What Kind of Dog Is Bluey? Breed Facts & Info
The post What Kind of Dog Is Bluey? Breed Facts & Info by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Bluey is an Australian family-friendly animated program that premiered in 2018. It features an anthropomorphic dog named Bluey and her family and friends. Bluey quickly rose in popularity and is now a dog who’s beloved by children all around the world.
Bluey was inspired by the real-life dog breed, the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as a Blue Heeler. More people have become more aware and curious about them because of Bluey. Here’s everything you need to know about this beloved Australian dog breed.
Bluey Is an Australian Cattle Dog
It’s no surprise that Bluey was inspired by the beloved local breed, the Australian Cattle Dog. Australian Cattle Dogs were originally bred to herd cattle on large Australian ranches. They helped to grow and strengthen the country’s beef industry and are still used today to herd livestock.
Australian Cattle Dogs got their “Heeler” nickname because their herding technique involves nipping at the feet of their cattle. The most common type of Australian Cattle Dog is the Blue Heeler. However, you can also find Red Heelers. Blue Heelers have blue base coats and can have mottled or speckled patterns, while Red Heelers have red speckled or mottled coats. Other than coat color, there are no distinguishable features between the two types of Australian Cattle Dogs.
Australian Cattle Dog Temperament
As Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to herd livestock, it’s no surprise that they’re hardy dogs with incredible stamina. Like the cartoon Bluey, real Australian Cattle Dogs are energetic and inquisitive dogs. They’re extremely intelligent and are even known to outsmart their handlers.
Australian Cattle Dogs are also known for their loyalty, and they’re devoted to their families. They usually form a strong bond with one or two people and become “Velcro” dogs that never seem to leave their owner’s side. They’re not known to be aggressive, but they can be wary or aloof with strangers. However, they tend to warm up quickly to new people if they see that they’re friendly with their family.
While Australian Cattle Dogs are relatively easy to train, they’re not recommended for first-time dog owners. These energetic dogs were bred to chase and herd livestock all day, so they need daily exercise that involves long walks and running around. Not getting enough exercise and mental stimulation will cause boredom, and they often resort to engaging in destructive behaviors if they have pent-up energy.
Australian Cattle Dogs love to learn, and they often excel at obedience training. They also make excellent competitors in dog sports and are often seen in agility courses, dock diving, and herding competitions. Because they require space to run, they’re not recommended for city life and apartment living. They do best in single-family homes with a secured, fenced yard or in rural homes with plenty of space for them to run around.
Does Bluey Act Like an Australian Cattle Dog?
Bluey’s personality does stay true to some core Australian Cattle Dog traits. She’s an energetic and upbeat dog who loves to go on adventures. She’s also very curious and enjoys learning.
Real Australian Cattle Dogs also possess these traits, which is why they’re commonly known as some of the best companions for outdoor travel. They’ll love exploring, hiking, and even riding on canoes and kayaks. Similar to Bluey, most pet Australian Cattle Dogs would love to go on adventures and explore all that Australia has to offer with their favorite people.
The only significant difference between Bluey’s personality and the Australian Cattle Dog’s temperament is Bluey’s sociability. Bluey has many friends and goes on adventures with them regularly. Australian Cattle Dogs tend to be more reserved and aren’t social butterflies. They may get along with another dog sibling, but they typically don’t go to dog parks to socialize with other dogs.
Conclusion
Bluey is an excellent representation of the Australian Cattle Dog. Both Bluey and Australian Cattle Dogs are brave and energetic, and they’re always up for going on a new adventure. We love that Australian Cattle Dogs have become more well-known and recognized around the world. They certainly deserve all the love and attention they’ve been receiving!
Featured Image Credit: Property of Bluey Wiki. All rights reserved to the copyright owners.
The post What Kind of Dog Is Bluey? Breed Facts & Info by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Meet Rosa & Machado, Our Adorably Cheeky Rescue Pups
The post Meet Rosa & Machado, Our Adorably Cheeky Rescue Pups by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every Wednesday, we share a story from one of our Dogsters. This week is about Nicole and her two rescue dogs, Mac and Rosa.
Meet Rosa and Machado. I have so many stories to tell about these extraordinary pups, but as they are rescue dogs, I feel like I need to share how they came to be Cosgroves. They live a rural life, break all of the house rules (like no dogs inside and no dogs on the bed), and change them to suit themselves with their cheeky smiles and unconditional love.
I’ll be sharing stories about our lives together each month, the good, the challenging, and the hilarious. But this month, I’ll begin with how our little hooligans found their way home.
Rosa’s Journey Home
Rosa came into our lives as a COVID baby. We had been on an 18-month nomadic adventure and were set to continue traveling for the foreseeable future. We were home in New Zealand for some weddings when the pandemic and lockdown hit, so we did what any normal traveler would do: we bought 25 acres of land with native New Zealand forest on it and started building an eco-retreat so we could host other travelers once the borders opened.
We already had our cat, Baby Cat, who had been living with family while we traveled. Since we were stuck in New Zealand, we realized COVID was a blessing and a chance for us to provide him with the retirement property he deserved—but we thought we’d spice up his life a bit by getting him a dog. Retirement is not all about staying in your comfort zone, of course!
Scrolling through the Facebook feed of our region’s main animal rescue daily, we saw plenty of adorable dogs, but it wasn’t until about two weeks of searching later that ‘Rose’ appeared, and I remember yelling to my husband ‘She’s here! That’s our girl!’
When he saw the photo, he agreed profusely, and we madly rushed to apply for her, praying we weren’t too late. We drove over an hour to pick her up (and quickly learned that car rides were not her favorite).
If you are lucky enough to have a rescue animal in your life, you’ll know that knowing their origin story is important in understanding the animal, but it does not define them.
Rosa’s Origin Story
Rosa’s origin story may have some triggers, so please proceed through the next paragraph with caution:
Rosa was kept in a small box for the first 8 1/2 months of her life and was forced to have puppies on her first heat. When she was rescued, the woman who saved her was at a property investigating it as a potential puppy mill and was there to confiscate some other dogs when she heard some noise coming from the box. Inside, she found Rosa chained to her two puppies, who were about 2 1/2 months old. Thankfully, she got them away and the three of them went to live with an incredible couple who were fostering 15 dogs at the time we picked her up. We never met the lady who physically rescued Rosa, but her foster parents told us the story. The foster parents are dairy farmers who work with specific breeds of rescued dogs to train them to be working dogs, but with Rosa, they immediately knew she was a house dog. Rosa was in foster care for 3 months because she was so traumatized, and sadly, her son went feral and had to be put down because he was too dangerous to adopt out. Her daughter went to a lovely family, but all of this further traumatized Rosa. In addition to the emotional stress, Rosa is blind in her left eye due to physical trauma. We don’t know what happened exactly, but we do know that she is the most brave, trusting, and incredible dog we’ve ever met.
