The Wanderer

It sometimes seems to go on forever. Your dog circles, scratches, and digs his bed before finally, finally, settling in. What’s that about? Just like humans, dogs have pre-sleep rituals. The circling, scratching, and digging behavior, sometimes called nesting or denning, are instinctive behaviors that date back to when dogs spent their time in the wild, not the comfort of human homes.

Dogs have many ways to communicate to humans what they’re thinking or experiencing, but we’re not always able to interpret what they’re saying. Shaking is one of those potentially confusing behaviors all pet parents have seen their dogs do. From the joy of seeing you to a bad ingestion reaction, here’s how to decide if it’s a normal behavior or if treatment is necessary.

Humans yawn somewhere between five to 15 times per day. And though we often yawn when we’re tired or see someone else do it, science still doesn’t really understand the behavior. Other animals yawn, too, including birds, cats, monkey, and yes, your four-legged member of the family. But why do dogs yawn?

A Dog’s Yawn: More Complicated Than You Think

Dogs also yawn when they’re tired, but there’s much more behind this particular form of canine communication.

One of your dog's favorite games to play is probably fetch. Whether you're throwing a ball, a stick, or a toy, he'll chase after it and drop it at your feet, again and again. It's great fun and great exercise too. If you love playing fetch with your dog, then you might be interested to know that dogs aren't the only animals that bring things back when they're thrown. It turns out, some wolf puppies love it too!

If you’ve ever adopted a new puppy, you quickly learn he won’t respond to his new name no matter how perfectly it fits! But as time goes on, you notice he does seem to respond to his name all the time. Has he actually learned his name or is he simply responding to the tone of your voice? 

Is there such a thing as cancer sniffing dogs? The medical world says yes. Along with other superior canine nose skills like guiding search-and-rescue teams or helping law enforcement track scents, dogs can now be trained to detect cancerous fumes arising from diseased cells. 

Like most natural instincts your dog exhibits, there’s a variety of reason for why he whines, including when you load him up in the car. Yep, whining in the car isn’t just for kids! It’s a natural habit for dogs, too.  

All dogs slobber to some extent. It’s a normal, healthy canine trait that helps them eat and digest their food. But is too much drooling a sign of something more serious? Here’s how to tell the difference between regular and excessive drooling and when to seek help from your vet. 

Pet parents often admit that their furbabies act like the rest of their family. Talking while they sleep is just another trait dogs share with humans. If you hear your dog barking or whining in his sleep, he’s probably dreaming about events that occurred earlier that day, and it’s nothing to worry about. Dogs go through similar sleep cycles that we do, so if they’re in a deep sleep cycle, it’s unsafe to wake them. 

Most dogs avoid urinating where they sleep and eat. But what does it mean when a pet you thought was perfectly housetrained starts urinating indoors? Depending on the dog’s age, health, and other issues, it could be any number of things.  

You couldn't ask for a more loyal dog. Wherever you go, your canine companion is sure to follow close behind. It's endearing - but it can also be concerning. It might be indicative of an underlying problem, such as separation anxiety. Not to mention the fact that your pup can inadvertently get in the way if you're not careful. So why does your dog follow you everywhere? Here are some reasons, and what you can do if it gets to be too much. 

Virtually every pet parent has watched their dog roll around in some pretty disgusting stuff. But here’s the thing - what humans think is gross, smelly, or downright nasty behavior can be a pet’s nirvana. 

Thanksgiving is a time to spend with the ones you love, including your favorite pup. It's great to make your furry friend part of the festivities but be careful. There are a few safety issues you need to be aware of to keep your dog healthy and happy this Thanksgiving. Here are a few tips: 

If your dog is hitting you with his paw or bumping you with his nose, it’s a common and natural way for him to communicate his needs and wants. These body signals can sometimes mean different things depending on your dog’s breed, but many times they’re learned behaviors from everyday interactions between you and your pooch.  

Does your dog become passive-aggressive around strangers? Do they seem fearful in new environments or situations? If so, your dog might benefit from learning some confidence-building tricks. You can use game play and interactive exercises to give your dog something else to focus on and something new to learn. Here are some good confidence tricks and games to start with:

Dogs exhibit all kinds of adorable, quirky behavior. It's one of the many reasons we love them. Some of this behavior is harmless. But sometimes, it can be damaging or a sign of a larger issue. One example is paw licking. Although it can be cute, a dog licking his paws could point to an underlying issue. So why do dogs lick their paws, and what should you be doing about it?

If your pet is showing signs of distress, it’s natural to be concerned. Licking is one of those signs, and it shouldn’t be discounted as a “dog being a dog.” Pet owners often say, “I wish he could simply tell me the problem.”

