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.
How Smart Is Your Dog? 10 Breeds That Outsmart The Rest
Breeds
17 hours ago
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…
20 Dog Breeds That Age Like Fine Wine (Healthy, Long-Lived & Fewer Vet Visits)
Breeds
17 hours ago
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,…
The 15 Easiest Dogs To Live With As You Get Older (Ranked By Lifestyle)
Household
17 hours ago
The 15 Easiest Dogs To Live With As You Get Older (Ranked By Lifestyle)
The later years of life can be lonely for some people. Finding a furry companion may be just the thing…
What Would Scooby Do? The Ultimate Guide To Sharing Holiday (And Everyday) Foods with Your Dog
Food
22 hours ago
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…
Why Does My Dog Lick Me? What They’re Really Trying to Say
Behavior
2 days ago
Why Does My Dog Lick Me? What They’re Really Trying to Say
Does your best furry friend shower you with her slobbery tongue all the time? If so, you may wonder, why…
15 Dogs That Are Easier To Live With Than You’d Think
Breeds
3 days ago
15 Dogs That Are Easier To Live With Than You’d Think
Some dogs have a reputation for being intimidating, hyperactive, or high-maintenance, but appearances can be deceiving. Discover 15 breeds that…
Dog Poop Color Guide: What Each Color Means & When to Call the Vet
Wellness
3 days ago
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…
20 Dogs That Act Tough But Are Actually Big Softies
Breeds
1 week ago
20 Dogs That Act Tough But Are Actually Big Softies
Some dogs have intimidating looks, but their personalities tell a completely different story. From loyal guardians and gentle giants to…
20 Rottweiler Mixes That Are Anything But Basic
Mixed Breeds
2 weeks ago
20 Rottweiler Mixes That Are Anything But Basic
Are you thinking of adopting a Rottweiler mix, but aren't sure which one is a perfect fit? Or are you…
Can Dogs Eat Cabbage? Learn About This Silent Killer (Of Fresh Air)
Food
2 weeks ago
Can Dogs Eat Cabbage? Learn About This Silent Killer (Of Fresh Air)
Can dogs eat cabbage? Veterinarian Dr. Holly Anne Hills takes a closer look at the benefits of cabbage for dogs.…
My Dog Loses It Around Other Dogs—Is It Aggression Or Reactivity?
Behavior
2 weeks ago
My Dog Loses It Around Other Dogs—Is It Aggression Or Reactivity?
Does your dog bark, lunge, or growl at other dogs? Learn how to tell aggression from reactivity, identify common triggers,…
6 Dog Habits That Mean They Trust You
Behavior
3 weeks ago
6 Dog Habits That Mean They Trust You
Your dog may be showing you just how much they trust you without you even realizing it. From sleeping soundly…
Why Does My Dog Check On Me? The Sweet Reason They Keep Making Sure You’re Still There
Behavior
3 weeks ago
Why Does My Dog Check On Me? The Sweet Reason They Keep Making Sure You’re Still There
Ever notice your dog quietly peeking into the room before walking away again? If you've wondered, "Why does my dog…
Lhasa Apso vs. Shih Tzu: Which Tiny Dog Is Right For You?
Breed Comparisons
3 weeks ago
Lhasa Apso vs. Shih Tzu: Which Tiny Dog Is Right For You?
Have you settled on adopting a small dog, but can't decide between the Lhasa Apso or the Shih Tzu? Both…
Before The Vet Bill: 6 Dog Eye Discharge Home Remedies Every Pet Owner Needs
Conditions
4 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…
Blue Heeler vs Australian Cattle Dog: What’s The Difference?
Breed Comparisons
June 29, 2026
Blue Heeler vs Australian Cattle Dog: What’s The Difference?
Is there a difference between the Australian Cattle Dog and the Blue Heeler? Yes and no. They are the same…
Would You Trust An Invisible Fence For Your Dog?
Training
June 26, 2026
Would You Trust An Invisible Fence For Your Dog?
