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Pets 101

A brown vizsla dog's portrait in front of a black background

Why do dogs hump everything? You might be surprised

Whether your dog has always had a problem with humping or they've recently picked it up, it's only natural to have questions. Here's what you'll want to know.
Dog perks his ears up in anticipation

Dog body language decoded: This is why dogs pull their ears back

Dogs use their ears to communicate all sorts of things, but pinning them back usually falls into one a few categories of feelings.
Dog stands on a pedestal

This is why dogs have tails, according to science

Animals evolved tails millions of years ago, but dogs have developed even more uses for these appendages, like communication.
A German shepherd in the backyard

Why do German shepherds have such a short lifespan?

Here's why German shepherds don't live as long as other dogs and a few tips you can follow to keep your pet healthy into old age.
A Belgian Malinois leaps through a meadow of dandelions

Is a Belgian Malinois a good family dog? Everything you need to know about this amazing dog breed

From basic breed characteristics to similar breed comparisons, here's everything you'll want to know about Belgian Malinois dogs.
Kitten sitting on a tree stump in front of a tree

How long do cats live? The answer may actually depend on their human parent

How long do cats live? The answer to this question depends on multiple factors, including care from you, their human. Here's what to know.
Bengal cat peering around a row of potted plants

Family member allergic to cats? Where to find hypoallergenic cats for adoption

Need a hypoallergenic cat in your household? Adopt one! Here's how you can get a fur baby without sneezing through the day.
A black pug and a tabby cat sit on a table

Why do dogs hate cats? The truth behind this age-old grudge

Many dogs chase cats — or even avoid them — but not many pet parents know why these common pet species act so hot and cold toward one another.
Blue betta fish staring at the camera

What fish can live with bettas? These are your best bets for fish buddies

Bettas have a reputation for their feisty behavior, but they are misunderstood. What fish can live with them? They are friendly with these species.
A Bracco Italiano runs on the beach

Meet the 5 newest dog breeds and what makes them so special

The American Kennel Club has recognized several new dog breeds in the last few years, but not many people know about these elusive newcomers.
A tabby cat looks up eith blue eyes

Why do cats have 9 lives? The origins of the saying

Nearly everyone has heard that cats have 9 lives, but few people know where the saying actually comes from. Fortunately, we solved the mystery.
A close-up shot of a black Lab wearing a red collar

Why black Labrador retrievers are the perfect family dogs

Is a black Labrador retriever the perfect dog for you? It just might be. Find out if this sweet breed will fit into your family.
Two people holding a tiny gray and white kitten whose eyes haven't opened yet

When do kittens open their eyes? This is what happens if they do it too early

When do kittens open their eyes? Here's when you can expect your kitten to show off her baby blues and what to do if it's too early.
A woman snuggles with her dog in bed

Why you should let your dog sleep in your bed every single night

Here's why you should allow your dog to sleep in your bed every night.
A man's hand pets the head of a shepherd dog

The best ways to pet your dog to show them how much you care

There's a certain way to pet your dog to show you love them. Follow these tips for what to do and what not to do when giving your dog affection.
A large dog lying down

Why do dogs turn in circles before lying down? The answer goes back centuries

Why do dogs turn in circles? There's an ancient reason why dogs turn in circles before they lie down.
German shepherd in grass

The smartest dog breeds: Yours might not be as intelligent as you think

These are the smartest dog breeds for people who want trainable dogs.
Siberian husky winking

Why do dogs wink? The truth behind this strange habit

There are several reasons why dogs wink and some of which are even intentional. As cute as this behavior may be, it's important to know what's behind it.
Akita with brown fur standing outside

These are the 8 most loyal large dog breeds that make loving companions

Looking for a true-blue forever friend? These are the most loyal large dog breeds if you want a friend for life.
Puppy sleeping on lap of human with mustard yellow sweater

Do puppies sleep a lot? These are the perfectly normal sleeping habits of a healthy pup

Do puppies sleep a lot? Sleep is an essential element of human and canine development. Make sure you and your dog are well rested.
An Akita sitting on the bed

Best guard dogs: These 7 breeds will protect you with their life

Some dogs will do anything for us, even put their lives on the line to save ours. These seven protective dog breeds make the best guard dogs.
a dark german shorthaired pointer adult in the park in the fall

5 interesting things you might not know about the German shorthaired pointer dog breed

This fun, friendly dog breed was bred to hunt. These days, a German shorthaired pointer dog makes for a fantastic family pet. Here's why.
Multicolored rabbit on carpet

This is how long you can expect your new pet rabbit to live

A pet rabbit’s life expectancy depends on a variety of factors. We explore how long a pet rabbit lives and how to extend their years.
A cat and Yorkie playing

Why do cats hate dogs? The answer isn’t all that simple

Why do cats hate dogs? Do cats actually hate dogs? Good questions. We dug up some answers for you and how to help the two play nice.
A German shepherd sits on the grass in front of a house

5 things you might not know about the German shepherd

German shepherds are a popular dog breed, but not many people know these specific fun facts. The breed's history is more eventful than you think.
A small golden puppy runs across a yard

5 interesting things you might not know about the golden retriever

You might think you know the golden retriever breed, but are you aware of their history and special traits? Read on to discover the five things to know.
A person in a black T-shirt and jeans walks a small white and brown dog on a path lined with tall plants with yellow flowers

7 ways your dog can help you stick to your New Year’s resolutions in 2024

Your dog can help you stay on track with your New Year's resolutions. Here's how your pup can be your biggest cheerleader and partner this year.
Black cat lying on a table with plants on a balcony

If cats had New Year’s resolutions, here’s what they would be

If your cat had to set New Year's resolutions, we've guessed what they'd be. Plus, how you can help your cat meet their goals.
A Maine Coon cat reaches his snow-covered paw toward the camera.

