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.

Food

1 day ago

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.…

Behavior

2 days 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…

Mixed Breeds

5 days ago

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.…

Breeds

5 days 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…

Breed Comparisons

1 week ago

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…

Behavior

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…

Behavior

2 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…

Breed Comparisons

2 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…

Conditions

2 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…

Food

2 weeks ago

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.…

Behavior

3 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…

Breed Comparisons

3 weeks ago

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…

Behavior

3 weeks ago

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…

Breed Comparisons

3 weeks ago

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…

Behavior

3 weeks ago

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.

Mixed Breeds

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?…

Household

4 weeks 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…

Conditions

4 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…

Behavior

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…

Behavior

4 weeks ago

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…

Breeds

4 weeks 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,…

Breeds

4 weeks ago

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Breed Comparisons

May 12, 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…

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…

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…

Mixed Breeds

May 7, 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…

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…

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…

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…

Wellness

April 21, 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…

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…

Breed Comparisons

April 16, 2026

Yorkshire Terrier vs Silky Terrier: They Look Almost Identical… So What’s The Difference?

Are you thinking about adding a tiny companion to your life? In this article, we analyze the differences and similarities…

Grooming

April 9, 2026

Want A Low-Shedding Dog? Here’s How Poodles Deliver (And Why Doodles Don’t Always Shed Less)

Are you thinking of getting a Poodle puppy from a breeder or adopting one from a shelter? You will want…

Household

April 6, 2026

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…

Household

April 2, 2026

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…

Health

April 2, 2026

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…

Anxiety

April 1, 2026

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…

Behavior

April 1, 2026

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…

Breeds

March 30, 2026

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…

Conditions

March 24, 2026

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,…

Food

March 20, 2026

Most English Bulldogs Are Overfed — Here’s Exactly How Much To Feed Yours

Are you hoping to learn more about how much to feed your English Bulldog puppy? Fear not, we have everything…

Household

March 18, 2026

Your Dog vs Your Garden: Why This Fight Keeps Happening (And How To Finally Win)

The needs of your pets and the needs of your garden can sometimes clash. Many elements of gardens can be…

Behavior

March 18, 2026

Why Do Dogs Sleep On Their Backs? What It Really Means (And When To Worry)

Ever catch your dog passed out on their back, legs splayed like roadkill, tongue flopped out like they just ran…

Resources

March 18, 2026

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

March 17, 2026

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…

Food

March 9, 2026

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…