The Pet Business Journal

With the improvement of the pandemic situation and the warming of the weather, it’s the perfect time to go outdoors, take a stroll, and exercise your dog on a leash . Some dog owners, in addition to their daily walks with their dogs, also enjoy engaging in extra physical activities like long-distance running. It can be a delight for the owner if their dog is able to run alongside them during their runs. However, due to the dog's physical abilities and traits, some small breeds, like Chihuahuas, are only suited for short walks on a leash and can't handle intense exercise or running. So, do you know which dogs can accompany their owners on long runs? 1. Border Collie – The Enthusiastic Athlete When it comes to running with a leash, the Border Collie stands out as one of the best breeds. Known for its impressive athletic abilities and boundless energy, the Border Collie is well-suited for physical activities. Its thick coat protects it from the cold, making it suitable for runn...

Anyone who has raised a dog knows that dogs don’t have sweat glands, so sticking out their tongue is an essential way for them to cool down. Pet owners can also observe their dog’s health by paying attention to the frequency and manner in which they stick out their tongues during grooming sessions. However, dogs don’t only stick out their tongues when it’s hot. Pet owners may notice that dogs often stick out their tongues even when the weather is normal or during the winter. There are several reasons for this: Temperature Regulation: Dogs need to maintain a constant body temperature, and sticking out their tongue helps with this process. Grooming, which removes excess fur, can also lighten their load and help them regulate temperature better. Emotional States: When dogs are nervous or excited, they may stick out their tongues as a way to calm themselves down. Happiness or Comfort: If a dog feels relaxed or comfortable—perhaps after a pleasant grooming session or gentle petting—the...

It's often said that taking your dog out for regular walks with a leash is essential to keeping your pet happy and healthy. In addition to occasional outings with the leash, regular tasks like check-ups and deworming are also crucial. A while ago, a netizen shared an experience when they took their dog to the vet for vaccinations while using a leash. At the clinic, they encountered a Golden Retriever. The dog, a 14-year-old senior, was obediently walking with its leash. It was overweight, and the vet took the leash from its owner while the dog watched other puppies playing. The dog seemed to long for that kind of playful energy, but its expression appeared sad and depressed. It simply leaned against the leash, staying close to its owner and the vet. Anyone who has a pet cat or dog knows that their lives are generally short, often lasting only a decade or so. As their owners age, their dogs also enter their senior years. In some cases, due to neglect, some pets may even pass away...

When it comes to "reading between the lines" in the pet world, dogs are certainly experts. In addition to their acute sense of hearing and smell, dogs can also pick up on their owners' intentions through their eyes. For example, when an owner's gaze shifts towards the leash, the dog will immediately rush over, eager to go outside. Similarly, if the owner picks up a pet comb, signaling it’s time for grooming or even a bath, the dog might smartly run away. However, by the time the dog realizes what the owner’s gaze is indicating, the owner might already be holding a pet comb or bath tools, ready to start the grooming process. Dogs are also quite expressive with their faces, able to clearly communicate their thoughts and feelings. Often, when an owner is brushing the dog's fur or using a fine-toothed comb to check the skin underneath, they can notice any hidden issues through the dog's facial expressions. Moreover, staring at their owner can actually make dog...

For many pet owners, it seems like dogs share a surprising number of traits with humans. Whether it's their emotional expressions, their personalities (like being soft or tough depending on the situation), or even their physical appearance, dogs often resemble their owners to some extent. It makes you wonder, when an owner is brushing their dog with a pet comb, do they ever smile at the "couple's resemblance" they see? As we know, dogs are highly sensitive to human emotions. In fact, their ability to perceive emotions can be up to five times stronger than that of humans. Whether their owner is feeling happy or sad, or even whether the pressure of a grooming session changes, dogs seem to sense it immediately and respond with comfort. During this emotional awareness process, dogs often focus on the left side of their owner's face to gauge their feelings. Perhaps because of this constant "reading between the lines," dogs gradually start to resemble their ...

