Training & Behavior

Wailani Sung, MS, PhD, DVM, DACVB

Growling is part of normal canine communication. People usually think of a dog’s growl as a warning or as a sign of defense. Often, growling means that the dog needs space or is uncomfortable. However, growling is a complex vocalization that also occurs in other situations. It is important to understand why your dog is growling, how you can prevent them from escalating their behavior, and when...

Victoria Lynn Arnold

The following content may contain Chewy links. PetMD is operated by Chewy.  Have you ever had your pup come running up to you after rolling around in the grass, only to find out that they smell like roadkill? Although it’s gross, many dogs enjoy rolling around on dead animals. There are several theories why dogs roll in disgusting things like poop or dead animals: To Mask Their Own...

Wailani Sung, MS, PhD, DVM, DACVB

A recent study found that about 30% of dogs may exhibit some form of anxiety, and in another survey, two-thirds of cat owners reported their cats had anxiety or fear. Anxiety is the emotional response a person or animal exhibits in anticipation of encountering an unpleasant experience. You may think hosting a social gathering or party is fun, but for your pets, it can be highly stressful and...

Wailani Sung, MS, PhD, DVM, DACVB

Why Do Puppies Cry?Both puppies and adult dogs cry and whine, but often for different reasons. Puppies cry or whine when they are distressed, such as when they cannot find their mother. They emit sounds so that their mother can seek them out. When adult dogs cry and whine, their vocalizations may convey a greeting, a message of defense, an invitation to play, or maybe a sign of submission. It is...

Manette M. Kohler, DVM

The following content may contain Chewy links. PetMD is operated by Chewy.  Dogs have a lot to say, and they communicate through body language, facial expressions, and vocal signals like whines, growls, grunts, and barks. But wouldn’t it be convenient to add the English language to the list of ways dogs can express what they want and how they feel? This is where talking dog buttons come in....

Victoria Schade, CPDT-KA

It’s a heartbreaking scene; after a short time away from your house, you return to a dog that’s wet from drool, trembling, and wide-eyed with fear. There’s a mess by the door, and the TV remote and couch cushions are chewed to bits. It’s clear that you’re dealing with more than just typical canine mischief. This is a case of a dog with separation anxiety, which can cause extreme stress...