Tara Maurer
Tara is a writer and content creator for Canine Journal, specializing in health and nutrition. She has 8+ years of experience in the wellness industry, where she has worked with countless dog parents on holistic approaches to healing and aging. Tara holds a B.A. in Multimedia Journalism from Simpson College and is also an AFPA-certified holistic nutritionist. She currently lives with a very good boy named Rio, a Golden Retriever, and “the girls” Luna and Lucy, his feline siblings.
If Your Dog Stretches When They See You, This Is What They’re Really Saying
Behavior
55 minutes ago
If Your Dog Stretches When They See You, This Is What They’re Really Saying
We all know our charming canine companions have some bone-afide quirky habits, but decoding their behavior can sometimes feel like…
Think You Know Which Dog Breeds Attack The Most? The Truth May Surprise You
Behavior
2 hours ago
Think You Know Which Dog Breeds Attack The Most? The Truth May Surprise You
Owning a dog is a wonderful privilege and a huge responsibility. Along with the many positive benefits having a canine…
When Your Dog Poops & Stares At You… Here’s What It Means
Behavior
8 hours ago
When Your Dog Poops & Stares At You… Here’s What It Means
Have you ever glanced over at your sweet pup while on a walk, only to discover they are mid-squatting and…
Is This Even My Dog? Maltese Dog Haircuts That Won’t Make You Say, ‘What Have I Done?’
Grooming
1 week ago
Is This Even My Dog? Maltese Dog Haircuts That Won’t Make You Say, ‘What Have I Done?’
Maltese dog haircuts can transform your pup from fluffy cloud to tiny supermodel in a single visit. This guide breaks…
Why Do Dogs Sniff Crotches? Our Researchers Dig In
Behavior
1 week ago
Why Do Dogs Sniff Crotches? Our Researchers Dig In
If dogs ran the world, privacy wouldn’t exist. No secret would be safe—not your emotions, not your medical history, and…
Dog Poop Colors Decoded: A Crap-Tastic Guide to Canine Health
Wellness
2 weeks ago
Dog Poop Colors Decoded: A Crap-Tastic Guide to Canine Health
Learn what your dog's poo is telling you.
The Sneaky Dog Flu Symptoms Most Owners Miss
Conditions
2 weeks ago
The Sneaky Dog Flu Symptoms Most Owners Miss
If you haven’t heard, a canine flu outbreak is spreading across the nation leaving plenty of pups feeling down in…
The Real Reason Dogs Get Zoomies — And Why It’s Kind Of About You
Behavior
3 weeks ago
The Real Reason Dogs Get Zoomies — And Why It’s Kind Of About You
Have you ever settled down for a quiet night, and your dog barrels through the room with a sudden burst…
Before The Vet Bill: 6 Dog Eye Discharge Home Remedies Every Pet Owner Needs
Conditions
3 weeks ago
Before The Vet Bill: 6 Dog Eye Discharge Home Remedies Every Pet Owner Needs
You wake up, look at your pup, and, uh oh. There's gunk. Goo. Maybe a full-blown slime trail sliding down…
Too Much Of A Good Thing: How Water Intoxication Happens In Dogs
Health
November 12, 2025
Too Much Of A Good Thing: How Water Intoxication Happens In Dogs
It was back in 700BC that a greek poet said “Moderation is best in all things”… and though it might…
8 Dog Yeast Infection Home Remedies & How To Avoid Reoccurring Issues
Conditions
November 11, 2025
8 Dog Yeast Infection Home Remedies & How To Avoid Reoccurring Issues
Yeast infections need treatment from your vet, which no home remedy can cure. But there are several ways you can…
Pet Sitting Or Boarding? One Choice Could Mean A Calmer, Happier Pup
Travel
November 9, 2025
Pet Sitting Or Boarding? One Choice Could Mean A Calmer, Happier Pup
When you have to go on vacation, there are only three options for your furry friend: Take him with you,…
Your Dog Is The Worst WFH Coworker—Here’s How To Stay Sane
Household
November 7, 2025
Your Dog Is The Worst WFH Coworker—Here’s How To Stay Sane
Working from home requires a computer, a reliable internet connection, and any other tools of the trade that you might…
Get A Dog, They Said. Suddenly, I’m Exercising, Socializing & Crying Less. Weird.
Wellness
November 7, 2025
Get A Dog, They Said. Suddenly, I’m Exercising, Socializing & Crying Less. Weird.
There are many benefits to owning a dog that goes far beyond them just being cute. Dogs can improve our…
Your Dog’s Bored — Here’s How To Fix It In 5 Minutes A Day
Wellness
October 31, 2025
Your Dog’s Bored — Here’s How To Fix It In 5 Minutes A Day
Most dog parent think their pup needs longer walks. In reality, the secret to calm, happy dogs is working their…
Is Your Golden Hiding One Of These 6 Common Health Problems?
Conditions
October 28, 2025
Is Your Golden Hiding One Of These 6 Common Health Problems?
