True or False?

Dogs can recognize their own reflection in a mirror.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Anyone who’s ever fostered a dog knows how magical it is to see a stressed shelter dog finally settle into a peaceful home environment. Well, a new study has proven just how beneficial that quiet week away from the shelter can be. Researchers tracked 84 dogs over the course of 17 days, measuring stress levels before, during, and after foster care. The result? Just one week in a foster home made a huge difference, lowering the dogs’ stress levels significantly.

What’s more surprising is that when these dogs returned to the shelter after their week of rest, their stress didn’t spike back up. It stayed on the same level as before the foster care. That means foster care isn't just a temporary fix. It’s a rejuvenating break that helps dogs return to their shelter environment without added stress. The dogs who had a "buddy" from the shelter to return to also fared better, with familiar faces providing comfort and security.

These findings give us more reason to support fostering efforts. It not only helps alleviate the strain on shelters but also gives these dogs a much-needed break. Fostering also offers a unique opportunity to create stronger, more supportive environments for them as they await their forever homes. Whether you foster for a week or a month, your time could make a world of difference for a dog in need.

We all know dogs can be pretty chill, lounging around for most of the day. But sometimes, they can get bored. Boredom in dogs is more than just an annoyance; it can lead to behaviors like excessive chewing, digging, or barking. So, how do you know if your dog is just being lazy or if they’re bored out of their mind?

Keep an eye out for signs like restlessness, constant chewing, or even too much sleeping. If your dog seems to be craving attention more than usual, they might just be seeking something to do.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t worry, there are easy ways to help. Adding extra walks, playtime, or mental stimulation like puzzle toys can make a big difference. For dogs that need a little more energy burned off, activities like fetch or trips to a dog park might do the trick. Remember, working and sporting breeds, in particular, thrive on daily mental and physical exercise, so making their day more active will keep them happier.

Of course, if you notice more serious symptoms like excessive grooming or lethargy, it might be time for a vet check-up to rule out any underlying health issues. But with the right mix of exercise and entertainment, most bored dogs can find their groove again in no time.

It starts with a suspicious silence. You find the chewed-up shoe, the half-eaten couch cushion, or the mysteriously empty trash can. Your dog’s tail wags; your budget does not.

Get the card that’s as ready for trouble as they are. The no annual fee Nibbles Pet Rewards Credit Card comes with complimentary pet insurance for their misadventures and 3x rewards on pet purchases—so you can afford to replace what they destroy and reward them for being (almost) sorry.

Get the card that forgives their sins and rewards your spending.

Nibbles is not a bank. The Nibbles card is issued by Lead Bank. Fees and T&C apply. Eligibility rules apply.

Thank you to Nibbles for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Meet Bully, a 4-year-old French Bulldog who knows how to enjoy his mornings! Before greeting the day, he loves snuggling under his electric blanket, savoring those extra cozy moments that make winter more bearable. With that adorable yawn, it's clear that he's not in any rush to start the day.

When he's not bundled up, Bully is ready for his next adventure with his family, but for now, he's all about that peaceful slumber.

Thank you to Daily Dig reader Geriann for sharing Bully with us. Would you like to see your pup featured as our Dog of the Day? Send us a photo and a little about your fur baby!

Here are our favorite picks of the week, adorable napping spots and Disney-inspired name ideas included:

• 🐶 Earn 3x pet rewards and complimentary pet insurance

• 🥘 This lab puppy’s nap in a casserole dish is too cute

• 🐾 101 adorable Dalmatian-inspired dog names

The no annual fee Nibbles Pet Rewards Credit Card comes with complimentary pet insurance for their misadventures and 3x rewards on pet purchases.

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: False. Most dogs don’t understand the concept of self-recognition, though they may react to the movement in the mirror.

🐶 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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