Why does my dog…

Why does my dog howl when they hear sirens?

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

You’d think one bee sting would be enough to stop a pup from trying again, but many dogs just don’t learn their lesson. Whether they’re playful chasers or anxious avoiders, our dogs can get into dangerous habits around buzzing bees.

Some dogs are especially drawn to movement, so a zippy bumblebee looks like the perfect toy. Others may have been stung before and react out of fear or stress. Either way, chasing bees can lead to stings on the face, nose, or tongue—and that’s not something any pet parent wants to deal with.

Luckily, there are some ways you can help. Start by teaching your dog a go-to “bee behavior” they love—like a trick, a game of fetch, or a mat cue—and reinforce it well before bees are around. Then gradually use it in bee-prone areas, keeping things low-stress and fun.

You can also manage your environment by avoiding peak bee hours, using pet-safe repellents with peppermint oil, or even offering a distraction with toys or treats when a bee appears. Behavior change takes time, but with patience, your pup can learn to stay safe around stingers.

Daily Dig reader Michele introduces Sophie, their beloved “Lowrider Bassador”—a Basset-Labrador mix with a big heart and even bigger personality.

Sophie was adopted in 2014 after a rough start to life, but you’d never know it. She’s all soulful eyes, loyal snuggles, and a nose that doesn’t quit. Whether she’s supervising the yard, hunting lizards, or gently sneaking in baby turtles (all unharmed!), she keeps the household on its toes with her sweet quirks.

Now about 14, Sophie shares life with a Frenchie toddler and a fluffy Old English companion—but she’ll always be queen of the castle. Thanks for sharing your incredible girl with us, Michele!

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Turns out, a dog’s nose can do more than find treats—it can help save bumble bees. In Wisconsin, two pups named Betty White and Ernie are trained to sniff out wild bumble bee nests that are nearly impossible for humans to find alone.

Researchers at Conservation Dogs Collective say the dogs can locate about 20 different bee species by scent. Since bumble bee nests vary in size, their training included everything from small nest fragments to full clusters. The data they gather helps scientists answer big questions about how and where wild bees live.

Knowing where bees forage compared to where they nest is key to protecting pollinators. But it takes a very good nose to find that out.

These conservation dogs also assist with tracking endangered turtles, invasive snails, and more. One nose at a time, they’re helping researchers and our ecosystems thrive.

Thank you to Money.com for sponsoring Daily Dig.

From gentle giants to vet-loving pups, here’s what’s trending:

• 🐝 This Bernese Mountain Dog is mesmerized by a bumblebee. His reaction is pure wonder. Watch the video.

• 🧸 These are the world’s most gentle dog breeds. Sweet, calm, and perfect cuddle companions. Meet the breeds.

• 🏃‍♀️ Join Simple’s 28-day walking challenge to get and stay fit—get 50% off today.

• 🏥 Why does this dog love going to the vet? His joy is contagious. See the moment.

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: They may think it’s another dog howling from far away, and instinctively join in to “respond.”

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