Rosa got her name not just because she was previously named Rose, but because we had cared for a dog in Ecuador on our travels who was named Rosa, and she was the most kind-natured, motherly dog we’d ever met. When we met Rose, we were instantly reminded of Rosa and felt that the single letter change in honor of Rosa was perfect—her foster family shared that she was the kindest-natured dog they had met, even with all of her past. This was one of the main contributing factors to her being labeled a ‘house dog.’ Her nature continued from the moment we met her and has only blossomed.
It’s the strangest feeling, loathing the person who could treat any animal that way, especially the sweetheart she is, but also knowing that if it weren’t for that situation, we wouldn’t have our baby girl. There isn’t a word for the feeling because it certainly isn’t gratitude, but it’s something that makes me honored to be her mama. I don’t know if any other readers or parents of rescues know what I’m talking about, but if you do, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Rosa didn’t know how to play, cuddle, or really be a dog when she arrived. She got a lot of ‘spooks’ as we call them. We do our best to make light of things and not let her spooks define her. We practice exposure therapy and shower her with all our love. In the early days, she learned a lot from Baby Cat (things like how to play the ‘I-want-outside-no-I-want-inside’ game, groaning in embarrassment at us, snoozing by the fire, and asking for food at all hours of the day). But, she was a Mama. The maternal instinct in her was strong and between nervous outbreaks, the girl was (and still is) always looking to care for someone.
She understandably has anxiety and showed signs of doggie depression when she first joined our family. She has come an incredibly long way. I’d like to say it was all that my husband and I have done for her, but I would be lying if I didn’t introduce the main contributing factor to her healing now…
How Machado Joined Our Family
We never anticipated being a two-dog household until after we had Rosa for about six months. We had been trying for a human baby well before Rosa arrived, as the plan had been that Baby Cat needed an animal mate (Rosa) so he wouldn’t be too upset about a human baby. But, as our human baby took longer to arrive, we learned that Rosa was actually the one who would need a mate once a baby arrived. She loved her cat, but he wasn’t really playful or engaging. We talked about getting our dog a dog, but no dogs really caught our attention.
About three weeks after we found out I was pregnant, he appeared on our district council pound’s Facebook page, and again, I immediately yelled to my husband ‘He’s here! This is our boy!’
The friendly giant was delivered to us by a wonderful woman from animal control who had been there for processing when he was brought in. She shared what little they knew about him.
Mac’s Origin Story
His origin story is full of gaps. We know that he was found wandering through a farmer’s field, looking very skinny. Up where we live, it’s sadly not unlikely for a farmer to shoot a feral dog because it could injure or kill their livestock. The farmer who spotted Mac, however, noticed something gentle in his demeanor and felt he was a lost pet. He turned him into the council pound, and they advertised him as a lost dog. After 9 days, if nobody is able to show proof of ownership, legally they must put the dog up for adoption. We saw him on day 10 and he was ours. We assume he was abandoned, another sad reality of rural life. Many people get dogs as puppies, and when they grow up and become too difficult to feed or control, they ditch them on the side of the road.
We call Machado (named after Rob Machado) our ‘drag to trash, surfer dude’. He’s so chill and ready for adventure, like a surfer dude (my husband is also a surfer, so they are kindred spirits), and it’s like he has truly forgotten whatever happened to him. He showed up at our door and left his past behind him, never to look back. It took him no time to become accustomed to life with us, and he immediately took his spot at the bottom of the chain, listening to his sister Rosa, and mostly, King Baby Cat.
The craziest part of Mac’s arrival is that the woman who dropped him off took one look at Rosa and started welling up. “I know her! I know her!” she said.
She immediately grabbed her phone and started scrolling back through her album. Much to my disbelief, she showed me a photo of Rosa as an 8 ½-month-old puppy next to her son and daughter. She was the woman who physically saved Rosa and transferred her to the animal rescue foundation because she needed fostering (and the pound doesn’t do that, they work with external organizations for this). She didn’t know what happened to Rosa until that moment, and she was speechless, seeing how far she had come, and how happy her life was now.
We got our cat a dog, and we got our cat’s dog a dog. The fur baby family was complete, and all we had to do was wait for our human baby to arrive.
The Dogs Today
Without knowing Rosa’s history, one would meet her and simply assume she was quirky, and we love that. She has the most fascinating brain and is hilarious. She has no spatial awareness (thanks to being blind in one eye) and cannot howl (only barks). Mac sings along to every song and has a beautiful voice. Rosa tries to join in, and then it just becomes chaos.
But Rosa’s anxiety is nearly gone (when it rains and she’s inside, or when it thunders, she does still get pretty nervous, but we think that’s pretty good). Mac has been the best therapy dog ever for her, without him even knowing it. He is a proper little brother. He pushes her buttons and drives her crazy and then gives her a goofy, loving look and she runs to him and kisses him all over. Their love is the sweetest thing to witness.
Both dogs love our daughter: Mac (who has thoroughly earned his nickname MacCuddles) is finally letting her cuddle him (he was a bit spooked of her when she was too little), and Rosa is very protective of her, but not so cuddly with her—she takes her job of big sister/mother dog seriously around her.
The two are mostly inseparable, but Rosa recently had to spend some days at daycare without Mac (he had emergency abdominal surgery after swallowing a macadamia nut whole, a story for another time), and she did incredibly well. Watching their relationship blossom has been an absolute treasure, and seeing both of them embrace their cheekiness in our home makes us feel like proud (and sometimes frustrated) parents every day.
I am so excited to be able to share their journey with you and let you in on some of the fun and real elements of pet parenthood, and hopefully connect with readers who have similar experiences. If you are thinking about adopting a dog, I could not recommend it more.
The post Meet Rosa & Machado, Our Adorably Cheeky Rescue Pups by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Beach Dog Rescue Surpasses 7,000 Spay/Neuter Milestone in Yucatan, Mexico
The post Beach Dog Rescue Surpasses 7,000 Spay/Neuter Milestone in Yucatan, Mexico by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
In the heart of Yucatan, Mexico—about five hours from Cancun—a small farm has become a haven for dogs awaiting a new life. Beach Dog Rescue, run by Heather and Gil Johnson, is more than a typical shelter; it’s a sanctuary. Here, dogs stay until they’re ready to journey to trusted rescue partners in New York City and Canada, where they will eventually find their furever families. In Mexico, where over 16 million dogs live on the streets,1 Beach Dog Rescue is helping address the crisis one dog at a time.
