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The Surprising Reason Why Dogs Have Floppy Ears

Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, Beagles—there are countless dog breeds best known for their adorable floppy ears. Big droopy ears that flop back and forth and flutter in the wind make for a cute pup, and science has a theory about why so many dog breeds have the distinctive trait. For their explanation, researchers first look to the wild. Dogs were domesticated from wolves, but comparing them now, few dog breeds have actual physical similarities to their wild ancestors—ears included. You could … Read more

Choosing The Best Joint Supplement/Glucosamine for Dogs – 6 Things You Must Know

#1: For Maximum Efficacy, Choose a Supplement for Your Dog with Multiple Active Ingredients When most people think of a joint supplement for their dog, glucosamine comes to mind. And while glucosamine is the most popular active ingredient, other powerful nutraceuticals include MSM, chondroitin, and turmeric (curcumin). If your supplement contains only one or two of these, you may be missing potential benefits. Different dogs respond to different treatments, so when in doubt, offer a broad spectrum of nutrients. #2: Always Check … Read more

Researchers Identify Possible Risk Factors For Anxiety & Aggression In Dogs

According to VetStreet.com, as many as 90% of all dog owners report behavioral problems – most commonly in the categories of anxiety and aggression. Not only do these issues compromise the dog’s wellbeing and their relationship with the humans and other pets in the household, they also increase the dog’s risk of being surrendered to a shelter. A group of researchers in Northern Italy conducted a study to shed light on how and why behavioral problems develop in certain dogs. Their … Read more

City Ends Pit Bull Ban But Many Dog Owners Aren’t Happy With The Rules Put In Its Place

The Lakewood, Ohio City Council considered an ordinance last night that would drop the current ban on Pit Bulls within city limits and instead would implement a series of rules directed at Pit Bulls, Pit Bull mixes, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Bulldogs, Canary Mastiff dogs, and Cane Corso dogs. While Mayor Mike Summers feels this is an acceptable compromise, many Lakewood residents still feel that Pit Bulls are being unfairly targeted, while there aren’t severe … Read more

11 Dog Breeds That Have A High Prey Drive

Some dogs love to run, others like to retrieve, and some can’t stop themselves from chasing anything that moves! Those pups most likely have a high prey drive. Dogs with high prey drives have strong instincts to hunt. They tend to go after moving objects, whether they’re birds, critters, or leaves blowing in the wind! These dogs are energetic and intelligent, but they can be a handful if they don’t have a productive way to expel all that energy. Below are … Read more

How To Help Two Dogs Form A Friendly Bond

While dogs are generally considered pack animals, not every canine introduction will turn into a peaceful companionship. Some dogs generally don’t do well in social situations, and others are picky about who they choose to befriend. Whether you’ve added a second dog to the family or need your pup to play nice with someone else’s dog, encouraging an amicable relationship is in everyone’s best interests. Like people, dogs have individual personalities that determine who they play best with. It isn’t … Read more

Woman Finds Kindred Spirit In Shelter Dog Who Shared Her Heart Condition

Sue Blankenship was born with Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA), a condition that causes abnormal blood flow in the arteries connected to the heart, which can cause congestive heart failure if left untreated. Luckily, Sue’s condition was treated years ago, and she recently found a kindred spirit in Mars. Mars (formerly Bruno) found his way to the Spokane Humane Society in Washington after a long trip from a sister shelter in San Antonio, Texas. Upon his arrival, their vet discovered that … Read more

Woman Posts Powerful Message About The Damage “Fake” Service Dogs Can Cause

Lately, the issue of “fake” service dogs has been a hot-button topic of conversation. One of the most controversial points of the argument is that the laws in place by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), created to help those with disabilities, enable dishonest people to bring untrained dogs into public under the guise of being a “service dog.” The ADA aims to protect people with disabilities from discrimination by guarding their privacy. In the case of service animals, store … Read more

