The old cliche that a “dog’s nose knows” is undoubtedly true. Indeed, a dog’s nose tells a tale about a pet’s overall health. Generally, a cold, wet nose is considered a good sign that your dog is feeling well (even if brushing your pet’s snout may be a modestly uncomfortable way to wake up in the morning). Yet, did you ever wonder, “Why do dogs have wet noses?”

Having the answer can make for some fun water cooler discussion. Knowing the reasons behind a dog’s wet nose can also help you understand why a dry nose can be a red flag that something is amiss. Additionally, is it possible for dogs to have a nose that is too wet? We sniffed around and dug up the answers for you.

Why do dogs have wet noses?

Generally, a dog with a wet nose is healthy. How did a pup’s snout get so wet in the first place, though? A few reasons:

• Mucous: Your dog explores the world through their nose. Mucous isn’t just snot. Instead, dogs secrete a thin layer of mucous through the inner lining of their nose. This mucus keeps the nasal canal wet and clings to your pup’s nose holes, boosting the animal’s ability to absorb scent chemicals. As a result, dogs can smell even better, enabling them to explore the world around them more fully.
• Sweat: Never let ’em see you sweat? Not necessarily, in the dog world. While you may not see your pet dripping in sweat like you do after a long walk, pets perspire through their paws and noses. As with humans, sweat helps regulate body temperature in dogs, keeping them cool as cucumbers even after rousing play sessions or in hot weather.
• Licking: Your dog’s tongue is long enough to reach their nose. Saliva naturally moistens a pet’s nose a bit more than usual.
• Environment: Dogs often walk nose-first, letting their snout lead the way. Since dogs explore the world with their noses, they may sniff around in damp grass, soil, or a giant puddle. The moisture from the environment may make a pet’s nose wetter than normal. Naturally, walking in the rain will also leave a dog’s nose (and body) pretty wet.

How wet is too wet?

A wet nose is usually a sign all is well. However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. As the pet parent, you’ll know your dog’s “normal” nose. If a nose seems much more moist than usual, it could be a red flag that something is up. Specifically, be on the lookout for nasal discharge. Some clear discharge is normal. However, too much of it could indicate the dog is sick.

Additionally, thick, discolored green or yellow mucus may be a sign your dog has a respiratory infection (just like humans). Bloody discharge could indicate your dog has been infected by a tick, is experiencing inflammation, or even has cancer. Your vet can do a workup to get to the bottom of the issue.

Should I be concerned if my dog’s nose is dry?

While some dogs are prone to dry noses, a warm, dry snout is certainly a reason to investigate. Warm or cold weather, age, and a temporary respite from nose-licking because of sleep may also make a dog’s nose dryer. However, a dry nose can also indicate an underlying condition.

Pay attention to your dog’s behavior. Are they pooping and peeing as usual? More lethargic? Eating and drinking? If their behavior is also off, a call to the vet is in order. In fact, if in doubt, give your pet’s doctor a ring. If nothing else, you’ll get peace of mind that your dog is A-OK after a checkup.

Final thoughts

Dogs’ noses are generally naturally wet and cold. A wet, cold nose is a sign your dog is feeling well. Dogs have wet noses because of mucus. Additionally, a pet’s nose may be wetter than usual if they recently sniffed around in a damp area, licked their nose, or are sweating. If a dog’s nose is way wetter than usual, your pet may have a respiratory infection. Blood in nasal discharge is another reason to call the vet.

Additionally, a dry nose isn’t always a red flag. For instance, older dogs and certain breeds naturally have drier noses. However, a dry snout can be a sign of illness. Call your vet if you’re concerned. The veterinarian can do a workup to ensure your dog is healthy and offer treatment options for illnesses.

While appreciating your cat’s various sleeping positions, you may have noticed some twitching. Have you ever wondered why this happens? Are they dreaming? What is going on in their bodies? We’ve uncovered the reasons behind this peculiar behavior to share what it means, why it’s important, and when to be concerned. Read on to answer the question: Why do cats twitch in their sleep?

What are the sleep stages for cats?

On average, cats sleep 15 hours a day as compared to the eight hours of sleep humans (should) get. It would appear that cats understand the value of sleep and prioritize taking time to rest. Sleep helps them recharge, maintains their immune system, and supports their general well-being. Essentially, adult cats experience three stages of sleep and kittens experience four.

