Serum Cortisol Not a Reliable Dog Pain Indicator
A veterinary study found that serum cortisol levels measured via ECLIA do not reliably correspond with actual pain severity in dogs with locomotor issues.
A veterinary study found that serum cortisol levels measured via ECLIA do not reliably correspond with actual pain severity in dogs with locomotor issues.
In an age where you can instantly access expert advice about anything—from quantum physics to sourdough starters—we’re paradoxically witnessing an unprecedented crisis in canine welfare.
For over six thousand years, dogs have stood as sentinels between danger and those they protect.
Ogi et al. found that just five minutes of positive interaction with trainers significantly raised oxytocin in guide dogs without elevating stress hormones.
These elegant sighthounds, often called “living antiquities,” carry within their slender frames the stories of ancient civilizations, from the fertile valleys of Mesopotamia to the windswept deserts traveled by Bedouin nomads.
Packer et al. found that hair cortisol levels in Border Collies reflect both lifestyle and health, revealing complex chronic stress effects.
Awalt et al. reveal that early life adversity in dogs alters stress and bonding gene methylation, influencing attachment styles and HPA axis regulation.
Maxwell et al. show that hair cortisol levels in South Korean meat-farmed dogs are more than double those of pets, proving prolonged stress exposure.
Zakarevičiūtė et al. find that most Lithuanian dog owners are unaware of canine blood donation, with fear a key barrier to donor recruitment.
Herwijnen et al. identify nine ownership factors strongly associated with dogs confiscated after biting people or other animals.
Resource guarding touches nearly every dog owner’s life at some point, whether it’s a puppy protecting their first bone or a rescue dog carrying invisible scars from past scarcity.
Hitchcock et al. examined owner-reported cases of behavioral euthanasia, finding aggression toward household members and other dogs as primary factors.
Your dog’s jumping represents a constellation of motivations, with attention-seeking sitting at the very heart of the matter.
Bradshaw and Rooney reveal that domestic dog behavior is shaped by family-based wolf social structures, rendering the “alpha” concept obsolete.
Let us guide you through the complex world of canine nutrition and human food safety, where understanding the difference between a harmless treat and a potential emergency could save your dog’s life.
A study found English and French Bulldogs solved tasks less successfully but sought more human interaction than Mudi dogs, reflecting behavioural paedomorphism.
Brachycephalic dog breeds were found to have larger foreheads and eyes relative to face size, features linked to perceptions of cuteness.
Histological analysis revealed that sweat gland number and size vary widely among dog breeds, affecting their ability to regulate body temperature.
Originally bred to rid farms of vermin, these remarkable dogs bring that same tenacity, problem-solving ability, and independent spirit into your home.
Genetic testing identified markers linked to canine behavioral diagnoses, with some loci predictive of traits like aggression, fear, and separation issues.
Every dog owner has experienced those moments when their beloved pet seems unable to settle, bouncing off walls with an energy that feels impossible to contain.
Review highlights how domestic dogs’ feeding behavior, dentition, and taste sensitivity are rooted in wolf ancestry, shaped further by domestication.
The moment you bring home that wiggling bundle of fur, you’re not just gaining a companion—you’re embarking on one of the most crucial periods in your dog’s entire life.
A rare case of dissociative syndrome in a dog was successfully treated with fluoxetine and aripiprazole, restoring normal behavior and quality of life.
When we think about car travel from your dog’s perspective, we’re looking at a complex sensory experience that can overwhelm their nervous system.
Enzyme supplementation in pulse-based vegan dog diets impacts stool moisture and gut metabolites without improving nutrient digestibility.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to share your life with a dog that carries centuries of French heritage in their distinctive curly coat?
Research shows fish-based diets enhance lipid metabolism and reduce oxidative stress in police dogs under high physical demand.
Understanding the crucial difference between genuine happiness and overwhelming excitement could transform your relationship with your dog and dramatically improve their quality of life.
Research shows that gut microbiota variations and serotonin levels in working dogs may serve as biomarkers for aggressive behavior.
A critical review finds only weak evidence that platelet-rich plasma injections reduce pain and lameness in dogs with osteoarthritis.
