behavior & body language

Their toes might smell like Fritos, but there’s no way they taste that good.

Here’s what to do when sleepyhead is in a sour mood.

From affection to anxiety, how to understand this clingy behavior.

It could be affection, a sign of stress, or just your dog being your dog.

Plus, four things you should do immediately.

Yes, pups can be couch potatoes, just like their parents.

No, it’s not always about getting in a good stretch.

Follow this guide for a calm and content puppy.

It’s very sweet, but also kind of… specific. So, why do they do this?

Besides being ridiculously cute.

Hey, there little guy—what’s up?

It might sound woo-woo, but it can benefit you both.

Hopefully, they at least fare better than we do when the lights go out.

An expert weighs in on when it’s totally fine, and when you should start to worry.

How to keep your dog mentally and physically safe this New Year.

And what you can do about it.

They notice more than you think.

Some things definitely get lost in translation.

In moderation, it’s normal. Excessively? It’s not.

It may stop the problem in the moment...

Managing expectations about your dog’s behavior makes for a good relationship

What to do when you don’t feel the close bond you want.

Is Animal Planet really their favorite channel?

That little nose sure works well...

People struggle to recognize fear and frustration the most.

We can help you get to the bottom of the issue.

Yes, dogs can see muted colors.

It might be time to take your dog on a holiday lights tour.

It’s not all black and white.

Dogs are 28 percent more likely to have a trip to the emergency room around the full moon.

You love your pup, but that’s... pretty gross.

Senior dogs can get a condition called idiopathic “old dog” vestibular disease. Here's everything you need to know.

If your dog jumps at the sight of cars and cowers in front of kids, consider these safe, relaxing spots.

It might be time to take a deep breath for both of your sake.

Bad weather? These activities will keep your dog (and you!) from going stir crazy.

Have you heard the saying “never wake a sleeping dog?” Let’s fact-check it.

There’s a reason that high-pitched noise can wake them out of a deep sleep.

It’s like U2 said: Two hearts beat as one...

They truly act like the weight of the world is on their shoulders.

That’s cute... sort of?

Their noses really are their superpower—here’s why.

If they’re following you around like your shadow, there’s a reason for that.

Stop them before a stare turns into a fight. 

It’s the question on TikTok’s mind.

And when to talk to the vet.

Because you have to go places sometimes.

And is it normal?

And why the scratching sessions seem never-ending.

This holiday is chock full of triggers that could scare any pooch.

It’s about more than barking.

She is watching your every move.

Have we gone too far with this Halloween dog costume thing?

Blue is a good name for a dog—not a good mood.

We’d all love to think that our pups are sweet baby angels incapable of deceit. But are they, actually?

If you can’t get your pup’s attention, try slowing down.

Please remember to look at shelters and purebred rescues for your dream pup.

It may not be anything serious, but you should understand the causes.

Your dog knows when they want fun and games, but it’s important you understand. Here’s why.

Cue the song, because your pup is the friend who will “help you carry on.”

They seem to be bottomless pits, but something has to to tell them when to stop... right?

“If I fits, I sits.”

I’m finally saying what I’ve been thinking since the day I brought my pup home.

They can sniff out where you’ve hidden their treats, but deception is another matter.

You and your pup are on the same wavelength—seriously.

Turns out, even experts have a hard time defining these terms.

When the whining never stops, it’s time to do some detective work.

Some may come as a surprise.

Reasons aside, it’s pretty darn cute.

Some dogs have impressive long-term memories.

Time to whip out The Notebook for a little doggie movie night.

And they love it when you smile.

While you watch the forecast, we dig into whether this is a myth—or science.

Those viral Tiktok videos may not be all smoke and mirrors. 

They do seem to act different after a trip to the groomer, right?

Animal behaviorist Dr. Karen B. London on how to strengthen your pet-parent bond.

A dog’s sense of smell can be 100,000 times stronger than a human—so when it’s bad, it’s bad.

They especially love to do this when they’re ignoring you.