Clever Dog Takes Himself Sledding

It’s no secret that herding dogs are some of the smartest pups around, and the clever canine in the video below is no exception. You won’t believe how talented this snow-loving pooch is, because he actually knows how to take himself sledding! Watch this adorable dog have the time of his life as he drags his sled up the hill, then boards it and surfs back down. You have to see this to believe it:  You have to wonder: … Read more

Plushie-Loving Therapy Dog Gets A Real Live Kitten To Cuddle

You may remember Mojito as the Golden Retriever with the adorable bedtime ritual. The sweet therapy dog carefully chooses one of her arsenal of plushie toys to snuggle with each night at bedtime. As heartwarming as this habit is, Mojito’s newest cuddle buddy is even more aww-inducing! His name is Skywalker and he is a snow-white polydactyl kitty rescued from life as a stray. A post shared by Mojito Rose Soldan (@mojito_rose) on May 31, 2017 at 2:25pm PDT Skywalker … Read more

Thanks to iHeartDogs.com Customers, Senior Dog Goes From Shelter Kill List To Forever Home

The Second Chance Movement funds the transport of dogs from high-kill shelters and into less crowded facilities where there is a higher demand for adoption. This simple solution has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of homeless pets – but it can be expensive. Certain products from the iHeartDogs store help fund these life-saving trips, and thanks to you, stories like the one below are made possible!  The stress, expense, time, and commitment to make these transports happen month … Read more

Here’s How Hundreds Of Pets Were Saved In The Wake Of Hurricane Harvey

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good Charities, which helps support various programs. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) couldn’t have saved 220 pets ahead of Hurricane Harvey from shelters in the storm’s immediate path, and hundreds more in the weeks that followed, without the support of donors like Greater Good Charities, the local Austin community, and so many willing volunteers in the Houston area. As … Read more

Desperate Stray Dog Makes A Remarkable Transformation

Warning: The photos below may be difficult for some viewers — but don’t worry, there’s a happy ending!  It was two weeks before Christmas 2016 when A Chance to Bloom Rescue in Conroe, Texas first met Kane. The pitiful pooch was emaciated, almost hairless due to a severe case of Demodectic mange, and suffering from several injuries including a broken tail and deep, self-inflicted wounds on three legs from chewing himself to the bone. Kane also had secondary skin infections and … Read more

Rescue Rebuild Comes Up With Genius Way To Stop Farm Visitors From Leaving Dogs In Cars

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.  “Rescue Rebuild logs thousands and thousands of miles a year to shelters all over the country and sometimes internationally. In doing so, we have come across a multitude of problems and situations that are affecting shelters and are able to assist them in fixing the problem. Though not a shelter, Fair Oaks Farms … Read more

Veteran Finds Serenity After Losing Adopted Dog

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.  Armando is an Army veteran. In 2012 he adopted a curly-haired dog named Bruno through Pets for Patriots. Earlier this year Bruno passed away, and Armando felt terrible grief. In time he was ready to adopt again and found Mallow – since renamed Serenity – through one of our Colorado shelter partners. While … Read more

Hotel Offers “Canine Room Service” So Weary Travelers Can Snuggle A Pup

Traveling is stressful for the best of us, especially those who must leave our beloved pups at home. The folks behind the Nikko Hotel in San Francisco have come up with a brilliant solution for their dog-loving guests. His name is Buster Posey and he is available for “canine room service” should weary travelers find themselves in need of some puppy love. https://t.co/68viVvvYwE #thepreferredlife #hotelnikkosf pic.twitter.com/RKpwIzFaYP — Buster Nikko (@NikkoPupSF) October 23, 2017 Guests are greeted by adorable stuffed Busters … Read more

Shelter Pets Take Life-Saving Trip To Find Their Forever Homes

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good Charities, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  A grant from Greater Good Charities supported St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center disaster relief efforts in a tremendous way as they coordinated the transport and intake of over 420 dogs, cats and bunnies in response to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, St. Hubert’s mobilized its Sister Shelter … Read more