Catnaps

The lightest type of sleep is the short “catnaps” felines take. During this stage, cats are very aware of their surroundings. You may notice that while your kitty is taking a catnap, their ears still turn in response to sounds. Initially, wild cats used catnaps (as opposed to deeper sleep) as a natural defense mechanism and passed this behavior to modern domestic cats.

Light sleep

Light sleep is between a catnap and deep sleep in terms of the level of awareness cats experience. In this stage, cats are still able to pounce at a moment’s notice if necessary. This stage lasts an average of 25 minutes before deep sleep sets in.

Deep sleep

Deep sleep is also known as the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. When truly sleeping, cats cycle from light sleep to deep sleep and back again. Deep sleep only lasts 5 to 10 minutes at a time and is when cats twitch and likely dream. You may also notice that your pet is harder to wake when they’re in this stage.

Cats may not go into deep sleep if they are uncomfortable or feel unsafe. To make a welcoming sleeping environment for your kitty, be sure to provide them with a bed or otherwise padded, raised sleeping area. Sleeping on a raised platform allows cats to escape other stimuli on the ground, such as children or other animals. Their bed should be in a room that is relatively cool. But if the temperature is too cold, your cat might roll up into a ball to sleep. Cats will sleep in a more relaxed position in warmer temperatures.

Activated sleep

Kittens have a fourth sleep stage, known as activated sleep. During activated sleep, a kitten’s nervous system is active (whereas it’s usually at rest during sleep), and they may cry, squirm, or have more pronounced twitches than average. Like other nerve firings that occur in young animals, this is important to help the nervous system mature. Never rouse a sleeping kitten. They need lots of rest to make up for all the energy they exert while awake!

Why do kittens twitch more than adult cats?

You may have noticed that younger cats tend to twitch more than older cats. A similarity between humans and cats — beyond that we both go into REM sleep — is that our young have immature nervous systems. Their nervous systems are hard at work making neuron connections and constantly firing, which is why babies move their limbs often and kittens are so active. Twitching during sleep in kittens helps to properly develop their brains.

What do cats dream about when they’re sleeping?

It’s hard to say definitively what your feline is experiencing while asleep, however, a few studies have tried to suss this out. We do know that many mammals go into REM sleep while some other animals, such as fish, most likely don’t. That means cats almost certainly have some type of dream, even if it’s not entirely similar to human ones.

One key difference, researchers suspect that smell might take up a bigger part of our pets’ dreams since this sense dominates their perceptions. Scientists also think our kitties might dream about hunting, eating food, and, of course, us. So your fur baby could really be stalking prey in her sleep and twitching to match.

Should I wake my cat up if they’re twitching?

Ask this question first: Would you want to be woken up suddenly from a nap? While they could be having a nightmare, it also might be a happy dream of chasing down mice. Let her have it! You certainly don’t want to startle her awake suddenly, which could be unpleasant for both of you.

In addition to having a grumpy cat afterward, you might wind up accidentally getting scratched. It doesn’t mean your cat is aggressive, but they could think you’re a predator while half-asleep. Unless there’s some kind of emergency or you think something really is wrong, you should let her be and get her z’s.

What is cause for concern?

If your funny little cat often twitches in their sleep, you may be concerned that the condition is something serious. However, many cats twitch in their sleep. They might move their ears, knead the air, or make vocal or sucking sounds. Several theories exist as to why.

Some people believe twitches are involuntary muscle spasms, but many scientists agree that cats twitch while in the REM stage of sleep. In humans, the REM stage is when we remember our dreams. Cats can sleep up to 16 hours each day, and a larger proportion of their sleep is REM sleep when compared to the human sleep cycle.

For most cats, twitching while asleep is a normal, common behavior. There’s no reason to see a vet over your cat’s twitching unless they are also lethargic, have a decreased appetite, vomit, their body stiffens or they have jerky movements when they twitch, or they are hard to wake up. These might be symptoms of other serious illnesses.

Whole-body stiffness and jerky movements may be indicative that your cat is having a seizure and not just innocently twitching. Seizures do not only happen during sleep, though, so you will probably notice them while your cat is awake, too. If your cat has seizures, you will also likely find that they act oddly while awake — they may have wobbly feet or appear confused.