Pro tips for boosting the confidence of a scaredy-cat dog.

Canine grumpiness is very real and the summer heat doesn't help.

You can certainly feel the love.

Turns out, adolescence isn’t just tough for humans—it can be hard on dogs, too.

What to expect in the first three days, three weeks, and three months.

The internet has a lot to tell you about your new addition. Here’s what’s actually true.

A new study found that a dog’s breed accounts for less than 10 percent of their behavior.

Research finds that your pup can smell when you’ve been doom-scrolling, and they get bummed out.

Remember: You can find just about any breed you want at a rescue.

In the end, some jerks are just better to avoid. But it’s worth trying to resolve things first.

Per a new study, pups show signs of stress when humans cry—but not all animals do.

You love that your dog is your shadow, but maybe not when you’re on a Zoom call.

It’s not always just because they want whatever you’re eating.

Pets reduce loneliness in humans, but sometimes it’s hard to tell if things work the other way around.

And what to do when they go careening away from the Roomba.

It may happen more when there stressful events like fireworks.

Every pup parent loves a fun astrology moment.

Time for some screen-time ground rules, pups.

Remember, dogs have more than one emotion.

It seriously sounds like another human being is in the room.

It certainly seems like it sometimes.

OK, dude, that’s a little gross...

Your pup is literally vegging out—when it’s no big deal and when to worry.

Yet another reason positive reinforcement is the way to go.

They do look very sorry...

It is so sweet...

The tech may help us better understand our pups.

Trauma can take many forms. Along with traditional therapy, animals are a great help.

How does that taste, bud?

Apparently wild dogs can be pretty cute, too.

Cue the Phoebe Bridgers—your pup may just soak up your tears.

Yeah, it’s kind of heartbreaking, but your loving embrace might be stressing your pup out.

Fireworks and thunderstorms aren’t the only things that make them say, “No, thanks!”

So, go ahead and get that lavender-scented candle.

And when you want to draw the line at too many kisses.

Your pup is a compass, but only when they are doing their business.

Or is this something you only think is happening?

If your friends make fun of you for treating your dog like a human being, send them this.

There’s a big difference between a dog smiling and showing their teeth.

A Mercury petrograde, if you will—with a side of the zoomies.

Save some for later, my dude!

Those little teeth are sweet, but they definitely don’t feel good on your hand.

Time for a “Proud Parent of a Canine Honors Student” bumper sticker.

They are the cutest little shadow.

Other than to completely freak you out.

Beyond the fact that they’re your biggest admirer.

This isn’t The Sixth Sense, but dogs are powerfully perceptive.

Your pup doesn’t actually feel bad about eating your pizza.

I’m baffled by the number of names I call my dog. Is my dog baffled, too?

This study found that cranky pups are actually very fast social learners.

A new study says your dog could fall into one of these categories based on their reactions to real-life events.

A study confirms our pets can have heartbreaking reactions to the loss of a canine companion.

Your personality may actually have something to do with your pet’s personality.

There’s a lot more to your pup’s furry appendages than you might think.

And why you deserve a pat on the back for indulging them.

The connection between people and dogs is the stuff of legend.

Finally, some good (and really cute) news.

How the “love hormone” oxytocin connects us with our pups.

Your little cutie is growing up in many ways—look out for these big stages as they do.

Here’s why dogs know who they are more by smell than by sight.

It’s adorable, but there are actual reasons behind this behavior.

Two trainers advocate against using these devices—here’s why.

Science is getting to the bottom of why dogs are such tail-talkers.

This study finds that dogs can process numbers in a similar fashion to their humans.

Expert solutions for your pup’s unfortunate flatulence.

If only there were dog Jeopardy!.

This study says you benefit from a power nap. Guess what? So does your cat or dog.

If you think your pup’s practically George Carlin, science backs you up.

Dog trainer Emma Bowdrey helps explain this common canine behavior.

When your dog growls, they’re expressing their emotions. A study found that you’ll likely be able to understand what they’re feeling.