The mission is clear for Beach Dog Rescue: spaying and neutering are crucial to ending pet homelessness. “While we very much love to rescue individual animals, we cannot rescue our way out of this crisis,” Heather Johnson, one of Beach Dog Rescue’s founders explained.
Many of the animals they work with are street dogs or pets whose owners can’t afford vet costs. According to the Humane Society, an unspayed female dog and her offspring can produce over 60,000 puppies in just over six years; a female cat and her offspring, even more.
The journey for Heather and Gil began in 2016 when they relocated from New Jersey to Mahahual, a fishing village in Mexico. As they drove 3,500 miles through the country, they were struck by the sight of homeless, starving dogs. One particularly haunting encounter involved a skeletal dog sniffing around their construction site in Mahahual, hoping for scraps. Heather named him Pinto, and although he didn’t survive long, Pinto’s memory fuels their mission. Every rescue they undertake is in his honor.
How Beach Dog Rescue Began
After being spoiled at an all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen in 2003, Heather and Gil thought it would be cool to live in Mexico one day, and so the seed was planted. Gil was often away traveling for work, and on each return, he would find a new foster dog in their home. On one occasion, he came home to four new dogs, prompting him to say, ”Ok enough. No more dogs. When we move to Mexico, you can save all the dogs you want.” According to Heather, Gil has never regretted a statement more.
After years of planning, they left their lives, families, and jobs in New Jersey and built a little house on a remote stretch of beach. Their goal was peace, quiet, and swinging in hammocks.
In the US, Heather spent years volunteering with a NYC rescue that pulled dogs off the kill list in city shelters. Each night, the shelters would put out a list of dogs who would be euthanized the following morning. Heather’s job was to line up urgent fosters/adopters and save as many as she could. “Some days we succeeded. Some days we didn’t. The stress and sadness of experiencing that world opened my eyes to things I never wanted to see,” Heather recalls.
“We didn’t intend to start a rescue when we moved to Mexico. On a visit to the construction site that would be our new home, I saw a sight that changed everything. A dog so skinny, so broken, he barely existed. He was a walking skeleton. My head felt hot, and my chest burned when I saw him as if he couldn’t be real. I had never seen a dog so skinny before.”
After some negotiating, he allowed Heather to pick him up and take him to a vet in a nearby town. The couple weren’t yet living in Mexico so they had to leave Pinto behind with the construction workers with food and medication, praying they could help. When they returned, they found out that Pinto sadly had not made it.
“What I didn’t know at the time was that meeting him helped me find my purpose in this life. His name was Pinto. Everything I do is in his honor.”
In the early days of their time in Mexico and the birth of Beach Dog Rescue, Heather and Gil lived off-grid, meaning they used solar energy and collected rainwater for showering and drinking water had to be hauled in in 5-gallon jugs. Some weeks were easier than others, but if it rained for a week, they had no power and would cook by candlelight and sleep and rise with the sun.
“It had the makings of a quiet life until I started collecting homeless dogs. We were not set up as a shelter. We had dogs in our living room, in our bathroom, in our laundry room, on the balcony. It was chaos and love,” Heather explained.
Beach Dog Rescue’s Evolution
Heather and Gil moved their lives from their small beach house to an off-grid farm in Yucatan state three years ago. They now live in an off-grid, 350-year-old hacienda on 50 acres. They have built a proper sanctuary with room for the dogs to roam and enjoy the outdoors. There can be 25 – 50 dogs at the sanctuary at any given time, which is a long stretch from the four that felt like too many for Gil all those years ago. They also have pigs, sheep, and roosters (all rescues).
They are two hours away from the nearest vet, so Heather has learned to administer vaccines and treat minor wounds to care for their dogs.
- 21 dogs adopted out first year
- 293 dogs adopted out to date
- 7,100+ spay/neuter for homeless and pets in low-income situations to date
Since 2017, Heather has built trusted relationships with several Canadian and American rescues. In the early days, she would personally accompany dogs from Cancun to New York City or Toronto, sometimes spending the night at the airport to keep expenses low before returning to Mexico the following day.
Their team on the ground in Mexico is Heather, Gil, and their shelter manager, Karla who lives on the property. Their spay and neuter clinics are run by various vets in Mexico. Local volunteers help with the after-care of dogs and cats, and they are finishing up a guest apartment on their farm with the hopes of hosting volunteers in the coming months.
A typical day at the Johnson’s home begins with their rooster yelling at 4:30 am, followed by the house dogs barking, then the sanctuary dogs barking. Next, the pigs start to squeal, and it becomes clear that no one is going back to sleep. Heather and Gil haul buckets of water from the house out to the dog corral because the windmill that brings water to the area is not working now. Breakfast for the dogs is a boisterous event. Then it’s time to let everyone out into the huge dog-park-like space where they will spend their day, running, playing, and napping under shade trees. On hot days, the pups take a dip in the dog pool. Hours are spent each day cleaning to make sure the dogs and their spaces are clean and fresh.
About Beach Dog Rescue of Costa Maya Mexico
Founded with a commitment to ending the suffering of homeless dogs in Costa Maya, Mexico, Beach Dog Rescue of Costa Maya Mexico, Inc. aims to help these animals survive and thrive. Tens of thousands of homeless, starving, and injured dogs face enormous challenges on Mexico’s streets, where there is no government aid to control the population or address the spread of preventable diseases. Through public donations, Beach Dog Rescue funds spay and neuter clinics, vaccinations, and medical care with local licensed veterinarians. In some cases, Beach Dog Rescue offers temporary housing or covers local foster care costs until the dogs can be transported to nonprofit rescues in Canada and the U.S., where they are ultimately adopted into loving homes.
Beach Dog Rescue partners with organizations like Etobicoke Humane Society, Paws Across the Water, Coveted Canines in Toronto, and Second Chance Rescue in New York City. Although they seek responsible local adopters in Mexico, the abundance of homeless dogs often makes it difficult to find available homes. Most responsible adopters already have several pets, making partnerships with U.S. and Canadian rescues essential. Every dog is carefully vetted before travel, ensuring they are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, and tested for tick-borne diseases, heartworm, and other transmissible conditions.
As a small rescue, Beach Dog Rescue is unique in its approach: rescued animals live in Heather and her husband’s home until they find permanent families. Several independent rescuers in nearby towns share Beach Dog Rescue’s vision and often rely on their support for dog food and veterinary care. Many compassionate individuals work to help animals but lack financial resources, so Beach Dog Rescue provides assistance wherever possible. With limited hands-on help, Heather and her husband manage everything themselves, from daily dog care and fundraising to bill payment, social media, and coordinating vet care and food deliveries.