As March arrives and spring progresses, many cat owners are noticing that their cats' heat cycles are also approaching. Some cats have already started exhibiting behaviors associated with being in heat, and the constant meowing and strange actions can leave pet owners feeling perplexed, even when armed with pet brushes and cat food. So, what should you pay attention to during your cat’s heat cycle? 1. Be Aware of the Signs of Heat in Cats The heat cycle is a natural phase that all cats, like many other pets, go through. Male cats may yowl loudly and mark their territory by spraying urine, while female cats may show abnormal behaviors such as "raising their hips" and head rubbing. Here are some common signs to watch for: Excessive Shedding During heat, cats may shed more than usual. While regular brushing may remove some of their tangled fur and dead hair, cats in heat tend to lose large amounts of fur, which can affect their appearance and overall health. Significan...

As we know, cats are generally more independent and can tolerate solitude better than dogs. However, during the pandemic, many cats had to endure long periods of separation, sometimes lasting over a month, which can trigger stress responses. For some cats, particularly those that are emotionally sensitive, smaller spaces left by their owners can lead to undesirable reactions. So, how can pet owners, who are finally able to reunite with their pets after a long separation, help alleviate their pets' stress? To begin with, it is important to understand that alleviating a pet’s stress response, whether in cats or dogs, requires considering both physiological and psychological aspects. For example, addressing symptoms such as loss of appetite, apathy, or even coping with sudden illnesses, is essential to avoid unexpected setbacks. Physiologically, the stress response in pets is closely related to their body’s internal functions, including nutrient absorption, metabolism, and immune re...

Anyone who has experience with cats knows that they love basking in the sun. After exposure to ultraviolet rays, cats can produce beneficial substances like vitamin D in their skin. Besides enjoying the grooming and massage from their owners, cats also lick their paws and fur to absorb these nutrients while keeping themselves clean—truly a win-win. However, besides the owner using a pet brush to groom the cat, there are occasions when the cat will groom the owner after being brushed. Have you ever wondered why this happens? If there are two or more cats in the household, it’s common for them to groom each other, especially among those who have a good relationship. Cats of higher status may also groom others in their group. However, their proud and independent nature means they won’t easily acknowledge dominance, and male cats often fight to establish their rank. That said, when a cat grooms its owner, it’s mostly a sign of deep affection. The grooming and daily care from the owner h...

During periods of staying at home, increasing exercise and boosting one’s immune system can offer some defense against external viruses. As pet owners focus on their own health and nutrition, it’s important not to forget about their furry companions! From creative home walks to grooming with a pet brush, and occasionally giving them nutritional supplements, these efforts can ensure that your dog stays healthy too. However, when it comes to giving your dog medication, it can be more challenging than bathing them or grooming their coat! Many pet owners try to hide medication in their dog's food, hoping they'll eat it without noticing. But dogs’ incredible sense of smell allows them to easily detect, and even pick out, the medicine in their food. If a dog discards the pill when the owner isn’t paying attention, it could hinder its health development. Some owners will first use a pet brush to groom their dog or massage their skin to relax them, or perhaps play with them using toy...

As the time spent with a cat increases, the bond and understanding between the owner and the cat gradually deepen. Sometimes, when the owner uses a pet brush to groom the cat, the cat might happily nuzzle the owner in return. However, there are times when a cat will gently bite its owner. Have you ever wondered why this happens? Before using the pet brush, owners often pet their cats or tease them with their fingers as a form of play. However, frequent stroking of a cat’s belly before brushing can sometimes cause sensitive cats to feel uneasy or defensive. The belly is a very vulnerable area for animals, so the cat might display signs of discomfort. Additionally, some cats may come to see the owner's fingers or the pet brush as playthings if they’ve been used in this way before, leading the cat to instinctively nibble or lightly bite as part of play. In some cases, when a cat is feeling playful or excited, it may not want to be brushed or handled in other ways. If the owner trie...

As the saying goes, "On the second day of February, the dragon raises its head," and trimming a "dragon's whiskers" symbolizes a wish for good luck and blessings. Not only do humans need to trim their hair, but it's also a good time for dogs to get a new look. However, given the severity of the pandemic, many pet owners have learned to groom their dogs themselves using pet combs , giving their furry friends a fresh new appearance after a careful combing and trim. Here are some tips for grooming your dog on this occasion: 1. Prepare the right tools: Pet owners should gather the commonly used pet combs, including fine-tooth combs and de-matting combs. These tools help to untangle knots and remove deep-seated fleas and loose hair. If possible, owners can give their dog a bath first, using a special bathing comb to remove surface dandruff and dust while massaging the skin, which will make the dog feel more comfortable. After the bath, be sure to dry the dog t...

