Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People?

by Britt

Published: May 10th, 2024

Photo credit: Liudmila Bohush / Shutterstock.com

Does your playful pup turn into a little velociraptor anytime they are around guests or even family members (especially children)? It’s a common struggle with herding dogs, but it doesn’t have to continue frustrating you for the rest of their lives!

Herding dogs were bred with strong instincts to manage and control the movement of livestock. While that behavior is helpful when working in the fields, it can translate into unwanted nipping in everyday life.

In this article, we’ll explain why herding dogs nip and, more importantly, how to train them to show their affection in a more acceptable way.

What are the Personality Traits of a Herding Dog?

Before focusing on this specific problem behavior, let’s take a step back and start at the beginning. What is a herding dog, and what personality traits are they most known for?

Dogs classified in the Herding Group were bred specifically to gather, herd, and protect livestock. This means that they were bred with instincts that would help them perform their jobs safely and effectively.

Some of the more common herding breeds include:

These dogs are athletic and agile, allowing them to work with livestock on any terrain. They are also incredibly smart and can learn to follow even the most subtle hand movements. This means they are highly trainable but also have high exercise needs.

Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People?

Okay, these dogs are highly intelligent and full of energy – but how does that translate to nipping? If this is your first time living with a herding dog, you may be concerned that your dog has aggressive tendencies after seeing them nip at peoples’ ankles. You may be relieved to learn that this isn’t actually a sign of aggression.

When your herding dog nips at someone’s feet or heels, they are tapping into their natural instincts. They are attempting to herd that person, just as they would with livestock in the field. Understanding this can help you view their behavior in a different light.

The herding behavior is more likely to be triggered when someone mimics livestock in their eyes, running or playing around. Children are often on the receiving end for this reason, which can create a concerning situation.

What is the Difference Between a Bite and a Nip?

It is important to understand that there is a distinct difference between a bite and a nip. Recognizing this is essential for identifying whether you are dealing with natural herding behavior or a more serious situation.

A dog that is biting will grab onto their target with intention. If they make contact, they usually break the skin and draw blood. This can be made worse as they shake, tear, or tug. A bite is generally driven by either aggression or fear and is meant to inflict damage.

On the other hand (or paw), a nip is usually meant as more of a warning size. This could happen when a dog is nervous or fearful, telling someone to back off. It is also how herding dogs warn livestock to get moving.

Do Some Dogs Show Affection by Nipping?

Is nipping always a sign of fear or control? There are times when a dog could use their mouth as a way of communicating playfulness or affection. Known as “mouthing,” this is a type of play often seen in young puppies, but it doesn’t always end as a dog gets older. Many adult dogs still use play-biting to show the people in their lives that they trust and enjoy interacting with them.

However, even if your dog mouths to show affection, you don’t have to accept that as a regular behavior. Encouraging this type of play could be problematic, especially if you live in a house with smaller animals or young children.

Photo credit: Anna Nahabed / Shutterstock.com

How Do I Stop My Herding Dog from Nipping?

If herding behavior is causing trouble, don’t worry – there are ways you can address the nipping to create a happy house for everyone involved (including your guests).

Teach the “Place” Command

Have you already taught your dog the “place” command to prevent them from being too excitable when guests come through the front door or keep them from begging when you’re at the dinner table? This useful obedience command is also great for managing your dog’s herding behavior.

The “place” command instructs your dog to go to a set location, such as a bed or mat, and stay until they are released.

To teach this command, start by choosing a location. For our pup Lucifer, we use a blanket, as it is easy to bring with us when we travel. Using a treat, lure your dog to the designated spot and reward them when they place at least one paw onto the mat or bed. Repeat this, slowly increasing your expectations - one paw, two paws, four paws.

When they reliably place all our paws onto the mat each time, introduce the next stage and ask them to sit before rewarding them. After that, move on to asking them to lie down and then asking them to stay.

Make sure you are doing this slowly, taking baby steps. Ensure your dog is performing the current stage of the training reliably before moving to the next.

After you have gone through the complete behavior, meaning the “place” command tells them to go to their designated spot, lie down, and stay until released, you can start testing your pup by moving further away or adding distractions. This will reinforce what is expected of them, teaching them to obey the command regardless of what else may happen.

In practice, use the “place” command anytime you see a situation that could trigger herding behavior or if you see your dog becoming overstimulated around family, friends, or other guests.