A multicenter study shows that fiber-supplemented diets quickly improve stool consistency and quality of life in dogs with chronic diarrhea.
Have you ever wondered why some dogs seem sharper, more focused, and better behaved than others?
A study finds chronic enteropathy in dogs negatively impacts their quality of life, behavior, and attachment with owners, improving after treatment.
Have you ever wondered why your usually calm companion suddenly develops anxiety, or why training sessions seem increasingly challenging despite your best efforts?
A 2024 study using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid found that behavioral changes—such as increased fear, stress sensitivity, and reduced play—can be strong indicators of chronic pain in dogs, often appearing before physical symptoms like lameness.
The Tibetan Spaniel, a breed so revered that Buddhist monks believed these little sentinels could house the reincarnated souls of departed lamas.
A 2017 study of 72 puppies found that maternal care in the first three weeks shapes later social behaviors and coping strategies toward stress.
This invisible mental workspace shapes everything from your dog’s training success to their problem-solving abilities.
A 2021 genome-wide study in 130 dog breeds found neurological genes linked to herding, predation, temperament, and trainability traits.
These small but robust dogs (weighing just 12-18 pounds) combine fierce independence with unwavering loyalty, creating a unique personality that can surprise those expecting a typical lap dog.
A 2019 study found that shelter dogs spending more time awake but motionless may be exhibiting signs of boredom rather than clinical depression.
Frustration-induced aggression—a complex behavioral response that affects countless dogs and their families worldwide.
A PLoS ONE study of over 13,000 dogs in Lazio, Italy, identifies key factors influencing leishmaniasis infection rates.
A 2016 review explores how dogs have become key partners in assistance, emotional support, and therapy for people with disabilities.
A 2019 review details how herding and guarding dogs differ in behavior, with wolves’ return altering livestock reactions toward working dogs.
A comparative analysis of dog magazines from Japan and the UK shows cultural differences in how dogs are viewed—fashion accessories vs. valued companions.
The 1920s, and across American farmlands, a small but mighty dog is earning its keep by protecting grain stores, hunting vermin, and warming the hearts of farming families. This is the Rat Terrier!
A 2021 study shows Australians view assistance dogs more positively than companion dogs, yet express growing concerns about canine welfare and ethics.
Research finds Mexican-Americans in Las Vegas display strong positive attitudes toward pet dogs, reflecting cultural shifts and attachment trends.
Imagine a dog so treasured that for over 2,000 years, they were considered sacred beings, never sold but only gifted as bearers of good fortune.
A study of Bangalore college students reveals how urban cultural shifts shape pet dog ownership, emotional connections, and gender-based attitudes toward dogs.
A 2020 review of psychiatric assistance dogs in Australia reveals how these dogs support people with mental illness, improving daily function and emotional wellbeing.
Understanding chronic stress isn’t just about recognizing when your dog is having a tough time. It’s about appreciating the intricate dance between their brain, hormones, and behavior.
A 2017 pilot study shows that individuals with multiple sclerosis walk significantly faster with service dog assistance, highlighting their value in mobility support.
Introduction: Your Dog’s Executive Brain at Work Have you ever
New evidence shows that service dogs significantly improve psychosocial wellbeing—especially emotional and social functioning—for individuals with disabilities.
New research shows that service dogs significantly enhance psychosocial health, especially emotional and social functioning, in people with physical disabilities.
Canada’s smallest retriever with perhaps the biggest personality.
A new analysis reveals that service dogs play a vital role in suicide prevention for Canadian Veterans with PTSD and substance use issues.
Let us guide you through this essential aspect of canine wellness, helping you understand how to support your companion’s health at the cellular level.
A 2021 study provides guidance to healthcare providers on determining whether a veteran with PTSD would benefit more from a service dog or an emotional support animal, based on functional needs and psychological factors.
Social buffering represents one of nature’s most elegant stress-management systems.
A pilot study found that training service dogs helped reduce stress and PTSD symptoms in veterans, offering a promising therapy adjunct.
Beneath that impressive exterior lies a dog whose neural pathways are wired for deep bonding, complex problem-solving, and instinctive protection.