How You Can Help
The organization’s biggest need is financial support for their spay and neuter campaigns and to provide emergency vet care for abuse and cruelty cases.
In the last month, Heather and Gil have taken in a dog who was set on fire, a 10-pound puppy who was chained in a yard and left to starve, and two dogs who were run over. Sadly, these will not be the last cases of cruelty and abuse they will need to help with. Without government support or publicly funded shelters, these dogs’ only sign of hope is Beach Dog Rescue.
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the U.S., Beach Dog Rescue welcomes donations via PayPal at [email protected] or through their website, beachdogrescue.org.
Flight volunteers are also needed to escort dogs from Cancun to Canada and New York—a simple task that can save a life.
You can follow along with their work on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BeachDogRescueMexico/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beachdogrescue/.
For adoption requests, please email them to [email protected].
Your support can help keep dogs off the streets and prevent future needless suffering.
The post Beach Dog Rescue Surpasses 7,000 Spay/Neuter Milestone in Yucatan, Mexico by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks
The post 6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Among the various tricks and techniques we use to help our dogs manage stress, an anxiety vest may be the perfect touch to keep them calm in troubling situations. Maybe your dog runs at the sound of thunder, suffers from separation anxiety, or tenses up on the way to the vet. Whatever the stressful situation, giving your dog a relaxing “hug” with an anxiety vest is an effortless way to offer relief and comfort.
Picking a comfortable vest for your dog is critical for the best effect, and you’ll have plenty of unique options to wade through in your search for the ideal product. For a simple solution to help your pet keep calm and regain confidence, check out these reviews of the best anxiety vests for dogs.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites (2024 Update)
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best Overall 
|
 |
ThunderShirt Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest |
Lightweight, durable fabric Machine-washable Fits most dogs |
CHECK PRICE |
|
Best Value 
|
 |
AKC Calming Coat |
Good price point Durable fabric Machine-washable |
CHECK PRICE |
|
Premium Choice 
|
 |
ThunderShirt Polo Anxiety Vest |
Machine-washable Fits most dogs Multiple color options |
CHECK PRICE |
 |
Winbate Dog Anxiety Jacket |
D-ring and handle add control Reflective piping adds visibility Easy to put on |
CHECK PRICE | |
 |
CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest |
Includes calming essential oils Breathable fabric Fits most dogs |
CHECK PRICE |
The 6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs
1. ThunderShirt Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest – Best Overall
| Colors: | Heather gray |
| Sizes: | XXS–XXL |
ThunderShirt is the premier calming vest brand for cats and dogs. In its Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest, you’ll find a thoughtful, well-made design that fits quickly and snugly around your dog’s body for instant stress relief. The machine-washable material is breathable, lightweight, and responsive, giving your dog full range of motion and complete comfort.
Although it’s only available in a heather gray color, the simplicity and reliability make this our top choice for the best overall anxiety vest for dogs. According to the company, over 80% of dogs show reduced signs of anxiety with its product. If you aren’t sure the ThunderShirt Classic is right for your pet, the company backs its products with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
- Easy to attach
- Lightweight, durable fabric
- Machine-washable
- Fits most dogs
- Available in only one color
2. AKC Calming Coat – Best Value
| Colors: | Pink, blue |
| Sizes: | XS–XL |
The American Kennel Club is one of the most trusted names in the canine community, and the AKC Calming Coat provides a sturdy, conforming fit that applies constant gentle pressure to relax your dog. The Calming Coat has durable, machine-washable fabric for convenient cleaning and lasting performance.
Its cotton construction enhances comfort in any climate, and the relief it can provide your dog makes it an easy choice for the best anxiety vest for the money. The only drawbacks surround the fit. It’s available in sizes ranging from X-small to X-large, but the Calming Coat doesn’t work for as many dogs as the ThunderShirt, which can work for the tiniest toy breeds and the largest giant dogs.
Many users also find the vest sized for their dog’s measurements too small, so they size up to get a suitable fit. Also, the process of putting the vest on is relatively confusing compared to many other brands. All this adds up to a few initial challenges, but once your dog gets used to the vest, you’ll appreciate its high-quality design and effectiveness to match more expensive options.
- Good price point
- Durable fabric
- Machine-washable
- Breathable cotton design
- Can be confusing to put on
- Fewer sizes than other products
3. ThunderShirt Polo Anxiety Vest – Premium Choice
| Colors: | Blue, pink, camo |
| Sizes: | XXS – XXL |
Featuring a patented design that wraps easily around the dog and securely applies light pressure across their body, the ThunderShirt Polo Anxiety Vest provides all the comfort and convenience you could hope for from a premium anxiety vest. As a step up from the Classic design, the Polo comes in three fun colors to match your pup’s personality.
The ThunderShirt Polo vest is made of durable, lightweight material that provides a snug, enjoyable fit for countless uses. Plus, it’s machine-washable, allowing for easy cleanups to keep it fresh at all times. It’s available in seven sizes, ranging from XX-small to XX-large, and you’re sure to find the perfect match for your dog. Just be aware that ThunderShirt recommends sizing up if you opt for the Polo vest.
- Easy to put on and take off
- Durable, comfortable material
- Machine-washable
- Fits most dogs
- Multiple color options
- Relatively expensive
4. Winbate Dog Anxiety Jacket
| Colors: | Blue, gray, yellow |
| Sizes: | XS–XL |
The inexpensive and straightforward Winbate Dog Anxiety Jacket is a perfect low-risk option to test out on your puppy. Though the quality isn’t as high as some other vests on this list, this jacket is an excellent temporary solution for a dog that will outgrow it in a few months, delivering comfort and security during moments of stress until then.
The Winbate vest comes in three colors and five sizes, with a waterproof polyester shell and plush interior material for comfort and outdoor function. The piping is reflective for night-time visibility, and the vest includes a leash ring and handle for added control outside. It is no replacement for a proper collar or harness but offers a convenient touch to help secure your puppy for short periods.
- Low price point
- D-ring and handle add control
- Reflective piping adds visibility
- Easy to put on
- Relatively low quality and durability
- Limited size options
5. CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest
| Colors: | Gray |
| Sizes: | XXS–XXL |
A snug hug is only one part of the multi-tiered attack the CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest throws at your dog’s fear and stress. Alongside the calming pressure of the secure Velcro wrap, the vest integrates a music player and essential oil diffuser. The speaker plays a soothing lullaby while the essential oil crystals (lavender or chamomile) deliver a calming aroma.
Although there’s more sensory stimulation to consider when introducing the vest to your dog, it gives you numerous tools to combat a dog’s anxiety. The CozyVest anxiety vest has a breathable, machine-washable design that’s as easy to attach as possible.