Counterconditioning for a New Response

With counterconditioning, many dogs can be taught to respond to a situation differently. Anytime you see your dog getting overexcited or showing that they may be about to start herding, offer a high-value treat. This will take time and consistency.

Eventually, your dog will start associating their trigger with you having that treat, choosing to turn to you instead of giving into the temptation to herd.

When you are confident that your dog’s emotional response has been rewired, you can start to phase out the treat. Try skipping the treat and instead praising your dog verbally and with affection every third time. Then, every other time.

However, even with plenty of work training and counterconditioning, you are still responsible for setting your dog up for success. Avoid putting them into high-risk situations. For example, if you know that children will be running around and playing in your main living area, consider putting your dog away in a safe space like a bedroom where they can relax.

Consider Muzzle Training

While I would love to say that you should never put your dog into a risky situation, there may be times when it’s unavoidable. This is where a muzzle can be a very valuable tool.

Muzzles have been given an unwarranted bad reputation. People often see a muzzle and assume it is a punishment or a sign of an overly aggressive or dangerous dog. However, with proper conditioning, a muzzle can open doors for your dog and offer both freedom and safety.

First, ensure you select a muzzle that fits your dog correctly. It should not restrict your dog from panting, or it could put them at risk of overheating. On the other end of the spectrum, a muzzle that is too large may be easier for your dog to slip out of, making it ineffective.

Introduce the muzzle slowly before it is ever needed. Muzzle conditioning involves creating a positive association with the tool, using treats and praise, and removing any anxiety that wearing it could trigger. In time, most dogs will realize that wearing a muzzle is no more stressful than wearing a collar.

5 Ways to Keep a Herding Dog Busy

One important consideration when raising a happy, healthy herding dog is finding ways for them to channel their energy and drive in a positive way. This means finding opportunities for both physical and mental enrichment. Here are a few of my pup Lucifer’s favorites to help you start planning:

Walk, Run, Hike, or Bike

Of course, the most obvious solution to burning excess energy is to take your dog out for a walk, run, hike, or bike. Whether you’re hitting the local trails or walking around the block, give your pup a chance to sniff. Not only will they have fun exploring their surroundings, but that “sniff time” adds a mental enrichment component to your outing, wearing them out even more.

Introduce Your Dog to a Herding Ball

A great way to let your dog tap into their herding instincts without encouraging them to chase your other pets or nip at your guests is to introduce them to a herding ball. This oversized ball is too large or heavy to be picked up and carried around. Instead, to move the ball around your yard, the dog will have to nose at it, nip it, and push it as if they are herding it.

You can purchase specialty herding balls with a protective cover like the Race & Herd Complete Herding Ball Set or a durable hard plastic ball like the Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball.

Use a Flirt Pole

This fun exercise tool is a great way to keep your herding dog active and strengthen your relationship by playing together. It features a long handle attached to a lure or toy to entice your dog. When you move the flirt pole around, the lure will move, dance, and fly through the air, teasing your dog and triggering their natural desire to hunt and catch it.

The Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2 is a durable option that can stand up to a lot of play, which is essential. After all, your dog isn’t going to take it easy on that lure!

Bond Over Training Sessions

Training is always a great way to challenge your dog’s mind. From basic obedience training to more elaborate tricks and challenges, training sessions are a bonding experience. Not only do they work your dog’s mind, burning energy and wearing them out, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to work on raising a well-behaved, respectful housemate.

I started working on basic obedience with Lucifer as a young puppy, but it was clear that his clever little mind would need more. He picked up on everything so quickly. After mastering the basics, we moved on to tricks like picking up his toys, identifying different toys by name, and other cute options. I also introduced him to talking buttons, challenging him to communicate with me in a more advanced way.

Turn Mealtime into a Game

Rather than just feeding your dog in a standard bowl, why not incorporate a mental enrichment element by challenging them to work for their food?

Snuffle mats are flat mats that feature strips of felt or material, pickets, folds, and other places where your dog’s food can be hidden. When feeding in a snuffle mat, your dog must tap into their foraging instincts, sniffing out and locating their meal.