During the quarantine period, many pet owners who were once inexperienced in the kitchen have gradually become skilled chefs, and even handy around the house. Their dogs and cats have occasionally joined in on eating human food, especially in rural areas. However, human food often contains salt, and there have been many claims online warning that dogs should not consume salt. So, is this true or false? First, Salt is Essential for Animal Metabolism. Salt is an important component for animals, playing a crucial role in metabolism. Adding a certain amount of salt to dog food can enhance its palatability, making it taste better. Salt also helps stimulate the secretion of gastric acid and aids in digestion. On the other hand, if a dog lacks sufficient salt, it can disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, and even impaired nerve function. Therefore, salt is indeed essential for dogs as well. Second, It's Important to Control the ...

We often see adorable, chubby cats online, with their slow movements and sharp, observant eyes, which attract a lot of attention. Many people also point out that excessive weight in cats can put unnecessary strain on their bodies, and it’s important to control their weight. Typically, pet owners think that unlike dogs, cats don’t need frequent walks on a leash, so they should just regulate their daily diet and nutrient intake. But what if your cat is still overweight despite these efforts? In fact, some cats' obesity may not be due to excessive absorption of nutrients. Disruption of the digestive system’s absorption function can also contribute to a cat becoming overweight. Both cats and dogs have high protein requirements, and ensuring they consume the right amount of protein is essential for maintaining healthy fur and overall well-being. Protein and fat are important components of a cat's body. In a household setting, the primary source of protein for cats is usually cat ...

As the domestic pandemic situation gradually improves, many pet owners, after making adequate precautions, are eager to take their dogs out for walks on leashes. This has led to a phenomenon of "revenge walks" where dogs are taken out more frequently than usual. Additionally, during the pandemic, residents in Spain took advantage of legal loopholes and used various means to "walk their dogs" as an excuse to get some fresh air, which not only exhausted the dogs but also was counterproductive to pandemic control efforts. In urban areas, most dogs weigh between 5-15 kg. Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles are at the lower end of the scale, while larger breeds like Golden Retrievers and Alaskan Malamutes are at the higher end. Small dogs generally have low exercise needs; for those under 5 kg, regular indoor activities are usually sufficient. Pet owners can engage in short games inside the house with a leash to maintain their dog's activity level. For d...

There’s a popular term online called "super long charging type," which refers to people who feel they never get enough sleep, no matter how long they sleep. Interestingly, many dogs can be considered the "super long charging warriors" of the animal kingdom, sleeping even longer than humans! Sometimes, when you want to groom your dog with a pet comb, train them with a leash, or play with their toys, you may just find them fast asleep, looking cozy and content. In fact, dogs have been sleeping a lot since their puppyhood, and their sleep frequency is quite high. Puppies can sleep for about 22 hours a day, with the remaining time spent being cared for by their owners—drinking milk, going to the bathroom, or getting groomed with a pet comb. Just like humans, dogs release important growth hormones during sleep that help them grow better. Especially when dogs are young, sufficient sleep, proper grooming, and early training are essential to their development. Dogs don’t...

It's quite common for dogs to chew on their leashes. Some may dislike the restriction, others might be adjusting, and some simply act out of frustration. So, what can dog owners do to stop their dogs from chewing on the leash? 1. Apply Bitter Apple or Orange Juice to the Leash Dogs have their own preferences when it comes to tastes, especially when it comes to unpleasant flavors. Applying a bitter substance, like bitter apple or orange juice, can discourage your dog from chewing on the leash. These substances are harmless and won’t harm your dog, but they will create a mental association—leashes taste bad, so they shouldn’t be chewed on. Some owners also choose to use a harness or a chain leash, which solves the chewing problem at its source, though this may sacrifice some comfort for the dog. 2. Give Your Dog Time to Adjust Before Training If your dog hasn’t yet learned to follow the leash, start with a target stick to assist in training. Avoid being too harsh when you begin le...