Most users have issues with the Velcro’s adhesion to the fabric. It sticks to every part of the vest, allowing the material to pill and creating some issues with putting it on. The coarse Velcro strips also contact the body, rubbing against the skin and tugging on the hair of some long-haired and wire-coated dogs.
- The music box plays a relaxing tune
- Includes calming essential oils
- Breathable fabric
- Fits most dogs
- Velcro can catch on hair and rub on the skin
6. Zeaxuie Baby-Use-Grade Dog Anxiety Vest
| Colors: | Purple, gray |
| Sizes: | XS–XL |
As another affordable option for smaller dogs, the Zeaxuie Baby-Use-Grade Dog Anxiety Vest promises stress relief in an easy-to-use and cozy accessory. The material is soft, breathable, and pliable, providing a dog-friendly texture and tight yet gentle fit for a strong feeling of security.
A fluorescent strip for night-time visibility and a baby-use hook-and-loop system add unique benefits to an overall sound design. The straps are easy to adjust and quieter than many other Velcro products, though they don’t provide the most secure hold.
- Low price point
- Quiet and easy-to-adjust straps
- Flexible, breathable material
- Machine-washable
- Hook-and-loop system wears quickly
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Anxiety Vest for Dogs
How to Use an Anxiety Vest
Anxiety vests are a practical tool for numerous situations that may stress your dog, like loud noises, airplane or car trips, visits to the vet, or separation from loved ones. When used correctly, they can reduce shaking, barking, and other nervous habits by applying comforting pressure. Vests help reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and stress behaviors, and owners recognize them as one of the more effective drug-free alternative calming aides.
While most calming vests for dogs can help a pet with anxiety, they can only do so if they aren’t a source of stress themselves. The initial feeling of having a vest around the body and the loud noise of the Velcro straps can be nerve-wracking for a dog, especially when they’re already naturally anxious. If you introduce it incorrectly, the effect could be the opposite of what you want.
If you’re unsure if your dog needs an anxiety vest, contact your for a recommendation.
Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!
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Introduce the Vest With Positive Reinforcement
Desensitize your dog to the sounds and feel of the anxiety vest and condition them to see it as a positive item. Introduce it slowly. When your dog is calm, present the vest and let them explore it. Place it on the ground with a few treats to draw interest and create engagement.
Then, gently pull the vest straps so your dog can get used to the sound, offering treats to build a positive association. Gradually make the Velcro louder as your dog begins to tolerate the noise. You can try putting it on when your dog is comfortable with the vest and its noises.
Attach it slowly and carefully, and praise and reward your dog as you secure it. Treat your dog with playtime once the vest is on to make wearing it a positive experience.
How Long Can My Dog Wear Their Anxiety Vest?
A well-fitting anxiety vest can stay on a dog as long as they need it, even if it’s for several hours. In these instances, you should still remove the vest hourly to check for any signs of irritation.
How We Selected These Anxiety Vests for Dogs
This buyer’s guide was carefully crafted by our writers and editors in collaboration with our team of in-house veterinarians. The anxiety vests for dogs reviewed here are rated on a combination of factors: brand reputation, customer reviews across multiple retail outlets, personal experience, and in some cases, feedback from our own dogs! Together, we choose and review only the best anxiety vests for dogs available, to help you make the most informed decisions that foster the well-being of your furry friends.
Why Trust Dogster?
Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online since 2004, which means we have a lot of experience with anxiety vests for dogs. We are a team of passionate dog owners who care about our pups as much as you do yours. We want the best for every canine on the planet. Dogster’s writers, editors, and veterinarians are deeply invested in the well-being of our pets, and we believe that all pet owners share this dedication to providing only the highest quality products and services for our dogs.
Conclusion
ThunderShirt is the brand of choice if ease of use and durability are your top considerations. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can find a comfortable wrap to help them de-stress, with high-quality construction providing peace of mind and consistent performance.
Meanwhile, AKC’s breathable design gives dog owners a high-value alternative to consider. Whatever their anxiety issues or needs, following these reviews of the best anxiety vests is an excellent step toward providing the stress-relieving support your dog deserves.
Featured Image Credit: Reshetnikov_art, Shutterstock
The post 6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
5 Sounds Only Dogs Can Hear: Vet-Analyzed Canine Hearing Range
The post 5 Sounds Only Dogs Can Hear: Vet-Analyzed Canine Hearing Range by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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We’ve heard people talk about ‘sounds that only a dog can hear’, and we all know that our dogs can hear the rustling of a chip packet from a mile away, but what are the real facts about a dog’s sense of hearing?
Although the superior intellect and brain capacity of humans have allowed us to reach the lofty position of owner and leader, when you take a look at how we measure up against our canine companions in most other respects, we are woefully outmatched. They are far better athletes, have an almost unparalleled sense of smell, and their sense of loyalty is far greater than our own. In addition to all this, dogs can also hear a wider range of sounds from much farther distances.
Let’s break this down so we can understand the canine hearing range and find out what they can hear but we can’t.
Sound Frequency
Have you ever heard the riddle about the tree falling in the forest? If no one is around to hear it, does it really make a sound? The answer is yes, but also, no.
A sound is created when something creates a vibration (sound waves) that moves molecules through the air (or water) that are received by an auditory receptor, like the eardrum of mammals. So, if there is no receptor, is it still a sound? We could argue this one back and forth, but instead, let’s talk about how sound is measured and how dogs measure up to other animal species.
- The frequency at which the sound waves are vibrating, also known as the pitch – ie. high-pitched or low-pitched sounds. Measured in Hertz (Hz)
- The intensity of the sound, or the volume – ie. loud or quiet. Measured in Decibels (dB)
Different animal species can hear sounds that fall in specific frequency ranges; some may also be able to hear sounds at much lower decibels than others. As a general rule, smaller animals are usually able to detect sounds at a lower volume than larger animals, even if they can hear sounds of the same frequency.
Dogs and humans are very similar in their ability to hear low-frequency sounds, but dogs can hear frequencies up to twice as high as we can.