Another great way to step up your dog’s mealtime is to feed them in a food puzzle. These are toys that require problem-solving to get to their food. They feature hidden doors, slides, spinners, flaps, and other fun elements. These can also be used easily between meals by placing a treat somewhere in the puzzle for your dog to find. They come in a variety of skill levels, from beginner to advanced. We recently introduced the Brightkins Brain Teaser Treat Puzzle in our house and love that it combines different elements in one puzzle.

Finally, there are interactive food and treat toys. These include toys that your dog has to move around until the food falls out and toys like the West Paw Zogoflex Toppl that can be filled and frozen before being given to your dog.

Final Thoughts: Keeping a Herding Dog from Nipping

If you share your heart and home with a herding dog, you know that their herding instincts can play an important role in their everyday lives. This isn’t a reflection of how you raised your pup or a failure to train them appropriately – it’s their natural drive.

Luckily, this behavior can be managed by training your dog to act appropriately around others and providing them with a positive outlet for their behavior.

Life with a herding dog is never boring (trust me, I know), but their love and loyalty will brighten even the darkest days.

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Indiana and Lucifer – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?

When it comes to eating, most dogs will eat just about anything – in fact, if it’s something that’s forbidden for them to eat or something that they really shouldn’t be munching on, their appetite only seems to increase. And unfortunately, that also includes poop. While it is definitely disgusting to see, it actually has a lot of science behind it. The behavior is called  coprophagia, and it is influenced by a lot of major factors. Getting to know them can help you better understand this odd behavior, and help you act accordingly. So let’s learn all about dogs and poop-eating.Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?Believe it or not, eating poop is a fairly common behavior in dogs. In fact, recent studies reveal that it is  in a dog’s DNA to eat poop. It isn’t, however, a behavior that should be ignored completely. Because it can give you insights into the health and mentality of your four-legged friend. If you spot your pet munching on the forbidden fudge, it could signal a major nutritional deficiency. So, basically, if a dog is lacking certain nutrients in their diet, they may seek to fulfill those needs by eating feces. Of course, it can also signal underlying medical issues. It is known that some medical conditions can lead to coprophagia, such as malabsorption disorders or  parasites. Coprophagia can also sometimes stem from behavioral issues, such as stress, anxiety, or boredom. Dogs may resort to eating poop as a way to cope with these feelings or out of sheer boredom. It can also come from simple attention-seeking. Yup, your dog can eat feces as a way to gain attention, especially if they've received a strong reaction from their owners in the past. And, if you notice that your doggo is nibbling on poop in the park or on the street, they could be attracted to the scent. The scent of feces attracts some dogs, especially if it's from another animal. Of course, neglect can also be a viable cause. Dogs that are confined in tight spaces or cages can exhibit unnatural behaviors, such as excessive eating of poop. It can also stem from anxiety, fear, isolation, or from problems related to diet. Either way, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues and to address any behavioral concerns. Of course, ensuring your dog has a balanced diet, plenty of physical and mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement training can help deter this behavior. It can also be wise to supplement your dog’s diet with  quality multivitamins, which can balance their nutritional needs and prevent poop-eating. 

Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?

Sometimes, dogs can behave straight out quirky. The range of their weird behaviors varies from chasing their tail and scooting on their but, to “pawing” or “digging” food, which sort of looks like they’re burying their kibble but they’re not really doing anything. Have you ever seen your pooch trying to fake bury his food by pawing at it? Don’t worry, the behavior might look odd at the very least, but it’s not a reason for concern. Here’s what dogs that dig, bury, or paw their food are trying to tell you with this behavior.Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?Dogs may exhibit pawing or digging behavior around their food bowl for various reasons, and the interpretation can depend on the individual dog. By closely observing your dog's specific actions and considering these factors, you may gain a better understanding of why they engage in pawing behavior. Keep in mind that individual differences among dogs can lead to variations in behavior, and what holds true for one dog may not necessarily apply to another. Still, there are some common explanations that hold true for most situations when “pawing” is in question.Too Much Food Served:In the wild, dogs might use their paws to cover or bury their food to protect it from other animals or to save it for later. This behavior could be a residual instinct from their ancestors – if they eat a bit and then paw at their bowl before leaving the meal, it means that they are trying to stash the surplus away for later. Try downsizing their portions to see if the behavior goes away. Scent Marking: Dogs have scent glands in their paws, and pawing at the food bowl might be a way for them to mark the area with their scent. This could be a territorial behavior and might be seen in households where there are several dogs present. Excitement or Anticipation: Dogs might get excited about mealtime, and pawing at the bowl could be a way of expressing anticipation or eagerness for their food. This is especially true if they are eagerly pawing the ground even before the food has been served. These dogs can often be voracious eaters as well, so to prevent them from snarfing up their food in seconds, try utilizing a  slow feeder for dogs to promote a more appropriate pace of eating and prevent bloat and other digestive issues due to lack of chewing and fast eating.