Remember that a cat’s twitches are usually not harmful. It can even be entertaining to watch a cat twitch. Admittedly, we are a little envious that cats get so much more sleep than we do without a care in the world, but sharing your life with a cat has many health benefits, too. Cats can reduce anxiety, and a cat’s purr can also calm your nervous system and lower your blood pressure. How wonderful to sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Whether you’re indulging in a summertime treat or creating the ultimate tropical fruit salad, pineapple is never a bad idea. Its tangy, refreshing taste complements many other flavors, and you can prepare it in a number of different ways. But while you’re chopping up your pineapple, there’s a good chance your food-motivated dog isn’t far away. After all, they may be hoping you’re cooking them a chicken dinner!

Before you toss your pup a piece of delicious pineapple, it’s only natural to wonder whether dogs can have this fruit to begin with. A few fruits are downright dangerous for dogs, including grapes, avocados, and pitted fruits, but can dogs have pineapple? Let’s find out.

Can dogs have pineapple?

You’ll be glad to know that dogs can have fresh pineapple in small quantities. Actually, there are many benefits to feeding furry friends this tropical fruit. Not only is it a delicious alternative for a dog treat, but it also contains several essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, potassium, iron, zinc, and magnesium can all be found in this summertime treat. As the canine experts at the AKC note, pineapple’s nutrients are important for a healthy digestive system and immune system.

However, not all pineapples get the green light for your dog’s consumption. It’s important to know that only fresh pineapple should be fed to dogs — not any pineapple cocktail or canned fruit. Prepared produce often contains lots of sugar, which is not healthy for any pet to eat. In fact, fresh pineapple contains sugar, too, which is one reason why it should only be a treat for dogs in moderation. Additionally, pineapple’s high fiber content can upset some dogs’ stomachs, while its acidity can wear down tooth enamel if consumed in large amounts.

How to prepare pineapple for dogs

When sharing a few bites of fresh pineapple with your pup, there are some more precautions to keep in mind. For example, make sure not to feed your dog either the spiny outer layer or the tough solid core of the fruit. Eating these pieces runs the risk of causing an intestinal blockage, so be sure to let your dog’s vet know if they do happen to steal the core, spines, or skin. You may have to bring them in for an exam, or your vet may advise you to wait and see.

Speaking of veterinarians, it’s also a good idea to check in with your dog’s doctor before any major diet changes. Because pineapple is high in sugar, it may not be recommended for dogs at risk of diabetes. Even if your dog gets the A-OK to eat pineapple, it’s best to start with a single bite-sized piece just to see how their stomach reacts. If they do well, you can try two pieces next time.

Just like when sharing any human food with your dog, make sure to cut pineapple into small enough pieces. This juicy treat could get messy, though, so finding a snacking spot that’s easy to clean is simply a bonus. Happy snacking!

Cats are famous for being tidy little creatures. They meticulously groom their fur, giving themselves tongue baths daily. Indoor or indoor/outdoor cats take pride in using their litter boxes. Given their noble commitment to top-notch hygiene, you may assume your feline friend would avoid dirt at all costs. Yet, you may peer out the window one day and be surprised to see your kitty rolling around in the dirt — and looking happy as a pig while doing so.

Cats love throwing us for loops almost as much as they love grooming themselves, don’t they? That question was rhetorical. This one is not: Why do cats roll in dirt? There are several reasons why your cat may be taking a dust bath, ranging from “just for fun” to an attempt to boost digestive health (seriously). Here’s the dirty truth about why your cat rolled in dirt.

Why do cats roll in dirt?

There’s no one-reason-fits-all answer to this question. Instead, cats may roll in the dirt for several reasons. Consider your cat’s health, hygiene habits, general behavior, and recent environmental factors that may be in play when pinpointing why your cat took a dust bath.

Your cat is territorial

Besides a commitment to hygiene, cats are also known for being territorial. Cats have scent glands in their paws, face, and tail. They release pheromones onto an area, like the dirt. This hormone release lets other animals know the space belongs to the cat. In other words, predators and other kitties should back off.

This trait isn’t a cat’s way of being mean or selfish. Instead, a feline’s territorial nature is protective, especially if they live outside full-time or part-time (indoor cats can also be territorial of litter boxes, food dishes, and favorite perches).

Itchy

If your cat has an itch it can’t scratch, it may roll around. If dirt happens to be there, so be it. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Sometimes, this itchiness can result from fleas and mites, so inspect your kitty’s fur.