Veteran Finds Strength To Do What He Loves Thanks To His Service Dog

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good Charities, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  Rob, a retired Major in the United States Marine Corps, was struggling with his service-connected post-traumatic stress. He longed for his life to be more than how he was living at the time. Before developing PTSD, Rob enjoyed being active, but now found it difficult to do. Rob was approved to receive … Read more

Best Supplements For Rottweilers

Best Join Supplements For Rottweilers Cannanine™ Bacon Flavored Broad Spectrum Calming Hemp Soft Chews — 60 Count $39.99 Cannanine™ Ultra-Premium Broad Spectrum Hemp Oil For Mobility $29.99 – $69.99Price range: $29.99 through $69.99 Cannanine™ Ultra-Premium Broad Spectrum Calming Hemp Oil $29.99 – $69.99Price range: $29.99 through $69.99 Do Rottweilers need joint supplements? Every dog breed would benefit from a joint supplement, especially Rottweilers. Rottweilers are more prone to severe joint issues such as hip dysplasia. This makes them one of ... Read more

Best Joint Supplements For Great Danes

Are Supplements Like Glucosamine For Great Danes Good? Should my Great Dane be on supplements? There is a common misconception that dry dog food alone provides all the nutrients your dog needs to live a happy and healthy lifestyle. However, during the manufacturing process of dry dog food, most of the vitamins and nutrients are extracted. Great Danes, as well as any breed, would greatly benefit from taking supplements, especially those for joint health. Great Danes can start taking supplements … Read more

Best Supplements For German Shepherds

German Shepherd Joint Supplements & Vitamins What vitamins can I give my German Shepherd? German Shepherds are more likely to develop certain health conditions, such as bloat and hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is found in about 20 percent of all purebred German Shepherds. Hip dysplasia can start showing symptoms as early as four months old in some dogs. Others could develop hip issues as they age. Vitamins that contain Glucosamine and Chondroitin are very important to help your dog have … Read more

An Important Warning: Why Some Dog Owners Are Throwing Out Their Fish Oil Supplements

If you’re like many dog owners, you’ve witnessed firsthand the benefit of giving your dog an omega-3 fish oil supplement. Many owners report seeing a substantial improvement in the skin & coat health of their dog. A growing body of studies have also shown other, less visible benefits ranging from heart health to brain health to immune support. In a recent survey conducted by iHeartDogs to 1,433 readers, a full 39% of dog owners reported giving their dog an omega-3 fish … Read more

Fences For Fido Builds Dog Run For Pets Of Homeless Women

Kirkland’s Lake Washington United Methodist Church in Washington state provides a Safe Parking program for women who are down on their luck. They can sleep in their cars in the parking lot and use the building’s kitchen and Wi-Fi. Now, their dogs have a place to run and stretch their legs. Related: 10 Best Invisible Electric Fences for Dogs Fences For Fido is a nonprofit organization that usually builds fences for dogs who are tethered in back yards in order to … Read more

“People Say We’re Crazy for Doing This on Black Friday”

Dear iHeartDogs Family,   Every year for the past 4 years we’ve written you a letter right before the holidays. Every year we are so HONORED and HUMBLED to reflect on how truly generous you are. This year was no exception. You poured out into those who were truly in need: 2.5 million meals donated to shelters $70,000 raised to provide US veterans with companion dogs 60,000 miles of transports funded, moving pets out of kill shelters Over $130,000 raised … Read more

Missing Husky Turns Up One Year Later & Four States Away

On Christmas Day, Jamie Bergman’s boyfriend let their dog, Aspen out in their fenced Kansas City, Missouri yard. When he called her back inside, Aspen wasn’t alone. The Husky was accompanied by another blue-eyed pup the couple had never seen before. A microchip check at the local vet revealed that their mystery guest had a name (Koda) and a family who had been missing him for nearly a year. Most shocking of all, Koda was almost a thousand miles and … Read more

Three Shelter Pups Facing Euthanasia Are Blessed With “Second Chances”