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Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

Have you noticed your pooch snacking on grass? Here’s why your lawn suddenly seems as appetizing as kibble. Every dog owner will sometimes chance upon their dog munching busily on a tuft of unappetizing, green grass. Even if you provide them with a tasty, healthy, and regular diet – and treats as well – they will still resort to eating grass! Even if they vomit because of that unsavory meal. Why on earth would they do that? Well, before you jump to conclusions, you need to know that there are some logical explanations involved. Dogs eating grass is a usual occurrence, and there are a number of reasons involved. First things first – if you notice your dog eating grass, it could indicate that their diet lacks some important nutrients. The most common missing ingredient is fiber. If they lack enough of it in their diet, dogs will follow their natural instinct and go find it in the grass. Grass contains dietary fiber, also known as roughage, which is not often found in dog food – even though it is advertised as rich in fiber. Roughage is a fibrous indigestible material found in vegetable foods, and immensely aids in the passage of food, and is a vital part of their diet. It helps stimulate the intestinal tract and digestion, maintaining a healthy gut. This could be the simplest and foremost reason why dogs eat grass – to add that precious roughage they cannot find in their food. Another reason for this odd behavior is possible health issues. Dogs will often depend on their natural instincts and follow them blindly. When they are feeling unwell or sick, they might resort to eating grass in order to induce vomiting and feel better. If their stomach is upset for any reason, they might munch on grass and vomit afterward. It is a normal natural instinct that can actually help often enough. Then again, you should not be surprised to know that some doggos simply enjoy munching on grass. Who are we to judge, eh? Some dogs might simply enjoy the texture or the taste of grass. Still, make sure they don’t go eating dirty grass or the one that has been treated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals. It is important to understand that regular, healthy grass is not harmful to your dog. However, you should start questioning your dog’s grass-eating habits only when they become too frequent. In such cases, it could be likely that there is a bigger, more serious underlying issue at hand. This could be a major missing piece in their diet, a psychological problem, or a particular health issue. Either way, that is the time to seek the help of a vet. Perhaps a major dietary change is needed, or a change in their habits. Sometimes, dogs that are bored and ignored will turn to eating grass to help pass time. Make sure that this does not happen by giving your doggo all the attention it needs and making sure their diet is as good as can be!

Why Does My Dog Roll in Grass?

There’s something about rolling in the grass that’s so irresistible to dogs. But why do dogs roll in the grass and should you do anything about it? Dogs are goofy – there are no bones about it. But many of your dog’s seemingly strange behaviors actually serve a purpose. For example, when your dog smells another dog’s butt he is taking in some important information about that dog’s sex, age, and health status. Even your dog’s habit of rolling in the grass has a reason behind it! Related: Why Do Dogs Sniff Butts? What Purpose Does Rolling Serve? Sometimes when your dog is rolling in the grass he looks like he is having a great time while other times he may look like he’s trying to rub something off of himself. The truth is that rolling on the ground serves several potential purposes for your dog. One reason (and perhaps the most obvious reason) is that he could be trying to get some sort of itchy debris off of his skin. That patch of lush green grass may look soft, but grass is actually mildly abrasive so it acts almost like the bristles of a brush, helping to loosen debris from your dog’s coat. For dog’s that have a double coat, rolling in the grass can also help to work dead hairs out of the coat. This is particularly common with breeds that “blow” their coats once or twice a year – when they roll in the grass it helps them to remove clumps of dead fur from their undercoats. Related: 5 Books To Help Improve Communication With Your Dog Another reason your dog might be rolling in the grass is because he’s found a patch of scent that he likes. Have you ever wondered why dogs seem to be drawn to smelly things and, furthermore, why they love to roll themselves in it? This behavior can be traced back to the wild heritage of dogs. Wolves, coyotes, and other wild dogs have been known to use certain smells to cover their own natural scent. For example, a wild wolf might roll in a patch of grass where a deer or a rabbit eliminated. By rolling in that scent, the wolf is effectively disguising his own scent, making him less detectable to his prey. The longer the wolf can prevent his prey from picking up on his scent, the closer he can get and the better chance he has of making a kill. When your dog rolls in a patch of something unpleasant, he probably isn’t thinking about improving his ability to sneak up on squirrels – it may just be a matter of instinct. It is also entirely possible that there is no practical reason for his behavior – he just feels like rolling around! If your dog is rolling frantically, it could be because he’s actually trying to get something off of him. A slow side-to-side roll, however, is an indication of happiness – your dog is just rolling because it feels good. If you notice that your dog is rubbing his face, neck or back a little more forcefully it might be that he is doing a little bit of self-grooming or that he is investigating a particular scent. Rolling in the grass can serve a purpose for your dog – even if that purpose is just to make him feel good. Unless your dog is actually rolling in something unpleasant or dangerous, there is no reason to stop him from performing this behavior. Roll away!