Bringing a leash whenever going out is a basic rule for dog owners. However, many dogs love to bite their leashes, no matter the material. During the pandemic lockdown, some dogs, with little to do at home, started chewing on their leashes as a form of play, leading to significant wear and tear on these items. So, why do dogs love to bite their leashes? 1. Discomfort from Collar Pressure To prevent their dogs from pulling too much, many owners opt for neck collars instead of chest harnesses. This type of collar, when used with a leash, applies pressure to the dog’s neck to guide them in the right direction. However, this setup may lack comfort for some dogs. They might bite the leash as a way to express discomfort, especially if they dislike wearing the collar or being controlled. This can lead to resistance and frustration. To avoid this, owners should introduce the neck collar gradually, allowing the dog to become familiar with it. When walking the dog with a leash, it’s important ...

As spring approaches, shedding season for dogs is just around the corner. Whether it's on the sofa, in the corners of the floor, in the bathroom, or even on the bed, dog hair is sure to be everywhere. Dog owners inevitably find themselves caught in the whirlwind of dealing with pet shedding. Many, considering the need to groom their pets and clean their homes, might initially choose short-haired dogs like Bulldogs or Labradors. But does a short-haired dog shed less than a long-haired breed like a Golden Retriever? In reality, this is one of the common misconceptions pet owners have when using grooming tools on their pets. 1. Most Dogs Shed Hair to Some Extent Due to their physiological development, dogs—whether long-haired or short-haired—shed hair regularly and require their owners to groom them with a pet brush. Only a few breeds, such as Bichon Frises or Schnauzers, shed very little or almost none at all. Breeds like Alaskan Malamutes or Border Collies, on the other hand, are a...

As March arrives, the footsteps of spring quicken, and for many cat owners, this also signals the onset of their cats' mating season. Some cats have already begun displaying signs of heat at home, and their unusual behaviors, including constant meowing, can leave owners feeling overwhelmed, even with tools like grooming brushes and cat food in hand. So, what should you be aware of during your cat's heat cycle? 1. Pay Attention to the Signs of Heat The mating season is a phase that all cats, both male and female, go through. Male cats will often howl and mark their territory by spraying urine, while female cats exhibit behaviors like raising their hindquarters, head rubbing, and other unusual actions. The following are common signs of a cat in heat: Excessive Shedding When grooming your cat, you may notice a lot of hair being shed—this is a common occurrence during heat. The shedding is not only unsightly but can also affect the cat’s health. Cats in heat are more likely to s...

It’s well known that cats, compared to dogs, are generally more independent and can tolerate solitude better. However, even for house cats, prolonged separation during the pandemic—lasting days or even over a month—can lead to stress reactions. Some cats are more sensitive to emotional changes, and if their living space is small, they may exhibit even more adverse behaviors. So, how can pet owners, after overcoming many obstacles to reunite with their pets, help alleviate their stress responses? To begin with, it’s important to understand that alleviating your pet's stress involves both physiological and psychological considerations. Symptoms such as loss of appetite, depression, and even sudden illness can arise. These need to be addressed to prevent any unexpected health issues. On the physiological side, the formation of stress responses in pets is closely linked to their body’s ability to absorb nutrients, metabolize, and regulate immunity. Experts suggest that pet owners mi...

Experienced cat owners know that cats love to bask in the sun, and the ultraviolet rays help their skin produce beneficial substances like vitamin D. In addition to enjoying the grooming and massages from their owners, cats also lick their paws and fur to absorb these nutrients, keeping themselves clean in the process. This is a win-win situation for them. However, aside from owners using pet brushes to groom their cats, occasionally, cats may return the favor by grooming their owners. Do you know why they do this? If a household has more than one cat, it is common for cats to groom each other, especially if they have a close bond. Higher-ranking cats may also groom other cats, as a way of showing care. However, cats are naturally proud and may not easily accept their position in the social hierarchy. Male cats, for instance, often fight to assert dominance. That being said, when a cat grooms its owner, it is usually a sign of deep affection. The grooming, along with the everyday car...

