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.
Dog People vs Cat People: The Surprisingly Real Personality Divide
Resources

Dog People vs Cat People: The Surprisingly Real Personality Divide

Are dog people and cat people actually different, or is it just a running joke between pet lovers? Research suggests…
How Long Do French Bulldogs Really Live? The Answer Isn’t Simple
Breeds

How Long Do French Bulldogs Really Live? The Answer Isn’t Simple

Are you wondering about the French Bulldog's lifespan and how long they live? It's important to know that not every…
20 Dog Breeds That Age Like Fine Wine (Healthy, Long-Lived & Fewer Vet Visits)
Breeds

20 Dog Breeds That Age Like Fine Wine (Healthy, Long-Lived & Fewer Vet Visits)

Bringing a dog into your life is more than just an exciting journey; it’s a lifelong commitment filled with love,…
Is Your Dog At Risk? 10 Common Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues
Conditions

Is Your Dog At Risk? 10 Common Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues

One of the giant breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs (affectionately known as "Berners"), make excellent family companions. This breed is loyal,…
Raising A Dachshund? Bookmark This Feeding Chart
Food

Raising A Dachshund? Bookmark This Feeding Chart

If you're bringing a Dachshund puppy into your home or looking to improve your Dachshund's diet, you've come to the…
Lumps On Dogs: Which Ones Are Normal — And Which Are Cancer?
Conditions

Lumps On Dogs: Which Ones Are Normal — And Which Are Cancer?

If you have an older dog, then you are no stranger to finding miscellaneous bumps and lumps on them. In…
Puppy Teething Survival Guide: What’s Normal, What’s Not & What Actually Helps
Care

Puppy Teething Survival Guide: What’s Normal, What’s Not & What Actually Helps

That relentless chewing? It’s not bad behavior. It’s biology. As a veterinarian, I’ve seen just how intense the teething phase…
Acid Reflux In Dogs: Is It GERD Or Something Worse?
Conditions

Acid Reflux In Dogs: Is It GERD Or Something Worse?

Acid reflux is the name used to describe the leaking or rising of stomach acid into the food pipe (esophagus)…
Do Labs Shed? Why Labrador Coat Blowout Season Feels So Intense (And What To Do)
Care

Do Labs Shed? Why Labrador Coat Blowout Season Feels So Intense (And What To Do)

Do Labs shed? Oh, only constantly. If you’ve got a Labrador, you’ve got fur on your floors, clothes, pillows, and…
Dog Seasonal Allergies: What To Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Scratching
Conditions

Dog Seasonal Allergies: What To Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Scratching

People often wonder, “Can dogs have seasonal allergies?” The answer is yes; they can. Ranging from mild to quite serious,…
Dog Poop Color Guide: What Each Color Means & When to Call the Vet
Wellness

Dog Poop Color Guide: What Each Color Means & When to Call the Vet

You weren’t planning to inspect your dog’s poop today. But here you are, staring at something black, yellow, green… maybe…
How Intelligent Are Dogs, Really? The Truth About Canine Smarts — And Which Type Fits Your Lifestyle
Breeds

How Intelligent Are Dogs, Really? The Truth About Canine Smarts — And Which Type Fits Your Lifestyle

When people search for the most intelligent dogs, they often expect a simple ranking. But intelligence in dogs isn’t just…
Your Puppy Thinks The Crate Is Jail — Here’s How To Fix That
Puppies

Your Puppy Thinks The Crate Is Jail — Here’s How To Fix That

Crate training, when done effectively, can be a helpful tool. Not only does it provide your new puppy with a…
How Smart Is Your Dog? 10 Breeds That Outsmart The Rest
Breeds

How Smart Is Your Dog? 10 Breeds That Outsmart The Rest

What makes dogs smart? Is it their ability to learn new tricks, or how well they obey commands? However you…
How Much Should A Chihuahua Eat? (Bookmark This Feeding Chart)
Food

How Much Should A Chihuahua Eat? (Bookmark This Feeding Chart)

Are you the proud pet parent of an adorable Chihuahua? Learning what and how much to feed these sweet pups…
Pomeranian vs Chihuahua: Which Tiny Dog Is Right For You?
Breed Comparisons

Pomeranian vs Chihuahua: Which Tiny Dog Is Right For You?

Both the Pomeranian and the Chihuahua are pint-sized pooches with tremendous personalities! They are well-known for being charming and friendly,…
Is Your Dog Begging To Pee? Here’s How Long They Can Actually Hold It
Household

Is Your Dog Begging To Pee? Here’s How Long They Can Actually Hold It

Have you ever had your dog stare deep into your soul while you’re stuck in a meeting, silently pleading for…
Dog Mouthing vs Biting: How To Tell The Difference (And When To Worry)
Behavior

Dog Mouthing vs Biting: How To Tell The Difference (And When To Worry)

So, why does your dog mouth you all the time? And more importantly, how can you stop it without damaging…
Maltese Or Maltipoo? Tiny Dog, Big Decision
Breed Comparisons

Maltese Or Maltipoo? Tiny Dog, Big Decision

Are you curious about the Maltese vs. the Maltipoo? In this article, we review the attributes that make them similar…
Doberman Pinscher vs Rottweiler: Your Guide To The Best Breed For “Scary Dog Privilege”
Breed Comparisons