We get asked all the time what the differences between a microchip and a GPS collar are. Though they are both used to help pet parents reunite with a lost pup, the features and uses are vastly different, so we put together this handy (or should we say pawsy…) infographic to help you see the differences.

As pet parents, we will do almost anything to make sure our dogs are relaxed, comfortable and have no anxiety. We go out of our way to make sure they have a cozy bed, plenty of toys and get belly rubs and head scratches whenever they please. However, there are some things that we may be doing that are actually causing our dogs stress.

The saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” so it’s time to pull out those umbrellas and rain boots. Preparing for inclement weather is something that we as humans are used to. While some dogs may jump at the idea of romping through puddles, others are less than enthusiastic to head outside in the rain.

Have you ever asked yourself the question, "does my dog really love me?" We're going to help you figure out all of the ways your pup can express their love and admiration for you. Are we missing anything?

Lights, Camera, Action

Earlier this month Link AKC showcased the LINK Smart Collar in partnership with Amazon Live-stream. During this live video segment, our Product Manager Ashley along with her Labrador Retriever Ella explained everything that you need to know about our innovative smart dog collar. Ashley introduced our new LINK Sport Collar, explained the technology behind the smart collar and showed how to use it. Throughout the live broadcast Ashley answered questions submitted by viewers about how the LINK Smart Collar works.

Noise phobias are common in dogs. They can be triggered by pretty much anything loud - fireworks, thunderstorms, traffic, gunshots, and even bird noises. Yes, you heard that right. Some dogs are scared of birds. Usually, it's the other way around. Whatever the trigger for your dog's phobia, the result is the same: fear and anxiety.

When it comes to training your pup, the right treats can make all the difference. We asked our friend John Woods, founder of All Things Dogs, if he could share with us some healthy dog snacks that you can make right in your own home. According to John, while looking through your local pet store you may be surprised at all the additives that some dog treat companies use in their products. When you make your treats at home you can rest easy knowing exactly what is in them.

Teaching your dog to touch an object (targeting) is one way to help keep his mind active and to teach him new "tricks". International dog trainer Victoria Stilwell uses targeting to teach calming behaviors. Targeting is a foundational skill for service and working dogs as well. The bonus is this type of cognitive training benefits both of you. Here are three ways to start:

Your new puppy is finally home! It’s important to begin training your puppy immediately to prevent your new furry friend from chewing your favorite slippers or peeing in the middle of the rug.

Fellow dog owners are among the best at stepping up to lend a hand when a pooch gets loose. When you're at home, you can contact neighbors directly, post on a community-based app like NextDoor or call your local shelter. But what should you do if you're visiting a new area and you spot a lost dog?

It's no secret that the pet technology market is growing rapidly. Companies are finding more and more ways to keep our canine companions entertained in the most unique ways. Here are 9 favorite choices for pet tech toys and entertainment.

Are you a dog owner that uses baby talk with your pup? The good news is that you’re not alone, and even better news is that there’s a scientific reason for doing it!

The job of a guide dog is a very important one. Guide dogs are true service animals who help visually impaired people navigate independently through their daily lives. Have you ever wondered how this partnership works and where these well-trained dogs come from? We are here to give you the complete low down on the life and training of guide dogs.

We've seen cartoons of a frantic feline escaping from a salivating pooch so often that it surprises many to learn cats and dogs can live together harmoniously. It's true some cats may be naturally confrontational or skittish, and many dog breeds are born hunters who are quick to chase smaller, faster animals. But by taking the right precautionary steps, most dogs can adjust to life with a cat. 

Have you ever seen your dog smile and wonder what it means? Are they doing it to communicate with us? Are they happy?

This holiday season, LINK AKC is being featured at an iconic New York City destination, Macy’s Herald Square. Macy’s Herald Square is known as being a top destination for both tourists and New Yorkers alike, especially around the holidays. Each year in mid-November the store unveils their holiday-themed window displays, which are the backdrop for their annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. Holiday cheer is abundant as people peer through the windows at the stunning displays.

Smart home technology is EVERYWHERE. These devices are available for just about anything, including your pets! With the power of the internet, we can control thermostats, keep an eye on our homes, see who's ringing our doorbell, and even play with our pets remotely. While it’s no replacement for in-person attention, pet technology makes it easier to be an owner and can enrich pets’ lives when we can’t be there with them. Here are some of the best ways smart pet tech can improve your life as well as your pet's lives.

