Helpful articles and insight into our training.

Dog owners who believe in the effectiveness of positive reinforcement and feel confident using it are more likely to use it to manage aggression.

A survey of North American dog owners found widespread agreement with low-stress handling techniques at veterinary clinics, even for fearful or aggressive dogs.

A UK study found that limited access to veterinary services during the COVID-19 pandemic led many owners to delay care for chronically ill dogs, impacting welfare.

A Finnish research team has validated a behavioral survey that identifies 7 core dog personality traits and reliably measures problematic behaviors.

A 2022 Australian study shows that dog owners’ leashing behavior in natural areas is influenced by social norms, age, and attitudes about wildlife.

A 2024 study reveals that brief educational interventions significantly improve dog owners’ recognition of pain-related behavior and increase the likelihood of veterinary care.

A study of shelter dogs in Italy reveals that personality traits influence behavioral changes after adoption, providing insights for improving long-term adoption success.

A large-scale genetic study in Labrador Retrievers shows that traits like fear of loud noises and playfulness have detectable genetic variance, supporting the idea that dog behavior is partly heritable.

A 2022 study shows that the emotional bond between a dog and its owner significantly influences the dog’s arousal, stress response, and attachment behaviors.

A 2012 study found that people who regularly walk their dogs are more physically active and less likely to suffer from diabetes, hypertension, or depression.

A 2024 study in Frontiers in Psychiatry reveals that owners with higher neuroticism or conscientiousness report stronger attachment to their pets, with gender and family status also playing a role.

A study in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health finds that people who walk their dogs have lower risks of obesity, chronic disease, and depression—even when accounting for other physical activity.

A 2021 Scientific Reports study shows that the strength of the human–dog bond and owner personality significantly influence chronic stress levels in dogs.

A 2024 PeerJ study compared the effectiveness and welfare impacts of prong collars, harnesses, and martingales in managing leash pulling in dogs.

A 2007 study confirmed that fluoxetine (Reconcile) paired with behavior modification significantly improves symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs.

A landmark 2003 study introduced a validated 68-item questionnaire to reliably assess dog temperament and behavior, with important uses in clinical and screening settings.

Owners’ personality traits, especially conscientiousness, affect how they rate their dogs’ temperament.

A 2012 study found dog walking significantly lowers health risks, even after accounting for other physical activity levels.

Bronze Age coprolite analysis reveals that ancient dogs relied on gut microbes to digest starch, aiding early domestication alongside farming humans.

New research identifies a core blood microbiome in healthy dogs, with notable differences in dogs with gut disease—suggesting future diagnostic uses.

A high overlap in helminth infections between wild predators and rural dogs in Estonia reveals a significant One Health risk for zoonotic disease transmission.

A letter to the editor questions the sufficiency of evidence linking an SCN9A mutation to pain insensitivity in dogs, calling for functional validation.

A proof-of-concept study confirms that human cytokines, especially IL-6, activate immune responses in dogs through the JAK-STAT pathway, supporting translational drug research.

Veterinary neurosurgeons in France have developed a novel, patient-specific 3D-printed tool that allows safe and accurate brain biopsies in dogs and cats using dental impressions.

A one-year surveillance study in France found low SARS-CoV-2 shedding in pets but confirmed the first Alpha variant case in a cat, raising questions about animal roles in viral evolution.

A 2024 study explored oral fecal microbiota transplantation as an alternative to antibiotics for dogs with tylosin-responsive enteropathy, with modest but statistically inconclusive results.

A 2023 proof-of-concept study found that AFPep, an anti-estrogenic peptide derived from alpha-fetoprotein, is safe in dogs and may be a promising treatment for mammary cancer.

A 1998 study highlights how varying levels of starch, fiber, protein, and fat in commercial dog foods influence dogs’ post-meal glycemic and insulin responses.

New evidence shows that feeding dogs a wrinkled pea-based diet for 28 days can cause early heart function changes associated with diet-related DCM.

