Did someone say, “W-A-L-K”? Whether you’re exploring a new trail or hitting your tried-and-true neighborhood loop, taking regular walks with your dog can have many positive effects on her health—and yours.

Here are the top six reasons you should add a stroll with your best friend to your daily routine:

Dogs may be man’s best friend, but that doesn’t mean we’re not occasionally embarrassed or downright disgusted by some of their habits. From rear-sniffing to rolling in anything with a repulsive smell, nothing seems to be quite as offensive to dog lovers as coprophagia—that is, eating poop.

When it comes to your dog’s physical and mental health, daily walks and play sessions are key. Besides keeping your pet in shape, exercise acts as the equalizer against all bad behaviors, helping to keep a variety of problems—like inappropriate elimination, anxiety, eating disorders, attention seeking, aggression, and barking—at bay.

Preparing for a new baby is exciting. There’s setting up a nursery, new toys, clothes, and bedding for starters. Then, there’s caring for yourself as a soon-to-be new parent. You might be taking prenatal yoga classes, visiting the doctor, and watching your diet to make sure your baby is getting needed nutrition.

You know it’s going to be a big adjustment for your family, including your pets.

Receiving slobbery kisses from our canine companions is part of the dog-loving package, but do you ever wonder why they do this?

Turns out, there are lots of reasons dogs like to put their tongues on you, ranging from instinct, to affection, to stress. Let’s take a look.

June 21st is National Dog Party Day, and more pet parents than ever are throwing birthday bashes for their pooch. Before you bust out the treats and toys and let the dogs loose, there are a few things you should consider to create a successful, safe, and fun event!

It’s no secret that dogs are sociable creatures who are happiest being with others and having something to do. Not to get overly philosophical, but everyone needs a purpose.

Plus, dogs are like toddlers. If you don’t give them a constructive focus, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves, such as pulling all of the stuffing out of each cushion on your new couch, or enjoying four or five shoes -- each from a different pair. Not that we’ve had any experience with such things…

Now that the long winter is finally over, the dog parks are coming alive with the sounds of frolicking pups. For many dogs, these off-leash parks are an important part of sociability, not to mention exercise.