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Latest by BethAnn Mayer

A close-up of gray striped cat hissing

Why do cats fight? They’re not just being jerks

Why do cats fight? While it's tempting to chalk up cat fights to "cats being cats," there's a reason behind this behavior.
A close-up of a beagle

Why do dogs have wet noses? They’re actually really important

Wet noses are generally considered a good sign for dogs. Why do dogs have wet noses, though? We dug up some answers for you.
Orange cat near water

Why do cats roll in dirt? 10 reasons for their dust bath

Why do cats roll in dirt? Here's the dirty truth about what your kitty is trying to tell you with this (kind of gross) habit.
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.
Cat in a basket with plastic bag

Why do cats eat plastic (and when you should be concerned)?

Why does my cat eat plastic? Good question. Here's why you'll want to know the answer ASAP.
A dog in the kitchen looking up at woman drinking coffee

Can dogs eat mango? Read this first

Can dogs eat mango? The answer depends on the dog. Here's what to know about the benefits, risks and serving suggestions.
Australian shepherd by brick wall

Seizures in dogs can be scary – this is what you need to do

Seizures in dogs can cause the humans that love them to panic. Understanding the signs, reasons, and what to do can help.
A cat snuggling on a person's chest

What does it mean when a cat lies on your chest?

What does it mean when a cat lies on your chest? Good question. Chances are, it's a positive sign. Here are top reasons and when to be concerned.
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.
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.
Two dog paws

Why does my dog smell like Fritos? It’s weird, but there could be an underlying health issue

Why does my dog smell like Fritos? Unless they ate some corn chips, you may find this scent from their feet rather strange. Here's what to know.
Puppy on leash being trained by owner

These are the absolute best ways to discipline a dog

If your puppy seems hard to train, don't get discouraged. We discuss how to discipline a dog and what you should avoid.
A close-up of a husky in sunlight

Why does my dog have diarrhea? (and when it’s time to see the vet)

You didn't expect to become a dog poop inspector, but here we are. We dug up some answers to the question, "why does my dog have diarrhea?"
A brown dog in a dog bed

Why do dogs dig into their bed? An annoying behavior, explained

Why do dogs dig on the bed? The question is common and so is the behavior. The good news? Bed digging is usually not a sign for concern.
A fluffy cat in a cardboard box

Why do cats spray? This obnoxious behavior, explained

Why do cats spray? It's essential to understand why (and whether your cat is really spraying at all). Plus, tips to help you curb the cat spraying.
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.
an orange and white cat lounging on wood plank

Why do cats throw up? (Plus, the one thing you should always do)

Why is my cat throwing up? The question is a common one, but the answer is highly individual. Here's what to know and why to calla vet.
A close-up of a gray cat hissing

Why do cats hiss? There are actually several reasons for this behavior

Why do cats hiss? This question is an important one to ask, so you can do what you can to avoid making a cat hiss (and help others do the same).
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 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 gray tabby cat rests in front of a Christmas tree

Here’s what to do if your cat’s chewing the Christmas tree lights

Is your cat chewing the Christmas tree lights? This is what you should do to stop your cat from getting her claws in the decorations this year.
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.
Dog with flappy ears in bed

How to clean your dog’s ears: A step-by-step guide every pet parent needs

Only a small number of dog owners know how to clean a dog's ears, so here's what you'll need to know about ear cleaning in dogs.
Two white kittens looking curious

Why does my cat stare at me for no reason? Good question – we dug up some answers for you

Why does my cat stare at me? There's usually a reason — or perhaps a few. Here's what to know and when to be concerned.
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.
A black Chihuahua against a yellow backdrop

The 6 biggest myths about Chihuahuas, debunked once and for all

Chihuahuas are sweet, sassy, and sometimes misunderstood. It's important to separate Chihuahua facts from fiction before welcoming one into your life.
a gray cat with green eyes on a black background

Why is my cat aggressive all of a sudden? We have answers

Your cat probably isn't attacking you for no reason — there's something behind it. Find out why they may become aggressive all of a sudden.
Pug wrapped in a blanket

Is your old dog coughing and gagging? When you should be concerned

If you notice your old dog coughing and gagging, you may be unsure what to do. Here's what to know and when to be concerned if your old dog coughs and gags.
a white kitten with blue eyes in a cat tree