A 2016 study evaluated Border Collie Collapse during exercise, ruling out known causes but leaving its underlying origin unresolved.

A 2023 review outlines key insights and obstacles in using eye-tracking to study dogs’ perception of humans, emotions, and physical events.

A 2022 study outlines a scientifically informed, welfare-focused training method for dogs in therapeutic roles, emphasizing early development and cognitive research.

A 2021 study shows that dog training success depends not only on the dog’s behavior but also on owner traits like cognitive ability and time spent training.

A 2021 review emphasizes the need for modern working dog training to incorporate decades of scientific advances in canine behavior and learning.

A 2021 study found that behavioral challenges significantly reduce shelter dogs’ perceived adoptability, more than medical conditions or past abuse.

Roughly one-third of dogs suffer from noise aversion. A new review explores how sound stress affects behavior, physiology, and welfare.

MRI scans show that dogs with cognitive dysfunction have smaller hippocampi than healthy aging dogs, highlighting parallels with Alzheimer’s.

A study of Shiba Inu dogs finds that specific behavioral traits such as reactivity and sociability influence different types of aggression.

Shelter dogs showed higher activity and reduced kennel noise when fed on an automated fixed-time schedule, offering a simple tool to enhance welfare.

Contrary to past assumptions, a 1988 study shows that while emotional stress resets dogs’ baroreflex to a higher blood pressure level, it does not impair the reflex’s function.

A study of 368 dogs across four breeds found that compulsive tail chasing often begins in puppyhood and is influenced by diet, maternal separation, neutering, and shyness—offering a compelling canine model for human OCD.

Dog mothers use pitch-specific puppy whines to assess both kinship and need, responding more strongly to vocalizations resembling their weaker pups.

Dogs from different breed clades show varying learning performance and behavior, shaped not just by genetics but also by human-dog communication styles.

A study finds that dogs with better inhibitory control show stronger reactions to unfair treatment, offering insight into emotional and cognitive mechanisms.

A qualitative study reveals how human expectations, knowledge, and empathy shape emotional connections and communication with their dogs.

Using explainable AI, researchers decoded canine emotional states—such as frustration and anticipation—through facial expressions in Labrador Retrievers.

Using advanced depth-sensing computer vision, researchers can now track and interpret tail wagging in dogs with high-resolution precision, shedding light on canine emotional states.

Researchers reveal that mother dogs respond more to puppy whines that match their own litter, especially those mimicking weaker pups, showing precise vocal recognition and care.

A novel device identifies anxiety in dogs by analyzing vocal patterns and relaying results to a Telegram bot, paving the way for real-time emotional tracking.

A study of Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Miniature Schnauzers finds that while body language is consistent across breeds, males whine more under stress.

A study of kennelled dogs finds that nighttime sleep loss leads to reduced play, increased inactivity, and behavioral shifts that may signal welfare concerns.

In Zambia’s Greater Kafue, African wild dogs avoid lions and prime prey zones—even when both are rare—suggesting deep-rooted predator competition.

Free-ranging dogs show sex- and identity-based reactions to scent marks, revealing scent’s critical role in territory and social communication.

An observational study in Yellowstone shows that coyote packs use scent-marking to establish territorial boundaries, minimizing direct conflict.

A preliminary study finds that brief human interaction increases oxytocin in guide dogs, supporting emotional bonding without activating stress.

New research finds that oxytocin receptor gene variations in both dogs and owners jointly influence the strength of their emotional attachment.

Researchers reveal that mutual gazing between dogs and humans increases oxytocin levels in both, reinforcing emotional attachment and coevolution.

A survey of pet owners reveals dogs are believed to express more emotions than cats, guiding future studies into animal emotional recognition.

This proof-of-concept study shows dogs can detect scent cues related to PTSD distress, offering new directions for service dog applications.

Dogs display rapid mimicry and emotional contagion, suggesting their strong ability to connect emotionally with both humans and other dogs.