Cooling off

Sunbathing can be a cat’s favorite pastime; however, sometimes, all that “splashing” in sun puddles can leave a cat feeling rather hot, especially if you live in a warmer climate or are experiencing a heat wave. Dust bathing can help a cat cool down by lowering their body temperature because the top layer of soil is often cooler than other areas of the ground.

Digestive health concerns

Dust bathing may help kitties digest their food better. Stick with us. Cats use bacteria to digest food (like probiotics). When a cat rolls in dirt, they pick up bacteria. Then, they clean themselves off and consume that bacteria-laden dirt in the process. The bacteria adds to a feline’s gut flora, ensuring your kitty stays regular and healthy.

Hormones

Females in heat may roll around in the dirt to attract a mate. While a dirty kitty may not seem attractive to you, dust baths are apparently part of the art of seduction in the feline world. Remember, cats can only go into heat if they aren’t spayed.

Playtime

Like playful toddlers, some cats consider rolling in the dirt a blast. Sure, kitties are generally known for being highly hygienic, but cats are different. Some cats love digging and rolling in the mud, especially if they see fun natural toys like sticks and leaves.

They feel safe

Rolling in the dirt involves exposing their bellies, something many cats are scared of. If a cat is comfortable enough to take a dust bath and twist into belly-up positions, it may feel safe and secure. Consider it a compliment.

They went catnip crazy

Rolling around is a common behavior after consuming a ton of catnip. Your kitty may have gotten into your stash. Catnip can also be grown, so your cat may have nibbled on the neighbor’s (and yours). Cats rolling in the dirt after consuming catnip may do so for about 10 minutes before staring into space.

Attention-seeking behavior

Your kitty may be rolling in the dirt as a way to catch your eye. While cats have an often unfair reputation for being antisocial, many felines enjoy at least some attention and human interaction. A dust bath is an excellent way to get you to do a double-take.

Covering their scent

Your kitty may be trying to go incognito. A cat may roll in the dirt to cop a different smell and protect themselves from potential predators. Alternatively, they may be trying to rid themselves of a scent on their fur they don’t like.

How to get your cat to stop rolling in the dirt

You know why your cat is rolling in the dirt, but you may still want to stop the behavior. How? Again, the solution depends on the reason, but some common ways to get your cat to ditch the dust baths include:

• Spaying female cats
• Taking your cat to the vet to check for underlying conditions or fleas
• Limiting baths to once per month or every other month to allow bacteria to stay on the fur
• Moving your cat indoors full-time
• Laying off the catnip
• Giving your cat toys and attention

Final thoughts

Cats are generally very clean, so you may be surprised to see your pet rolling in the dirt. There are many reasons a cat might display this behavior. Sometimes, cats do so because they feel safe or playful. Other times, a dust bath could signal you need to cut down on the number of times you bathe your kitty per month. Speaking with your pet’s vet can help you rule out underlying issues. The vet can also share advice on how to stop your cat from rolling in the dirt.

If you’ve ever noticed those extra-long hairs on your dog’s face, it’s only normal to wonder what they are and what they do. Whether your buddy visits the groomer or gets their fur brushed at home, it’s hard not to notice these hairs. Dogs can turn away and even paw at their face when they’re touched, so they surely serve a purpose. As it turns out, they’re actually dogs’ whiskers! But why do dogs have whiskers?

These whiskers, or vibrissae, are important for the way dogs sense the world around them. They provide all kinds of sensory information through nerve endings under the skin, but how exactly do they work?

Do all dogs have whiskers?

Actually, yes! Although many dogs have whiskers that are much more prominent than those of other pups, all dogs naturally develop whiskers. However, they may not look the same on each dog, and some may no longer be there at all. If you take your dog to the groomer for a haircut on a regular basis, for example, their whiskers may be trimmed right along with the rest of their hair or fur.

It’s also important to consider that whiskers aren’t only the stiffer, prominent hairs on a dog’s snout or chin. When a dog has especially long eyelashes or eyebrow hairs, those are whiskers, too. A dog’s vibrissae are often located “above the eyes, on the chin, and above the upper lip,” according to Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM, and Lynn Buzhardt, DVM, from VCA Animal Hospitals.

Whiskers are some of the first hairs that grow when a puppy is born, and they can be straight or curly, depending on a dog’s genetics. Whatever these vibrissae look like, they are deeply rooted and thicker than the rest of your pet’s hair, allowing them to use whiskers as a way to pick up sensations from the world around them.

Why do dogs have whiskers?

