True or False?

Dogs wag their tails to the left when stressed.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

If your ideal weekend involves lacing up your boots and hitting the trail, why not bring your dog along for the adventure? With the right training, most dogs can be great hiking companions, whether you're heading into the woods or strolling a coastal path.

Start with leash manners. Trail hiking often means uneven ground and unexpected distractions, so your dog should walk at your side without pulling. Practice loose-leash walking at home, then add distractions gradually, like joggers or squirrels.

Next, teach focus and pacing cues like “watch me,” “easy,” or “let’s go.” These can help your dog stay engaged with you and navigate tricky terrain. They're also useful if you need to divert attention from something exciting or gross.

Don’t forget safety cues like “leave it” and “drop it.” They’ll come in handy when your dog encounters trail snacks best left uneaten.

Finally, even if you plan to keep your dog leashed, train a solid recall. The forest is full of temptations, and a reliable “stay” can make all the difference.

A little snort here, a sneeze there—most of us don’t think much of it. But when a dog develops persistent coughing, wheezing, or nasal discharge, it might signal a deeper respiratory issue worth checking out.

Dogs can develop a range of respiratory problems, from mild allergies to more contagious conditions like kennel cough. These illnesses can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or environmental triggers and are especially common in places with lots of dogs or poor ventilation.

Look for signs like a honking cough, labored breathing, fatigue, or loss of appetite. These might seem subtle at first, but can worsen without care. Small dogs and brachycephalic breeds (like pugs and bulldogs) are especially vulnerable.

Keeping your pup up to date on vaccines, avoiding crowded environments during outbreaks, and scheduling regular vet checkups are all key to prevention. In some cases, vets may recommend using a dog oxygen kit at home, especially for dogs with chronic conditions or during recovery. These kits can help stabilize breathing during flare-ups.

When in doubt, a quick vet visit can make all the difference for both your peace of mind and your dog’s safety.

Breathing issues can happen fast, and emergencies unfortunately don’t wait for a vet appointment. Whether your dog has a chronic condition like congestive heart failure, pneumonia, or a collapsed trachea, or faces a sudden emergency like trauma, smoke inhalation, or heatstroke, they may need urgent breathing support. In these moments, every second counts.

The Pawprint Oxygen Kit for Dogs gives you immediate and portable oxygen support, whether you're stabilizing your dog at home or transporting them safely to the emergency vet. Plus, it’s vet-approved and easy to use.

Real pet parents are calling it a lifesaver:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This product saved our dog’s life when she went into respiratory distress from CHF. We were able to give her oxygen right away while heading to the ER. Every dog owner should have one of these in their emergency kit!” – Rachel M.

Be ready when your dog needs you most. See how the Pawprint Oxygen Kit works and why dog parents call it a lifesaver.

Thank you to Pawprint Oxygen for sponsoring Daily Dig.

When Niall Harbison began feeding stray dogs on the streets of Koh Samui, it was a quiet, personal act. After recovering from alcoholism, he found purpose in caring for animals with nowhere else to turn. What started as a handful of meals turned into a mission.

Today, his team feeds 1,200 dogs every day and rescues hundreds more. One dog named Tina played a key role in the project’s growth. Malnourished and abandoned, she reminded Niall of his own journey back to life.

Tina passed away just six months later, but her memory lives on in big ways.

In her honor, Niall is building a veterinary hospital for Thailand’s most vulnerable dogs. Through spay-neuter programs, daily feedings, and rescue efforts, his work continues to grow—and it all started with just one bowl of food.

From puppy eyes to surprise hugs, here’s what’s trending:

• 🐶 Pet parents say this oxygen kit saved their dogs’ lives. Learn how here.

• 😱 This dachshund is terrified of a cat—and honestly, the dramatics are hilarious. Watch the clip.

• 🤗 Kid stops to hug stray dogs when no one’s watching. It’s as sweet as it sounds. See the moment.

• 👀 This Bernese Mountain puppy has “human eyes.” You won’t believe the expression on this face. Take a look.

Be ready when your dog needs you most. See how the Pawprint Oxygen Kit works and why dog parents call it a lifesaver.

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: True. Tail-wag direction can reflect emotional state—left for anxiety, right for excitement.

🐶 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 if your dog enjoys hiking for a surprise in your inbox!

Welcome to Daily Dig! We’re a small team of dog lovers who strive to bring a pawsitive dose of pup content to your inbox every morning. Join our pack of over 180,000 paw pals when you subscribe today!