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.
Why Is My Dog Suddenly Digging? 7 Reasons & How To Stop It
Behavior
1 week ago
Why Is My Dog Suddenly Digging? 7 Reasons & How To Stop It
When your dog suddenly digs up the yard, look at where, when, and why it happens. These clues can reveal…
Things Dogs Do When They’re Jealous: 10 Ways They Say, “What About Me?”
Behavior
2 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…
Why Do Dogs Howl? 7 Reasons Your Dog Has Joined The Choir
Behavior
2 weeks ago
Why Do Dogs Howl? 7 Reasons Your Dog Has Joined The Choir
Wondering why do dogs howl at sirens? Does your dog howl every time an ambulance or emergency vehicle rolls by?…
Your Dog Is Afraid Of… A Trash Bag? 14 Surprisingly Common Dog Fears
Anxiety
2 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…
Why Is My Dog Eating Wood? When Chewing Sticks Becomes Dangerous
Behavior
2 weeks ago
Why Is My Dog Eating Wood? When Chewing Sticks Becomes Dangerous
Dogs chew on wood because they like chewing on things. That's why you see dogs play with chew toys, and…
The 15 Easiest Dogs To Live With As You Get Older (Ranked By Lifestyle)
Household
2 weeks 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…
Think You Know Which Dog Breeds Attack The Most? The Truth May Surprise You
Behavior
2 weeks 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…
New Dog Bite Statistics Revealed: Top Dog Breeds Linked To Bites & Bite Risks
Behavior
2 weeks ago
New Dog Bite Statistics Revealed: Top Dog Breeds Linked To Bites & Bite Risks
According to a study from the Center For Disease Control (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States…
9 Things Dogs Do When They’re Overtired: The Wild Signs They Need A Nap
Behavior
3 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.…
Is Your Golden Hiding One Of These 6 Common Health Problems?
Conditions
3 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…
Why Is My Dog Suddenly So Quiet? When Calm May Mean Something’s Wrong
Behavior
3 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,…
The Sad Truth About Dog Depression (And How To Bring Back The Wag)
Conditions
3 weeks ago
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…
Non‑Shedding Dogs: 33 Breeds That Won’t Leave Fur Everywhere
Breeds
3 weeks ago
Non‑Shedding Dogs: 33 Breeds That Won’t Leave Fur Everywhere
Are you tired of wearing your dog’s fur like a second sweater or serving it as seasoning for your dinner?…
Is Your Dog Mouthing Or Biting? Here’s How To Tell
Behavior
4 weeks ago
Is Your Dog Mouthing Or Biting? Here’s How To Tell
Why does your dog keep mouthing you, and when does it cross the line from playful to problematic? We explain…
Why Is My Dog Licking The Floor? It’s Not Always About The Crumbs
Behavior
4 weeks ago
Why Is My Dog Licking The Floor? It’s Not Always About The Crumbs
An occasional lick may mean your dog found a missed crumb. Sudden, frequent, or frantic floor licking can point to…
Your Dog Knows What They Did… Or Do They?
Behavior
August 14, 2026
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?…
Dog Scratching Your Floors? 7 Reasons Why & How To Stop It
Behavior
August 11, 2026
Dog Scratching Your Floors? 7 Reasons Why & How To Stop It
Dogs scratching at the floor is a common behavior. Pet owners often see their pups digging outside, pawing at the…
20 Dog Breeds That Age Like Fine Wine (Healthy, Long-Lived & Fewer Vet Visits)
Breeds
August 9, 2026
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,…
How Smart Is Your Dog? 10 Breeds That Outsmart The Rest
Breeds
August 6, 2026
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…
Dog Poisoning Symptoms: What To Watch For & What To Do Next
Conditions
August 5, 2026
Dog Poisoning Symptoms: What To Watch For & What To Do Next
Recognizing dog poison symptoms early can make all the difference in an emergency. Learn the most common warning signs, what…
16 Dog Breeds That Are Surprisingly Quiet
Breeds
August 4, 2026
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…
My Dog Loses It Around Other Dogs—Is It Aggression Or Reactivity?
Behavior
August 3, 2026
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,…
What Would Scooby Do? The Ultimate Guide To Sharing Holiday (And Everyday) Foods with Your Dog
Food
July 31, 2026
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
July 30, 2026
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
July 29, 2026
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
July 29, 2026
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
July 22, 2026
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
July 17, 2026
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
July 15, 2026
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.…
6 Dog Habits That Mean They Trust You
Behavior
July 14, 2026
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
July 14, 2026
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
July 13, 2026
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
July 7, 2026
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…