• 🐶 8 ways to honor your pup’s life

• 🥰 10 of the longest-living breeds

• 🐾 Tailored nutrition for a happy, healthy dog

• 🦴 DOTD - Meet Maverick

• ❤️ A special word from our pups

Did you know…

Who was the oldest dog?

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Losing your fur baby is a heart-wrenching experience nobody is ever truly prepared for. Even though we know they can’t be with us forever, it doesn’t make it any less painful when the day comes—or even just thinking about it.

I never would have imagined my first dog loss would be my brave, blind, baby boy (his pet name). He was only four years old and I thought we had so much more time together—I pictured him being with me through many more of life’s highs and lows and growing old by my side.

But life had other plans. It was one of the first times in my life when I felt completely helpless: no amount of money, time, or love could bring him back.

He went into an Addisonian crisis before we even knew he had Addison’s disease. After multiple nights at the emergency vet, blood transfusions, and treatments, he came home with a complicated medication routine. The vets said he would be okay, but just three days later proved he wasn’t. I can still feel him in my arms.

Whether your pup's loss was unexpected or you knew their time was near, finding ways to memorialize and honor their life can bring solace. Remember, they’ll always be one of the best parts of your life and forever in your heart.

Here are 8 ways to create a beautiful tribute to your pup, no matter how long or short your time with them may have been.

1. Create a Photo Album

Print out pictures of your pup—your favorites, the funny ones, the sweet close-ups, all the ones that capture their personality—and put them into a photo album. Add captions with your memories of each moment, or write them from your pup’s perspective. It’s always fun to imagine what they’d say if they could talk (we all know what our pup’s voice would sound like), and it’s a beautiful way to keep their spirit alive. Whatever feels right to you. It’ll be so comforting to flip through the album whenever you want to see them.

2. Set Up a Memorial Garden

If your pup loved to relax or sunbathe in a certain spot in the yard, create a dedicated outdoor space in their memory. Even if they didn’t have a special place, you can still design an area where you can visit, reflect on their memory, and talk to them if that brings you comfort. You could add a garden stone with their name, plant a tree, an engraved bench, or a path with flowers. If you have your pup’s ashes or something they cherished, you could bury either in this special spot.

3. Preserve Their Paw Print

There are many ways to save your dog’s paw print—whether in ink, salt dough, or paint. You could do this while they’re still with you, perhaps when making Christmas ornaments or other crafts. If you didn’t have the chance or never got around to it, many veterinary clinics offer this service when your pup crosses the rainbow bridge. You can keep their paw print in a memory box, turn it into artwork, or even create jewelry with it. Sometimes, we don’t realize how special their paw prints are to us until we can’t hold them anymore.

4. Host a Memorial Service

Gather family, friends, and anyone else who loves your pup to share stories and memories. This can be a comforting way to say goodbye and celebrate their life. The day will likely be filled with both tears—happy and sad—and plenty of laughs as everyone shares their memories of your beloved pup. This is a beautiful way to honor your dog’s life if you’re looking for a more experience-based memorialization rather than something physical.

5. Display Their Favorite Items

Frame your pup’s collar, favorite toy, or other loved belongings. Displaying these items can be a comforting way to keep their memory alive in your home. But if this feels too painful, that’s perfectly okay, too—do what feels right for you.

6. Customize Art or Jewelry

Turn a favorite photo into a custom portrait in whatever style you’d like, or have your pup’s name or picture engraved into a piece of jewelry. Some artists can even incorporate a portion of your dog’s ashes into their creations. I have a locket necklace with my pup’s picture and his little baby tooth—I wear it whenever I need a piece of him with me.

7. Get a Tattoo

Getting a tattoo as a tribute to your dog is becoming more popular, and there are countless styles to bring your vision to life. Whether it's a detailed portrait, a simple paw print, or their name, tattoo artists can create anything you’d like. it's a lasting reminder of your pup that you’ll carry with you forever.

8. Celebrate Their Birthday or Passing Anniversary

Honor your pup’s birthday or the anniversary of their passing each year. Take time to reflect on their life, look through old photos, visit a place that was meaningful to both of you, or celebrate in any way that feels right. It’s going to be a tough day for the first few years, but over time, it might become a day you welcome – a day to remember your pup when life looks different.

We hope this brings you some comfort or peace if you're going through a loss right now—or even helps you to know there are ways to keep your pup's memory alive when the time comes. If you have anything to share, we’re here to listen.