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Dog Poop Incident Grounds a United Airlines Flight

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Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pretty Plants that Will Stop Cats from Pooping in Your Garden

Whether you own a cat or neighboring felines like to frequent your backyard, chances are you have come across half-buried cat poop in your flower beds. Cat lover or not, you probably weren’t thrilled to discover these unsightly deposits in your garden.Although cat poop won’t harm your garden, it also won’t add much to the overall appeal of it either, especially if the cats decide to dig their own toilets in the middle of your flower patch. In addition to preserving the aesthetics of your garden, there are several other reasons you may want to stop cats from pooping in your backyard. Keeping cats away will ensure the garden stays clean and safe for young children to play in. Plus, it will help protect wild birds that visit your garden, especially if you have a bird feeder or two.Besides being unsightly, cat poop in the garden can carry a parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and unborn babies. For this reason, it’s super important that you wear gloves when you clean cat poop from your garden. As an added precaution against nasty infections, always use gloves when gardening.Are you sick and tired of cats using your garden as their personal toilet? There are several things you can do to preserve your outdoor oasis that don’t include the use of cruel booby-traps or startling devices.All you have to do is buy the right plant - one that cats hate but will look great in your garden. Although technically a weed, the curry plant is one of the best plants to deter cats from pooping in your garden. Scientifically known as Helichrysum italicum, the curry plant is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with linear-shaped silver-gray leaves. The leaves have a strong odor, reminiscent of curry, that acts as a potent cat deterrent. When a cat brushes against a curry plant, its leaves release a strong odor that attacks a cat’s sense of smell. Plus, the curry plant also has a coarse texture that cats hate. Many gardeners agree that curry plants act as excellent cat deterrents saying that cats stopped pooping in their gardens after they planted curry plants. Since the curry plant is essentially a weed, plant it sparingly so it won’t spread and take up too much space. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to plant curry plants in your garden, plant lavender instead. A popular ornamental plant, lavender has pretty purple flowers and a delicate and sweet smell with herbal undertones. It’s that delicate smell that will help keep cats away from your garden!Cats have more than 200 million odor sensors in their noses and anything that emits a strong smell, like lavender, will be off-putting. Luckily, lavender is easy to grow and you can plant it in any part of your garden or containers. This gives you the freedom to plant lavender exactly where the cats like to poop to deter them. Many cats also dislike the smell of rosemary, rue, pennyroyal, citronella, oregano, geraniums, lemon thyme, and coffee. Any of these plants can act as a natural barrier and discourage cats from entering your garden and using it as a toilet. Although there are other ways to deter cats from pooping in your backyard, planting plants is an entirely natural and non-toxic option that isn’t harmful to the cats or you. It’s also cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

