True or False?

Some dogs’ coats change color with age.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

It’s no surprise that so many colleges choose dogs as mascots. Known for loyalty, courage, and energy, dogs perfectly capture the traits schools want to showcase on the field. In 2025, 15 colleges across the U.S. proudly feature pups as their official mascots.

Some mascots have become legends in their own right. The University of Georgia’s Bulldog, UGA, has been a fixture since 1956, complete with his own air-conditioned doghouse. At Texas A&M, the Collie named Reveille holds the title of “First Lady of Aggieland” and even outranks cadets. Northern Illinois’ Mission III, a Siberian Husky, trains for a full year before taking the field to handle the noise and spotlight.

Not every school opts for a live dog. Some, like St. Cloud State’s Blizzard T. Husky, rely on a spirited costumed version. But whether it’s a real pup or a character in fur and foam, these mascots are more than symbols. They’re campus icons, sparking cheers, carrying tradition, and reminding everyone that school pride sometimes comes with a wagging tail.

Meet Mozart (Mo for short), a sweet soul rescued by Daily Dig reader Mary from her local shelter. He was quiet and overlooked until Mary gave him the second chance he truly deserved.

Mo doesn’t play with toys, but he’s found joy in life’s other little pleasures: long walks (with plenty of sniff-and-pee stops), sunbathing in the yard, and keeping an eye on his cul-de-sac from the window. He’s even passed on his love of bunny-chasing (strictly no catching!) to his buddy Chase.

From shut-down to sunshine, Mo is living proof that the quietest dogs can have the biggest hearts.

Surprise vet bills can certainly bite. But fear not, pet insurance can be your lifeline. Some plans cover major surgeries — which can cost up to $7,000 — so you can afford the best care for your pet. Check out our top-rated pet insurance providers, with some plans offering coverage for just $1 a day, multi-pet coverage, and reimbursement options of up to 90%. With the right coverage, you could keep your pet (and your wallet) happy.

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If your dog has a thing for your socks, you’re not alone. Many pups are drawn to them because socks smell like their favorite person: you. For dogs, carrying a sock can feel like carrying a little piece of their family, especially when you’re not around.

Sometimes socks serve as stress relief or even a stand-in toy. A dropped sock quickly becomes part of a game of chase, especially if your pup knows it gets your attention. While sweet, this quirk can turn dangerous if dogs actually swallow socks.

To keep your dog safe, trade socks for soft toys or puzzle feeders, and teach a reliable “leave it” command. And of course, keep those laundry hampers closed.

As the days shorten and the nights grow longer, nothing matters more than restorative rest! Cornbread Hemp’s USDA organic Sleep Gummies are designed to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The best part? They’re made without melatonin, so you can skip the weird dreams and the next-day grogginess.

Each gummy combines full-spectrum hemp with calming botanicals, including valerian root, chamomile, and lavender. They work naturally to help relax your body and quiet your mind, promoting a restful sleep cycle. Because good days start with great nights!

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From pumpkin patches to viral pup moments, here’s what’s making tails wag:

• 🤠 Dachshund named Cowboy explores a pumpkin patch

• 💵 See which pet insurance is right for your dog

• 🐶 Meet 3 adorable dogs who are going viral

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. For example, many black puppies fade into gray or brindle as adults.

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