We all wish our pups could stay with us forever. Imagine if they could stick by our side until we're the ones heading off into the sunset. I know we can't promise forever, but there are some breeds known to be long-time companions. If you're looking for a pup who can be with you for as long as possible, check out these 9 longest-living dog breeds!

1. Chihuahua

These tiny pups consistently rank as one of the longest-living dog breeds. Chihuahuas are loyal, energetic, and have a bit of sass. They’ll stick with you for a good 14-16 years, but some have been known to reach 20! Small but mighty, they are one of the healthiest breeds, though they can develop heart problems as they age.

2. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are affectionate, brave for their size, and never shy about using their voice when needed! These little lap dogs may only weigh a few pounds, but they can live to be 11-15 years old. Just keep an eye on their health, as they can be prone to a few issues like tracheal collapse.

3. Lhasa Apso

Seeing a Lhasa Apso in the flesh feels like spotting a unicorn with their luxurious long fur and regal presence. Originally bred to protect Tibetan palaces, these confident pups are loyal and can live 12-15 years, with some even making it to 20! Just keep an eye on their health—those adorable eyes can be prone to a few issues over time.

4. Australian Cattle Dog

If you've got an active lifestyle, the Australian Cattle Dog is your perfect match. These energetic pups need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to thrive and are known for their herding skills. They can live up to 12-16 years, which is impressive for their size. Fun fact: an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey holds the record for the longest-living dog, reaching about 30 years old!

5. Toy Poodle

Smart, hypoallergenic, and full of personality, Toy Poodles are not just a favorite for families—they’re also long-lived, with some making it to 18 years! These little brainiacs love to learn and are eager to please their humans.

6. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus were bred to be the ultimate companion pups, and they live up to the title! Outgoing, loving, and always ready for a cuddle, these perfect lap dogs can stick by your side for up to 18 years. However, their adorable little snouts can cause breathing issues, so be sure to keep them cool during those hot summer days.

7. Russell Terrier

Small but fierce, Russell Terriers (along with their Parson Russell cousins) are energetic little bundles always ready for action. These pups love outdoor activities, hikes, and anything that keeps them focused and moving. They’ll keep you on your toes for up to 14 years!

8. Papillon

Named after the French word for butterfly (thanks to their adorable, wing-like ears), Papillons are as beautiful as they are long-lived. These small pups can live 14-16 years.

9. Beagle

Curious and independent, Beagles are full of personality. These adventurous pups are happiest when exploring the outdoors, so get ready for plenty of walks (and be prepared for a quick dash if they spot a rabbit or a squirrel!). They have a lifespan of 12-15 years, but their adorable floppy ears do need some extra attention to prevent infections.

There’s nothing better than seeing your dog healthy, happy, and thriving—and it all starts with the right nutrition. That’s where Royal Canin comes in, with their breed-specific formulas that do so much more than just fill your dog’s bowl.

Every breed is special, and Royal Canin knows that. Their food is tailor-made to match your dog’s specific health needs, right down to the shape and texture of the kibble. It’s designed to fit your dog’s muzzle and eating habits, making every meal not just nutritious but also enjoyable.

Whether it’s supporting strong bones and joints, boosting digestion, or keeping their coat looking fabulous, Royal Canin’s got your pup’s unique needs covered.

Royal Canin is more than just dog food—it’s the key to helping your dog live their best life.

For a limited time only, spend $50 on Royal Canin Dog & Cat food and get 5,000 Treats Rewards points (excludes Vet diet) at PetSmart.com!

Thank you to Royal Canin for sponsoring Daily Dig.

At Daily Dig, we believe tailored nutrition is the secret ingredient to keep your dog happy and healthy. That’s why we wanted to secure this exclusive offer for readers.

For a limited time only, spend $50 on Royal Canin Dog & Cat food and get 5,000 Treats Rewards points (excludes Vet diet) at PetSmart.com!

Daily Dig is inspired and brought to you by our wonderful dogs. Our dogs, and all the other pups out there, make the world a happier, brighter place. ❤️

With lots of love,

Stitcher, Minnie, & Finnegan 🐾

🦴 A Little Treat

🤔 Did You Know: An Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey holds the record as the oldest dog ever. He was born in 1910 and lived for 29 years and 5 months.

🐶 DOTD: Give your pup the spotlight by submitting them for the dog of the day! This month's theme is pawsitive pups. Reply to this email with the best pics of your dog happy, smiling, or just having an all-around great time. Be sure to include a short description and their name to be featured in an upcoming newsletter.

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