Know A Probiotic Could Make Your Dog’s Life Better

You go out of your way to make sure your dog lives the best life possible, and taking care of their digestive health is an important part of that. How they absorb nutrients and breakdown food affects nearly all aspects of their overall health. If you want to give your dog a happy and healthy life, it’s time to consider all the many benefits of probiotics. Related: 12 Best Probiotics for Dogs + 1 to NEVER Use What To Know … Read more

8 Things That Are Harder To Do When You Have A Dog

When you bring a dog into your home, a lot of things change. Toys get strewn all over the floor. We make room for crates, food bowls, and beds. And in most cases, pet hair clings to everything! Most importantly, we smile, laugh, and enjoy their company every single day, for many years, if we’re lucky. There are also certain things that are much harder to do once we bring a fluffy family member into our homes. Of course, any sacrifice made is totally worth … Read more

12 Seasonal Fruits & Veggies To Share With Your Dog This Summer

It’s that time of year when we start thinking about fresh fruits and veggies – the best the spring and summer have to offer. You may even be wondering which of these healthy snacks you can share with your dog. “Any of these ingredients individually are great as treats in small amounts, or can make up a balanced diet when properly formulated into a complete recipe,” says Dr. Oscar E Chavez BVetMed MRCVS MBA, licensed veterinarian and Chief Medical Officer for JustFoodForDogs®. … Read more

14 Things That Every Person Who Loves Their Dog Has Done

Okay, so sometimes we do things with our dogs that aren’t the most conventional. But that’s because we love them oh-so-much, right? For us, dogs are family…and as anyone knows, families do some funny things together. Have you done any–or all–of these things with your dog?? Chances are, you’re going to say “yes” to most of these! Got any funny ones you want to add to this list?? Share with us in the comments section on Facebook.  1. You’ve created all kinds of … Read more

20 Dog Hacks To Make Life Easier On You & Your Pup

Dogs certainly enhance our lives, but they can also add a good deal of work to our schedules. Thank goodness there’s a life hack for just about everything these days – including your dog! These 20 simple tricks help you give them the best of the best without breaking the bank or losing your entire weekend!   1. Old Sweatshirts Make Awesome Small Dog Beds There’s nothing cozier to your dog than a soft piece of clothing that smells like … Read more

Shelter Worker Dedicates Her Life To Saving Hundreds Of Parvo Puppies

KC Pet Project in Kansas City, Missouri takes in about 30 rescued animals every day. There are dogs and cats ready to find new homes right away, and then there are the dogs that come in needing serious help. Many of them are diagnosed with parvovirus. Parvovirus is a serious viral disease that starts in a dog’s intestinal tract and attacks the white blood cells before doing damage to the heart. It’s highly contagious, and many puppies and adult dogs … Read more

7 Things In Your Backyard That Could Be Deadly For Dogs

Your backyard is where your dog is free to run around and soak up the sun, but it’s your job to make sure that happy place doesn’t end up being a dangerous place. You’ll need to look at your yard with a critical eye to spot the things that might get a curious sniffer or mischievous mind into trouble. Most of the things on this list are everyday items you probably have in your yard right now. They’re safe when … Read more

6 Surprising Issues A Probiotic Can Help Your Dog Cope With

Probiotics are popular among humans, but did you know they can also help your dog? To be clear, feeding your companion probiotics formulated for humans is not recommended — the healthy flora in the gut is different in humans and dogs. But with that said, the benefits of taking a species-specific probiotic supplement are very similar! How can probiotics help my pooch? Probiotics are known for supporting gut health, which starts a ripple effect: regular, solid bowel movements, happier tummies, … Read more

Traveling With Or Boarding Your Dog? This Cheap Supplement May Prevent Yucky Poops

If you frequently board or travel with your dog, you may have noticed that he’s prone to diarrhea during or immediately after these experiences. These stressful situations can easily upset your dog’s digestive system. Sure, you can add pumpkin to your dog’s diet for a few days to help get things back to normal, but wouldn’t you prefer to try to avoid your poor pup suffering from diarrhea in the first place? Luckily, there is a supplement you can give … Read more

How Much Bone Broth Is Too Much?