GreaterGood.org and iHeartDogs have teamed up in support of an extraordinary rescue organization. The Second Chance Movement pulls high-risk dogs and cats from overcrowded shelters across the country and transports them to destinations where they can find loving, forever homes. Houdini, Candy and Midnight are just three of the many lucky pets who received their “Second Chance” thanks to their efforts. Here’s how it works: Houdini, Candy and Midnight found themselves in over-crowded, high-kill Los Angeles shelters through no fault … Read more

The 10 Most Famous Instagram Pets Of 2017

Ever since the photo-sharing app Instagram first appeared on computer monitors and cellphone screens in 2010, users have been sharing cherished images of their pets. As the site’s popularity grew, Instagram celebrities began to emerge – including several of the furry variety. The 10 critters in this post achieved internet fame to become 2017’s top non-human personalities. Each has followers in the millions! 10. Loki @Loki_the_wolfdog, 1.7 million followers A post shared by Loki (@loki_the_wolfdog) on Oct 7, 2017 at … Read more

Arctic Blast Brings Warnings To Keep Dogs Inside

Half the United States is currently shivering under temperatures and wind chills that are below normal for this time of year, and authorities are warning people to bring their pets inside to prevent them from freezing to death. Sadly, there have already been reports of dogs dying due to exposure. Kristina Rinaldi, the executive director of the Detroit Dog Rescue, told Fox2: “We are seeing a lot of dogs frozen to death right now.” How cold is too cold to leave your … Read more

Lost Dog Found Making Himself At Home In A Stranger’s House

A family in Michigan came home Christmas evening to find their door open and a surprise guest lounging on their couch. They’re not exactly sure how it happened, but the home invader wasn’t the kind worth calling the cops over. It was River, a runaway dog looking for somewhere to get warm. A week ago, River disappeared from his new family’s home. Jean Strobel, River’s owner, did everything she could to bring her pup back. She organized her entire community … Read more

Hockey Team Holds Weiner Dog Races On Ice

On Tuesday night, the Atlanta Gladiators minor league hockey team held their first wiener dog race in between periods, and the results were predictably adorable! An impressive 7,446 lucky fans watched the event. Three dozen Dachshunds ran in 3 different heats before the ultimate winner (wiener?) was declared. Ruff night on the ice for the Gladiators but not for our furry (and long) friends as our first ever Wiener Dog Race in front of over 7,446 fans tonight was a … Read more

Dangerous Dog Treats Could Be Killing Your Dog

I don’t know you, and you don’t know me. However, we both know something about each other – even though we’ve never met. We love our dogs! They’re like our children. Part of the family. And there’s not much we wouldn’t do for them. We spend countless hours researching on training tips and techniques, what the best food is, what’s the newest toy. We spend all this time and energy. Why? Love. We love to take care of our fur … Read more

Survey: 49% of Dog Owners Are Giving Their Dog a Joint Supplement

In a recent survey administered to 1,640 iHeartDogs readers, 49% reported that they currently give their dog(s) a joint care supplement. What are the reasons for this, what does the research say, and do they really work? Glucosamine has been one of the most recommended supplements by veterinarians for the last two decades, and thousands of dog owners swear by it. And although more research is needed, many randomized, double-blinded studies have shown tangible benefits to dogs with osteoarthritis and … Read more

Dog Grandpa Sends Adorable Update Texts While He Babysits His Daughter’s Pooch

Some dads are just destined to become legendary grandpas! Meghan Specksgoor’s father proved his phenomenal gramp-ing skills this holiday season when his daughter traveled to New York City, leaving her beloved pup Chance in his capable hands. Meghan is exclusively a dog mom at this point, but should she ever want tiny humans, she can rest assured that her dad will be ready! It all started shortly into Meghan’s trip when she received the following text/selfie combo: It seems the … Read more