When talking about human facial hair, “whiskers” refer to a man’s mustache or beard, but when talking about dogs, whiskers are more of an extension of the animal’s sense of touch. These long hairs contain deep blood vessels and nerve endings that pick up on the slightest movement or pressure, including the smallest, gentlest summer breeze.

Essentially, whiskers are to dogs what antennae are to insects. They allow dogs to learn more about their environment through touch, whether it’s detecting a nearby wall while walking in the dark or feeling the dust on an old surface. They can even help a dog decide when — and when not to — enter narrow spaces. Think of vibrissae as another layer of protection for the eyes and face.

Now that you know all these canine fun facts about the whiskers on their faces, you may think twice the next time you twirl or play with these long hairs. They’re quite sensitive. You can also make the best decisions at your dog’s grooming appointments, as trimming the whiskers isn’t always a great idea. Now you know!

If you ever notice your cat sleeping in an especially cute or odd-looking position, you’re not the only one. Most cats get comfy in unique ways — whether curled up on top of a laptop or stretched out on their back like a dog — but some feline sleeping positions are more difficult to understand than others.

For example, why do cats cover their face when they sleep? There are several noteworthy reasons, though it’s up to you to decipher which reason applies to your kitty. The good news is that none of these reasons are cause for worry unless, of course, there are other unusual behaviors or symptoms present. If this is the case, please consult your cat’s veterinarian instead!

If sleeping with their paws covering their face is all your feline friend is doing, all you need to do is keep an eye on them. If there is a minor problem going on, like seasonal allergies, you’ll be able to notice and help your cat sooner rather than later.

Sense of security and comfort

Think about the position you get into when you go to bed each night or even the position you wake up in the morning. You might be one of those people who sleeps like an angel with your arms by your side, but odds are, you move around a bit. Your arms might be up, you may have an extra pillow, or you may even use an eye mask to keep it dark while you sleep. In a way, cats do the same thing.

Some felines prefer a darker environment while curled up on their cat bed, so they’ll use their paws to cover their eyes. Resourceful, right? If this is the case, your kitty may put their paws down when the room gets darker, but others may be too deep asleep to notice.

For other cats that sleep a lot, having their paws on their face can just be comfortable. It can be a cozy alternative to having their paws hanging off the ledge of a cat tree, for example, or it could be a position that doesn’t aggravate the joints of old cats with arthritis.

The comfort that comes from paws on the face is a biological instinct. Years and years ago, wild cats might sleep this way as an extra layer of protection around the head in case of predators. A cat’s head is the most vulnerable part of their body, after all.

Staying warm

If your four-legged friend curls up and wraps their paws around their face more frequently in winter, they may be getting cold. Cats gain and lose body heat from their nose, and the tail or paws usually come in handy when warming a chilly nose. If you’ve ever pulled up the blankets to cover your nose on a cold winter night, you’ve been there, too.

When you suspect that your kitty may be feeling chilly, you can offer a blanket or warm the environment. Not many cats enjoy wearing sweaters, but this can be another smart solution for hairless cats and those extra vulnerable to the cold. If you live in a cold climate or have a cat that seems to thrive in warmth, you may want to invest in a heated cat bed to keep them comfy and cozy all year long.

Itching or grooming

Sometimes, your cat may just be very, very sleepy — so sleepy, in fact, that they can’t even finish grooming themself. It’s not unheard of for a feline to fall asleep mid-groom with their paws still on their face. When this happens, some fur may still be tousled and damp, and older cats may even let their tongue hang out. It can be a cute thing to witness, and it’s no reason to be concerned unless your cat seems tired to the point of lethargy.

Other times, your cat may fall asleep while itching their nose. This sounds adorable (and we’ll admit that it is), but it could be a sign of allergies or an illness, if you notice this behavior repeatedly. Cats with respiratory allergy symptoms may experience nasal discharge, watery eyes, constant sneezing, coughing, and even wheezing. Similarly to people, it’s much more common for a cat to have a chronic allergy problem with mild-to-moderate symptoms, but severe allergic reactions can occur.

Cats have several different kinds of allergies, including:

• Food allergies
• Flea allergies
• Atopic dermatitis (environmental)
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Feline asthma (allergic bronchitis)
• Drug allergies

The treatment for your cat’s allergic reaction depends on the type of allergy, so it requires a vet visit and close observation. This is just one reason why it’s so important to know what’s “normal” for your cat — paws on the face while sleeping can indicate a number of different things, but mostly it’s nothing to worry about. It’s simply adorable!

