Why does my dog…

Why does my dog “freeze” during play sometimes?

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Dogs may not speak our language, but they have their own way of letting us know when dinner was a hit. One of the most endearing? Something known as the “contentment ceremony.”

This post-meal ritual can include rolling on their back, rubbing their face into the ground, grunting, tail wagging, or just looking blissfully relaxed.

It’s not entirely clear why dogs do this. Some behavior experts think it’s part celebration, part cleanup, and part scent-marking. Whatever the reason, it’s a sure sign your dog enjoyed their meal.

The key to spotting it is timing. Look for the wiggles and rolls right after your pup finishes eating. That’s their version of a five-star review.

Next time you see your dog’s dinner dance, you’ll know: they’re not just full, they’re happy. And in the dog world, that’s the ultimate compliment to the chef.

Daily Dig reader Candace’s dog is turning heads and stealing hearts, one shopping trip at a time. Dressed in a bold red-and-black sweater and riding like royalty in the cart, this little doxie proves that errands are better with a fashionable friend by your side.

With those big, expressive eyes and alert little ears, it’s clear she’s got opinions. Whether she’s picking out the next squeaky toy or just supervising the bags, this pup knows how to shop in style.

Thanks to Candace for sharing this adorable scene! Want your dog featured in Daily Dig? Reply to this email with a photo, their name, and a few fun facts. We’d love to share them!

We love our dogs like family, so why not feed them like it? With Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried meals, toppers, and treats, it’s easy to upgrade your dog’s food without changing your whole routine.

Raw dog food is made with 85-98% meat, organs & bone for whole body health. With no mystery ingredients, it’s designed to mimic what dogs would naturally eat in the wild. Plus, it's packed with nutrients that support shinier coats, better digestion, and tail-wagging energy.

The best part? Stella & Chewy’s makes it simple with freeze-dried raw meals and toppers that require zero prep time. This means easier and faster mealtimes for you, and more delicious food for your best buddy. A winning combination!

See Stella & Chewy’s full collection of freeze-dried raw pet food, including meals, toppers, and more.

And for a limited time only: Spend $35, Save $5. Spend $70, Save $15 on All Stella & Chewy's Dog Food with Treats Rewards at PetSmart! Valid 8/4 - 9/1!

Thank you to Stella & Chewy’s for sponsoring Daily Dig.

A little broth might go a long way for your dog’s health. New research shows that bone broth doesn’t just make tails wag, it may also help keep their gut in balance.

In a four-week study of 33 dogs, adding bone broth to their meals led to a surge in beneficial bacteria and a steep drop in harmful strains. Levels of Bifidobacterium, known to support digestion and immunity, rose more than 1,500%, while bacteria linked to inflammation dropped by up to 97%.

Pet parents noticed the difference, too. Dogs had shinier coats, more energy, better digestion, and even firmer stools. The improvements were especially striking for pups on raw or high-fiber diets.

Experts think bone broth’s amino acids act like prebiotics, feeding good gut bacteria. While more research is needed, these early results suggest a simple ladle of broth could be more than comfort. It might be a daily boost for your dog’s long-term wellness.

From tiny howls to breakfast besties, here’s what’s making tails wag:

• 🧡 Dogs love these no-prep meals

• 🐺 This mini wolf dog’s howl is too cute to handle

• 🍽️ Rescue dog and cat share the sweetest breakfast routine

See Stella & Chewy’s full collection of freeze-dried raw pet food, including meals, toppers, and more.

And for a limited time only: Spend $35, Save $5. Spend $70, Save $15 on All Stella & Chewy's Dog Food with Treats Rewards at PetSmart! Valid 8/4 - 9/1!

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

🤔 Why does my dog: Dogs pause to check body language and make sure play stays friendly.

🐶 DOTD: Give your pup the spotlight by submitting them for the dog of the day! Reply to this email with the best pictures of your dog. Be sure to include their name and a short description so they can be featured in an upcoming newsletter.

🥰 Spread positivity: Do you enjoy starting your day off with our community? If so, please consider forwarding this email to help us spread our love of all things dogs!

💌 Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply with your dog’s favorite meal of the day for a surprise in your inbox!

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