You may have heard some of the health benefits of bone broth and thought it might be beneficial for your pup. After doing some research and deciding to add it to your dog’s diet, the next question is: How much bone broth should I feed my dog? And then: How much bone broth is too much? How much bone broth should I feed my dog? The short answer is that everything is best in moderation, but you shouldn’t stress about … Read more

Scientists Study YouTube Videos To Discover The Lesser Known Triggers For Dog Bites

Common reasons dogs snap at humans include fear, pain and resource guarding. Recently, a team of researchers from the University of Liverpool set out to discover the lesser understood triggers for dog bites by analyzing 143 YouTube videos showing 362 real bites. Dog bites are a global health problem causing physical, mental, and financial strain to individuals, health care systems, and businesses. They also affect canine welfare, as many dogs are relinquished to shelters or euthanized for biting, even when the incident … Read more

Rock Legend Gene Simmons Talks Dogs Exclusively With iHeartDogs

There probably isn’t a soul alive who hasn’t heard of THE Gene Simmons – the lead singer and bassist for the legendary rock band, KISS. Yes, Gene Simmons has many titles, including: father, husband, entrepreneur and actor. But the one you may not know, that we absolutely love, is: Gene Simmons, Doggy Dad to 4 rescue pups! We had the privilege of chatting with the legendary rocker about his life and perspective on dogs, in our ongoing segment we like … Read more

What Your Favorite Dog Breed Says About You

While most dog lovers love all dogs, we’d be lying if we said that we didn’t secretly (or in some cases, not so secretly) have a favorite. It’s not that we are selective, but it’s just that certain dog breeds pull at our heartstrings a little bit more than others. With our favorite breed often comes stereotypes, and certain characteristics that many owners hold true. To have a little fun, we’ve come up with a list of some popular dog … Read more

Pit Bull Alerts Family To House Fire & Begins Dragging The Baby To Safety

Sasha the Pit Bull and baby Masailah have a very special bond. Born just days apart, the pair have spent the past eight months growing up together. So when Sasha sensed impending danger in the form of a rapidly spreading house fire, it’s no wonder her top priority was saving her best friend. Sasha was in the backyard of the Chai family’s Stockton, California home when the frightening scene began to unfold. The neighboring house was engulfed in flame and … Read more

When A Couple Splits, Who Gets The Dog?

When you’re happily in a relationship and facing the exciting milestone of adding a dog to the family, it’s hard to plan for the depressing “what if”: If you and your partner splits up, who gets the dog? But sadly, it’s a common reason for nasty pet custody battles, the same pets that were welcomed with open arms into a couple’s life while they were still happy. At best, the pooch gets to live with the human who can provide … Read more

Incredibly Unique Big-Eared Beauty Needs A Forever Home

Wanda is a gorgeous pup with huge velvety ears and so much love to give… so why has no one taken her home? This beautiful pup has been waiting at the shelter for nearly half a year, desperate for a family. Normally fun-loving, shelter staff are getting concerned as she becomes more and more depressed. A post shared by BrowardCountyPetOfTheWeek (@browardcountypetoftheweek) on Jun 3, 2018 at 8:01am PDT Wanda was taken in to the Broward County Animal Care and Adoption … Read more

21 Dog Breeds That Will Chew On Everything You Hold Dear

Any dog might decide to chew up your favorite shoes if he gets bored, but some breeds are notorious chewers. If you already have one of the breeds on this list, you might be familiar with their tendencies to chew. If you’re deciding what breed would best suit your family, keep in mind that the dogs on this list may need a little bit more attention, exercise, or training to avoid chewing things they shouldn’t. With that in mind, here … Read more

Man Honors Late Dog By Rescuing A Senior Pup… Now He Has A Whole Pack!