The average human hearing range is around 64 – 23,000 Hz, and sounds with a frequency higher than 20,000 Hz (20 kHz) are referred to as ‘ultrasonic’ – ie. sounds that are higher than can be readily detected by the human ear. By comparison, the sound frequencies detected by dogs are around 67 – 45,000 Hz. Let’s take a look at how that stacks up against other animal species:
| Species: | Approximate Range (Hz) : | Species: | Approximate Range (Hz): |
| Human | 64-23,000 | Chinchilla | 90-22,800 |
| Dog | 67-45,000 | Bat | 2,000-110,000 |
| Cat | 45-64,000 | Beluga Whale | 1,000-123,000 |
| Cow | 23-35,000 | Elephant | 16-12,000 |
| Horse | 55-33,500 | Porpoise | 75-150,000 |
| Sheep | 100-30,000 | Goldfish | 20-3,000 |
| Rabbit | 360-42,000 | Catfish | 50-4,000 |
| Rat | 200-76,000 | Tuna | 50-1,100 |
| Mouse | 1,000-91,000 | Bullfrog | 100-3,000 |
| Gerbil | 100-60,000 | Tree Frog | 50-4,000 |
| Guinea Pig | 54-50,000 | Canary | 250-8,000 |
| Hedgehog | 250-45,000 | Parakeet | 200-8,500 |
| Raccoon | 100-40,000 | Cockatiel | 250-8,000 |
| Ferret | 16-44,000 | Owl | 200-12,000 |
| Opossum | 500-64,000 | Chicken | 125-2,000 |
- Source: LSU
We humans might be impressed by the hearing range of our canine friends, but it’s nothing compared to that of the porpoise!
What Sounds Can Dogs Hear That We Can’t?
So we know that dogs can hear sounds in the ultrasonic range up to around 45,000 Hz (45 kHz), but what does that entail?
1. Electronics and Machines
The most common high-frequency sounds that your dog may be aware of are those that come from machinery. Some humans are more sensitive to the high-pitched sounds that are emitted from electrical equipment, and dogs will be even more aware of these.
Interestingly, these sorts of high-frequency sounds can actually be damaging to the human ear, especially when dialed up to high decibels, as the high-frequency vibrations can lead to a build-up of pressure within the ear. So it is the sounds we can’t hear that we need to be most careful with! In fact, there are international standards that regulate the maximum decibels that can be emitted by ultrasonic equipment.1
2. ‘Silent’ Whistles
Ultrasonic dog whistles are a popular training tool as they are less intrusive than a lower frequency type, and the higher frequency sound is able to travel much further distances, often over a mile.
The term ‘silent’ whistle is a bit misleading, as they tend to emit a sound that is just on the upper edge of the human hearing range, so some people can hear them better than others.
3. Ultrasonic Pest Repellers
These small devices emit sounds at a frequency of around 15 to 75 kHz, with most devices allowing you to select the frequency range. While dogs can technically hear these sounds, the pest-repelling devices are designed to work at lower decibel levels that can be detected by smaller animals like rats, mice, and insects, but are not loud enough to bother household pets. However, if you have any exotic animals like rodents, reptiles, insects, or arachnids, you might want to think twice before using one of these devices!
4. Quiet Sounds
Smaller animals are able to hear sounds at lower decibels than we can, which is why children can often hear quiet noises better than adults, and dogs can hear the fridge opening from upstairs or your car coming down the road.
5. Distant Sounds
The higher the sound frequency, the greater the distance that sound can travel, which is why dogs can also detect sounds more clearly from farther away than we can.
What Gives Dogs Their Superior Hearing?
There are a number of features of the canine ear that make them able to hear sounds at higher frequencies than humans:
- The deeper ear canal of the dog enhances its ability to direct sound waves toward the eardrum.
- The cartilaginous pinnae (ear flaps) are able to move independently of one another to help locate and direct sound waves into the ear canal. Even dogs with floppy ears have and use this ability, but dogs with upright ears do have something of an advantage.
- The anatomy of the canine inner ear appears to be better geared to sound magnification than in humans.
Hearing Problems in Dogs
Just like in humans, dogs often suffer from hearing reduction and loss as they age. This is mostly due to the gradual degeneration of specific cells within the ear, the nerves in the brain that carry and interpret sounds, and the thickening of the tubes and inner structures within the middle and inner ear. This tends to be gradual, and we can take steps to ensure that we are still able to communicate effectively with a dog with hearing loss.
Certain breeds, including the Australian Shepherd, Dalmatian, Bull Terrier, and Jack Russell Terrier, are known to be predisposed to congenital deafness, and this is something that responsible breeders (and owners) should be testing for.
Dogs can also suffer hearing loss as a result of trauma, infection, wax build-up, and even as a side effect of certain medications.
While enhanced hearing is generally an advantage, for some individuals, it can be a curse. Many dogs that suffer from anxiety related to fireworks or thunder are likely to do so because those sounds have an adverse effect on them. The ability to detect sounds that we can’t can also mean that dogs can be affected by sound pollution that we are not aware of.
I have known several dogs that were highly stressed and constantly on edge, to the point of needing medication and rarely going outdoors, whose signs of anxiety stopped when they became acutely deaf, suggesting that their behavioral issues were symptomatic of a hearing problem!
Sounds You Can Play For Your Dog
This video has ultrasonic frequencies that you can try out at home to gauge your dog’s reaction. Just make sure not to play it too loud – you don’t want to damage your own ears, and it doesn’t need to be very loud for them to hear the sounds. If your dog seems distressed, turn it off immediately.
Final Thoughts
The canine ability to detect high-frequency sounds is far greater than our own. This ability no doubt evolved in their ancestor to help them become more proficient hunters, as well as allow them to stay in contact over great distances. For our pets, this heightened hearing is rarely employed for hunting purposes, but it no doubt allows them to keep tabs on who and what is in their neighborhood, and most importantly, when someone is opening a food bag.
With the amount of sound pollution from electronic devices in the home, as well as sirens and machinery, our dogs may sometimes feel overwhelmed, which is something we should be mindful of. Their superior hearing evolved in open plains and quiet forests, so our noisy world may be a lot for some dogs to cope with.
If you are worried about your dog’s ears or hearing, be sure to speak to your vet, even if you think it’s probably just due to their age.
Featured Image Credit: Anze Furlan, Shutterstock
The post 5 Sounds Only Dogs Can Hear: Vet-Analyzed Canine Hearing Range by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Lava and Hela: An Unlikely Bond
The post Lava and Hela: An Unlikely Bond by Dr. Maja Platisa DVM MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Hi, I’m Dr. Maja! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two crossbreed dogs, Lava and Hela.
In June last year, Hela joined our family, coming all the way from Greece. She is a friendly, gentle, and energetic dog, while Lava is a nightmare, to put it plainly. Don’t get me wrong, Lava loves other dogs! She loves playing with them, getting chased, and dragging them around by their harness. Yes, she is a bully. A sweet one, but still. However, having a jolly good time with the dog park crowd is one thing, but it’s something else entirely when one of those dogs comes home with you. And never leaves again.