When do kittens start eating food? Know the facts for your fur baby’s health

When do kittens start eating food? Introducing solids is a process. You'll want to follow this guide for introducing your kitten to solid food
White cat with blue eyes on a couch

When do kittens’ eyes change colors? The answer is so cool – here’s what to know

Kittens' eyes don't stay blue for long. When do kittens' eyes change colors? Here's everything you need to know about whether a cat's eyes can change color.
Dog paws on a wood slab

Could it be a dog paw infection? Signs, symptoms, and treatments for these pesky, painful issues

Dog paw infections are common, but they are also treatable and avoidable. Here's what pet parents should know to keep their pup's paws clean and healthy.
a Dalmation puppy sitting on the floor

Why is my puppy not eating? Find out why and how to help them thrive

If your puppy isn't eating, you'll need to take a closer look to figure out why. Then you can focus on helping them feel like themselves again.
Large white Labrador eating out of a metal bowl

Homemade dog food: Should you do it?

Your four-legged friend needs a balanced diet. We list the pros and cons of store-bought dog food versus homemade dog food.
A greyhound on a fuzzy rug

All about the incredible greyhound dog

Think the greyhound dog is a good fit for your family? Here's what to know about this ancient, loved breed before you get one.
English setter in a field

Get the facts about the English setter

English setters: They don't call them the "Gentlemen of the dog world" for nothing. These charming dogs are loyal and loving. Is one for you? Read on.
Cat with white paws standing up

Everything you need to know about the adorable snowshoe cat

The snowshoe cat breed is rare but adorable. Is it the best breed for you? Read on to learn more about the physical and social characteristics of the kitty.
Maine Coon cat lying on bed

Polydactyl cats: Everything you should know about these unusual pets

What is a polydactyl cat, and should you worry if you have one? Here's what to know and when to call a veterinarian for more information.
Mini American shepherd lying down

Mini Aussie: What to know about this adorable breed

Spoiler alert: Mini Aussies don't exist — at least not anymore. The breed is known as the mini American shepherd. Should you consider getting one?
Cat jumping out of a litter box

Reddit says the best cat litter is actually… pellets for a Traeger?!

Wood pellet kitty litter — is it a good idea? The TL;DR: Don't trust Reddit for pet advice. Here's why you should talk to a vet before trying this hack.
A dog scratching

Help! I think my dog has fleas. Now what?

Flea medicine for dogs can prevent this issue. However, if your dog isn't on this medication or winds up with fleas anyway, what should you do?
A white shih tzu sits on a porch and looks at the camera

Your guide to raising a happy, healthy Shih Tzu dog – find out if this is the perfect breed for you

Shih Tzu dogs are loved for their affectionate personalities. Small in stature, these dogs have huge hearts. Are they the pet for you? Read on.
A woman kissing a dog

Have your heart set on a breed? Here’s why it’s important to consider different types of dogs

It's natural to have your heart set on a specific pet, like a small dog. Here's why you should do the research and consider many different types of dogs.
Silver Persian cat

What is the difference between cat breeds? Here’s what to know about different types of felines

Dog breeds get a ton of attention, but there are many different types of cats. Learn more about different cat breeds so you can make the best decisions.
Pomeranian Spitz dog with pumpkins and zucchini

Time to clear up these Pomeranian myths

There are many cute dog breeds, and the Pomeranian is one of them. Still, there are some myths to clear up about these perky, pint-sized pups.
A harlequin Great Dane sleeps on their bed on a wooden floor

Think big dogs breeds can’t be in an apartment? Think again

Don't count out all of the big dog breeds if you're living in an apartment. Some larger dogs can thrive in a smaller space.
A woman training a dog

What to do when dog obedience training stalls

Dog obedience training is important. However, it's not always smooth sailing. Here's what to do if your beloved pet backslides.
A gray cat in foliage

The most common annoying cat behaviors, explained

Is it a common cat behavior or cause for concern? Here's a cat behavior guide with tips on how to deal with unwanted issues.
A woman taking a selfie with her white dog

Pamper your pooch with the best dog Valentine’s Day activities

Is your dog your main squeeze? Shower them with love and attention by participating in one or more of these seven dog Valentine's Day activities.
A cat at the vet

What you can do to help your cat after surgery and show your pet how much you love them

Cat surgery isn't the most fun part of being a pet. Understanding common cat behavior after surgery and keeping them comfy can help.