A structured Ukrainian program for training border guard dogs to detect explosives and weapons combines behavioral science with real-world readiness.
Hidden in the mountainous regions of Japan lives one of the world’s rarest and purest dog breeds – the Kai Ken.
Senior dogs showed measurable improvements in memory and communication after participating in Dognition®, a cognitive enhancement program.
While we often focus on nutrition, training, and exercise, hydration quietly orchestrates a symphony of physiological processes that directly influence how your furry friend thinks, feels, and behaves.
A new study shows that larger dogs experience earlier behavioral decline, but smaller dogs face higher risk of canine cognitive dysfunction.
While we humans rely heavily on vision, dogs experience reality through a rich tapestry of interconnected senses.
A study finds that aging dogs who are more trainable may experience slower biological aging, shedding light on how cognitive traits shape canine health.
A new study reveals that many dog owners turn to oils, vitamins, and other supplements to manage age-related behavioral changes in dogs with dementia.
Today, let us guide you through the fascinating world of dietary protein quality and its profound impact on your dog’s mood, impulse control, and overall behavior.
A new study suggests that integrative nutritional therapy—including Chinese food therapy—may support dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
Cocker Spaniels are a brilliant, sensitive soul with centuries of hunting heritage flowing through their veins.
Researchers have found that the CADES questionnaire, combined with NFL and specific blood values, may help diagnose early canine cognitive dysfunction.
The independence of their wild ancestors, and the fierce loyalty that has made them legendary throughout Thailand.
Aging dogs with slower off-leash gait speeds show weaker cognitive performance, suggesting an easy new tool for early dementia screening.
Perhaps you’ve noticed soft whimpers or tail wags while they’re deep in slumber. These moments make us wonder: do dogs dream?
Senior dogs showing signs of cognitive dysfunction often have musculoskeletal or neurological issues, according to a large survey-based study.
A study of puppies during the transitional period finds significant breed and seasonal influences on early sensory and motor development milestones.
A review identifies key behavioral traits that make dogs effective at explosives detection, emphasizing the need for specialized selection and training.
A study finds dogs use visual signals to get human help when someone nearby is crying—more so if the person previously offered affection.
A meta-analysis reveals that hypocaloric diets rich in protein and fiber help obese dogs reduce body fat while maintaining lean muscle mass.
A study tracing dog domestication from the Mesolithic era reveals shared ancestry with European wolves and highlights the genetic processes behind breed diversity.
Freight dogs like the Mackenzie River Husky and Chinook show shared Arctic ancestry and unique genetic adaptations for cold-weather work.
A 30-minute unstructured interaction between student veterans and shelter dogs improved veteran mood and reduced dogs’ fear-related behaviors.
A pilot study reveals that not all enrichment is equal—play-based and social activities are more effective than food-based toys in reducing stress in dogs.
A large-scale study shows puppies can follow human gestures and engage socially from an early age—without prior training—thanks to genetics.
Shelter dogs exposed to essential oil scents showed more optimistic behavior and reduced stress, suggesting new welfare strategies for kennel environments.
New research using the Strange Situation Test shows dogs exhibit attachment behaviors and hormonal responses that align with their owners’ stress physiology.
A study finds registered dog breeders offer puppies more diverse socialization experiences than nonregistered breeders, potentially lowering behavioral risks.
Puppyhood experiences shape long-term behavior. Early, positive social exposure leads to friendlier, more confident dogs and better human-dog bonds.
Despite elevated stress in shelters, rehomed dogs develop strong bonds with new owners and synchronize behaviors similarly to non-rehomed dogs.
These remarkable dogs, affectionately known as “Beardies,” represent centuries of careful breeding that produced one of Scotland’s most capable and charismatic herding breeds.
Dogs’ social and cognitive behaviors are affected by their owner’s temperament, with breed group differences shaping how these traits interact.
When you look into the eyes of a Belgian Laekenois, you’re seeing centuries of careful breeding for vigilance, intelligence, and protective instinct.
A study finds people in Portugal can interpret dog barks similarly to Hungarians, supporting the universality of emotional vocal recognition in mammals.