Doberman Pinscher vs Rottweiler: Your Guide To The Best Breed For “Scary Dog Privilege”

Are you thinking about a Doberman Pinscher or a Rottweiler as a homestead guardian or family protector? Both breeds are…
Is Your Dog Acting Like a Juiced-Up, Rage-Fueled Gym Bro? Here’s Why They’re Suddenly So Aggressive
Behavior

Is Your Dog Acting Like a Juiced-Up, Rage-Fueled Gym Bro? Here’s Why They’re Suddenly So Aggressive

Did your dog suddenly become aggressive to you or another animal? Perhaps your normally sweet pup became aggressive to someone…
Dog Shaking Like They’ve Had One Too Many Espresso Shots? What’s Normal & When To Worry
Behavior

Dog Shaking Like They’ve Had One Too Many Espresso Shots? What’s Normal & When To Worry

You look over, and your dog is standing there, fully awake, vibrating like they’ve had one too many espresso shots.…
Why Do Dogs Sniff Crotches? Our Researchers Dig In
Behavior

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…
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Two Doodles, Two Very Different Dogs — Here’s How To Choose
Breed Comparisons

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Two Doodles, Two Very Different Dogs — Here’s How To Choose

Thinking of adopting a curly-furred new companion but can't decide between the Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle? Either of these popular designer…
Hunting Dog Breeds: Choosing The Right Dog For Your Game, Terrain & Style
Breeds

Hunting Dog Breeds: Choosing The Right Dog For Your Game, Terrain & Style

The best hunting dog isn’t the most famous breed. It’s the one that matches your quarry, your terrain, and your…
Fireworks Freaking Out Your Dog? Here’s What Actually Helps
Anxiety

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…
Pet Sitting Or Boarding? One Choice Could Mean A Calmer, Happier Pup
Travel

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,…
Olde English Bulldogge vs English Bulldog: They Look Alike, But Living With Them Isn’t
Breed Comparisons

Olde English Bulldogge vs English Bulldog: They Look Alike, But Living With Them Isn’t

Choosing between an old english bulldog vs english bulldog isn’t just about looks. From breathing and mobility to energy levels,…
33 Pug Mixes: From Beloved Designer Dogs To Happy Accidents
Mixed Breeds

33 Pug Mixes: From Beloved Designer Dogs To Happy Accidents

Ever heard of a Frug? They're a French Bulldog × Pug, and they look like they snore through job interviews.…
Poodle vs Goldendoodle: Which One Actually Fits Your Life Better?
Breed Comparisons

Poodle vs Goldendoodle: Which One Actually Fits Your Life Better?

Can't decide between adopting a Goldendoodle or a Poodle? We look at these two very popular dog breeds and compare…
When Your Dog’s Love Language Is Physical Touch … And The Pawing Is Driving You Nuts!
Behavior

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.
Your Dog Growled At You. Here’s Why That Might Be A Good Thing
Behavior

Your Dog Growled At You. Here’s Why That Might Be A Good Thing

A dog growling can stop a moment cold. At my house, it starts the second someone knocks. Daisy, my 85-pound…
Your Dog Loses Their Mind Around Other Dogs: Dog-On-Dog Aggression Explained
Behavior

Your Dog Loses Their Mind Around Other Dogs: Dog-On-Dog Aggression Explained

Having an aggressive dog can cause a lot of concerns for owners. Often, it can be challenging to take your…
Think You Know Which Dog Breeds Attack The Most? The Truth May Surprise You
Behavior

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…
25 Flat-Faced Dogs That Look Like Nature Hit “Compress”
Breeds

25 Flat-Faced Dogs That Look Like Nature Hit “Compress”

Brachycephalic dog breeds are ones with flat faces and other associated respiratory abnormalities. They are super cute but are sometimes…
Raising A Rottweiler Puppy? Bookmark This Feeding Chart
Food

Raising A Rottweiler Puppy? Bookmark This Feeding Chart

Use this Rottweiler feeding chart to promote slow, steady growth until your puppy reaches adulthood.
Dog Teeth Cleaning: What Actually Matters (And What Most Owners Skip)
Care

Dog Teeth Cleaning: What Actually Matters (And What Most Owners Skip)

Does your dog hate getting their teeth brushed? Check out these 10 different DIY alternatives to using a toothbrush to…
9 Perfect Dog Breeds For Seniors: Your Ultimate Guide To Picking The Ideal Pup
Household

9 Perfect Dog Breeds For Seniors: Your Ultimate Guide To Picking The Ideal Pup

The later years of life can be lonely for some people. Finding a furry companion may be just the thing…
If Your Dog Stretches When They See You, This Is What They’re Really Saying
Behavior

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…
The Real Reason Dogs Get Zoomies — And Why It’s Kind Of About You
Behavior

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…
When Your Dog Poops & Stares At You… Here’s What It Means
Behavior

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

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…
The Sneaky Dog Flu Symptoms Most Owners Miss
Conditions

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…
Before The Vet Bill: 6 Dog Eye Discharge Home Remedies Every Pet Owner Needs
Conditions

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

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

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…
Your Dog Is The Worst WFH Coworker—Here’s How To Stay Sane
Household

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

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

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

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…