Would you trust an invisible fence with your dog? Discover how invisible fences work, what can go wrong, which dogs…
Why Does My Dog Bring Me Random Things? What They’re Really Trying To Say
Behavior
June 25, 2026
Why Does My Dog Bring Me Random Things? What They’re Really Trying To Say
Whether it's a dirty sock, favorite toy, shoe, or stick, dogs often carry objects to communicate. Learn what this quirky…
Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute: Which Arctic Dog Fits Your Life?
Breed Comparisons
June 23, 2026
Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute: Which Arctic Dog Fits Your Life?
Are you trying to decide between the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky for your next pup? These two stunning…
Foods That Could Kill Your Dog (And the Ones That Just Wreck Their Stomach)
Food
June 16, 2026
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.…
If Your Dog Stretches When They See You, This Is What They’re Really Saying
Behavior
June 15, 2026
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…
33 Pug Mixes: From Beloved Designer Dogs To Happy Accidents
Mixed Breeds
June 12, 2026
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.…
Love Cats But Want A Dog? These 15 Breeds Offer The Best Of Both Worlds
Breeds
June 12, 2026
Love Cats But Want A Dog? These 15 Breeds Offer The Best Of Both Worlds
Not all dogs are outgoing, attention-seeking extroverts. Some prefer watching the world from the back of the couch, lounging in…
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Tiny Clown Or Classic Couch Potato?
Breed Comparisons
June 8, 2026
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Tiny Clown Or Classic Couch Potato?
Are you thinking of adopting a bulldog but can't decide between the French Bulldog vs. English Bulldog? They both have…
The Real Reason Dogs Get Zoomies — And Why It’s Kind Of About You
Behavior
June 4, 2026
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 Rests Their Head On You, Here’s What They’re Really Saying
Behavior
June 3, 2026
When Your Dog Rests Their Head On You, Here’s What They’re Really Saying
If your dog loves resting their head on your lap, chest, or shoulder, they may be telling you more than…
Cane Corso vs Dogo Argentino: Same Intimidating Look, Completely Different Experience
Breed Comparisons
June 2, 2026
Cane Corso vs Dogo Argentino: Same Intimidating Look, Completely Different Experience
The Dogo Argentino and Cane Corso are athletic, muscular breeds with big reputations. While they can be confused for each…
Mini Goldendoodle Health Issues: 10 Problems Owners Should Know About
Conditions
June 2, 2026
Mini Goldendoodle Health Issues: 10 Problems Owners Should Know About
Mini Goldendoodles may be adorable, affectionate, and low-shedding, but they aren’t free from inherited health problems. From chronic allergies and…
How Much Should A French Bulldog Eat? (Bookmark This Feeding Chart)
Food
June 1, 2026
How Much Should A French Bulldog Eat? (Bookmark This Feeding Chart)
French Bulldogs are a popular and adorable breed. They need a lot of care and top-quality nutrition throughout their lives.…
Why Do Dogs Nuzzle You? (What That Little Nose Nudge Really Means)
Behavior
May 29, 2026
Why Do Dogs Nuzzle You? (What That Little Nose Nudge Really Means)
Why do dogs nuzzle you? Learn what your dog’s nose nudges really mean, from affection and attention-seeking to communication and…
Doberman Pinscher vs Rottweiler: Your Guide To The Best Breed For “Scary Dog Privilege”
Breed Comparisons
May 29, 2026
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…
Why Does My Dog Press Against Me? The Meaning Behind “The Lean”
Behavior
May 29, 2026
Why Does My Dog Press Against Me? The Meaning Behind “The Lean”
Whether your dog presses against your leg in the kitchen, melts into you on the couch, or slowly backs into…
English Mastiff vs Neapolitan Mastiff: Which Giant Guardian Fits Your Life Better?
Breed Comparisons
May 28, 2026
English Mastiff vs Neapolitan Mastiff: Which Giant Guardian Fits Your Life Better?