Much like Alzheimer’s disease in humans, this progressive condition can transform your dog’s golden years into a challenging journey for both of you.
A new study reveals scent-detection dogs can recognize breath-based stress markers in trauma survivors, offering insights for PTSD service dog training.
A review highlights dogs’ motor and emotional synchronization—like rapid mimicry and contagious yawning—as evolutionary foundations for dog–human emotional bonds.
Did you know that your dog’s breed explains only about 9% of their individual behavior? This surprising finding challenges everything we thought we knew about our canine companions.
A pioneering fMRI study finds that dogs use the temporal cortex to process human faces, mirroring mechanisms seen in primates and supporting deep social cognition.
Flint et al. uncover distinct behavioral and physiological markers of dogs’ emotional states, offering guidance for assessing both stress and happiness in canine welfare.
Somppi et al. reveal that dogs with emotionally close owners show lower stress reactivity, while caregiving and dog personality influence emotional arousal.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi come with over 3,000 years of herding wisdom—a legacy that shapes every interaction you’ll have with your furry companion.
Pongrácz et al. show that oxytocin increases men sensitivity to dog bark emotions while reducing irritation from noisy barks.
These remarkable dogs, once the trusted partners of Welsh farmers moving cattle across challenging terrain, bring a unique combination of fierce independence and deep loyalty.
Ogi et al. found that human interaction, such as stroking, boosts oxytocin in guide dogs, enhancing emotional bonding without causing stress.
When you bring home that adorable eight-week-old puppy, you’re welcoming a little being whose earliest experiences have already begun shaping their future personality, health, and behavior.
Talegón and Delgado show that anxiety is involved in most canine behavioral issues, often arising from conflict with the dog’s environment.
Furtado et al. call for integrating emotional and cognitive assessments in veterinary psychiatry to better diagnose and treat mental health issues in dogs.
This delightful confusion is exactly what German breeders had in mind when they named this breed “Affenpinscher,” literally meaning “monkey terrier” in German.
Silver and Santos urge caution in labeling dogs’ brain responses as jealousy, suggesting the observed activity could stem from competition or fear.
Anderson et al. analyzed 20 years of veterinary behavior clinic data and found aggression was the most common issue, with herding and terrier breeds overrepresented.
Grigg et al. found that dogs often react fearfully to everyday household noises, yet owners frequently misinterpret or overlook these signs.
Understanding how environmental structure, consistent routines, and the opportunity to make choices affect your dog’s behavior isn’t just academic curiosity.
Eyre et al. use machine learning to identify behavioral traits and testing points most predictive of success in detection dog programs.
These remarkable dogs, bred to track game through dense underbrush with unwavering determination.
Pedersen and Malm propose a cross-disciplinary method to critically assess the welfare of dogs involved in school-based social service work.
The Swiss have a saying: “Three years a young dog, three years a good dog, three years an old dog… all else is a gift.” With Bernese Mountain Dogs, every day feels like that gift.
Harvey proposes rational age groupings for dogs to better reflect behavioral and cognitive aging and improve cross-study consistency in canine research.
A 20-year analysis of over 1900 dog behavior cases shows aggression as the leading concern, with shelter adoptions rising and herding breeds overrepresented.
The connection between what fills your dog’s bowl and how they experience pain represents one of the most promising frontiers in veterinary wellness.
A 2024 review links canine behavioral disorders to gut microbiome health, pointing to gut–brain communication and FMT as promising therapeutic avenues.
The Leonberger—a breed that captures hearts not through aggression or hyperactivity, but through their remarkable balance of power and gentleness.
A six-year analysis of 2,836 shelter records shows behavior problems, housing issues, and caregiver limitations are top reasons for giving up pets.
A 2013 study demonstrates that inertial sensors combined with machine learning can automatically classify dog behaviors with high accuracy.
New findings identify genetic variants in the TAC1 gene that influence trainability and excitability in Belgian Malinois, advancing understanding of canine behavioral traits.
Your dog’s aggressive behavior isn’t a character flaw—it’s a complex neurobiological phenomenon influenced by an intricate dance between genetics, environment, and nutrition.
New research highlights how modern soundscapes may harm dogs’ emotional welfare and strain human–pet relationships.
