True or False?

Dogs can only understand a handful of words.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

A tired dog is usually a happy dog, but a bored one can be another story. Without enough stimulation, pups often find their own entertainment, and that’s when chewed shoes, dug-up yards, or nonstop barking enter the picture.

Boredom can also show up as excessive sleeping, a sudden lack of interest in toys, or even more subtle cues like avoiding eye contact or excessive yawning. Trainers say many nuisance behaviors, from digging to jumping, often stem from simple under-stimulation.

High-energy breeds such as Border Collies or German Shepherds are especially prone to restlessness if their mental and physical needs aren’t met. But even low-key dogs benefit from games that tap into natural instincts, like sniffing, foraging, or problem-solving.

Fortunately, small changes make a big difference. Puzzle feeders, rotating toys, short training sessions, or even a longer walk can turn monotony into engagement. Keeping your dog’s mind and body active helps prevent boredom from turning into bigger challenges and makes daily life more enjoyable for both of you.

Meet this dynamic duo of dog charm, sent in by Daily Dig reader Scott. One's all smiles and energy, while the other plays it cool and collected. Together, they’re the perfect pair for sidewalk adventures, treat stops, and a whole lot of love.

Thanks to Scott for sharing these happy faces with us! Want your pup (or pack) to be featured? Send us a photo, their name, and a few fun facts. We’d love to show them off in the Daily Dig.

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Ever caught your dog staring at you for no reason? According to canine cognition expert Dr. Brian Hare, that gaze is your pup’s way of hugging you with their eyes. Research shows that when humans and dogs lock eyes, both experience a rise in oxytocin, the same bonding hormone that strengthens parent-child relationships.

Dogs’ mental lives are richer than many might expect. Studies show certain dogs can learn hundreds of words, proving they’re good listeners.

They’re also natural problem solvers. If food is hidden under one of two cups and a human points to the wrong one, some dogs follow the cue to cooperate, while others rely on memory. Both strategies show flexible thinking and decision-making skills.

And yes, they can feel the lows, too. Dogs may mirror their owners’ moods and even show depression-like symptoms, as seen in search-and-rescue dogs after 9/11. Their emotional depth, paired with their unique way of bonding, reminds us just how closely they’re tuned into our lives (and how lucky we are to have them).

From picky pups to travel pros, here’s what’s making tails wag:

• ✈️ 4 vet-approved tips for traveling with your dog

• 🥙 Avoid meal prep burnout around the holidays

• 🍩 The cutest food-inspired names for your furry friend

• 🥗 This dog hilariously refuses to eat salad without dressing

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

🤔 True or false: False! Many dogs can learn hundreds of words or phrases.

🐶 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 how many words your dog knows for a surprise in your inbox!

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