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Pets 101

A woman outside sits with a pack of dogs

How many dog breeds are there, really?

How many dog breeds are there? It depends on who you ask, but it's definitely a big number and includes all the different purebred canines.
A yellow Lab puppy wearing a blue collar looks up

50 amazing boy dog names to consider for your new puppy

Whether your aesthetic is more classic and traditional or more unique and inspired by nature, there's a perfect boy dog name out there for your new puppy.
Two Pekingese dogs sit in the grass

These fluffy dog breeds make the best cuddlers

These dog breeds are fluffy like real-life teddy bears, but their personalities differ from breed to breed. Are any of these dogs right for you?
Two women petting cats in a cat cafe.

These are the best (and worst) cities for cat lovers

Do you live in one of the best cities for cat lovers? We've got the list.
Orange and white kitten lying on a bed playing with a wand toy

What are the different stages of kitten behavior? You’ll want to be prepared

Get ready for new kitten behavior by studying up on these stages.
A Siberian cat lying in a pile of fallen autumn leaves.

There’s an easy way to tell how old your cat really is

Here's how you can figure out how old your cat is.
A brown and cream Afghan hound running outside.

Make your Afghan hound cat-friendly with these 6 training tips

Any dog can be friendly with cats if you train them properly. Here's how to do it.
Cat under the Christmas tree

Watch out! 5 common holiday dangers that pose a risk to your pet

Here are some common holiday dangers for your pet to be on alert for.
Golden retriever puppies

What is littermate syndrome? Why this puppy bond can be a problem

Littermate syndrome can be stressful for dogs and the people who love them. Here's what littermate syndrome is and what to do.
An English springer spaniel's side profile standing next to tall grass

The best medium-sized dog breeds for your family

Whether you're looking for a high-energy playmate or a lazy couch potato, there's a medium-sized dog who fits the bill. These are some of your options.
Veterinarian examining cat while little boy watches

How to find the right veterinarian for your pet

Finding the pet doctor takes time and patience. Here's what you need to consider before choosing a veterinarian.
A brown puppy looks up, with sunlight shining on their whiskers

Why do dogs have whiskers? These small features play a huge role

Some dogs' whiskers are much more noticeable than others, but they all serve an important purpose. This is why dogs have whiskers.
A man clips a leash on a beagle's collar.

Taking your dog’s collar off at night: Safe move or safety risk?

Some pet owners take off their dog's collar at night, but is that a smart move?
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.
Brown dog eating out of metal bowl

Dog food 101: Can you freeze dry dog food?

When you buy your dog’s favorite food, it can lead to overbuying. We list tips and tricks for freezing dog food that will ensure longevity
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.