Did you know that every meal you serve your furry friend is quite literally rewriting their genetic story?
Recognizing past trauma in dogs could enhance assessment and treatment outcomes for anxiety and aggression through trauma-informed care.
Border Terrier’s ancestors worked in the harsh borderlands between Scotland and England, making life-or-death decisions independently.
A study reveals that shelter and foster dogs form fewer secure attachments than pets, affecting social responses and emotional well-being.
Sensory enrichment using music, lavender, or dog pheromones can reduce vocalization and arousal in shelter dogs, enhancing their daily welfare.
Pit Bulls exceptional learners! Their true genius lies in their adaptive intelligence, their ability to read emotional nuance, and their profound desire to synchronize with their human’s world.
Study reveals how behavioral clustering of dog breeds and gender traits can guide pet selection for better human-canine compatibility.
Did you know that a single whiff of your clothing can transport your dog back to feelings of safety and love, bypassing conscious thought entirely?
Study finds that training styles impact the human-animal bond in veterans with PTSD and their psychiatric service dogs.
Japanese researchers find that questionnaire-based assessments at five months may predict future distraction in guide dogs.
A new study finds Labrador Retrievers neutered before 12 months have a significantly higher risk of cruciate ligament rupture.
In the world of dog training, we’ve long celebrated obedience and control. But recent advances in canine behavioral science reveal a more nuanced picture.
New research shows neutering increases aggression and stress in male dogs, with effects varying between “Husky” and “Bulldog” breed clades.
These muscular athletes with hearts of gold have journeyed from farm dogs to family guardians, carrying with them a complex legacy that deserves thoughtful exploration.
Researchers found that behaviors observed at 5 months can predict future distraction issues that often lead to guide dog disqualification.
The Border Terrier emerged from this rugged landscape with a spirit as enduring as the stone walls that crisscross their homeland.
New research reveals genetic factors influencing behaviors crucial for drug detection dogs, opening paths to better breeding and training methods.
Researchers have developed a fast, sensor-based system using AI to automatically recognize dog behaviors like walking, sitting, and galloping.
Originally bred for bull-baiting in 13th century England, today’s Bulldog carries the genetic memory of determination and independence.
A new integrative training approach improves dog behavior in animal-assisted interventions by aligning methods with canine cognition and learning research.
The fascinating world of canine cognition, where every tail wag and expectant gaze reveals a sophisticated mental machinery designed to anticipate life’s rhythms.
A behavioral trait called “Distraction” best predicts whether dogs will qualify as guide dogs—offering an early screening tool to reduce disqualification rates.
Friendly, high-pitched speech improves dogs’ training performance, while wolves respond more to deeper tones—suggesting domestication shaped auditory preferences.
A large-scale study shows that two behavior tests can help identify dogs most likely to succeed in assistance roles—before training even begins.
A large-scale study finds that individual dog breeds—not their functional breed groups—play a more important role in natural scent detection ability.
A new study finds that daily THC-free CBD dosing over six months may reduce physiological and behavioral stress responses in dogs during car travel.
New research suggests applying trauma-informed care (TIC) principles to dogs with anxiety disorders may improve their assessment and treatment outcomes.
A study of 168 dog-owner pairs found that living in urban areas increases the likelihood of allergy symptoms in both dogs and humans, with shared skin microbiota patterns.
A study found that shelter dogs are significantly less likely than pet dogs to form secure attachment bonds, and many display disinhibited behavior with humans.
A study found that dogs with high sensory sensitivity were more prone to behavior problems, especially when paired with incompatible owners or harsh communication.
A study found that sensory enrichment such as lavender, music, and pheromones reduced stress behaviors in shelter dogs, improving rest and reducing vocalization.
A new study shows that working dog breeds possess larger muscle fibers and more endurance-related traits, while companion dogs have faster-twitch fibers and fewer nuclei per fiber.
These beloved companions, with their wrinkled faces and endearing underbites, have captured hearts for centuries—transforming from fierce bull-baiters to cherished family members.
A foundational study using breed behavior profiles and gender differences suggests that dogs can be better matched to owners by understanding behavioral clusters such as reactivity, aggression, and trainability.
