True or False?

The average cost of owning a dog in the U.S. exceeds $1,500 a year.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Vaccines are one of the simplest ways to keep your dog healthy, from their first vet visit as a puppy through their senior years. Core vaccines, like rabies and distemper, are essential for every dog, while lifestyle vaccines, such as those for Lyme disease or kennel cough, depend on where you live and how social your pup is.

Puppies usually get vaccinated every few weeks until around 16 weeks old, building immunity as their systems develop. Adult dogs typically need boosters once a year, or every three years for some vaccines. These protect against serious illnesses like parvovirus, hepatitis, and leptospirosis, which can spread through puddles or wildlife exposure.

If cost is a concern, local shelters and clinics often offer low-cost vaccine options, and pet insurance can help cover preventive care. Regular vaccines don’t just keep your dog safe. They protect other pets (and people) too, helping ensure your best friend lives a long, healthy life.

We know your dog has been a good boy (or girl!) this year, so why not give them something extra special for the holidays?

Get the Nibbles pet rewards credit card for 3x rewards back at pet stores, pet services, and the vet. More rewards mean more treats and more snuggles with your furry friend, not only this year, but every year.

You also get peace of mind with free pet insurance, so your dog is protected from the unexpected. Give your dog the only credit card that is made just for them.

Get 3x rewards and free pet insurance with the Nibbles pet rewards credit card.

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

Thank you to Nibbles for sponsoring Daily Dig.

Meet today’s dog of the day! She’s the ultimate grass-rolling, sunshine-soaking puppy. She’s serving side-eye and sass in her pink tee, and honestly, she knows exactly how cute she is.

Thank you to Daily Dig reader Nancy for sharing your sweet puppy with us. Do you want your dog to be featured next? Send us their photo, their name, and a little bit about them for their chance to be dog of the day.

Many dog parents worry about whether they’re doing enough: enough playtime, enough comfort, enough support. But the idea that you might care too much for your dog? That one doesn’t really hold up. Trainers and vets agree: affection isn’t the problem. In fact, the bond you build with daily cuddles, extra attention, and letting them share the couch is a big part of what helps dogs feel safe in a world designed for humans.

Real issues (like weight gain, anxiety, or unwanted behaviors) usually come from things like overfeeding, inconsistent routines, or unmet needs; not from loving your dog too wholeheartedly. Dogs are social animals who rely on connection. What matters most is balance: offering love while also making sure they get exercise, enrichment, quiet rest, and a chance to be their dog selves through sniffing, chewing, and exploring.

So if your dog is your little shadow, or you think of them as a full-fledged family member, that’s not a flaw. It’s part of why they thrive. Dogs spend their whole lives trying to fit into our human world. The comfort, warmth, and closeness you offer? That’s the part that makes the world feel safe for them.

From cool treats to road trip tips, here’s what’s making tails wag:

• ❤️ How to save money on dog costs

• 🍦 A peanut butter banana dog ice cream recipe

• 🚗 Vet-approved dog travel tips 

We know your dog has been a good boy (or girl!) this year, so why not give them something extra special for the holidays? Get 3x rewards and free pet insurance with the Nibbles pet rewards credit card.

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! Food, vet care, grooming, and toys all add up.

🐶 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!

💌 Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply with your dog’s favorite thing to do for a surprise in your inbox!

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