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šŸ• Say thanks to your dog today

Monday 5/19: Sponsored by Nulo- Dog of the day, how dogs help with mental health, and do dogs smile

Happy Monday:

…And more! ā¤ļø

True or False?

Dogs can sleep with their eyes open.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Dog of the Day, Daisy

Daily Dig reader Jeremy introduces Daisy, an English Cream Golden Retriever with a heart as big as her smile.

Daisy is pure sunshine—equal parts fetch enthusiast and uninvited delivery-truck passenger. She’s made it her mission to be everyone’s best friend (whether they know it yet or not), and she’s not shy about hopping into a visitor’s car to prove it.

When she’s not playing or napping with a toy in tow, Daisy is busy spreading joy to everyone she meets. Thanks for sharing your sweet sidekick with us, Jeremy! Want your dog featured as the Daily Dig Dog of the Day? Send us a photo and a few fun facts—they might be next!

Image courtesy of Daily Dig reader, Jeremy.

Why Life Feels Better With a Dog

Some days, your dog just knows. You’re stressed or overwhelmed, and there they are—nudging your hand or curling up a little closer. Turns out that warm, familiar presence does more than comfort. It can actually support your mental health in real, measurable ways.

Studies show that spending time with dogs can lower stress hormones and boost feel-good chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine. Even short moments of play or cuddling have been linked to reduced anxiety and better sleep. It’s no surprise that dog owners tend to feel more connected and less alone.

Having a dog also gives structure to your day. Walks, meals, and belly rubs offer simple routines that ground you, even during tough times.

And if you’ve ever caught yourself venting to your dog mid-laundry or post-Zoom call, you’re not weird. You’re bonding. Dogs don’t judge, interrupt, or check their phones. That quiet presence is often exactly what we need.

Say Thanks to Your Dog With Food

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, Nulo is giving thanks to the four-legged companions who lift us when we’re low, ground us when we soar too high, and offer unwavering support. They’re more than pets - they’re essential to our well-being and mental health, fueling our hearts every day.

A national survey of cat and dog parents, courtesy of Nulo, revealed that 90% of pet parents say their pet can turn a bad day into a good one and 95% agree that having a pet improves their mental health every day.

Nulo understands that pets are such an important part of our emotional support system. In fact, they fuel the incredible in us. And we can show our thanks by making sure we love, spoil, and fuel them with the best nutrition possible. Choose Nulo for premium nutrition featuring high-meat, low-carb, irresistible recipes for your four-legged family members!

Thank you to Nulo for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Do Dogs Smile Back at Us?

That big, toothy grin your dog gives you after a walk? It might just be real joy. While dogs don’t smile the way humans do, they’ve definitely learned how to use their expressions to connect with us.

A dog’s ā€œsmileā€ is usually relaxed panting or a playful facial gesture, not a deliberate show of emotion. But here’s the interesting part: many dogs smile more when they know it gets a good reaction. We laugh, coo, and hand out treats—and they notice.

Some dogs even flash a grin when they know they’ve done something naughty. That’s not guilt—it’s a submissive signal. Think ears down, squinty eyes, tail wagging low. They’re reading our mood and trying to smooth things over.

Dogs may not smile like us, but they definitely smile with us. That shared joy? It’s very real.

Minnie’s Picks

From quirky pups to need-to-know tips, here’s what’s up:

  • 🦮 This golden retriever puppy takes pickleball reffing seriously. Whistle not included. Watch now!

  • 🩷 The brand thanking pets for their emotional support. See more here!

  • šŸ¤” Why is your dog scooting—and can you help at home? Here's what vets say.

Final Bark

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, Nulo is giving thanks to the four-legged companions who lift us when we’re low, ground us when we soar too high, and offer unwavering support. Visit Nulo today to learn more!

A Special Message From Our Best Buddies

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. ā¤ļø

With lots of love,

Stitcher, Minnie, & Finnegan 🐾

🦓 A Little Treat

šŸ¤” True or False: True! Some dogs, particularly those that are more relaxed or in deep sleep, can sleep with their eyes partially open.

🐶 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!

šŸ’Œ Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply with how your dog makes you smile for a surprise in your inbox!

🐶 Is this your first time here?

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