A Small Cat Family Was Found Living in the Ceiling of a Restaurant

Cats choose their homes in the unlikeliest of places! And a recent event from Massachusetts, when a momma cat and her four newborn kittens were discovered living in the ceiling of a New Bedford restaurant, definitely confirms this.The  Animal Rescue League of Boston said that they received a call from the employees of a local New Bedford restaurant. It was no ordinary call, however, as the employees said that they were “hearing kittens meowing from the ceiling”. The momma cat, however, was no stranger at the premises. The staff noticed her around the place before but did not suspect that she was pregnant – or that she was living in the ceiling. But hearing the distinct sound of kittens meowing, the employees were quick to understand what happened. The animal rescue team quickly responded to the call, and their field service agents soon spotted the tiny kittens through a small slit between the restaurant wall and a hole in the ceiling. With a little bit of patience and work, the rescue team managed to retrieve all four kittens from the ceiling space, and safely transport them to the rescue shelter. Rescuing the momma cat, however, was not as easy. Cunning and careful, the cat evaded all the efforts of the team, including artificial kitten sounds, and tasty cat food. Ultimately, the team employed a humane cat trap that they placed within the ceiling. The next day, they reported that the momma cat entered the trap at around 11 p.m. at night, which allowed them to reunite her with her children at the Animal Rescue League's Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center. There, they were all treated and given veterinary care."Community cats are incredibly resilient, and have a knack to find shelter for themselves and their offspring," the animal rescue league said in a subsequent statement for  NBC Boston. "However, kittens born this time of year are incredibly vulnerable to the elements and other potential dangers and ARL urges the public that if a cat with offspring are discovered, to contact ARL Field Services for assistance." In the meantime, the happy momma cat and her babies are resting and growing, until the time comes when they can be put up for adoption and find forever homes and each their own happy ending to this unusual story.

Canine Nose Prints Help Reunite Lost Pets with Owners

Faster and more effective than microchips? Time will tell.

TikTok "Cheese Tax" Video Seriously Resonates with Pet Owners

Viral TikTok video spills the beans on sharing with our pooches!

Neutering Rottweilers May Shorten Their Lifespan, Study Finds

Increased lifespan is often cited as one of the main benefits of neutering a dog. But is that true? A recently published study found neutered Rottweilers may have a shorter lifespan than their intact counterparts. Neutering is a commonly performed surgical procedure that prevents unwanted puppies, controls the pet population, and eliminates certain health problems in dogs. It offers significant health benefits, such as reduced risk of pyometra and mammary tumors in female dogs. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the possible side effects of neutering. A recent study aimed to shed some light on this topic by comparing the lifespans of neutered and intact male and female Rottweilers. Scientists analyzed available clinical records of 3,085 intact and 4,100 neutered Rottweilers from July 1994 to June 2021. These records were collected by VetCompass Australia. The analysis provided surprising results. Scientists discovered that Rottweilers that were neutered before one year of age had a shortened lifespan of one-and-a-half years in males and one year in females when compared to intact Rottweilers. The analysis showed similar results for dogs neutered before the age of four-and-a-half years. “Most other studies have found that neutering dogs increases their longevity but ours is the first that went against that,” said Dr. Caroline Joone, the study’s lead author and senior lecturer at James Cook University in theriogeneology. “It was a bit of a shock when that wasn’t what we found,” Dr. Joone added. “We were fortunate with the data we had because we could determine when a dog was desexed and when they died.” Despite the study’s findings Dr. Joone strongly encourages owners to neuter their four-legged companions to prevent unwanted litters, as well as, serious health issues. “There are serious consequences for not neutering a dog, such as the risk of life-threatening uterus infection known as pyometra, mammary tumors, and unwanted puppies,” Dr. Joone explained. At this time, it’s unclear whether there is an ideal age to neuter a Rottweiler that doesn’t influence their lifespan. The study also highlighted several factors that could affect the lifespan of any dog, including nutrition, exercise, health care, genetic predispositions, and environmental factors. These factors may be reduced by screening for genetic health conditions. Selecting healthy breeding pairs may also help reduce the occurrence of hereditary disorders and support longevity. Let’s not forget that overweight dogs have a shorter life span than lean dogs. “There’s a strong suspicion that the reduced lifespan is more to do with weight issues than the neutering itself, so I would encourage owners to go ahead and neuter their dog but make sure you keep it at a good, healthy weight.”Dr. Joone explained that a balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for maintaining a healthy weight in neutered dogs.Do these findings apply to all neutered dogs or just Rottweilers? Scientists aren’t sure yet but plan to extend their research to other popular breeds, such as golden retrievers and greyhounds, to determine whether these results are widely applicable. The role of weight gain post-neutering and other underlying causes of reduced lifespan in neutered dogs are worth investigating further. Additionally, this study also showed that the time of neutering a dog may affect its lifespan. Dogs are often neutered between six months and one year of age, but mounting evidence has suggested that this may not be the best time to neuter a dog. Based on this analysis, neutering Rottweilers early, especially before the age of one, reduces lifespan, highlighting the importance of determining the optimal neutering age. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can I Use Human Hair Shampoo to Wash My Dog?

