True or False?

Dogs know when another dog has visited their house.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

For anyone who gets nervous at the dentist, the idea of a dog nearby sounds almost too good to be true. But some dental offices are using trained therapy dogs to help anxious patients feel calmer before or during appointments.

Research has found that spending time with a therapy dog before or during dental care may help lower heart rate, blood pressure, and feelings of anxiety. That little bit of fur and steady companionship can make the room feel less clinical and a lot more human. Some patients may smile more, relax their hands, and feel like the appointment goes by faster.

Of course, these dogs are not just office pets with cute faces. Therapy dogs need training, supervision, health records, and clear safety rules, especially around sterile areas. But for the right patient, a gentle dog nearby can make a stressful visit feel softer, friendlier, and much easier to face.

Meet Edna Mae, aka Eddie, a sweet chihuahua with an adventurous spirit and a very lovable heart, submitted by Daily Dig reader Maggie.

Eddie is always up for a little outing or a cozy cuddle session, as long as treats are involved. She is quite the connoisseur and never turns down something tasty.

As for being a watchdog? Not exactly. Eddie loves everyone far too much for that, which only makes her even sweeter.

Thank you to Daily Dig reader Maggie for sharing Eddie with us. Want to see your dog featured next? Send us their photo for a chance to be our next Dog of the Day!

Retirement doesn't mean your money has to feel stretched thin. A few smart adjustments could go a long way — and many of them are easier than you think. We put together a list of simple cutbacks that can free up more of your budget for the things that actually matter.

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Thank you to FinanceBuzz for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Naming a dog is fun, but getting them to actually respond to that name is where the real work begins. The good news is that dogs can learn almost any name, whether it is Buddy, Luna, or something much more dramatic, as long as you teach it with consistency.

Short names are often easier for people to use, especially when calling across a park or trying to get a dog’s attention quickly. It can also help to avoid names that sound like common commands, like “Bo” with “no” or “Shay” with “stay.” Dogs pay attention to tone, too, so a cheerful, clear voice can make their name feel more inviting.

The simplest way to teach it is with treats and repetition. Say your dog’s name, reward them when they look at you, and practice in short, happy sessions. If they do not respond right away, it may not be the name at all. Sometimes, your dog is just very busy being a dog.

The cost of veterinary services has been rising recently, with some common surgical procedures costing up to $7,000. Pet insurance can help cover accidents, illnesses, and even routine care, with some plans reimbursing up to 90% of costs. Money.com's Best Pet Insurance list can help you find affordable coverage starting at just $10 a month so you can focus on what matters most – your furry friend's well-being.

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Here are our favorite picks of the week, barking mysteries and bucket-list dog trips included:

• 🤔 How to budget better

• 🫶 What your dog may be trying to tell you with their bark

• 🎀 Inside Rome’s luxury airport hotel for dogs

• 🐕 The secret ways dogs communicate with us

🐶 Join us on Instagram for more cute dog content

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,

Ivy, Callie, Finnegan, Stitcher, and Huey 🐾

🦴 A Little Treat

🤔 True or False: True. Your dog can detect scent traces long after the visitor has left.

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