English Mastiffs and Neapolitan Mastiffs are both massive, loyal guardian breeds, but living with them feels very different day to…
When Your Dog’s Love Language Is Physical Touch … And The Pawing Is Driving You Nuts!
Behavior
May 26, 2026
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.
67 Poodle Mixes You Need To See (From Adorable To Totally Unique)
Mixed Breeds
May 26, 2026
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?…
Is Your Dog Begging To Pee? Here’s How Long They Can Actually Hold It
Household
May 21, 2026
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…
The Sad Truth About Dog Depression (And How To Bring Back The Wag)
Conditions
May 21, 2026
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…
Why Dogs Run Away — And What To Do If Yours Does
Behavior
May 20, 2026
Why Dogs Run Away — And What To Do If Yours Does
Why do dogs run away, even from loving homes? Sometimes it’s fear. Sometimes it’s instinct. Sometimes it’s a squirrel and…
Why Dogs Go Straight For The Crotch: The Science Behind The Sniff
Behavior
May 20, 2026
Why Dogs Go Straight For The Crotch: The Science Behind The Sniff
If dogs ran the world, privacy wouldn’t exist. No secret would be safe—not your emotions, not your medical history, and…
12 Dogs That Look Like Coyotes (And Might Make People Do A Double Take)
Breeds
May 19, 2026
12 Dogs That Look Like Coyotes (And Might Make People Do A Double Take)
Are you seeking a touch of the wild in your home? Maybe you've always dreamed of owning a coyote, but…
27 High-Maintenance Breeds: These Dogs Will Test Your Patience, Wallet & Lifestyle
Breeds
May 18, 2026
27 High-Maintenance Breeds: These Dogs Will Test Your Patience, Wallet & Lifestyle
Picture this: you’re scrolling through adorable puppy photos, imagining snuggles, wagging tails, and your new furry best friend trotting happily…
How Intelligent Are Dogs, Really? The Truth About Canine Smarts — And Which Type Fits Your Lifestyle
Breeds
May 15, 2026
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…
Bernedoodle vs Sheepadoodle: Which Doodle Actually Fits Your Life?
Breed Comparisons
May 12, 2026
Bernedoodle vs Sheepadoodle: Which Doodle Actually Fits Your Life?
Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles may look similar, but daily life with them can feel completely different. One tends to be calmer…
Why Does My Dog Hate One Specific Person? What They Might Be Sensing
Behavior
May 12, 2026
Why Does My Dog Hate One Specific Person? What They Might Be Sensing
Do dogs pick favorites? Absolutely — and while many pups form strong bonds with one person in the household, they’re…
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Two Doodles, Two Very Different Dogs — Here’s How To Choose
Breed Comparisons
May 7, 2026
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…
Poodle vs Goldendoodle: Which One Actually Fits Your Life Better?
Breed Comparisons
May 7, 2026
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…
Dogs That Can Be Left Alone: 20 Breeds That Handle It Better
Breeds
May 1, 2026
Dogs That Can Be Left Alone: 20 Breeds That Handle It Better
Leaving your dog home alone shouldn’t feel like a gamble, but for many owners, it does. The good news? Most…
Is Your Terrier At Risk? 10 Common Jack Russell Terrier Health Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore
Conditions
April 22, 2026
Is Your Terrier At Risk? 10 Common Jack Russell Terrier Health Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore
Jack Russell Terriers are tough, energetic, and long-lived, but they are not immune to health problems. From inherited eye conditions…
Booped By A Wet Snoot? Here’s Why Your Dog’s Nose Is Always Wet
Conditions
April 22, 2026
Booped By A Wet Snoot? Here’s Why Your Dog’s Nose Is Always Wet
We're sure you've found yourself telling your dog to get that cold, wet nose out of your personal space at…
The Softest Dogs You’ll Ever Pet (And Which One Is Right For You)
Breeds
April 20, 2026
The Softest Dogs You’ll Ever Pet (And Which One Is Right For You)
You know those dogs you pet once and immediately think, “Oh my gosh, they’re so soft”? Not all soft coats…