A 2016 fMRI study demonstrates that dogs, like primates, use their temporal cortex to process human faces, highlighting evolutionary social cognition.

A new study analyzing how over 4,000 people interpret dog behavior in silent videos reveals key differences between public perception and expert assessment.

A 2024 study has identified behavioral and physiological indicators of dogs’ acute emotional states, offering a better understanding of both stress and positive affect.

A 2024 study finds that oxytocin can reduce annoyance from dog barks while making male listeners more sensitive to emotional aggression in the sounds.

A 2016 study reveals that owners are most frustrated by excitable dog behavior at home, especially when people arrive—often alongside other behavioral problems.

Understanding client behavior and team communication is crucial for improving animal welfare in veterinary care, say researchers MacKay and Pollock.

This study reveals nuanced differences in arousal states between dogs and wolves at rest, highlighting how domestication shapes context-specific relaxation.

A study finds that a gel form of dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) can slightly reduce canine stress behaviors before vet exams, though not during the procedure.

New research reveals that humans can form equally strong, reciprocal bonds with wolves and dogs—if both are socialized and raised similarly.

New research finds that while a raw meat diet changes the gut microbiota of dogs toward that of wolves, some microbial differences remain persistent.

A new study finds behavioral problems in shelter dogs reduce adoptability more than medical issues, though perceptions vary by gender and experience.

Owners report dogs display more emotions than cats, with personal experience influencing perceived emotional range and behavior recognition.

A literature review reveals that many dog-focused Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI) studies lack adequate ethical reporting on animal consent and engagement.

A new assessment tool called DIG helps tailor reinforcement-based interventions for dogs with behavioral issues, reducing risk of shelter surrender.

A new study finds that dog and cat owner mental health is influenced not by ownership alone, but by pet attachment style, compatibility, and pet wellbeing.

A study found that over half of owners of aging dogs with behavioral decline use dietary supplements like fish oil to slow cognitive deterioration.

A study explores how modifying the gut microbiota with antibiotics may impact seizure control in dogs with drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy.

Anxiety in dogs may stem from the gut. This review explores how gut microbiota imbalances affect canine behavior and future probiotic therapies.

Dogs may be key to understanding Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. This review shows how their gut-brain axis mirrors human neurodegeneration pathways.

A recent review connects gut microbiota imbalances to behavioral disorders in dogs, offering future directions in treatment via microbiome modulation.

A 2020 study of over 2,300 dog owners in the Netherlands reveals that permissive parenting styles strongly correlate with dog overweight and obesity.

A 2014 review explores the pathophysiology, hormonal regulation, and clinical management of the rising epidemic of obesity in dogs and cats.

A 2020 review explores how mucus-degrading gut microbes like Akkermansia could help control the rising epidemic of obesity in companion animals.

A 2019 study using sled dogs revealed that weight gain—more than lack of exercise—negatively impacts key biomarkers of type II diabetes risk.

A 2020 study showed that replacing synthetic antioxidants in dog food with curcumin improved dogs’ antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation markers.

A 2012 study from Surabaya shows that specific purebred dogs—especially Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds, and Chow-Chows—are at significantly higher risk for obesity.

A national survey of nearly 1,000 senior dogs across 15 U.S. states found that dry food dominates canine nutrition, with wet food being rarely used.

A CT-based study of 140 toy breed dogs found that abdominal fat ratios shift with age, breed, and sexual status, affecting health risk profiles.

New data reveal that male, intact, and younger Labrador Retrievers have significantly higher BMRs than females, seniors, and neutered dogs.

New research confirms that a lifelong gluten-free diet helps prevent dangerous complications of celiac disease in dogs like Irish Setters and Schnauzers.

A study on Nature’s Protection Superior Care dog food shows its potential to manage celiac disease and prevent complications like lymphoma in at-risk breeds.

