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.
Lumps On Dogs: Which Ones Are Normal — And Which Are Cancer?
Conditions
March 3, 2026
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
March 3, 2026
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
March 2, 2026
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
March 2, 2026
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
March 2, 2026
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,…
Your Puppy Thinks The Crate Is Jail — Here’s How To Fix That
Puppies
February 26, 2026
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
February 25, 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…
How Much Should A Chihuahua Eat? (Bookmark This Feeding Chart)
Food
February 23, 2026
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
February 18, 2026
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,…
Dog Mouthing vs Biting: How To Tell The Difference (And When To Worry)
Behavior
February 13, 2026
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
February 13, 2026
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…
Dog Shaking Like They’ve Had One Too Many Espresso Shots? What’s Normal & When To Worry
Behavior
February 11, 2026
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.…
Hunting Dog Breeds: Choosing The Right Dog For Your Game, Terrain & Style
Breeds
February 9, 2026
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
February 9, 2026
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
February 9, 2026
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
February 5, 2026
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,…
Your Dog Growled At You. Here’s Why That Might Be A Good Thing
Behavior
January 23, 2026
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
January 23, 2026
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
January 15, 2026
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
January 14, 2026
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
January 12, 2026
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
January 9, 2026
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…
When Your Dog Poops & Stares At You… Here’s What It Means
Behavior
December 17, 2025
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
December 8, 2025
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
December 1, 2025
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
November 24, 2025
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
November 12, 2025
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
November 11, 2025
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
November 7, 2025
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
November 7, 2025
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
October 31, 2025
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
October 28, 2025
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…
Spotify For Good Boys: How Music Really Affects Your Dog’s Mood
Household
October 17, 2025
Spotify For Good Boys: How Music Really Affects Your Dog’s Mood
Music can benefit both human and canine mental health in several key areas. The right music can help reduce anxiety,…
Pumpkin Puree For Dogs: The Magic Scoop That Can Solve Gut Problems Fast
Food
October 17, 2025
Pumpkin Puree For Dogs: The Magic Scoop That Can Solve Gut Problems Fast
Your dog’s poop is a disaster zone, and you’ve Googled every fix short of calling a priest. That’s when you…
What Would Scooby Do? The Ultimate Guide To Sharing Holiday (And Everyday) Foods with Your Dog
Food
October 10, 2025
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…
Breaking Bad Breath: How To Fix Your Dog’s Stinky Mouth (For Good)
Conditions
October 9, 2025
Breaking Bad Breath: How To Fix Your Dog’s Stinky Mouth (For Good)
If your dog’s kisses could strip paint, you’re not alone. Bad breath is one of the most common and most…
New Dog Bite Statistics Revealed: Top Dog Breeds Linked To Bites & Bite Risks
Behavior
October 5, 2025
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…
Best Probiotic For Dogs: Powder, Chewable, Capsule, Calming, For Dogs With Diarrhea, Allergies & More
Wellness
September 29, 2025
Best Probiotic For Dogs: Powder, Chewable, Capsule, Calming, For Dogs With Diarrhea, Allergies & More
Human probiotics have become a health craze due to their numerous benefits, but have you considered them for your furry…
Dog Fighting Facts: We Need To Break The Chain
Behavior
September 23, 2025
Dog Fighting Facts: We Need To Break The Chain
Dogfighting is not a relic of the past. Across the United States, federal agents and rescue teams continue to uncover…
Avoid Puppy Scams: A Step-By-Step Guide To Finding Ethical Breeders
Breeds
September 17, 2025
Avoid Puppy Scams: A Step-By-Step Guide To Finding Ethical Breeders
Congratulations! Adding a new dog to your family is exciting, but you'll want to know who you should avoid when…
Boost Your Dog’s Health With These 8 Homemade Meals
Food
August 29, 2025
Boost Your Dog’s Health With These 8 Homemade Meals
Imagine if you had to eat the same food every day of your life. Beyond being painfully dull, wouldn’t you…
Butt Ballet: Why Your Dog Is Pirouetting Across The Carpet (and How To Stop The Scooting)
Care
August 27, 2025
Butt Ballet: Why Your Dog Is Pirouetting Across The Carpet (and How To Stop The Scooting)
From blocked anal glands to itchy skin, there are many reasons your dog might be performing a full-on butt ballet…
Cakes For Dogs: Easy Recipes Your Pup Will Drool Over
Food
August 25, 2025
Cakes For Dogs: Easy Recipes Your Pup Will Drool Over
Pets have crossed the line from the animal world into the human world. It is not uncommon for people to…
Best Electronic & Smart Dog Doors
Household
August 21, 2025
Best Electronic & Smart Dog Doors
Does your pup want to go in and out of the house all day long? A smart dog door might…
Why Is My Dog Acting Like a Nervous Teen? 8 Reasons They’re Chewing Their Nails
Care
August 13, 2025
Why Is My Dog Acting Like a Nervous Teen? 8 Reasons They’re Chewing Their Nails
When dogs start biting their nails it can cause owners to be concerned. Is this behavior normal? Why do dogs…
Dog Sneezing Like Crazy? 8 Reasons Behind That Achoo Attack
Behavior
August 1, 2025
Dog Sneezing Like Crazy? 8 Reasons Behind That Achoo Attack
Trying to figure out why your dog is sneezing all the time? There's actually a number of different reasons this…
Your Dog Is Not Joey Chestnut: Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs Or Should They Sit This One Out?
Food
July 24, 2025
Your Dog Is Not Joey Chestnut: Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs Or Should They Sit This One Out?
A hot dog cooked on the grill may seem simply irresistible to your furry friend; what’s not to love? But…
5 Grain-Free Dog Treats So Good, You’ll Want To Try Them Too
Food
July 24, 2025
5 Grain-Free Dog Treats So Good, You’ll Want To Try Them Too
Looking for the perfect grain-free dog treat to feed to your pup? Here are five fantastic DIY treat options that…
Tractive Reviews: Is This GPS Dog Tracker Reliable?
Gear
July 15, 2025
Tractive Reviews: Is This GPS Dog Tracker Reliable?
Do you have an adventure pup or an escape artist that requires constant monitoring? We review the popular GPS LTE…
8 Best Ice Cream Treats For Dogs: Ready-To-Eat, Mix-And-Freeze, Subscription & More
Food
July 11, 2025
8 Best Ice Cream Treats For Dogs: Ready-To-Eat, Mix-And-Freeze, Subscription & More
We review recipes, ingredients, sourcing, and more to pick out the best ice cream for dogs.