October 2026

• Many dogs are obsessed with tennis balls because they mimic prey, their felt-covered surface is durable yet soft on gums, they're small enough to hold comfortably, and they’re easy to spot because of dogs' limited color vision. Plus, their bounce makes them fun to fetch.

• New York-based Kindred Companion Sciences says it can now create gene-edited, hypoallergenic dogs, although they are not yet available to the public. The first two dogs produced by the company, whose founder Matt Walker has suffered from dog allergies all his life, are Beagles named Bailey and Alfie.

• Many dogs experience fears and phobias. Common ones include fear of fireworks, loud sounds, strangers, veterinary visits, or being separated from their favorite human. According to Dr. Jerry Klein, the American Kennel Club’s Chief Veterinary Officer, basic obedience training may help combat such fears because it builds a dog's confidence.

• Dog parks may be good for humans, but they may not be so good for dogs who suffer from anxiety. According to a 1996 study, dogs are more soothed by the presence of a human than by a canine companion. The study measured dogs’ cortisol levels to determine the amount of stress hormones produced under various conditions. 

• According to Purina Behaviorist Dr. Annie Valuska, giving your dog a treat as a reward for good behavior is a way to strengthen the bond with your canine companion.