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All dogs were developed for a specific purpose, usually to do some form of work. Most dogs are now bred to be companions, but some breeds still retain so much working instinct that they can be destructive if they aren’t given lots of exercise and mental stimulation. With information from Wikipedia, Paw Culture, VetStreet, and Pawed In, here are 8 breeds that need a job to do in order to stay out of trouble. #1 – Weimaraner Created to be a … Read more
Updated 3/1/2017: Dog lovers across the world were shocked and appalled by the heartbreaking photos of a mutilated Detroit Rottweiler named Baron. The first bit of good news came last week when veterinarians declared him healthy and ready to be adopted. Today’s update is even better – Baron has found his forever home! Just this afternoon the Michigan Humane Society posted a joyful message to Facebook, complete with photos of the new, happy family! Baron and his parents look … Read more
Huskies are expert jumpers, powerful diggers and clever problem solvers – basically perfect storms of gate, crate and fence escaping potential! Callie Gansen, Iowa dog-mom to 3 gorgeous and precocious Huskies, shared a video of their daily kitchen breakouts with her Facebook Husky group – and then the world! Crimson and his daughters, Kona and Gracie are yet to meet a barrier that they can’t conquer. Watch as they make short work of this humble baby gate. Gracie is up … Read more
Larry Bigelow has severe spinal osteoporosis and spinal fractures. He depends on his highly trained Yellow Labrador, Buzz for the stability and physical support he needs to stay active. Buzz is one of many legitimate service dogs trained by Hawaii Fi-Do. The organization has decided to take a stand against imposter service animals with their new web PSA ads. It may seem harmless to purchase a knockoff service vest and slap it on your pup, but untrained service animals give the … Read more
Jayme Buck dropped her 3 Shih Tzus, Brewsky, Guinness and Tashi off to be groomed on September 27, 2016 just as she had on dozens of other mornings. Less than 2 hours later she received a call telling her to get back to the office right away. She was told “the little brown one” had collapsed and they could not resuscitate him. Jayme rushed to the grooming salon in a panic. She had no idea which of her 3 dogs … Read more
It was just a regular day when Victoria Alexander let her two-year-old Boxer, Bumper, out into the front yard. The yard is completely fenced, so she didn’t think Bumper was at risk for any injury. Unfortunately, she was surprisingly mistaken. A postal worker walked up to the fenced yard and Bumper started barking, as many dogs do when a stranger comes near their home. But what happened next is what shocked Alexander. The postal worker walked back to his truck, pulled … Read more
Almost all dogs are affectionate with their families, and many with strangers as well, but some breeds just can’t get enough snuggles to satisfy their needs. If you’re looking for a pup that’s going to love being by your side, curled in your lap, or smothering you with attention you’ll definitely want to consider the breeds on this list. They might not all fit in your lap, but they’ll certainly try, and they’re almost guaranteed to try it with everyone … Read more
Everyone knows that dogs are a big financial responsibility, and people should make sure they can afford adequate care for their pups before bringing them home. However, it doesn’t mean that pet parents can’t look for ways to save some money along the way. Here are 10 easy penny-pinching ways to save money as a dog owner, without sacrificing your pup’s health, happiness, or quality of life. 1. DIY Toys As much as dogs love toys, the thing they love most is playing with you! … Read more
This little pup may be small, but he sure is mighty. We’re not even sure he knows he’s little because he certainly doesn’t act like it! When he and his much larger canine companion were coming in through the dog door, the family cat was sitting just inside waiting to swat at them. So what’s a fiery little pooch to do? He’s to burst right through the doggy door and hold the cat against the wall, protecting his best friend … Read more
Like snowflakes, no two pets are alike, and this means that some end up with really cool markings! Lucy is a white and black spotted pup who was at Lollypop Farm, a humane society in Fairport, New York. According to The Dodo, she was part of a litter born to a stray dog who was rescued and brought to the farm last year. As Lucy grew, staffers were delighted to see that the markings on her ear were beginning to … Read more
Andrea Domjan is a talented artist. Like most other professional photographers, she tells her stories through beautiful pictures. Some stories, however, are more powerful than others. When it comes to her sister-in-law, Dori, and Dori’s dog, Alf, this powerful story became bittersweet. It might not be the assignment most photographers are looking to cover, but we’re so glad Domjan is able to help share Dori and Alf’s story with us. Alf is a Bullmastiff. When Domjan received Dori’s … Read more
Dog trainer, Colleen Wilson had no intention of adopting a puppy, but when her best friend sent her a photo of a young Dalmatian named Charlie from a list of “urgent death row dogs” she felt compelled to help. At the very least she figured she could pull him from the kill shelter, offer a bit of training, and place him with a Dalmatian rescue group. A few months and one foster fail later, Charlie was on his way … Read more
Erica Mahnken and her fiancé, Michael Favor of No More Pain Rescue didn’t ask any questions when they received an anonymous phone call about a dog abandoned in a former “crack house.” They arrived at the location and found a young, malnourished Pit Bull mix. She was covered in suspicious lesions and had been left without food, water or electricity for at least 2 days in the frigid New York winter weather. A post shared by NoMorePainRescue (@nomorepainrescue) on Jan … Read more