Are you considering bringing a Golden Retriever into your home? Learn more about caring for your Golden Retriever's health, including…
Spotify For Good Boys: How Music Really Affects Your Dog’s Mood
Household
October 17, 2025
Spotify For Good Boys: How Music Really Affects Your Dog’s Mood
Music can benefit both human and canine mental health in several key areas. The right music can help reduce anxiety,…
Pumpkin Puree For Dogs: The Magic Scoop That Can Solve Gut Problems Fast
Food
October 17, 2025
Pumpkin Puree For Dogs: The Magic Scoop That Can Solve Gut Problems Fast
Your dog’s poop is a disaster zone, and you’ve Googled every fix short of calling a priest. That’s when you…
The Sad Truth About Dog Depression (And How To Bring Back The Wag)
Conditions
October 15, 2025
The Sad Truth About Dog Depression (And How To Bring Back The Wag)
Depression is a common disorder in people. But what about our furry friends? Most pet parents instinctively know that their…
What Would Scooby Do? The Ultimate Guide To Sharing Holiday (And Everyday) Foods with Your Dog
Food
October 10, 2025
What Would Scooby Do? The Ultimate Guide To Sharing Holiday (And Everyday) Foods with Your Dog
Dogs love to share our food. Any dog parent can attest to that. My dog will literally steal food off…
Breaking Bad Breath: How To Fix Your Dog’s Stinky Mouth (For Good)
Conditions
October 9, 2025
Breaking Bad Breath: How To Fix Your Dog’s Stinky Mouth (For Good)
If your dog’s kisses could strip paint, you’re not alone. Bad breath is one of the most common and most…
Best Probiotic For Dogs: Powder, Chewable, Capsule, Calming, For Dogs With Diarrhea, Allergies & More
Wellness
September 29, 2025
Best Probiotic For Dogs: Powder, Chewable, Capsule, Calming, For Dogs With Diarrhea, Allergies & More
Human probiotics have become a health craze due to their numerous benefits, but have you considered them for your furry…
Dog Fighting Facts: We Need To Break The Chain
Behavior
September 23, 2025
Dog Fighting Facts: We Need To Break The Chain
Dogfighting is not a relic of the past. Across the United States, federal agents and rescue teams continue to uncover…
Avoid Puppy Scams: A Step-By-Step Guide To Finding Ethical Breeders
Breeds
September 17, 2025
Avoid Puppy Scams: A Step-By-Step Guide To Finding Ethical Breeders
Congratulations! Adding a new dog to your family is exciting, but you'll want to know who you should avoid when…
When Your Dog’s Love Language Is Physical Touch … And The Pawing Is Driving You Nuts!
Behavior
September 10, 2025
When Your Dog’s Love Language Is Physical Touch … And The Pawing Is Driving You Nuts!
Is your dog constantly pawing at you? Pawing can mean a variety of things, from seeking attention to dominance.
Boost Your Dog’s Health With These 8 Homemade Meals
Food
August 29, 2025
Boost Your Dog’s Health With These 8 Homemade Meals
Imagine if you had to eat the same food every day of your life. Beyond being painfully dull, wouldn’t you…
Butt Ballet: Why Your Dog Is Pirouetting Across The Carpet (and How To Stop The Scooting)
Care
August 27, 2025
Butt Ballet: Why Your Dog Is Pirouetting Across The Carpet (and How To Stop The Scooting)
From blocked anal glands to itchy skin, there are many reasons your dog might be performing a full-on butt ballet…
67 Poodle Mixes You Need To See (From Adorable To Totally Unique)
Mixed Breeds
August 27, 2025
67 Poodle Mixes You Need To See (From Adorable To Totally Unique)
Are you thinking of adopting a Poodle mix but aren't sure which one is right for you and your family?…
Cakes For Dogs: Easy Recipes Your Pup Will Drool Over
Food
August 25, 2025
Cakes For Dogs: Easy Recipes Your Pup Will Drool Over
Pets have crossed the line from the animal world into the human world. It is not uncommon for people to…
Best Electronic & Smart Dog Doors
Household
August 21, 2025
Best Electronic & Smart Dog Doors
Does your pup want to go in and out of the house all day long? A smart dog door might…
Why Is My Dog Acting Like a Nervous Teen? 8 Reasons They’re Chewing Their Nails
Care
August 13, 2025
Why Is My Dog Acting Like a Nervous Teen? 8 Reasons They’re Chewing Their Nails
When dogs start biting their nails it can cause owners to be concerned. Is this behavior normal? Why do dogs…
Foods That Could Kill Your Dog (And the Ones That Just Wreck Their Stomach)
Food
August 12, 2025
Foods That Could Kill Your Dog (And the Ones That Just Wreck Their Stomach)
Dogs are inquisitive animals and are scavengers by nature. Given an opportunity, they try eating most things, edible or not.…
Dog Sneezing Like Crazy? 8 Reasons Behind That Achoo Attack
Behavior
August 1, 2025
Dog Sneezing Like Crazy? 8 Reasons Behind That Achoo Attack
Trying to figure out why your dog is sneezing all the time? There's actually a number of different reasons this…
Ozempic For Dogs? The Truth Behind The Trend
Health
July 29, 2025
Ozempic For Dogs? The Truth Behind The Trend
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from the sleek greyhound to the adorably rotund bulldog. But when your pooch…
Your Dog Is Not Joey Chestnut: Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs Or Should They Sit This One Out?
