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.
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…
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…
Yorkshire Terrier vs Silky Terrier: They Look Almost Identical… So What’s The Difference?
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…
Want A Low-Shedding Dog? Here’s How Poodles Deliver (And Why Doodles Don’t Always Shed Less)
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…
Hot Dog Problems: How To Cool Your Pup Down Before They’re Fully Cooked
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…
Ozempic For Dogs? The Truth Behind The Trend
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…
Is Your Dog Acting Like a Juiced-Up, Rage-Fueled Gym Bro? Here’s Why They’re Suddenly So Aggressive
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…
Dachshunds: Low Clearance, Long Lifespan
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…
Is Your Dog At Risk? 10 Common Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues
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,…
Most English Bulldogs Are Overfed — Here’s Exactly How Much To Feed Yours
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…
Your Dog vs Your Garden: Why This Fight Keeps Happening (And How To Finally Win)
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…
Why Do Dogs Sleep On Their Backs? What It Really Means (And When To Worry)
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…
Dog People vs Cat People: The Surprisingly Real Personality Divide
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…
How Long Do French Bulldogs Really Live? The Answer Isn’t Simple
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…
Raising A Dachshund? Bookmark This Feeding Chart
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…
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 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,…
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…
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…