Understanding the difference between prebiotics and probiotics can transform how you support their wellbeing.
A Dutch study finds that pet owners who attribute human-like qualities to dogs or cats are more likely to feel emotionally supported and behave more affectionately.
Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel isn’t just a dog—they’re a living embodiment of centuries of companionship, bred to be the perfect lap warmer and confidant to royalty.
Dogs with stronger emotional connections to their owners showed calmer physiological responses to stress. The study links emotional closeness to canine well-being.
This little powerhouse, bred from centuries of companionship, carries within them both the gentle nature of a lap dog and the determination of their bulldog ancestors.
Researchers developed a practical, at-home food preference assessment for dogs. The method helps pet owners identify which treats are most motivating for their individual dogs.
A study reveals that dogs’ behavior while chewing influences owner perceptions of which dental chews their dogs prefer.
The fascinating world of canine decision-making reveals a complex interplay between past experiences, environmental factors, and emotional memories that shape every choice your furry friend makes.
A study finds that traits of both dogs and owners—including behavior, cognition, and interaction time—can predict training success.
For centuries, we’ve marveled at our dogs’ intelligence, loyalty, and emotional depth, but recent scientific exploration is pushing us to consider an even more fascinating question: Can dogs think about their own thinking?
A review calls for a science-based overhaul of working dog training methods, integrating canine cognition and behavior research.
Guide dog-owner compatibility is shaped by personality similarity, shared activity levels, and the influence of previous dog relationships.
Fonni’s Dogs display consistent guarding behavior and strong communication with owners whether kenneled or free-ranging.
These remarkable dogs developed an independent mindset that allowed them to make split-second decisions in dark tunnels, far from human guidance.
Dogs fed with toys showed lower cortisol levels and more natural behaviors, especially when owners were present during feeding.
Welcome to a transformative journey with one of the most intelligent and sensitive dog breeds on Earth.
Dogs showing behavioral disinhibition in Go/No-Go tasks were rated by owners as more inattentive and hyperactive, echoing human ADHD patterns.
Welcome to a transformative journey that will reshape how you and your furry companion experience life together.
A study finds that owners who believe in and feel capable of using positive reinforcement are more likely to adopt it for managing dog aggression.
These magnificent dogs, once guardians of Japanese nobility and hunters of formidable game, bring a unique blend of intelligence and self-possession.
A nationwide survey reveals that Thai dog behavior is influenced by owner age, training, home setting, and diet—offering insights to reduce abandonment.
Despite higher stress markers in shelter dogs, rehomed dogs demonstrate strong behavioral synchronization and emotional closeness with their new owners.
Most dog owners oppose high-restraint techniques and favor minimal handling at vet clinics, especially for fearful dogs—supporting a shift toward fear-free care.
Over a 3-year study, dog owners’ activity levels declined slightly, but breed—not the dog’s age, size, or energy—was linked to activity type and amount.
These aren’t just pets – they’re living systems designed for partnership, problem-solving, and performance.
A study reveals that dogs’ responses to stressors vary depending on their owner’s adult attachment style, suggesting strong emotional attunement.
When we talk about cognitive dissonance in dogs, we’re exploring whether our four-legged companions can experience the mental discomfort that arises from holding contradictory beliefs, desires, or behaviours simultaneously.
As delivery robots roll into cities, a Finnish study explored how dogs respond. Most remain calm, but a notable minority react with hostility or fear.
This remarkable sighthound, with its distinctive amber eyes and noble bearing, carries within its DNA a story spanning over 5,000 years.
The Ringsel device lets assistance dogs call for help. Researchers now see potential for behavior-based tech to detect emergencies automatically.
Doberman carries within their DNA a fascinating paradox: the fierce guardian and the sensitive soul, the independent thinker and the devoted partner.
A landmark study shows that owners of obese dogs tend to humanize their pets, using food as a form of emotional communication.
When your dog realizes they’ve made a mistake, a fascinating cascade of neural activity unfolds in their brain.
New research shows pet owners’ political leanings affect how they relate to their dogs and whether they buy health services or luxury items.