Food
July 24, 2025
Your Dog Is Not Joey Chestnut: Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs Or Should They Sit This One Out?
A hot dog cooked on the grill may seem simply irresistible to your furry friend; what’s not to love? But…
5 Grain-Free Dog Treats So Good, You’ll Want To Try Them Too
Food
July 24, 2025
5 Grain-Free Dog Treats So Good, You’ll Want To Try Them Too
Looking for the perfect grain-free dog treat to feed to your pup? Here are five fantastic DIY treat options that…
Tractive Reviews: Is This GPS Dog Tracker Reliable?
Gear
July 15, 2025
Tractive Reviews: Is This GPS Dog Tracker Reliable?
Do you have an adventure pup or an escape artist that requires constant monitoring? We review the popular GPS LTE…
8 Best Ice Cream Treats For Dogs: Ready-To-Eat, Mix-And-Freeze, Subscription & More
Food
July 11, 2025
8 Best Ice Cream Treats For Dogs: Ready-To-Eat, Mix-And-Freeze, Subscription & More
We review recipes, ingredients, sourcing, and more to pick out the best ice cream for dogs.
Summer Survival Hacks For Dogs: Avoid Heat Stroke Now
Conditions
July 10, 2025
Summer Survival Hacks For Dogs: Avoid Heat Stroke Now
Warm weather is ideal for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors with their furry best friend. It's tempting to take…
Fireworks Freaking Out Your Dog? Here’s What Actually Helps
Anxiety
July 1, 2025
Fireworks Freaking Out Your Dog? Here’s What Actually Helps
Is your dog scared of fireworks? He's not alone! Although fireworks are a fun, exciting sight for us humans, dogs…
How To Reduce Dog Shedding Without Going Fur-Crazy
Grooming
June 16, 2025
How To Reduce Dog Shedding Without Going Fur-Crazy
You love your dog. But the tumbleweeds of fur under your couch? Not so much. If you're finding hair on…
When Seconds Matter: How To Get Your Pet Emergency Help—Fast
Veterinary
June 11, 2025
When Seconds Matter: How To Get Your Pet Emergency Help—Fast
A lack of vehicle can be a huge obstacle when seeking emergency care for your dog. That's why many organizations…
My Dog Just Ate Cat Poop: Should I Worry?
Care
June 11, 2025
My Dog Just Ate Cat Poop: Should I Worry?
If you own a cat, it's only a matter of time before your dog finds and tastes a piece of…
Is Your Dog A Lazybones Or A Bark-athloner? The Stats Don’t Lie
Health
May 20, 2025
Is Your Dog A Lazybones Or A Bark-athloner? The Stats Don’t Lie
From zoomies to nap schedules, these dog activity stats reveal how breed, age, health, and geography affect how much your…
Murder Ferns & Death Daffodils: The Plants That Want Your Dog Dead
Household
May 19, 2025
Murder Ferns & Death Daffodils: The Plants That Want Your Dog Dead
Worried about poisonous plants for dogs? Learn which common houseplants and garden favorites are toxic, how to identify poisoning symptoms,…
When Counting Squirrels Fails: Melatonin & Other Natural Fixes For Dogs Who Pace, Panic, And Refuse To Sleep
Wellness
May 19, 2025
When Counting Squirrels Fails: Melatonin & Other Natural Fixes For Dogs Who Pace, Panic, And Refuse To Sleep
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland in humans, dogs, and other animals. You may be…
CBD Isn’t The Whole Story: What The ‘Entourage Effect’ Means For Your Dog’s Pain & Anxiety
Wellness
May 18, 2025
CBD Isn’t The Whole Story: What The ‘Entourage Effect’ Means For Your Dog’s Pain & Anxiety
Perhaps you've heard about CBD oil, an all-natural treatment that's trending big-time for humans — and now for pets as…
Laser Therapy for Dogs Explained: Drug-Free Pain Relief for Dogs
Conditions
May 8, 2025
Laser Therapy for Dogs Explained: Drug-Free Pain Relief for Dogs
When our pets are in pain or injured, we naturally want to do everything we can to get them back…
Help! My Dog Won’t Poop—A Guide To Getting Things Moving
Care
May 8, 2025
Help! My Dog Won’t Poop—A Guide To Getting Things Moving
Is your dog constipated, leaving you frustrated because you can't seem to help them poop? Believe it or not, dog…
3 Home Remedies For Ear Mites In Dogs & How To Prevent Reoccurring Infections
Conditions
May 2, 2025
3 Home Remedies For Ear Mites In Dogs & How To Prevent Reoccurring Infections
While severe infections require a vet's intervention, you may be able to treat this parasitic infection at home. We share…