Steve Greig, who lives in Colorado and works as a full-time accountant, knew that the only way to recover from the loss of a dear old furry friend was to give another one a loving home. Little did he know that this act of love would grow into something much bigger! A post shared by Steve (@wolfgang2242) on Feb 21, 2018 at 8:34am PST As a child, Greig’s parents taught him to love all animals.  “I grew up with a … Read more

Army Veteran Reunited With His Retired Bomb-Sniffing Dog After 6 Months Of Separation

When Ali, a bomb-sniffing Dutch Shepherd, was forced to retire due to his age back in December, his handler, Troy Sutton, was still in Iraq and worried that he would never see Ali again. Luckily, K-9 Hero Haven stepped in and helped Ali transition into retired life while Sutton finished his time in Iraq. Sutton had served in the United States Army for 24 years but now works for American K-9 Detection Services, where he works with dogs to sniff out bombs … Read more

Coyote Attacks On Dogs Are Rising In The U.S. — Here’s How To Keep Your Pet Safe

Heartbroken pet parents around the country are warning others to be alert. Several coyote attacks on dogs, mostly small breeds, have already been documented just this year. If you weren’t aware, you may be surprised at how widespread and healthy the coyote population in the U.S. is. Coyotes can be found in all 48 contiguous states and Alaska, and the population appears to be rising – and so is the number of attacks on pets. Though some people may get a … Read more

How Your Relationship With Your Dog Affects Your Mind & Body

You probably don’t need a scientist to tell you that your dog makes you feel happier and more relaxed, but did you know that your mind and body actually have physical responses to being around your four-legged best friend? In the Business Insider video below, author Meg Olmert, who wrote Made For Each Other: the Biology of the Human-Animal Bond, discusses how dogs and humans have developed a symbiotic relationship. As a matter of fact, she notes that pups who … Read more

Know Your Rights When It Comes To Saving Dogs In Hot Cars

Every year, pet parents are warned not to leave their animals in parked cars, which can get fatally hot, even on a temperate day. Yet every year, we hear reports of pets who are subjected to unnecessary suffering because of the selfishness or ignorance of their owners. While the majority of pet parents have the common sense to avoid this situation, there are always those few who refuse to do what’s best for their companions. When this happens, it’s up … Read more

Temperatures Are Beginning To Soar: Here’s How To Protect Your Dog From Head To Paw

With temperatures surpassing 100 degrees in some parts of the country, animal experts are reminding pet owners of some simple ways to keep their dogs safe and healthy. It’s of utmost importance to be aware of how stifling heat affects our pets, often more than us humans. A little precaution can go a long way, preventing injury, vet bills — and most importantly, it can save a life. Head for the water In a story by abc 30, pet parents … Read more

9 Reasons Why Male & Female Dogs Hump, Even If They’ve Been “Fixed”

For us humans, it’s not exactly socially acceptable to go up to an acquaintance — or even an old friend, for that matter — and start humping them. Nor is it appropriate to go to town on a toy or pillow with onlookers nearby. However, our canine companions don’t have these kinds of social inhibitions, but for us humans, our pups’ frisky behavior can be pretty embarrassing! Sometimes, a mount can even lead to an altercation between two dogs. So … Read more

Has Your Dog Recently Taken Antibiotics or Steroids? Make Sure They’re Getting This Too

If you’ve ever taken antibiotics or steroids, you know that they can do wonders for illness, but can also wreak havoc on your stomach and digestive system! The same can be true for your dog, especially if they cycle through the medication regularly. The big difference is, your pooch has no way to tell you he’s still not feeling well even after he gets a clean bill of health. But as an informed pup parent, you can help ease the … Read more

The Easy (Natural) Trick To Helping Your Pup Overcome Diarrhea

Whether your dog’s bouts with diarrhea are frequent or limited to periods of stress, you want to help your dog feel better as quickly as possible. While chronic, unexplained, or mucous-covered diarrhea warrant trips to the vet, there is one thing you can do to help your dog overcome occasional diarrhea and recover more quickly. You may be taking probiotics yourself, but did you know they can be just as beneficial for your dog as they are for you? New … Read more