How Lava and Hela First Met
A few days before Hela arrived, I made some preparations, such as getting her a crate and finding a nice quiet spot where she could rest, as well as her own set of blankets, bowls, and toys. But this was all easy. The problem was how Lava would take to a new dog coming into her home, invading her privacy, stealing my attention, and eventually using her toys and other accessories as if they were her own. Lava does not share. Well, actually there are only two dogs, whom she has known since they were all puppies, and she would let them have her toys, with a bit of grunting.
So, for their first introduction, we went for a walk so they could meet and interact on neutral territory. And it was amazing. Hela was thrilled as she could run free in the dog park, and Lava was chasing her around. It was great to watch! Then, both tired and pleased, we went home together for the first time.
It Wasn’t All Roses and Sunshine
And everything was perfect for the first hour. I was with them in the garden, they were still playful, and Hela was exploring happily. Then she got to the house door and Lava felt this was too much and snapped. Nothing happened, luckily. I’ve learned that with Lava, it’s often more noise than anything else. But it was scary and worrying.
That was the signal for a time-out. Hela was already crate-trained and happily went to sleep on her new bed, completely forgetting the previous minor incident. Lava settled on the sofa. For the next few weeks and months, as Hela was slowly relaxing and feeling more confident, Lava was still at times quite grumpy and obviously displeased with this new development.
Having the Same Hobbies Helps
Slowly, we all tuned into our new way of life. It was interesting to observe their dynamic, with Hela behaving as a younger sister who always wanted to play and be around Lava, not wanting to miss out on anything, while Lava was clearly annoyed with her presence. Hela learned that grunting and occasional growls are just how Lava communicates and do not necessarily mean anything vicious. And then they seemed to have found similar interests, or really, Hela started copying Lava’s behavior, like any younger child would their older sibling.
And so they became diggers. Every walk we now go on, Lava and Hela are always digging and searching for something. And it often looks amusingly synchronized. Both with heads low on the ground, or each in their own hole, and bums in the air. And in the last 6 months, another breakthrough! They will now even share a hole and dig one next to each other! And after such a hard day’s work, they will even have a drink from the same bowl, which for Lava is a major success.
An Ever-Evolving Bond
If someone had told me a year ago that the two of them would get on so well, I would have sighed and said, I hope so. But I realized Lava accepted her as an unwanted roommate, but their relationship has since changed in so many ways. Hela is the simpler one, in the sense that she is always happy and grateful, and follows Lava around like a puppy. And Lava has learned to enjoy it and seek Hela’s company. Lava is the thinker; she always looks worried and deeply troubled. She does remind me of myself a lot. Maybe dogs do take on their owners’ characteristics after all. But that’s another story.
- Read her previous article: How I Rescued A Greek Stray Dog: Hela’s Story
The post Lava and Hela: An Unlikely Bond by Dr. Maja Platisa DVM MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Can Pitbull Eat Watermelon?
Yes, Pitbulls can safely eat watermelon, but it’s important to take a few precautions. Watermelon is a healthy treat for…
The post Can Pitbull Eat Watermelon? appeared first on The Pitbull Center.
Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets
The post Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred.
You know those annoying parents who just won’t shut up about their kids? Their profile pictures are of their kids, they’re always showing you photos and videos of their kids, and they assume that everyone is as interested and excited about their kids’ daily lives as they are. Ugh, they are just the worst. And I am one of them…but my kids happen to be two Chihuahuas named Ned and Fred.
- aka Neddy & Freddy
- aka The Boyz
- aka Nederick and Frederick
- aka Helpless Ned and Broken Fred
I can finally appreciate how parents feel stressed and worried whenever they are away from their children, and can almost understand why Mr & Mrs Brady ditched their honeymoon because they missed the kids (I can almost understand, I’m not a complete psychopath).
How My Love (Obsession?) With Chihuahuas Began
When Potato (Tate), the amazing little rescue dog, joined our family in 2021, he changed our lives and introduced us to the quirky world of Chihuahuas. Sadly, Tate’s time with us was short, and he passed away in the Christmas of 2022, leaving behind a hole in my heart far greater than his physical size.
In my grief, I found a tiny (and I do mean tiny) glimmer of joy called Ned. Weighing just over one pound, this tiny creature transformed our home with his antics, affection, and helplessness. He endeared himself to anyone he met and immediately took over Tate’s role as Kodah, the Malinois x Shepherd’s, boss and playmate.
Once we’d gone through the period of crate training him overnight – something I recommend all puppy owners implement, as it ensures your little one learns to settle on their own, understands that the world doesn’t end when we leave them, and makes toilet training much easier – he migrated to our bed where he nestles against my chest all night.
Not long after Ned joined us, we learned that his cousin was in need of a home, so one chi quickly became two. Poor Kodah never knew what hit him!
Ned & Fred – Eating, Sleeping, or Up To Something
When Ned and Fred are together, adorable chaos is not far away. These boys sleep hard, eat big, and play, yip, wrestle, and chase like they are being driven by a nuclear power plant. What they lack in physical size, they more than make up for with their individual quirks, enormous personalities, and inexhaustible affection.
When they’re not burrowing under blankets in search of the perfect snooze spot, or begging for food in the kitchen, they are trying their best to create mischief and mayhem, but luckily for us, everything they do is on a very small scale.
Chihuahuas Are Small
Did you know?
Chihuahuas are small, and Ned is particularly tiny. That means everything about them (apart from the noise they can make!) is also small.
- Space requirements – small
- Food bills – small
- Insurance premiums – small
- Capacity for damage – small
- Poops – small
- Shedding level – small
- Exercise requirements – small
Even when they have accidents indoors (which, unfortunately, is one thing these tiny beasts are renowned for), it’s hard to stay mad at such a tiny nugget. What can be problematic, however, is when you find yourself in need of a good enzymatic cleaner to deal with the accumulation of tiny indoor pees that have gone unnoticed. And yet, I can never stay mad at their little faces!
Chihuahuas Are Needy
Ask anyone who has known me for more than ten years and they will tell you that I am a cat person; one that loves dogs but will always have cats. Of course, now I have five of each – living the dream!
One of the things I’ve always liked about cats is that they are low maintenance when compared to dogs. They don’t need to be let out to the toilet, they don’t need to be walked every day, and they don’t jump up and get in your face when they want attention.
But the independent nature of cats can sometimes make you feel surplus to requirement. A Chihuahua, on the other hand, always seems to be in need of help! Being picked up and carried around is not just welcomed, it is often demanded, and you know that they would not fare too well without you.