Dog Trainer Hopes To Ban Prong, Choke, & Shock Collars In Her City

Prong, choke, shock. Boulder, Colorado dog trainer Mary Angilly does not believe these types of collars have any place in her chosen profession. While she acknowledges that negative-reinforcement can certainly work, she wants to educate the public that there are more humane and effective ways to train dogs. She has begun a campaign to impose a citywide ban on fear- or pain-based training collars, and hopes the issue will reach Boulder’s 2018 ballot. “A lot of people will say, ‘Oh, … Read more

Hat-Wearing Rescue Dog Who Beat Cancer Celebrates With A Holiday Surprise

Best Friends Animal Society is a national leader when it comes to animal welfare. They’re the largest no-kill animal shelter in the country, and they’re working hard to lower the number of animals killed in shelters each year. It’s a long process, but 2017 was another year closer to a better future for America’s companion animals. One of the pets they saved this year is Skully. Diagnosed with cancer, sweet Skully wouldn’t have had a chance in most shelters. But … Read more

How Common Types Of De-Icer Can Hurt Your Dog

While winter wouldn’t be complete without a good snowfall, snowy scenes always come with a fair share of headaches. Keeping roads, driveways, and garden paths clear of snow and ice is an important safety measure, but it also poses potential problems for your dog. Many de-icer products contain hazardous chemicals. For your dog, it’s enough to make them seriously ill, injured, and uncomfortable. The Problem With De-icer The de-icer you depend on each winter does its magic by lowering the … Read more

After His Dog Died of Oral Disease, This Man Invented Something That Could Save Thousands of Dogs’ Lives

When Petros lost his first dog to canine oral disease, he was inspired to not let his rescued pit bull suffer the same fate. Watch his inspiring story and learn about the invention that might just revolutionize canine dental care. When we met Petros, we were inspired by his story and his passion for canine dental care. Sadly, Petros’ story isn’t unique, as nearly 80% of dogs over the age of 5 suffer from some kind periodontal disease. Advanced cases … Read more

How The Olympics In South Korea May Impact The Dog Meat Trade

The 2018 Olympics set to be in South Korea may bring about some changes in the country’s dog meat trade. The controversial practice–which is deeply upsetting to many Western cultures–may have to come to a halt in order for the country to drum up support for this year’s Olympic games. More and more farmers are responding to opposition by agreeing to shut their farms down, a movement that is often funded by advocacy groups who also provide them with a … Read more

Senior Rescue Dog Lives Life To The Fullest Thanks To Compassionate Child

At only nine years old, there was no question in Raven’s mind about what kind of dog she wanted to add to her family. There were plenty of puppies with bright eyes and wagging tails, but the compassionate child wanted to make a real difference for an animal that desperately needed a second chance. She told her mother, Melissa, “I want to adopt an old dog. One that no one else wants.” Skeptical at first, Melissa explained to her child … Read more

Cop Crawls Across Thin Ice To Rescue Dog From Half-Frozen Pond

Nisel the dog is lucky to be alive this Christmas after being pulled out of a half-frozen pond by New Jersey Police Officers Robert Voorhees and George Peterson and Specialist Dave VanDoren. After Hopewell Township NJ Police received the call that Nisel couldn’t get out of the pond alone, Voorhees offered to be tied to a rope and crawled out onto the ice. When Nisel swam toward Voorhees, he grabbed her collar and Peterson and VanDoren then pulled Voorhees and Nisel to safety. … Read more

Veteran Gets His Christmas Wish When He’s Reunited With Stolen Service Dog

When Army veteran Geoff Hoffman came home from work on Wednesday, December 20, he was alarmed to see his front gate and front door wide open. While he had been at work, robbers had entered his home, apparently interested in his valuables at first; but in the end, all they took was his 3-year-old pit bull, Bridget. In an interview with KFOR that Hoffman did in his house, he said: “I just want her back. I put a sign here. Take … Read more