The 9 Most Mischievous Dog Breeds

There’s a pup out there for every personality, from companion couch potatoes, to social butterflies, to playful buddies that are perfect for active families. And there are some dogs whose genetics combine high intelligence with high energy, so if they’re not properly occupied, they may get themselves into some trouble! To be clear, these aren’t the “problem children” of the canine world, they’re the dogs who love to work, hike, play, run, excel at agility, and more! But left to … Read more

Hotel Foster Program Is Getting Shelter Dogs Adopted In Record Time

Adopting a rescue dog usually means visiting a shelter to pick out the perfect pooch, but a hotel in Orlando, FL is putting a new spin on pet adoption. Thanks to a specially designed in-lobby dog house, Aloft Orlando Downtown recently launched a foster program aimed at getting more local dogs adopted into loving families. The hotel is working with the non-profit Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, and they’ve already found homes for two shelter dogs in need. https://www.facebook.com/aloftorlandodowntown/photos/pcb.1119745448165929/1119742564832884/?type=3&theater The … Read more

Service Dog Who Gave Birth In Airport Raises Concerns Among Dog Lovers

It’s likely that you’ve seen the story of a service dog who became a mother in a Tampa airport. The video of Mom, Dad, and their eight new pups was posted to Twitter by first responders from Tampa Fire Rescue who assisted in the delivery. Since then it has been shared thousands of times over social media and covered by news outlets all over the world as people cooed over the adorable new pups. All done! #AirportPuppies @FlyTPA @CityofTampa pic.twitter.com/NIoXr0HCZW … Read more

Devoted Foster Mom Has Cared For More Than 500 Puppies

Sharon Oiler of Houston, Texas has had several jobs including IT salesperson, business owner, and P.E. coach, but her most rewarding career to-date is fostering puppies as they await adoption. Over the past 15 years, Oiler estimates she has cared for roughly 500 rescue pups. Oiler is part of the foster program for the Rescued Pets Movement, a non-profit organization that rehabilitates and transports homeless dogs and cats to communities throughout the country where they have a greater chance of adoption. … Read more

Student’s Service Dog Honored With Yearbook Photo & Plaque

11-year-old Rachel is graduating from elementary school, and while her teachers and friends will miss her this summer, they know she is in good paws! Rachel’s service dog, Linda made quite an impression during her once or twice weekly visits to the school. In addition to assisting Rachel, who has spina bifida and relies on a wheelchair, Linda also took it upon herself to comfort other students. “She will be there to help with tests when the kids start to … Read more

10 Dog Breeds That Are Social Butterflies

There is a dog personality for just about every lifestyle, and if you’re a person who enjoys going out and meeting new people, you may want to consider a pup who’d love to tag along. (Just know that this means they’re going to hate being left alone!) Or, perhaps you’re looking for a friend for the shy or anxious dog that you already have at home. An outgoing companion may be just the friend she needs to get her out of her shell! If you … Read more

Rescue Dog With Rare Tumor To Undergo Groundbreaking Surgery

“Lucky” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you look at Bliss. The 2-year-old pooch has an extremely rare skull tumor, and was abandoned at a Texas kill shelter by her family. Alone, frightened and confused, Bliss had no idea her luck was about to change!   Friends of Emma Medical Rescue, a major medical/critical care home located in Fort Worth, learned of Bliss’ plight and agreed to take her in. Thinking her condition was terminal, they prepared … Read more

Studies Suggest That Probiotics May Help With Your Dog’s Skin Itchiness & Allergies

Probiotics have exploded in popularity in recent years. In fact, a survey done by the NIH shows that they’re now the 3rd most popular natural supplement taken by people. Related: 12 Best Probiotics for Dogs While most people and pets are first given probiotics for digestive reasons, recent human and animal studies have begun to show promise in use with patients suffering from allergies. Let’s review some of the evidence to-date: What Do The Studies Say? A 2017 study by … Read more

