Did you know…

Dogs often sleep belly-up only when they feel completely ______.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

If you’ve ever had your dog go full-on zoomie mode, racing around the house at breakneck speed, only to crash later into a sweet nap, you might have witnessed their witching hour. Just like toddlers having a meltdown, puppies can experience a sudden burst of energy that seems to come out of nowhere, especially during the evening.

For many dogs, particularly high-energy breeds or puppies, witching hour often strikes when they’re overstimulated, under-stimulated, or just overtired. In these cases, it can lead to everything from incessant barking to zoomies.

Dog trainers agree that managing your dog’s witching hour comes down to setting clear expectations. Smith advises creating a routine that helps your dog balance stimulation and rest. Meanwhile, Prichard suggests teaching your dog a “settle” command to redirect their energy and help them calm down.

Witching hour may seem like a curse, but with patience and a little training, your dog will learn how to chill out before it’s time for bed. Plus, it’s always worth remembering that this phase is usually temporary, and puppies will grow out of it as they get older. Until then, get ready for the zoomies!

Dog walks are a chance for mental stimulation, bonding, and even preventing future behavioral issues. But how often should you really be walking your dog to keep them healthy, happy, and out of trouble? Whether you’re an active dog owner or someone juggling a busy schedule, the right amount of walking depends on your dog’s age, breed, and energy levels.

For puppies, shorter, more frequent walks are best. At around 10 weeks old, you’ll want to start with 10-minute walks a few times a day, building up as they get older. Puppies need a lot of sleep, and they’re still learning how to behave on a leash, so take it slow.

For adult dogs, aim for a routine of at least 30 minutes to an hour of walking a day. If your dog is high-energy (looking at you, Retrievers and Collies), they might need more to stay calm at home. You can split this into two walks, one in the morning and one in the evening, to break up their day.

Senior dogs benefit from walks too, but you’ll need to adjust based on their health. Slower-paced walks, especially on soft surfaces like grass, can help with joint health, especially for dogs with arthritis. Keep an eye out for signs of fatigue, like limping or excessive panting, and don’t be afraid to shorten the walk if they seem too tired.

And while walking is great exercise, there are other ways to keep your dog fit and active. Mental stimulation, like playing with puzzle toys or working on obedience training, is just as important as physical exercise. So get creative with how you keep your dog moving and engaged!

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Meet Remington, the regal Standard Poodle of Daily Dig reader Ron. At just 11 months old, Remington already has a big personality. Known for his intelligence, loyalty, and loving nature, he’s a true companion.

Remington has a soft spot for his many toys, which he loves to gather in batches and play with. Whether he’s pulling out a few or up to six toys at a time, Remington’s charm lies in his ability to love them all equally.

Thank you to Ron for sharing Remington with us! Want to see your dog featured next? Send in their name, photo, and a few fun facts for their chance to be our next dog of the day.

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Here are our favorite picks of the week, featuring adorable look-alikes and devoted pups:

• 🐾 This black pug looks just like a seal 

• 💕 Why dogs follow you to the bathroom 

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• 😴 This dog patiently waits for mom while everyone else heads to bed 

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

🤔 Did You Know: Dogs often sleep belly-up only when they feel completely safe

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