Every dog owner will be embarrassed by their pup at least once or twice, but nothing compares to the shame of catching your dog in the act of humping. Whether they’re going to town on another dog, another person, or even nothing at all, it’s easy to understand why you’d want to learn more about this behavior. The sooner you know how to respond to this lewd act, the sooner it can stop.

Questions like, “Why do dogs hump?’ and “How can I stop my dog from humping?” will one day be nothing more than a memory. This impolite habit can be unlearned — though often not as quickly as it’s learned — with some time, redirection, and a few well-timed distractions. Keep on reading to learn more about the humping habit and what you can do to prevent it.

Why do dogs hump other dogs?

As many dog owners know, dogs can hump almost anything, from other dogs to inanimate objects. No matter what they’re mounting, though, you should know that this behavior means something different for dogs than what it signifies for humans. Most of the time, there’s nothing sexual about it.

When it comes to humping other dogs, explains Dr. Mary Burch, director of the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen program, dominance is often the motivator. This can be a one-sided display of dominance from one dog to another, or it can be a back-and-forth part of regular play. Even though it’s a normal canine behavior, not all dogs like to be humped, so this is a behavior best discouraged for dog owners who prefer to stay on the safe side.

Stopping your dog from mounting begins with your everyday obedience training. If your dog learns to respond to you immediately in virtually all other situations, odds are they will listen when you interrupt their impolite behavior. The more you redirect this behavior, the more your dog will learn that it’s not an acceptable thing to do.

Some dogs will take behavior corrections into their own paws, too. This is normal and nothing to worry about, so long as the corrections are not aggressive and the other party takes the hint.

Why do dogs hump legs?

Oftentimes, a dog won’t even mount another dog from behind. They may wrap around a pal’s leg while they go to town, or they may even find the leg of a person they’re fond of. What’s up with that?

As Dr. Burch explains, mounting can also be a sign of stress or overexcitement. It’s a physical manifestation of overstimulation at its finest, which is why it can happen suddenly as part of either play or anger. Just think about it this way: A dog has feelings so large that they don’t know what to do with it all. Odds are, they aren’t even thinking of who they’re mounting or how.

Why do dogs hump people?

As Dr. Burch said, dogs mount both people and dogs out of pure overstimulation, not desire. Although this behavior would mean something very different between people, it doesn’t mean much when a dog humps a person. They’re just worked up and excited.

Occasionally, a dog may hump in an attempt to get their owner’s attention. Because it works! Just about everyone gets distracted by a dog mounting their leg, even if only to shoo them away. For an attention-loving dog, that’s considered a win. If this is the case, the best thing you can do to discourage mounting is to ignore it. Reward your dog with attention after they’ve stopped humping to reinforce the correct behavior.

Why do dogs hump the air?

Sometimes, a dog may not even hump anything at all. They may grab onto a leg, another dog, or even a pillow without actually mounting it, which is most often seen when a dog has previously been punished for mounting but hasn’t completely stopped the behavior. This could be a sign that your corrections are working — so keep it up!

When humping could indicate a problem

If your dog begins mounting when they aren’t known for over-excitable reactions, you might want to keep an eye on the behavior. There are a few cases when humping could be a sign of a medical problem, including a prostate problem in males. Some kinds of skin irritation, urinary tract infections, or other discomfort can also cause a dog to mount in seek of symptom relief. In this case, humping may be less of a social behavior and something that happens much more suddenly.

If something about your dog’s behavior seems odd or changes suddenly, you may want to make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian. Better safe than sorry, after all!

No matter how long you’ve been dealing with mounting, know that you can help your dog get rid of this shocking behavior for good. This change won’t happen overnight, but your days of dog park embarrassment will be behind you soon enough.

Animals communicate with us in numerous ways by vocalizing, posturing, and moving, to name just a few. When it comes to our dogs, most owners understand what it means when they wag their tails in joy or bark at the delivery person (we’re not sure if this is joyful as well). However, fewer pet parents have a clear idea of what different ear positions, like dogs’ ears back, are trying to say to us humans and what to look out for.

Learning to decode your pup’s feelings from their ears can help you understand your furry friend and give you a good sense of their needs. This is what it can mean when your dog’s ears are back.

Why do dogs pull their ears back?