Diarrhea in dogs is a symptom of a larger problem like stress, sudden diet change, food allergies, dietary indiscretion (garbage grazing), parasites, viral or bacterial illness, even chronic disease. Although it is usually self-limiting, it’s uncomfortable for your pooch and messy for you. We’ll cover when to seek immediate veterinary care below, but in mild cases, certain home remedies may do the trick. A post shared by Ralph (@ralphstagramm) on Jan 6, 2017 at 7:09pm PST Dogs can’t tell us, … Read more
12-year-old Ehlena Fry and her Goldendoodle, Wonder, were the subject of a landmark Supreme Court hearing this week. The justices ruled that Fry’s parents could sue Michigan school officials for refusing to allow Wonder to accompany Ehlena to class. She has Cerebral Palsy and depends on her service dog for many every day tasks including opening and closing doors and taking off her coat. Her right to have the pup by her side in public buildings is protected under … Read more
The inability to pay for care is one of the top reasons dogs are given up or abandoned. No one should ever have to lose a beloved family member due to financial strain. Veterinarian, Nancy Kay is the author of Speaking for Spot, which details how dog owners can become well-informed medical advocates for their pets – and save a little money in the process! She recommends the following 10 methods for spending less at the vet without compromising your … Read more
Regular nail trims are necessary for most dogs and it’s important not to let your pup’s nails grow too long. It’s not only aesthetics at play here – nails that are too long are uncomfortable for your dog and can even cause permanent damage to their feet and joints. Most owners try to avoid nail trims at all costs, often taking their dogs to groomers or veterinarians to have them done. This is because most dogs really despise having their … Read more
San Francisco is the latest city in the United States to jump on the bandwagon of prohibiting pet stores from selling dogs and cats that are not rescued. San Francisco, along with the 200+ other cities and states with similar legislation, is fighting against mass-producing puppy and kitten mills that supply many major pet store chains with animals. As many already know, puppy and kitten mills are often wrought with abuse and neglect. People can still purchase puppies and kittens … Read more
Dogs have been alongside humans for thousands of years and were domesticated originally to help people accomplish things during daily life. Dog breeds have varying histories, meaning they were bred for many different tasks, such as herding, guarding and hunting. Because of this, their temperaments are also very different. Dogs that were bred to be around other dogs, such as those bred for group hunting, sledding and companionship are often the breeds that get along well with other dogs – … Read more
There’s just nothing on Earth like the irresistible cuteness of a puppy head-tilt. Full of curiosity in a big, exciting world, when an inquisitive young pup cocks her head, it’s almost impossible not to laugh. As our dogs grow older and wiser, they start to figure out their surroundings. But on those occasions when they still tilt their heads, it reminds us of those curious puppy days. The German Shepherd puppy in the video below has one of the cutest head tilts … Read more
On a scorching August day in 2015, a young man was driving home from work and spotted a trash bag on the side of the road. When he noticed it moving, he pulled over and opened it up… and discovered there was a litter of eight puppies inside! The puppies were taken to the Saving Grace and her Furry Friends rescue in Davie, Florida. Upon closer examination, they realized that two of the pups were missing a hind foot, and the open … Read more
There is so much information out there about dogs, how do we know what to believe? While some are old-wives tales, others have been proven true. But before we act upon our own beliefs and feelings, we should make sure that we’re acting on facts and truth – after all, the dogs we’re thinking about might be depending on us to save their lives. Because of this, we’ve compiled a list of myths that you need to stop believing right … Read more
Chances are you’ve seen Stephen Huneck’s artwork. Dog lovers adore his paintings and woodcarvings for their playful, colorful style and witty observations about man’s best friend. What you may not know is that Huneck and his wife Gwen devoted their lives to a dream project called Dog Mountain. The 150 acre Vermont farm features off-leash trails, trout-stocked ponds and one very unique chapel. https://www.facebook.com/stephenhuneck/photos/a.10154725660784372/10155753926869372/?type=3&theater The Hunecks bought the massive St. Johnsbury, Vermont property in 1995 and converted the barn … Read more
When we partnered with a veterinarian to formulate our Happy, Healthy Brand Omega-3-6-9 Select Chews, we knew we were on to something BIG. When we began testing. we quickly found that our pups here at iHeartDogs loved them!! After we launched the product, emails from customers started rolling in with reviews like these: “They have truly made a difference with my dog’s itchiness. Amazing and a huge relief. We had spent a lot of time and effort trying to help her.” – … Read more
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. Thanks to a recently awarded grant from iHeartDogs to Greater Good and their partner Pets for Vets, this organization is able to continue their important mission of providing a second chance for both returning veterans and shelter dogs in need of the perfect forever home. When a pet and veteran match … Read more