10 Ways A Probiotic Can Help Your Dog

Up to 80% of a dog’s immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract, so maintaining digestive health means far more than just preventing upset bellies and loose stools. Probiotics replenish the levels of healthy bacterial flora in the GI tract and prevent the “bad” bacteria from taking over. Dogs with unbalanced flora levels experience digestive problems and are more susceptible to illness. In the following 10 circumstances, probiotics can be especially beneficial to your dog. All of these stressors … Read more

5 Reasons To Talk To Your Dog On A Daily Basis

Do dogs like it when you talk to them? Of course they do! Talking to your dog might seem one-sided, but you don’t need a verbal response to know chatting with your furry best friend is a good idea. No matter how silly you think having a talk with your dog sounds, striking up a conversation while you’re out on a walk, cuddling on the couch, or preparing dinner has benefits you probably don’t know about. Yes, your neighbor might … Read more

10 Things We Should Do For Our Dogs Because They Can’t Do It Themselves

Dogs can learn to perform incredible tasks. Some safeguard our very lives by detecting explosives or alerting us to dangers in the home. But there are certain things our pups just cannot do without our help. When it comes to health and safety, they depend on us to make the best decisions on their behalf. Every pawrent should do the following 10 things for their dogs’ wellbeing because they do so much for us! 1. Watch their waistlines. Dogs cannot … Read more

UPDATE: Former Owner Of Puppy Found Written On With Permanent Marker Speaks Out

Update: The woman who abandoned Marvella, the pup covered in writing with permanent marker, spoke out about her actions. She claimed that after a dispute with her landlord, she tried to bring the pup to shelters but they were all full. “After I did that cringe-worthy moment where I was just like, ‘Oh my gosh, I messed up. She looks awful,” she admitted in a story by WHOtv. She added: “I knew with everything inside of me that she would … Read more

Can Probiotics Help My Dog’s Stinky Farts?

If your dog can clear an entire room with noxious flatulence, it’s time to do something about the stench. Their extreme gas assaults the senses, and it’s also giving your pup serious tummy troubles. The reason why your dog’s farts are especially nauseating could be due to diet or how fast they eat. Lucky for your sense of smell, dog probiotics are the secret weapon to help stop the stink. Probiotics are microorganisms also known as “good bacteria.” They’re essential … Read more

Houston Shelter In Desperate Need After Taking In 200 Surrendered Animals Memorial Day Weekend

The Harris County Animal Shelter in Houston, Texas took in over 200 surrendered pets over Memorial Day weekend, 100 on the Friday before the weekend alone. In a city of over 2 million, Houston’s shelters are frequently at or over capacity, but for a facility only designed to hold 150 animals, this is an extreme burden. Kennels are designed to hold only one or two animals, but at the moment there are some pets living four-to-a-kennel. Most were formally surrendered, … Read more

This Inexpensive Supplement Is Showing Promise for Dogs with Itchy Skin

More and more research is showing us the incredible impact that gut health has on all aspects of wellness. And although we don’t fully understand the mechanism, there does appear to be a link between the GI system and allergies or food intolerances in dogs. In 2015, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published by the NIH showed that the probiotic strain Lactobacillus sakei given for 2 months significantly reduced the disease severity of dogs diagnosed with canine atopic dermatitis.  (We’ve also … Read more

VA Hospital Welcomes Disabled PTSD Therapy Dog

Honor is a 2-year-old Golden Retriever raised from puppyhood to serve individuals with PTSD. Unlike other dogs trained by the non-profit organization, Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma, Honor was born without metacarpals where her back right paw would be. Unable to place her as a regular service dog, Therapetics donated Honor to the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center. There, her prosthetic limb makes her all the more relatable to the heroes she comforts. “So devoted. She doesn’t know she’s handicapped. She’s the … Read more