Constantly Entertained, Loved, and Needed
Not a day goes by when I don’t find myself losing time just gazing at a sleeping Ned and Fred, or laughing as they run amok. Not a day goes by when I don’t feel loved and needed by them. And not a day goes by that I don’t feel incredibly grateful that Tate needed a home, and showed me what I had been missing. No matter where I go or what I do in the future, I know that I will do it with a Chihuahua by my side.
What about you? Is there a pet that has changed your life like Potato, Ned & Fred have changed mine? Let me know in the comments section below.
- Read her previous article: My Dog Diarrhea Story Beats Yours
The post Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The Four Fear Responses in Dogs: Vet-Verified Dog Behavior Explanation
The post The Four Fear Responses in Dogs: Vet-Verified Dog Behavior Explanation by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Being scared of things is an evolutionary response in not only humans but also animals. This fear response is designed to help protect us in life-or-death situations. You’ve probably heard of “fight or flight” when it comes to fear and humans, but what is the fear response of canines?
There are four fear responses in canines, and if you’re a dog parent, you’ve likely seen at least one of them before. These four fear responses include flight, fight, fidget, and freeze, and each one causes a different reaction in dogs. Here’s a closer look at the four fear responses of dogs and what you should know about them to help your pup become less afraid of people, places, and things.
What Is a Fear Response?
Even though you’ve likely heard the phrase “fight or flight” before, you may not know exactly what a fear response is, especially in dogs. A fear response is a reaction that occurs when your pup sees something that frightens them (also called a trigger). A trigger can be anything that scares your dog, whether that is another animal, a person, a loud noise, a particular sight, or even a scent. Common triggers for canines include people wearing hats if they are unfamiliar with them, loud noises such as fireworks or thunders, objects blowing in the wind, and strange dogs.
The Four Fear Responses in Dogs
Here are the four fear responses in dogs, what they mean, and how to deal with them.
1. Flight
Everyone has heard of “fight or flight,” and that’s what “flight” in dogs refers to. If a dog becomes scared of a situation, then rather than fight, they could engage in flight by trying to remove themselves from the situation. You may have seen your dog do this before when frightened by another dog or something like fireworks.
If a dog goes to the flight-fear response, they will move quickly away from the thing or area causing their fear. This could be skulking away, running away, or hiding far from the perceived danger. Dogs engaged in the flight-fear response typically show body language like large eyes, pinned-back ears, a tucked tail, and a body posture that is low to the ground.
If your pup is fleeing from something that scares them, let them! Never force your dog to interact or stay around whatever they feel threatened by. This will only cause them to become more fearful of whatever it is. Instead, desensitization and counterconditioning should be used to help them become more used to what they deem frightening and to aid them in becoming more confident and comfortable.
2. Fight
The “fight” fear response is, of course, the other half of the “fight or flight” response. However, it’s important to know that this fear response is often the last resort for canines. If they can utilize any of the other three fear responses to escape the stimulus they’re afraid of, they’ll do that first. That said, sometimes a dog realizes in only a matter of seconds that none of the other responses will work, which leads them to fight as they feel the need to protect themselves.
Think about being on a walk with your pup. If they have a fear of exceptionally tall men and you happen to come across one on your walk with your dog, your pet is limited in how they can react. Flight is out unless they manage to yank the leash from your hand. Freeze or fidget may not keep them away from the tall man. That leads them to fight, which would have them reacting by growling, barking, or lunging.
The fight-fear response is a cortisol-triggered reaction to extreme fear. When working with a dog on their fight-fear response to something, never use punishment. Stick to positive reinforcement to get them to change how they react to the person, place, or thing invoking fear.
3. Fidget
This fear response is less recognized, so you may be unfamiliar with it. But a dog’s “fidget” fear response occurs when a canine is trying to deal with the anxiety they’re feeling. These behaviors may also be an effort to avoid conflict or keep the peace, as well.
What behaviors does a dog exhibit when in the fidget fear response? When a pup is in this response, you’ll see nervousness and restlessness. More than that, though, you’ll see displacement behaviors, such as whining, pacing, yawning, sniffing, a slight lift of one of the paws, pinned back ears, lip licking, or excessive scratching.
If you have a dog who engages in the fidget fear response, it’s vital to recognize that they are afraid and uncomfortable and respond with patience to the behaviors. After that, you can work with a canine to get them to be less afraid of what they fear.
4. Freeze
The fourth fear response in canines is “freeze”, which you are likely familiar with. Much like in humans, this fear response results in a dog freezing up in the face of the thing they fear. Most often, this is done in the hopes that if they don’t move, whatever is frightening them won’t see them and will move past without incident.
However, a canine may also freeze when they are not sure how to react or if they are trapped and can’t engage in another fear response. For example, if a dog is walking on a leash and can’t run, fidget, or fight, they could freeze in the hopes whatever is scaring them will go away without noticing them.
If a dog is in freeze mode, you’ll notice them holding completely still for a minute as they try to determine if another fear response is better or if the perceived fear is ignoring them, making it safe to move again. The freeze fear response will also see a dog with their ears pinned back, tightened lips, a lack of eye contact, stiffness in the body, or walking more slowly than normal (if they haven’t completely frozen). The freeze fear response may also be a precursor to another fear response if the dog decides a different reaction would see them faring better.
If your pup is in freeze mode, you should never force them to move. Doing this can make them even more afraid of whatever has caused their fear. Instead, try to get rid of the thing frightening them, then provide them with comfort.
Combined Fear Responses
Although dogs have only four fear responses, a dog occasionally combines these or changes from one to another within seconds or minutes (such as when a dog in freeze mode decides a different fear response would be the better reaction). So, even if your dog has initially entered the fidget fear response, keep an eye on them because they may engage in fight or flight if fidget isn’t serving its purpose.
And if a dog’s fear response starts in anything other than “fight,” but the signs the dog is exhibiting are ignored, they will likely end up in fight mode. Removing your dog from the vicinity of what’s scaring them or removing the trigger from the area will help your dog immensely, though. Please keep in mind that when your dog is experiencing fear, a fight response is always a possibility, your dog might bite or lounge at you if not approached carefully. How a dog will react when they are in this state of mind might not be how you would normally expect them to react so be gentle but cautious.
Conclusion
Knowing the four fear responses of dogs and recognizing when your dog is exhibiting signs of one of these fear responses is crucial. Too many people fail to pick up on the signs that a canine is afraid and force them to stay in contact longer with the thing they are frightened of, which only leads to more fear.
By knowing the signs of flight, fight, fidget, and freeze, you’ll be better able to help your pup stay calm and feel safe. You’ll also be able to pick up on the things they’re scaraed of so you can begin the process of helping them become less afraid and more confident around frightening stimuli. The end result will be a happier canine companion!
Featured Image Credit: Glikiri, Shutterstock
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