When it comes to swimming, certain dog breeds just can’t wait to get in the water. Although all dogs are individuals, there are some breeds that were created with the purpose of being in lakes and oceans and they still maintain their love of water today. So if you like swimming, these breeds might be your perfect companion. Rain or shine, they’re ready to get in and get their swim on! #1 – Labrador Retriever One of the most popular … Read more
Note: We do not recommend leaving dogs along in the car, especially on hot days or for long periods of time. Diamond the dog may not speak in human language, but she certainly knows how to get her point across! When her human took her for a ride and stopped to run into a store on a cool day, this pup didn’t last a minute before causing a scene. “The dog, named Diamond, started barking and honking for the owner to hurry up,” reads … Read more
We’ve all heard more devastating stories of animals being dumped than we can count. And scarier yet is the reality that more and more people have turned to the internet in order to “get rid” of their pets for one reason or another. When you post your dog or cat online to try to re-home them, you never know who is going to answer that ad… One Craigslist user from Arkansas was sick and tired of seeing people try to … Read more
A puppy named Hope truly earned her name when she defied the odds and overcame a rough start to life. Hope, who’s possibly a Lab mix, was saved by the Big Hearts for Big Dogs Rescue in south Florida on New Years Day. She’d been abandoned in a dirty, rusty cage, and left next to a dumpster as if she’d been taken out with someone’s garbage. The months-old puppy was taken to Specialized Veterinary Services in Fort Myers where it was discovered … Read more
Things Puppies Like: People, Other Puppies, Butterflies, Naps…and basically anything they can chew and/or chase. Things Puppies Dislike: Rules, Collars, Booster Shots…and if this hysterical video of Oreo the 11-week-old Shih Tzu is any indicator, getting their hair cut! Little Oreo is still new to the world and trying to figure out what’s expected of an adorable long-haired pup like herself. When she arrived for her second-ever grooming appointment at a veterinary clinic in Leesburg, GA she happily played … Read more
Every pet owner knows that our four-legged family members can be expensive to care for, especially when it comes to vet bills. While we know that our companions are worth the cost, paying for medical treatments can still be a burden, especially when an unexpected or emergency situation comes up. There are many pet parents who’ve even had to opt for euthanasia over expensive treatments when dire circumstances arise, with money playing a big role in making the heartbreaking decision. In … Read more
The note on the trembling senior Chihuahua’s chart read: “Guarded Prognosis. Would highly recommend waiver for multiple serious medical issues.” Potential adopters passed her by without a second glance. Since the dog was surrendered to the Asheville Humane Society, shelter marketing manager, Heather Hayes had walked by her cage multiple times, too. Then one day she decided to open it. The pitiful pooch – named Jersey Girl by her previous owner – had been hiding under her bed for weeks, … Read more
We all want what’s best for our pets, so when a popular food brand has a recall or newsworthy “scandal,” it can shake us to the core. This year, we’ve reported on a fair number of recalls, many of them from big-name companies that have thousands of loyal consumers. Thousands of pet parents have been frustrated to find that, despite promises promoted by “trusted” brands, certain formulas aren’t always as healthy as they seem. Check out the video below by … Read more
As our dogs age, they can develop many health issues that can impact the grooming process. What changes should you consider making for older dogs to have the best grooming experience? 1. Shorter grooming appointments. Arthritis is a common problem in older dogs. Whether it’s standing for the duration of the grooming or lying in an uncomfortable kennel for several hours, long grooming appointments can be painful for our older friends. Ask the groomer if your dog would benefit from … Read more
It’s pretty easy to see how Corgis become problem jumpers. They are one of the cutest puppies – with those satellite ears – and it’s impossible to resist them when they put their paws on you. You just have to pet them or pick them. Maybe even give them a piece of that cheese in your hand. But soon you will have an adult corgi that lunges and jumps on you any time she wants something, and that’s not so … Read more
Your Schnauzer gives you unconditional love and makes you laugh. She provides you with companionship and gives you a reason to get out of the house. For all these things and more, our Schnauzers deserve to be spoiled. Are you are wondering what your Schnauzer loves above all else that you can give her to show your thanks? Try the following three things that most Schnauzers love more than anything. #1 – Being The Center Of Attention Schnauzers live to … Read more
After learning how to tell if your French Bulldog is stressed, anxious or fearful about something, you need to know what to do in that situation. How you handle it will determine what your dog does moving forward. Your Frenchie’s reaction could stay the same, get better or get worse. The following are four things to do when your French Bulldog is stressed. #1 – Find The Trigger First and foremost, you must figure out what is causing your French Bulldog … Read more
Now that you know how to tell that your Dachshund is stressed or afraid of something, you need to know how to react to the situation. If you do the wrong thing – including doing nothing – it can make the situation worse for your Doxie and next time his reaction to the same trigger may even worse. The following are four things to do when your Dachshund is stressed. #1 – Find The Trigger First and foremost, you must … Read more