Impatient Dog Begs Mom To Open His Christmas Stocking Early

Can’t wait for Christmas? Neither can Bodie! In the video, Bodie the dog realizes that his stocking contains some tempting surprises — and begs his mom to let him get his gifts early! The pup almost has a full-blown tantrum as he whines and pleads to get his special holiday treat. Watch the video below:  Poor Bodie! With those big eyes and that sweet face, we bet this persistent pup was able to get his paws on at least one … Read more

Veteran Wants His Dog Back After She Was Adopted While He Was Overseas

Army veteran and military contractor Michael Takacs was working overseas in Kuwait when the unthinkable happened. A friend was watching his dog, Precious, who Takacs said has gotten him through many tough times, including his mother’s passing. But instead of looking forward to a happy homecoming, the veteran is now fighting to get his companion back. He recently learned that his friend’s new girlfriend dropped the pup off at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay as a “stray.” Precious has … Read more

Pet Food Company Recalls 5 Varieties Of Dog & Cat Food

Primal Pet Foods is voluntarily recalling 5 of its freeze-dried dog and cat foods due to their grind size. According to an announcement from the company: “Through a recent product quality review process, we have determined that 5 specific Primal Canine and Feline Freeze-Dried Poultry Formulas were produced outside of our grind size specification of 1/8” which we have determined is the ideal size of ground bone to be fed to dogs and cats. The products in question were ground … Read more

Little Boy In Need Of A Service Dog Gets A Christmas Miracle

Many children ask for dogs for Christmas, but few parents plead for a dog on their child’s behalf. But Nate Feola’s parents did. At only 9 years old, Nate Feola has already been through hardships many of us are lucky to never experience. He was born prematurely, weighing less than two pounds, and spent the first five months of his life living in a hospital. When he could finally go home, it was to parents who abused him so badly, … Read more

1,000 L.A. Shelter Pets Receive A Special Holiday Surprise

From December 12-17 of this year, more than 1,000 dogs and cats currently living in Los Angeles animal shelters received a special holiday meal thanks to Marc Ching, his team at the Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation, and dozens of volunteers. The meals, plus new bedding and blankets for the cold, are part of the foundation’s 3rd Annual Hope for the Holidays shelter feeding initiative. The meals were all made from Ching’s line of PetStaurant pet foods. They featured combinations of organic rice, beef … Read more

New Legislation Hopes To Crack Down On Puppy Mills

The idea of a puppy mill makes dog lovers shudder because we know the horrific conditions that these innocent animals face for the sake of profit. Now, two US Representatives are trying to pass laws that would make it more difficult for irresponsible breeders to continue their practices. Just a couple days ago, Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Charlie Crist (D-FL) unveiled two bills to make waves in this widely under-regulated industry. The Welfare of Our Friends (WOOF) Act (H.R. 4691), would … Read more

What’s So Special About Your Dog’s Favorite Toy?

It’s dirty, torn, and always covered in slobber, but your dog’s favorite toy holds a special place in their heart. They carry it from room to room and sleep with it every night. They have a big bin full of other balls, stuffed animals, and chews, but nothing compares to “their toy.” Not every dog has a specific toy they love the most, but those that do become as attached to their toys as a toddler is to a favorite … Read more

Dog Dad Builds Santa Sleigh Stairlift For Arthritic Senior Pup

Timmie is a 16-year-old Jack Russell Terrier and the faithful companion of graphic designer, Duncan Evans. The spirited pooch suffers from arthritis and other ailments that limit his mobility. After Timmie took a tumble down their home’s steep stairs, Evans decided to build him a stairlift. With Christmas just around the corner, he designed the lift to look just like Santa’s sleigh!   “Timmie has to take lots of medication for his enlarged heart and problems with his lungs, so … Read more

Why Are Some Dogs “Early Birds”?

Did you know that, depending on your dog’s age and breed, he needs 12 to 14 hours of sleep a night? It can be hard to believe when your dog is nudging his cold, wet nose in your face at 4 AM, but it’s a fact. Your dog needs his sleep just as much (if not more) than you do – so why does he feel the need to wake you up before your alarm can do the job? According … Read more