What if your dog is too cold or too hot in their environment, but they have no way of telling you? The ambient temperature, or air temperature of an environment, is very important in dictating your comfort level. If you're uncomfortable for you in your living room, you can go over and adjust the thermostat. However, our dogs can’t adjust the air to cool them down or warm them.

Training your dog is a never-ending feat. From basic obedience to tricks, and even some specialized work, there is always more for your dog to learn. One great exercise that you can teach your dog is nosework. The great thing about nosework is that you can literally do it anywhere! Dogs naturally want to put their noses to work so teaching them the basics can be fun for both of you.

Is there a more adorable dog pose than the head tilt? Dog lovers know exactly what we’re talking about – that head tilt response that our dogs’ give us when we speak to them. This is one of the most commonly searched dog behaviors on the internet, not as popular as ‘Why does my dog lick me?’ but close.

Have you ever wondered how your dog knows to come cheer you up when you're crying or feeling down, or why they snuggle with you on the couch every night? What about how they seem to know what you're thinking, and vice versa, just by a look into each other's eyes?

Have you ever caught your dog doing something they’re not supposed to and gotten a guilty look in response? All dog owners know this look, and we’ve come to believe that this look is their recognition that they’re guilty of something.

Some say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but we disagree! In fact, dogs of all ages are eager to learn and please their owners. Maybe you are considering adding an older dog into your home, or you feel like your dog should get out more and learn some new socialization skills. Either way, there are some important things to keep in mind when working with an older dog.

Eat, play, sleep!

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “My dog has the best life! Eat, play, then sleep for hours on end.” Well, according to the American Kennel Club, dogs spend 50% of their day sleeping, 30% awake but lounging, and 20% being active. Puppies and older dogs require even more sleep and can sleep up to 20 hours during the day. What a life!

Have you ever been frustrated by your pup's tendency to destroy his toys? Before thinking about a solution to this, it's helpful to understand why he might be behaving like this. And the solution isn't to stop giving him toys to play with or finding indestructible dog toys.

It can be frustrating and sometimes frightening when your pet doesn’t show any interest in her dinner. You want to give her the best, but her finicky nature makes it hard.  Whether the change is sudden, or it’s been going on for a while, here are 5 tips to help your fussy friend get excited about the dinner bell again.

Going on adventures with your dog can be a great pastime, but what about when your dog attempts to go wandering by themselves? We’ve all heard stories about dogs jumping over fences, digging out of the yard, slipping free of their collars and bolting every time a door is opened. Maybe it’s the thrill of the chase, or maybe dogs are just reverting back to their free roaming internal instincts. Either way, here are some tips that we’ve compiled to help you prevent your curious pup from wandering off unattended.

This week we’re excited to introduce the LINK Sport Collar, the same incredible technology, just a new way to wear it. We started shipping our first smart dog collar, the LINK Classic just over a year ago. Since then thousands of dog owners have joined our pack. If you’re one of them, thank you for being one of our first customers, we’re delighted you’re part of our community of dog lovers. If you’re reading this and haven’t joined the pack yet, see some of our pack members who enjoy using LINK to make their lives as dog owners easier.

In the digital world we live in, it’s no wonder that pet related mobile apps are popping up all over the place. From a dating app for dog owners, to a photography app, and even an apps to help you find dog-friendly locations, check out 9 of our favorite apps.

Have you ever suspected Baxter was a secret genius? You might not just be playing proud paw-rent. It turns out dogs may have a sixth sense...of sorts. Before you dismiss the idea, consider these three reasons we think it's possible.

For every answer the experts nail down about canine behavior, another question pops up. You can't read Roscoe's mind, but you can still settle a bet, lay rumors to rest and scratch that curiosity itch with these seven doggie dogmas.

You’ve probably envied your dog for his uncanny ability to fall asleep anywhere, anytime, in seemingly any position! Here are five dog sleeping positions and what they say about your pet.

There’s more to service dogs than loyal retrievers helping the visually impaired navigate crosswalks. Today, dogs are lending a hand to everyone from veterans suffering from PTSD to children with cognitive disabilities. Here are answers to five of the most frequently asked questions about service dogs and service dog training.

Since we began shipping the LINK AKC Smart Collar, our commitment to improve the bond between dogs and their owners hasn't slowed one bit. Broadening our product capabilities to give dog owners the richest user experience possible has lead us to the introduction of two additional products. The Extra Small, and a new way to wear the LINK Collar, and our stylish Sport Sleeve accessories.

There's no better exercise in empathy than trying to walk a mile in your dog's shoes. Champ's hierarchy of needs isn't too different from his human's needs. But since we can't magically change places, these four insights might help you see things from your best friend's four-on-the-floor perspective.