The reason for your midnight jump-scare? Turns out it’s just your dog’s spooky eyes.

Here’s how your dog’s ears can clue you in to how they’re feeling.

Considering this viral moment, trainers weigh in on what you should know about introducing dogs to kids.

To pet parents, a whimpering dog sounds as sad as a crying baby. Here’s why.

World-renowned behaviorist Patricia McConnell explains.

There’s no winning this argument, but here’s what you should know about parenting your new pet.

Consent isn’t just for humans. Here’s how to respond when the answer isn’t so simple.

Your dog may understand other languages better than you think, according to a new study.

Dogs need more sleep than humans. Here’s how much is healthy.

Not that anyone’s complaining...

When they’re “ghost-walking” outside of Halloween, they could have trance-like syndrome, or TLS.

Dogs twitch in their sleep for many reasons.

Why regular exercise can mean a less destructive dog and a happier you.

The sentiment is nice, but...

What’s behind the desire and whether it’s safe to do.

In multidog households, time apart can be a game changer.

If one hand isn’t petting a fuzzy dog belly, what are you doing?

There are pros and cons of sleeping with your dog — for both of you.

Yes — and no. Here’s why positive-reinforcement training matters.

Research shows that little dogs may feel the need to scent mark more frequently than big dogs.

No, your dog might not like receiving kisses as much as you like giving them.

Research finds why dogs may suddenly become super sensitive to sounds.

Basics of the tug game and how to troubleshoot common problems.

There’s a difference between being affectionate and being annoying.

Would you want a stranger coming right up to your face?

 Trainer Charlie DiBono warns against these greetings on all fronts.

If your dog’s tail is wagging “to the left, to the left,” as Beyoncé says, it could mean they’re anxious.

Cue the Schoolhouse Rock! because learning can be fun.

And how to help them feel less scared when they enter the tiny rumbling room that moves.

Boundaries, right? But if they end up sleeping in bed, that’s cool, too.

It actually has a lot to do with genetics.

How to teach your pup to play nice.

A PSA to pay better attention to our best friends’ body language.

Turns out, they can experience pretty complex emotions.

Researchers say dogs actually have a pretty good sense of what we’re thinking.

It turns out, dogs know a useless instruction when they hear it.

Get out the toys and puzzles.

This body language is not as simple as you probably think.

This study says it’s actually less about what’s in their DNA and more about what’s on it.

Here are some simple steps to pry your pup away from that one spot in the yard they’re obsessed with.

Why your dog freaks out when you give someone a hug — and other human behaviors they just don’t understand.

Why you should let your dog get all their sniffs out on a stroll.

How to make sense of all those grunts and whines.

7 signs your pup and their pal have BFF potential.

They’re not exactly crafting friendship bracelets for each other, but dog bonds mean something.

Yep, research says your dog is as special and perfect as you tell them they are.

A “sniffari” gives your dog a chance to be the boss.

According to animal behaviorist Karen London, using a more specific terms like “biddable” or “bombproof” can help you better understand your dog.

The idea of being a dog’s “alpha” is a popular one — but it’s not an effective way to train.

“No touch-y!”

We all have our talents.

Bow down, puppers. It’s time to play.

Doggy daycare is more than just fun and games.

It’s a gut thing: Your dog’s GI issues could be linked to their mental health.

Thanks, they hate it.

Your pup may know you’re sick before you do, a study says.

Boundaries, folks. Boundaries.

Not all fearful dogs have been mistreated.

Also called the “propeller wag” or “helicopter tail”, this behavior is a surefire way to tell that a dog is happy.

A dog trainer shares her pro (and personal) #vanlife tips.

If hypothyroidism is to blame, it’s best not to let sleeping dogs lie.

A psychologist explains how stimulating scents can influence a dog’s behavior.

Looks aren’t everything, but they can talk.

Your dog’s wag and paw preference say a lot about their personality.

There’s no time like the present, according to your pet.

Despite plenty of reasons to get mad, an animal behaviorist says dogs rarely express real anger.

