True or False?

Dogs’ tails wag faster when they see their favorite person.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Bringing home a new dog comes with all the cuddles, but also a responsibility that matters just as much: training. Dogs thrive when their minds are engaged, and even a few minutes of practice each day can shape their confidence, safety, and trust in you. Training isn’t about perfection; it’s about communication. Every cue you teach becomes a shared language that helps your dog navigate the world.

Simple skills like wait, watch, and sit lay the groundwork for calmer walks, smoother greetings, and safer moments at home. “Wait” can stop a dog from bolting through a door. “Watch” helps refocus them when something unexpected pops up. And cues like stay and come give dogs freedom without sacrificing safety, especially once they can follow them in busier, more distracting environments.

Teaching a release word (“Okay!”) gives your dog clarity, while polite greetings keep four paws on the floor instead of bouncing on guests. And adding a trick or two? That’s a moment for your dog to show off and for you to celebrate how far they’ve come.

Training doesn’t just create a well-mannered dog. It creates a confident, connected companion who knows exactly what you’re asking, and trusts you every step of the way.

Those first puppy months can feel as magical as Christmas morning… and just as chaotic. Between surprise “snowy” potty accidents, sudden festive barking, and tug-of-war leash pulling worthy of Santa’s reindeer, the puppy phase can really test your holiday spirit.

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Thank you to Zigzag for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Meet today’s dog of the day duo! Maverick the Boxer and Angel the Goldendoodle are two peas in a cozy pod. Whether it’s a nap by the fire or a full-on snuggle session, these best buds know how to lounge in style.

Maverick keeps watch with a calm, gentle stare while Angel flops into full relaxation mode, trusting her big brother’s protective paws. Together, they’re a heart-melting duo.

Thank you to Daily Dig reader Rick for sharing this adorable moment. Want your pup featured in Daily Dig? Send us a photo, their name, and a few fun facts. We’d love to feature them next!

If you’ve ever wondered why your dog seems to know exactly when it’s mealtime, or why a small change in your morning routine throws them off, it’s because dogs are creatures who genuinely love predictability. A steady schedule gives them something priceless: a sense of safety. When they know when they’ll eat, walk, nap, and spend time with you, their stress levels drop, and their confidence rises.

Veterinarians say routines also keep boredom at bay, which is key because boredom is behind plenty of unwanted behaviors, from barking to chewing the couch. Regular feeding windows, consistent potty breaks, and daily exercise help your dog settle into a rhythm they can count on. Even “snack time” plays a role. Using part of their kibble for training or food puzzles adds enrichment and breaks up long stretches of the day.

Sleep, too, is a major part of a healthy routine. Most dogs snooze 12–14 hours a day, with puppies and seniors needing even more. And just like us, predictable rest makes them more relaxed and ready to learn.

A solid routine doesn’t have to be rigid; it just has to be reliable. When your dog knows what to expect, they can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying life right beside you.

• 🐶 How to train your dog from home

• 🐾 25 small dog breeds that bring big charm

• 🏋️‍♀️ Mini dachshund adorably crashes mom’s workout

• 🥇 Golden retriever hosts his own backyard Olympics

Zigzag, the #1 rated puppy training app, helps bring peace and joy back to your home. Download Zigzag for FREE today and start your journey toward a happier, calmer, and merrier puppy.

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: True! Tail speed and body wiggles often increase with 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.

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