Researchers have identified genetic loci linked to bladder cancer in dog breeds like Scottish Terriers, aiding early detection in both dogs and humans.

Shelter dogs trained by inmates showed improved social and obedience skills, with no negative effects on welfare or emotional state.

Dogs trained using multiple aversive methods exhibit slower responses in judgment bias tasks, suggesting a more negative mood state.

A study of nearly 1,000 dog owners reveals that behavior issues and high perceived costs reduce satisfaction more than lack of emotional bonding.

A new study shows that dogs and their owners exhibit shared heart rate patterns and activity levels, revealing a deep emotional bond akin to human attachment.

A global expert panel has agreed on key standards to ensure the safety and welfare of both dogs and humans in adolescent canine-assisted psychotherapy.

A 2024 survey reveals that U.S. dog guardians mainly rely on personal sources for training and frequently use both reward and aversive techniques.

Aversive-based dog training increases stress and pessimistic behavior in dogs, both during and beyond training sessions, compared to reward-based methods.

This study shows that dog owners feel more attached to obedient dogs, but actual walking data reveal a mismatch between perception and behavior.

A controlled trial on police and military dogs found that dogs trained with reward-only methods learned faster and performed tasks more reliably than those trained using aversive stimuli.

An analysis of 100 US dog trainers found that training philosophy, word choice, gender, and certification level align—raising concerns about unregulated practices.

A UK pilot study found that free dog training classes—both online and in-person—had high dropout rates among low-income participants, highlighting hidden barriers beyond cost.

A UK study of 985 “Pandemic Puppies” found that nearly all owners reported behavioral issues by 21 months—linked closely to harsh training techniques.

An extensive study comparing 771 clinics in Sweden and Norway found corporate vet chains consistently charge more than independent practices.

A survey of 3,465 Australians revealed that many potential dog owners overestimate benefits and underestimate challenges of pet ownership.

Dog ownership increases neighborhood social interaction—especially when walking is frequent, according to a study of adults aged 55 and older.

A 2021 study suggests that dogs’ oxytocin response during human contact is driven by life experience as a pet—not by domestication per se.

Free-ranging dogs seem to assess the number of opponents during group conflicts, implying a basic form of quantity representation akin to mental magnitude systems.

Dogs and wolves failed to form clear reputations of humans as generous or selfish in a food-giving experiment, even after direct and indirect exposure.

Dog appeasing pheromone may help manage African wild dog aggression during reintroduction, reducing contact dominance and submission after stress.

Dogs raised with wolves follow packmates’ gaze like wolves, but not subtle human gaze, suggesting that domestication shaped their gaze-following behavior.

Shelter dogs suffer disrupted sleep and stress spikes upon intake, but sensor data shows gradual adaptation after two weeks. Welfare tools may improve care.

Dogs can distinguish positive and negative emotions in both humans and other dogs, using visual and auditory cues—once thought to be a human-only trait.

A genetic study shows free-ranging dogs practice polygynandry, contrasting with wolves’ monogamy—highlighting the impact of domestication on mating systems.

New research reveals that free-ranging dogs often mimic a stranger’s choice in a food task, indicating that interspecies social learning helps them adapt to human life.

A new study reveals that some dogs can rapidly learn object names, suggesting that this rare ability depends on social interaction and repeated exposure.

Researchers studying human–dog interactions found that dogs rely heavily on body language and non-verbal cues for interpreting human intentions, especially during petting, play, and hugging, suggesting clearer communication improves the quality of human–dog bonds.

A UK/ROI study found that COVID-19 lockdowns had less impact on early puppy socialisation than previously feared, but noted changes in the frequency and timing of interactions that may shape future behavior.

A study tracking 383 puppies found increased stress markers and behavioral changes following commercial ground transport—suggesting that current practices may jeopardize short- and long-term welfare.

A 2023 study reveals that small dogs consistently require more calories per unit of metabolic weight than medium or large breeds, highlighting the need for tailored dietary recommendations.