Chase? Wrestle? Tug-o-war? Find out which are fair game.

Two animal behavior experts agree it’s usually play fighting. Here’s how you can tell.

Which one is yours?

When your dog looks back at it, you know what to do.

Baby talk works on puppies. As for adult dogs, that’s still up for debate.

Weirdly, this is what it’s called when your dog “raises their hackles.” And here’s why they do it...

Everything you need to know about the five breeds dubbed “Pit Bulls.”

Decoding the many sounds your pup makes.

Boost your dog smarts with these cool facts.

Why pups' behavior may change when you’re expecting.

Is it time to teach your dog some boundaries?

Research indicates yes, so why is your large pup still laying on top of you?

Lili Chin’s book Doggie Language illustrates how dogs communicate — beyond ear perks and tail wags.

Enrich your dog’s life by doing what comes naturally.

One of the most popular breeds in the world is also one of the least genetically diverse, causing huge implications for the breed.

Help! Should I take my young dog to the dog park for “socialization”?

But first, how to spot the early signs of hearing loss.

The more, the merrier…except when it’s not.

Why relationships change in multi-dog households.

How to tell the difference between dog aggression and communication.

Say What? A look at the types of words that dogs understand.

Study shows why some dogs choose to be friendly after a fight.

A fascination with lights and shadows is common in high-energy dogs — but it can develop into obsessive-compulsive disorder if it gets out of hand.

The evolutionary advantage of Kindchenschema for animals.

Tips on helping a dog deal with their daily stress.

What to do when your dog barks at everything from other cars to people.

Is your dog the ultimate smarty pants?

It's the one food most dogs can't stand. Here's why — plus, how to use their dislike of citrus to your advantage.

Or are they just peacefully resting? Behaviorist Karen London explains how to tell the difference.

Not counting how fun they are to watch.

Spice Girls reference aside, just because your dog is graying around the eyes doesn’t mean those eyes don’t light up at playtime.

Even a mild-mannered dog can turn into a wild thing when feeling trapped.

In case you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in a dog society.

Research shows these tests are unreliable.

Physical exercise isn’t the only way to stimulate your dog—engaging their mind works, too.

Why do some dogs seem to lose their minds when a truck goes by?

How to help a howling dog turn down the volume (or even hit the off button).

Behaviorist Karen London talks about why snout shaking is an awkward way to say hello to a dog.

Many pet parents share information at the dog park, but is the information always accurate?

Your dog’s sense of direction changes with the Earth’s magnetic fields, influencing their orientation when pooping and acting as an internal compass.

You won’t live with a rambunctious goofy teenager forever.

Chasing their tails, eating grass, and rolling in garbage — should you worry?

The two animals are close relatives — but that doesn't mean they'll play nice.

Don’t just assume that your dog’s golden years should be spent quietly relaxing — they could be gaming.

Researchers map the evolution of dog breeds.

Is your dog guilty of this offense?

Studies explain dogs’ ability to follow gestures.

Dogs show a bias against unhelpful people.

Learn why these red beams of light are bad for dogs.

Does your dog untangle themselves from a leash?

Your dog’s keen sense of smell isn’t the only clue.

Yep, your dog remembers that you didn’t take them out for a walk yesterday.

From puppy to partner, guide dogs are a special breed.

Four signs your puppy is ready for a nap.

Unlike many other animals, dogs can handle new things in stride.

Dogs have the ability to understand much more complex things than you give them credit for.

Breeders, judges, and historians talk about breed standards — learn how they’re supposed to work and why they don’t.

Study says dogs do share and they’re more generous with those they know.

Is the term “prey drive” correct terminology or jargon?

Is it all in their heads?

Here’s how to watch the eclipse with your pup safely.

Is your dog showing empathy? Or just plain annoyance?

A (seemingly) unstoppable nibbling obsession with all the blankets.

When it comes to reading human cues, dogs win, hands down.

Beware of dogs who are silent, stealthy aggressors.

Experts agree: breed doesn’t have anything to do with it.

What do dogs know and how do they know it?