Wondering how to keep cat warm in cold weather – here are 9 effective ways to help your pet stay toasty

How do you keep cats warm in cold weather? Help your kitty cat stay warm in winter with these effective strategies.
A tabby cat stretched out on a faux fur rug near a space heater.

Good, better, best: Space heaters that are safe if you have pets

We love these pet-friendly space heaters that are safer for your dogs and cats. Look for the pet-friendly features these models have.
Golden retriever sleeping in bed with owner

How many hours a day do dogs sleep? It depends on their age and breed

If your dog sleeps a lot, you might be wondering whether something is wrong. We walk you through how much your pup should sleep.
Cat sleeping on a beige fleece blanket

Do cats sleep more in winter because they’re depressed? Here’s what to know about seasonal changes in felines

If it seems like your cat sleeps more in winter, you're not just imagining things. Here's what to know about cats, sleep, and seasonal depression.
Chihuahua cocks his head while lying on the carpet

Velcro dogs: The pets most likely to become mini stalkers (and what to do about it)

Do you have a velcro dog? Find out what it means to have a pup that follows you around constantly and what you can do to curb the behavior.
An elderly golden retriever stands outside in the sunshine

How can you tell how old a dog is? Easy ways to figure it out

Use these tips to figure out the age of your dog when you aren't sure.
Woman snuggling Samoyed puppy in front of the Christmas tree

Is a Christmas puppy a good idea? Why you should think twice

If you’re considering gifting a puppy to your family this Christmas, do the research and consider pet parenthood's obligations. Here's what you'll need to know.
A dog steals dinner from the Christmas table

Vets reveal 5 biggest dangers to pets during the Christmas season (and what to do to keep them safe

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but vets warn it's also the most dangerous for pets. Keep track of these things so your animals stay safe.
Basking Chinese water dragon

Best reptile pets: These are the 5 most affectionate reptiles you can welcome into your home

What are the best reptile pets for handling? Here are the 5 most affectionate types of reptiles and how to show them you care.
A black lab and pit bull mix dog licks their lips and looks up at the camera

Why do dogs lick their lips? This is when you should be worried

Dogs can lick their lips for a lot of reasons. This is what you should know.
Sad dog resting his head near a shoe

Why is my dog whining? 6 common reasons and what you can do to stop it

If you're asking, "why is my dog whining?" you'll want to learn about these common reasons for vocalization. You can probably fix your dog's whining!
A woman wearing a sleep mask over her eyes snuggles a Pug with his tongue out in bed

Why do dogs sleep under the covers? It all comes down to nature

Why do dogs love sleeping under the covers? The answer may surprise you, but it's super sweet. Here's what to know.
Gray longhair cat sitting indoors in a sunny spot

Can indoor cats grow winter coats? Here’s what to know about feline coat thickness in winter

Even if they live indoors, your cats will grow winter coats. Here's what you need to know to help them stay as comfortable as possible this winter.
A dark-haired woman wearing a green sweater holds a tabby cat on her lap

3 scientific benefits of being a cat person – you’ll be surprised with what we found

We're here to share the top three benefits of sharing your home with a feline companion -- and recommend some of our favorite beginner-friendly cat breeds, too.
A Jack Russell terrier lies in bed between the feet of his owner

Is your puppy breathing fast while sleeping? Here’s when you should worry and how to help your dog

You want your pet to feel safe and comfortable when they are asleep. Here's what to do if you notice your puppy breathing fast while sleeping.
Bottle feeding a newborn puppy

How much should newborn puppies eat? Follow this feeding chart

Follow these guidelines and the newborn puppy feeding chart to figure out how much food your puppy should eat at each meal.
A Yorkshire terrier poodle mix dog wears a diaper and sleeps in a fluffy bed

How long does a dog stay in heat? Here’s how you’ll know her cycle is over

Learning how to spot the beginning of a dog's cycle can be easy, but how will you know when she's done menstruating?
Chihuahua cocks his head while lying on the carpet

These are the 5 dogs with the least health problems, so your furry friend sticks around for a long time

What breed of dog has the least health problems? Consider getting one of these five healthy breeds with the best longevity and fewest issues.
Three tabby kittens snuggling in a gray cat bed.

How much should a kitten weigh? Here’s what the experts have to say about the kitten weight chart

Here are expert guidelines on how much a kitten should weigh and what you can do to help her get to the right size.
Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever lies on teal couch upside down

Why do dogs sleep on their backs? The adorable reasons will leave you feeling overjoyed

If your dog sleeps on their back, you should be one proud pet parent. This position is one sign of a comfortable, happy pup!
Dog with human and orange suitcase

5 must-see, dog-friendly places in New York to visit this fall

These dog-friendly New York spots are fantastic to visit with your pet. Check out one of the five best places to visit in the state!
A cute Yorkie on the floor

Everything to know about the adorable Yorkie dog and its characteristics

A Yorkie dog is one of the smallest breeds you'll find, but they have huge personalities. Is a Yorkshire terrier the right fit for you? This guide will help.