A large-scale 1972 veterinary study found that big dog breeds—especially Golden Retrievers—have dramatically higher risks of hip dysplasia, paralleling a similar inherited joint disease in humans.

A genetic survey in Thailand found the MDR1 mutation—linked to drug sensitivity—in several herding breeds, but not in Border Collies or Thai Ridgebacks.

A new DNA test developed in Thailand helps detect the gene mutation responsible for Collie Eye Anomaly in dogs, especially Rough Collies and related breeds.

Essential fatty acid supplements, like evening primrose and fish oil, help manage allergic skin disease in dogs and show promise for treating feline skin issues.

Dogs signal for help when a person is crying—especially if they’ve bonded beforehand, a new study shows.

Guide dogs raised by experienced handlers and with other pets show fewer behavior issues, a study finds.

Despite elevated stress in shelters, rehomed dogs adapt well and develop close bonds with new owners, a Swedish study reveals.

A tandem duplication on chromosome 38’s R-locus is tied to roaned coats and appears in all Dalmatians, shaping their iconic spots.

More aggressive dogs show increased amygdala activity when their caregiver feeds a fake dog, suggesting jealousy-like responses.

Responsible dog owners are more likely to vaccinate their pets against rabies, making them vital allies in disease prevention.

New research provides the first evidence that dogs mentally represent jealousy-inducing situations, suggesting complex social cognition.

This study assesses whether puppies acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic face higher risks of behavior issues and weakened emotional bonds with owners in adulthood.

Reviewing research on children’s interactions with dogs, the study discusses both potential developmental benefits and the methodological challenges in proving causality.

A cross-species study found that several ungulate species possess key cognitive abilities like object permanence and causality. Domesticated goats excelled in particular tasks.

Cats and dogs faced the same detour task—only one species improved through trial-and-error and looked to their human. Here’s what it says about learning and bonding.

Dogs with stronger personalities, such as assertiveness or irritability, may learn better from strangers than from their own owners—suggesting that behavioural problems might actually reflect cognitive strength in certain contexts.

Puppies fed DHA-rich fish oil performed significantly better in memory, learning, coordination, and immune response compared to control groups.

Structured puppy training classes enhance obedience and social behavior in dogs, suggesting that early behavioral interventions may help prevent long-term issues.

New research uncovers major differences in social cognition, impulse control, and problem-solving across dog breeds—suggesting these traits evolved through human selection.

This overview revisits classical and operant conditioning, detailing the foundational work of Pavlov and Skinner and its application to learning theory and behavioural education.

Feeding a commercial grain-free diet to Labrador Retrievers improved taurine status and did not support claims of increased DCM risk, according to a 26-week study.

Hydrolyzed diets may still contain immunoreactive proteins capable of triggering helper T-cell activation in food-sensitive dogs, according to new findings.

Free-ranging dogs are more likely to follow pointing cues when they receive brief social petting, highlighting the role of trust and human intent.

Dogs in detection work behave differently when handlers know how many scent targets are hidden, though the rate of false alerts remains unchanged.

Early signs of canine dementia may soon be easier to detect, thanks to a new study linking blood biomarkers with behavioural assessments.

Can rapamycin slow canine cognitive decline? A new study from the Dog Aging Project investigates aging and attention span in older dogs.

Endoscopic removal of oesophageal foreign bodies in dogs shows good success if treated early. Terriers are particularly at risk, and stricture formation remains a common complication.

This study reveals that many pet dogs consume less energy than expected due to limited activity, and that breed, age, and weight significantly influence energy needs.

A recent study documents the sensory and motor development of puppies during the transitional period, offering insights into breed-specific behaviour and welfare.

Puppies use a functional vomeronasal scent system from birth to locate their mother and milk, confirming early chemical communication.

Military veterans with PTSD benefit most from bond-based training. Positive punishment reduces trust, eye contact, and trainability.