Making sure your pet’s hygiene is up to standards is an important thing, but you have to be careful about how you go about it. There aren’t a lot of important rules to consider when doggo baths are considered, but you should pay special attention to the type of shampoo that you use. If you are all out of pet shampoo, and you are thinking that a little bit of human shampoo won’t make a difference – think again. Using human hair shampoo on your dog is not recommended, and the reasons for this are many, including negative effects on your pet’s overall health and the quality of their skin and coat. Here’s what you should know before you reach for your shampoo when bathing your pooch.Why You Shouldn’t Use Human Shampoo On DogsThe first and foremost thing you have to consider is pH balance. Human shampoos are formulated to match the pH level of human skin. However, that level is totally different for dogs. Because of this, human shampoo can greatly disrupt the natural pH levels of a dog’s skin, ultimately leading to rashes, irritation, and skin diseases. And the same goes for the ingredients in that shampoo.  Dog shampoos have totally different ingredients compared to human shampoos. The latter has many chemicals that are considered too harsh for dogs. Dogs are prone to skin allergies and sensitivities, and some of the ingredients in human shampoos could make these issues much worse. The allergies can also be triggered by the strong fragrances of human-grade shampoos, which dogs can’t really stand. You should also take into account that a dog’s coat and human hair are totally different. While human shampoos are meant to lather well on hair, they’ll be too soapy for dogs. Rinsing out human shampoo from a dog can be a challenge, and a lot of chemicals can stay trapped in the coat and absorbed through the skin. Ultimately, all of this can leave your dog’s coat damaged, their skin irritated, and their health vulnerable to viruses and skin-borne infections. 

Study Shows These Dog Breeds Most Likely To Have an Extra Row of Teeth

Is your pooch more likely to sport a second row of teeth? The so-called “Shark Teeth” is a little-known dental condition that can affect up to 7% of doggos around the world. The “disorder” is officially known as persistent deciduous teeth (PDT) and it means that instead of falling out as you’d expect, baby teeth remain in the gums when adult teeth come through. The condition is not particularly dangerous, but even so, it can be odd or cause slight discomfort to a dog. Recent studies revealed that the dog breeds most likely to suffer from PDT are the Toy Poodle, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Maltese, and the Chihuahua. What exactly is PTD? And what does it cause? The disorder causes  malocclusion, or - in simpler terms - a misaligned bite. In the long run, this can cause your pet’s mouth to bleed, and also increase the risk of periodontal disease, which is considered a serious gum infection.The research team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, led by Corrin Wallis, released their new study that focuses on PDT specifically. “Dogs use their teeth for a multitude of tasks and, as such, it is vital for their health and wellbeing that their oral health is maintained,” Wallis and colleagues  say.  “Persistent deciduous teeth (PDT), those that fail to fall out at the appropriate time, are associated with malocclusion (misaligned bite), soft tissue trauma and increased risk of periodontal disease.”In the course of their extensive study, which has been published in the journal  Research in Veterinary Science, the team from Leicestershire examined medical records from up to 2.8 million dogs in the US, in just a span of five years, from January 2010 to December 2014. The study itself was a major undertaking. Ultimately, it was revealed that the prevalence of PDT was 7%. When it comes to individual breeds, it was revealed that the highest prevalence is amongst the Yorkshire Terriers with 25.1%, followed by the Maltese and the Poodle, both with 14.8%.On the lower end of that spectrum, the lowest prevalence was with the Greyhound, with 0.1%, followed by the Rhodesian Ridgeback with 0.2%. Amongst those breeds with lower percentages were also the English Bulldog, the Boxer, and the Great Dane, with 0.4%. All of this reveals that the smaller the breed, the higher the percentage. The team is not certain why smaller breeds have a higher percentage, but it could be linked to their genetics. The team said that it was crucial for owners of smaller breeds to have a thorough oral examination at around six months of age. This can help them identify and remove PDT in its early stages. “Once identified, PDT can be removed and if this is carried out by six months of age, the chances of problems associated with PDT, such as the development of periodontal disease or malocclusion, can likely be greatly reduced,” they said. 

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

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