It might make you nervous to see your dog pull their ears back, and sometimes this indicates that something has spooked or upset them. But there are a number of different interpretations for this behavior. In time, you’ll learn what they mean and more importantly, what they mean for your specific pet. These are the things your pup pup might be feeling when they pull their ears back.

Sad

When you turn to leave your precious bud behind, you may spy them shifting their ears back in sadness. Don’t stress on this too much though. We hate to say it, but the second you close the door behind you, they probably lay down for a solid nap. It’s good to know in this situation that nothing’s really wrong, even if your pet gets a temporary pang of loneliness.

Scared

If the pulled back ears accompany a tucked tail, you know fear or submissiveness enter into the equation. Pay particular attention to body language when you suspect that Fido is quivering in terror over a perceived attack (which as often as not turns out to come from the vacuum cleaner or an impending storm).

Anxious

Your buddy might squeeze their ears back every time they have to take a trip to the vet, for example. Anxiety often also comes with excessive licking, panting, or even shaking in some breeds. Nine times out of 10, you’ll know what causes this and when to expect it.

Comfortable

Luckily, ear pinning doesn’t always indicate a bad thing. It frequently tells you the complete opposite: that your pooch feels perfectly safe and at home. Sometimes, this helps one dog tell another that they will submit and allow the other animal to lead the interaction. No worries here if your dog exhibits deference — it just shows who’s the boss in the moment.

Aggressive

Sometimes, a dog with their ears back is a dog about to bite. That certainly doesn’t mean you’re the target, as it could be another pet, but you should remove them from the situation as carefully as possible. Pull your pup away if they’re on the leash or distract them with a command to divert attention from the object of their frustration.

Pain

Pinned ears occasionally mean that the body parts themselves hurt and so your furry friend has brought them back to alleviate that discomfort. Alternatively, many times your buddy might pin their ears while otherwise stressed from a physical ailment. If you can’t find any other cause, you may need to investigate whether they’ve sustained an injury and take them to the vet if you find something wrong.

Neutral

While our pets perk up their ears in excitement or to hear something better, they tend to default to a pulled-back vibe for everyday ear wear. Some breeds look like this all the time, making ear position something of a moot point in figuring out their feelings. However, in many instances, your pet will simply hold their ears in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and easy to them, meaning pinned back might actually be entirely neutral. When this turns out to be the case, give them a little scritch behind the ears.

Dog ears tell us lots of things about their moods and feelings. Since there are so many ear positions, it can become tricky to differentiate one from the other. For that, we suggest working with a trainer or online resource to get a better sense of what different ear positions mean. At the end of the day, however, every animal is unique, and you’ll have to study your specific puppers to get the full picture of their emotions and ear positions. Once you get to know your dog, you’ll become an expert on all their body language and can easily determine their underlying state from the ears.

Our pets bring us huge amounts of joy with their wet noses, adorable pointy ears, and happy tails. While the ears and nose both serve pretty similar functions in humans, we don’t have the benefit of a tail. But why do dogs have tails? It all comes from the evolution of their ancestors millions of years ago, and these appendages still prove quite useful to pups and other animals today. Here’s everything you need to know about tails in dogs.

How did tails develop?

Early fish may have sprouted tails to better swim in the ocean. But when those ancient creatures first stepped out on land, they kept their tails, which changed shape and size depending on their specific needs. Truly, nearly every vertebrate species in the animal kingdom has a tail, with very limited exceptions, including us.

Humans and apes like chimps are some of the few that have lost their tails to time. This probably happened because Homo sapiens walk in a very different way from our four-legged friends. Tails do a lot for our pets and help them in all kinds of ways that we don’t benefit from.

Why do dogs have tails?

Help them move

Improve balance

Facilitate communication

Can a dog live without a tail?

Certainly, and many get by tailless with no problems. Historically, some dogs have had their tails docked to fit breeding standards, though that’s no longer recommended by vets. But if you adopt a sweet furry friend with no tail, like a Corgi or a French bulldog, which are frequently born without full tails, you don’t have to worry about your beastie getting along in their life. Our pets adapt quickly and won’t have any memory of needing their extra length to get on.

We probably would do better with a tail, but actually, we’re one of few mammals that lack this. Our dogs use theirs for numerous things including balance and communication. It’s important to allow your sweet pet to keep their tail if at all possible but plenty of dogs live successfully without one and adjust easily. Don’t worry too much if you bring home an animal that has no tail — you’ll learn how to interpret their moves no matter what.