Keeping track of your pet's location has never been easier. Thanks to GPS technology, the "lost dog" flyer tacked to a telephone pole is increasingly a thing of the past. With recent advances, technology can help you monitor more than just your dog's location. When you're evaluating the merits of a microchip and a GPS dog collar, there are three key considerations to keep in mind.

When your canine BFF rests her head on her paws, you joke she looks deep in thought. But maybe she is. A neuroscientist at Emory University, Dr. Gregory Berns believes dogs do think and has devoted hours of research to dog thought processes. Dr. Berns began his research by wondering if his Pug, Newton, really loved him or if Newton just loved the food he supplied. Dr. Berns decided to find out by using MRI brain scanning.

Fall means Frankie has to transition from summertime stimulation to a sometimes empty house or one with humans focused on homework or racing to soccer practice. No more gobbling dropped hot dogs and water sprinkler shenanigans. School is back in session, so ease your dog's separation anxiety with these tips.

Does even your most dog-loving guest peek around the door and take a deep breath before responding to your greeting, shouted above your pet barking? Even if your own guests' reactions aren't quite that extreme, it's never too soon to teach your dog how to properly greet visitors. Training them for greeting visitors makes everyone happier.

You rely on your dog to bark when a stranger comes to the door, but can your four-legged friend save you from a dangerous situation or alert you to a health scare? We called on best-selling author Dr. Stanley Coren for his expertise. As an award-winning researcher and Professor Emeritus of Psychology at University of British Columbia, his insights about animal intuition might surprise you.

Instead of telling your third grade teacher Roscoe ate your homework, you should have just turned in that book report and tried to convince her Roscoe did your homework. Founder and creator of the Dognition Assessment, Dr. Brian Hare, Associate Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology at Duke University believes our four-legged friends deserve more credit for their learning ability. He offers four tips for unleashing their vocabulary. 

Training your dog to recognize a specific sound as a signal he's done something wonderful is the first step in starting a successful clicker training program. In addition to receiving data about your dog's location and physical condition, the LINK Smart Collar app includes a feature that activates a soft tone emitted from within the collar. Link employees suggest this tone can be easily incorporated into clicker training, whether you are teaching basic obedience to a puppy or doing higher level training and distance work with your dog.

When you hear your dog barking, can you instantly tell the difference between a bark signaling your arrival versus the arrival of the mail carrier? When your dog whines, do you get up to fill the water bowl, grab a leash or simply go cuddle your pup? Does the howling you hear when you leave the house pull you back to your dog's side even if you're late for work?

Supermodel, actress and dog lover Kate Upton and her Boxer Harley partnered with us this month to create a six-part video series to educate dog owners about how our smart dog collar can strengthen the bond between them and their best friends.

Like any dog lover, you believe your pup is the smartest dog on the block, but is he? Although the lineup varies somewhat, many experts agree Border Collies, Poodles and German Shepherd Dogs top the list of the world's smartest dog breeds. So, how do you and your dog stack up?

After you bring home and then cuddle and play with your new pup, you need to learn the ins and outs of how to potty train your puppy.

As a new dog owner, you might wonder how best to train a puppy. "Puppy-raising can be a big task for new pet parents," says Allison Andrews, CPDT, owner-operator of Foothills Canine Academy in Greenville, SC. "The best approach is to prevent problems from the start through management and socialization, and that requires supervision," Allison says.

Losing a pet is a recurring nightmare for conscientious owners, but technoloy, in the form of a tracking dog collar, comes to the rescue. Not that you're planning on ever needing to use the technology to find a lost pet, but think of it as peace of mind against the one thing you never want to happen.

The best family dogs aren't just found. Your new four-legged friend needs to be trained properly to fit into your life and your family. 

As the company dedicated to enhancing the connection between dogs and the people that love them, we are excited to host a dog-centric speaking panel at South by Southwest® (SXSW®) on March 13th at 9:30AM CST.

CES 2017, the largest technology trade show of the year was held in Las Vegas, Nevada and we were thrilled to be there as the 2017 Best of Innovation Winner in Wearable Technology. Here is a photo recap from our trip to CES.

Entry to the show floor.

Dogs lick their owners and friends for a variety of reasons and learning why may help you be a better friend and owner to your canine companion. Does your pup’s behavior match some of these common reasons behind dog licking?

Move over, Pavlov! A new study published in the journal Social, Cognitive, and Affective Neuroscience says—you’ve been training your dog wrong this whole time! Well, not exactly. Although treat-based training is a tried and true method, the results of the new study from Emory University strongly suggest that praise is actually a dog’s preferred reward method.