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.

Breed Comparisons

3 days ago

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

They may look alike, but living with an Olde English Bulldogge and an English Bulldog can be surprisingly different. From…

4 days ago

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…

6 days 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…

Breeds

6 days ago

20 Healthiest Dog Breeds For Seniors: Finding Your Perfect Companion

Looking for a healthy dog to share your golden years? These 20 healthiest dog breeds for seniors combine impressive longevity…

1 week ago

How Fast Can A Dog Run? Average Speed, Fastest & Slowest Breeds

Have you noticed how fast or slow your dog is compared to other canines when they sprint off together at…

1 week ago

Hot Dog Problems: How To Cool Your Pup Down Before They’re Fully Cooked

Your dog’s not being dramatic. They're overheating. When they're panting like a busted fan and flopped on the kitchen tile…

1 week ago

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…

1 week ago

Why Is My Dog Restless At Night? 10 Reasons They Won’t Settle

Why do dogs get restless at night? A bathroom break, an unfamiliar sound or a change in routine may be…

2 weeks ago

8 Everyday Sounds Your Dog Hears That You Probably Don’t

Your house might seem perfectly quiet, but your dog could be hearing an entire world of sounds you never notice.…

2 weeks ago

Maltese Dog Haircuts: 11 Cute Cuts & How To Choose

Maltese dog haircuts can transform your pup from fluffy cloud to tiny supermodel in a single visit. This guide breaks…

2 weeks ago

Houston, We Have A Walk Problem: Why Your Dog Won’t Budge

Does your dog suddenly turn into a four-legged roadblock halfway through a walk? Whether they're staging a sidewalk sit-in or…

2 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…

Breeds

2 weeks ago

22 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,…

3 weeks ago

Why Does My Dog Press Against Me? The Meaning Behind “The Lean”

Does your dog lean against your legs, press closer during cuddles, or practically melt into you? This sweet, sometimes puzzling…

Breeds

3 weeks ago

18 Large Dog Breeds Built To Last (Healthy, Long-Lived & Fewer Vet Visits)

Big dogs may have shorter lifespans on average, but some breeds defy expectations. Discover 18 of the healthiest large dog…

3 weeks ago

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?…

Breed Comparisons

4 weeks ago

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Which Fits Your Life Better?

Thinking of adopting a curly-furred new companion but can't decide between the Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle? Either of these popular designer…

4 weeks ago

More Snoozing, Less Zooming: What’s Up With Your Dog?

Your dog slept through their “W-A-L-K,” and now you’re wondering what changed. Extra naps can follow a busy day, but…

4 weeks ago

Things Dogs Do When They’re Jealous: 10 Ways They Say, “What About Me?”

Pawing, barking, stealing another pet’s spot, and other perfectly timed interruptions can look a lot like jealousy. Here is what…

4 weeks ago

Why Is My Dog Suddenly So Quiet? When Calm May Mean Something’s Wrong

Is your normally playful, social, or vocal dog suddenly acting unusually quiet? Learn how to distinguish ordinary tiredness from stress,…

4 weeks ago

9 Things Dogs Do When They’re Overtired: The Wild Signs They Need A Nap

Overtired dogs do not always look sleepy. They may race around, nip, bark, chew, ignore commands, or struggle to settle.…

4 weeks ago

Your Dog Knows What They Did… Or Do They?

That tucked tail, lowered head, and sideways glance sure look guilty. But does your dog really know what they did?…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

16 Dog Breeds That Are Surprisingly Quiet

Looking for a dog that won't bark at every little noise? While no breed is completely silent, some are naturally…

Breeds

4 weeks 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…

4 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…

4 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…

Breeds

4 weeks 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…

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

Anxiety

4 weeks ago

Your Dog Is Afraid Of… A Trash Bag? 14 Surprisingly Common Dog Fears

What are dogs scared of, and why do some reactions seem so random? From loud noises and strangers to slippery…

4 weeks ago

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…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks 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…

4 weeks ago

My Dog Lost 30 Pounds in 5 Months! Find Out How

When I adopted Rio, I wanted to give him a second chance at a healthier future. Like many rescue dogs,…

Food

4 weeks ago

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…

Health

4 weeks ago

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…

Breed Comparisons

4 weeks ago

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…

Food

4 weeks ago

Raising A Rottweiler Puppy? Bookmark This Feeding Chart

Use this Rottweiler feeding chart to promote slow, steady growth until your puppy reaches adulthood.

Food

4 weeks 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…

4 weeks ago

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…

4 weeks ago

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…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

Dachshunds: Low Clearance, Long Lifespan

Are you curious to know how long your Dachshund might be with you? Or are you looking at ways to…