World Pet Obesity Week is in the fall, so it’s the purrfect chance to get your kitty on a diet to slim down in time. According to a survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), roughly 61% of cats and 59% of dogs in the U.S. alone are overweight or obese. While few things are more adorable than a chunky cat, obesity in cats comes with a multitude of health risks.

Have you been wondering if your cat needs to lose a few pounds? We’re here to share how you can tell if your cat is obese, the potential health problems caused by cat obesity, and five helpful things you can do to help them lose weight. 

What causes obesity in cats?

The main cause of obesity in most cats comes down to an excess in caloric consumption and a sedentary lifestyle. Many of us have tried fad diets and health foods that taste like cardboard covered in chalk, and most of us have failed to maintain our weight-loss goals for any length of time. It’s hard for cats, too! Luckily, you have the keys to the cupboard and can help her shed a few pounds safely. If your cat is in a calorie deficit — meaning she burns more calories than she consumes — she’ll be able to lose weight and keep it off. 

However, there are contributing factors to weight gain, ranging from unexpected pregnancy to illness. Weight gain and difficulty losing weight are potential side effects of certain medications. Spayed and neutered cats may gain weight and have a difficult time losing it, too. Certain illnesses, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease (also called feline hyperadrenocorticism), slow the metabolism and lead to weight gain. If your cat suddenly puts on weight despite her food and activity levels remaining constant, it’s time for a trip to the vet. 

What breed of cat is more prone to obesity?

Why obesity is dangerous

While a chubby-cheeked feline is undeniably cute, obesity increases your cat’s risk of developing a chronic disease. Even more unsettling, obesity raises your cat’s risk of mortality 2.8 times. If your cat is obese, she’s at risk of developing one or more of the following conditions:

• Osteoarthritis
• Urinary bladder stones
• Decreased heat tolerance
• Cancer
• Skin conditions
• Weakened immune system
• Hypertension
• Heart disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hepatic lipidosis

Although larger breeds weigh more, the average cat comes in at 7.9 to 9.9 pounds. If a cat weighs 10%–20% more than average, she’s considered obese. Even without knowing the exact percentage of body fat your cat carries, you’ll be able to see visual changes that indicate weight gain.

Overweight cats have soft bellies and a layer of fat over their rib cages. Obese cats begin to look extremely round and may even develop a double chin. We recommend speaking with your vet if you’re concerned that your cat might be gaining weight.

How to help your cat lose weight

If your cat is overweight or obese, she needs to lose some of the extra before she develops a potentially life-threatening condition. Here are five ways you can help your fur baby slim down. 

1. Consult your veterinarian

Before you put your cat on a diet, take her in for a checkup. She may have an underlying condition that’s causing her weight gain, so the vet will want to run tests to determine why your formerly svelte companion has packed on the pounds. Your cat doctor may also recommend a prescription diet to ensure your fur baby’s nutritional needs are being met. 

2. Monitor your cat’s calorie intake

Most of us have counted calories at some point, and it’s equally effective for cats. The average indoor cat needs only 20 calories per pound of body weight. Don’t fill her bowl until it’s overflowing. Instead, feed her the recommended amount and cut back on the treats. 

3. Spend time playing with your cat

Unlike dogs, who will happily run in circles for hours, cats tend to play in short bursts. Grab a laser pointer or your cat’s favorite toy and sprinkle several play exercises throughout her day. Exercise will not only give her metabolism a boost, helping her lose weight, but active cats are also less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. 

4. Make her work for her food

If your cat prefers dry food over canned, try making her work for her meal with a food ball. She’ll burn extra calories while rolling the ball across the floor to collect her morsels, providing her with mental stimulation, exercise, and a tasty meal. Food balls also reward your cat for exercising, creating a positive connection between burning calories and having fun. 

5. Keep her distracted

It’s hard to say no to your cat when she’s begging for food, but you’ll have to stick to your guns. Make sure she has plenty of water to drink, which will help her feel full when she’s hungry and distract her from craving food with cuddles and playtime. 

Maintaining weight loss

Yo-yo diets never work for us, and they won’t work for your cat. Speak to your vet about the best way to help your fur baby maintain her weight loss. (You should take your cat to the vet during her weight-loss journey to make sure you’re staying on track.) Continue to control her portions and ensure she gets plenty of exercise, take your vet’s advice, and your cat should be able to keep the weight off in the long term.