Now that you know the signs that your Rottweiler is stressed, anxious or fearful of something, you need to do something about it. Knowing how to react in these situations is key to helping your Rottie overcome his anxiety or fear. Handle it wrong, and you could make his fears worse. The following are four things to do when your Rottweiler is stressed. #1 – Find The Trigger First and foremost, you must figure out what is causing your Rottweiler … Read more
Knowing the signs that your Pit Bull is stressed, anxious or fearful about something is very important. But once you know those signs and can tell when your Pitty is displaying them, you need to know what to do to help her overcome her emotions. Otherwise, those fears and anxieties will just get worse. The following are four things to do when your Pit Bull is stressed. #1 – Find The Trigger First and foremost, you must figure out what … Read more
What you teach your Schnauzer to do is really up to you. Some people are looking for a fancy performance dog that needs to know many cues and how to execute them with precision. Others just want a dog that knows a few things so they can live together in harmony. If you fall into the latter group, you are probably thinking he doesn’t need to know much, but there are a few cues your Schnauzer should know for safety … Read more
Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds and really can learn just about any behavior that they can physically accomplish. What you want to teach your Poodle is really up to you and your goals. Some may just want a nice family pet, while others are looking to obtain obedience or agility titles. Or maybe your Poodle is going to be a service dog. But even if your Poodle is just going to sit on the couch with you … Read more
Your Schnauzer is an intelligent dog that is capable of doing almost anything. They are tenacious with a personality bigger than their body size, especially so in the case of the Standard and Miniature. But all of them, even the Giant Schnauzer, get anxious, stressed or fearful about something at some point – no matter how tough they may act. As an owner, it’s your job to know when all that bravado is really hiding insecurity. Here are five signs … Read more
Poodles are a wonderful breed because they are usually good with whatever comes along – it’s one of the reasons they are used frequently for therapy, service and performance work. This does not mean that they never get stressed, anxious or afraid of anything. And no matter how intelligent they are, they still can’t speak our language. This is why it’s so important to learn your dog’s body language so you can “hear” her when something is bothering her. The … Read more
Poodles are intelligent dogs that can be trained to do almost anything. Many of them excel as service animals or performance dogs. This means there is no reason why your poodle – no matter his size – cannot learn to walk nicely on the leash. However, intelligent animals can by more challenging to train, as they tend to think for themselves more, and you may have to give them more incentive at first to do what you ask. But, if … Read more
When people surrender their pets, the animals are left feeling sad and confused. But it can also be hard on the family who made this decision, which is often very difficult. What’s more, it can be especially heartbreaking for children. This was the case for Rhino Lightning, a Boxer who was brought to the Humane Society of Utah last week. He came with a spiral notebook that was filled with a handwritten letter from a child who, without a doubt, is already … Read more
Pugs are a very popular breed because of their sweet personality, size, and willingness to get along with other animals and kids. Like all dogs, Pugs need basic care – food, water, attention, training, and love. While they are not the highest maintenance dog breed, they do have a few special things that you will be required to take care of as an owner of a Pug. The following are three things all Pug owners should know. #1 – They … Read more
Pomeranians are a very popular dog breed and it’s no wonder – they look like real-life teddy bears and have fun personalities. But aside from basic dog care, this breed does have some special needs that owners or potential owners need to know for the health of their Pom. After all, we all want to provide the best care possible. The following are three things all Pomeranian owners should know. #1 – That Coat Needs Grooming The Pom coat is … Read more
If you are thinking about getting a Siberian Husky, or are a new owner, then you have probably wondered if they have any special care requirements. All dogs have the same basic needs – food, water, shelter, attention, training, love, etc. – but each breed also has unique traits and health issues that require your attention as well. Whether you have owned Huskies all your life or are new to the breed, the following are three things you should know … Read more
Great Danes are gentle giants that make excellent partners. Those that own them know just how special they are – they bond deeply with their families and fill their lives with joy. While they have the same basic needs as all dogs, Great Danes do have some special needs and issues that need to be taken into consideration to give them the best life possible. The following are three things all Great Dane owners should know. #1 – Extra Care … Read more
Since our dogs don’t speak like we do, it can sometimes be hard to tell how your Maltese is feeling. This is exacerbated by the fact that we constantly want to interpret things they do in human terms. An excellent example of this is the “guilty” face we so often say dogs have. The problem with this is that guilt is a human emotion. It involves knowing the difference between right and wrong in human terms, not doggy ones. The … Read more
Toledo, United States.