During home quarantine, enhancing exercise and boosting your immune system can help defend against external viruses. As pet owners, while you’re improving your own health and nutrition, you surely wouldn’t forget about your furry friend! Whether it’s with creative home walks, carefully grooming your dog with a pet brush, or occasionally giving them some nutritional supplements, you aim to keep your dog’s life healthy too. But when it comes to giving your dog medicine, it’s often more challenging than holding them for a bath or brushing their fur! Many pet owners try to mix the medicine into their dog’s food, hoping that the dog will eat it without noticing. However, dogs’ powerful sense of smell allows them to easily detect and even pick out the medication from their food. If a dog manages to throw the pill away when the owner isn’t looking, this could interfere with its recovery. Some owners try to ease the situation by first grooming their dog with a pet brush or giving them a skin...

As the time spent together between a cat and its owner increases, their familiarity and bond gradually deepen. Sometimes, when the owner uses a pet comb to groom the cat, the cat, feeling happy, may even rub against the owner. However, occasionally, a cat might gently bite its owner. Do you know why this happens? Before using the pet comb to groom the cat, owners often start by petting the cat’s body or using their fingers as toys to play with the cat. However, frequent belly rubs before grooming can make the cat feel suspicious of the owner’s intentions. This can lead the cat to show signs of discomfort or defensiveness, since the belly is a very sensitive and important area for animals. Some owners also tend to use their fingers or the comb as toys to play with their cats, which may cause the cat to instinctively treat these items, including the owner’s fingers, as playthings. A gentle bite in this case can simply be a form of playful behavior. Sometimes, the cat may not want to ...

A dog’s body language can communicate a lot about its mood and well-being. Particularly when pet owners spend a lot of time with their dogs, whether during leash training or daily grooming sessions, understanding a dog’s physical cues is key to building a better relationship. Take the example of a dog stretching—what does it signify when you try to groom your dog and see it stretch out? 1. Stretching Simply Loosens the Muscles When a dog wakes up from a good sleep, stretching feels wonderful. In addition to enjoying a proper grooming session from its owner, dogs will also stretch to relax their limbs. This is especially true for older dogs, whose joints and body functions begin to slow down as they age. The stretch provides a comforting way for dogs to relieve tension and enjoy a moment of relaxation. 2. Stretching in Front of You Means Trust When a dog stretches out its limbs comfortably in front of you, it shows trust and affection. It might even roll onto its back to expose its be...

Staying at home and spending time with your pet cat or dog is one of the most fortunate experiences. As time spent at home with these furry companions increases, many pet owners have started to observe and summarize some interesting behaviors of their cats. For instance, did you know that a cat’s different sleeping positions can indicate its mood and personality? 1. Easygoing and Gentle Type: Sleeping on Its Side or Sprawled Out When a cat lies on its side, stretching its limbs out as much as possible, or even sprawls out with its legs in all directions, it looks like a picture of comfort. This sleeping position is often seen when the cat is being groomed by its owner using a pet brush. It reflects a cat with a gentle, easygoing temperament, one that enjoys the experience of grooming and is very satisfied with the care and attention from its owner. Such a cat is content with its environment and the companionship it receives. 2. Sensitive and Cautious Type: Curling Up or Hiding in a ...

Recently, a news story about a "post-2000s" individual taking their cat on a cross-city taxi ride home for the New Year sparked widespread discussion. The trip, from Guangzhou to Jieyang, covered a distance of over 360 kilometers and seemed to cost over a thousand yuan. However, after sharing the ride with others, the cost ended up being even cheaper than flying or taking a high-speed train. This clever solution has introduced a new way of bringing pets home for the Spring Festival. To avoid the complicated pet security procedures at airports and train stations, and to ensure pets have a more comfortable journey, taking a long-distance ride-share with your pet seems like a reasonable option. Of course, aside from creative solutions like this one, many people also choose to spend a lot of money to bring their beloved pets home every year. However, compared to expensive transportation options, the uncertainty of pet boarding, or the question of whether a pet is well-suited to...

What’s the most troublesome part of raising a cat? Is it feeding them properly, getting them to bond with you, or dealing with the hair they shed all over the place? All three are common challenges cat owners face, but for Xiao Di, the most annoying task is brushing and managing the cat’s fur. No matter the season—be it the mild spring and summer or the shedding frenzy of autumn and winter—cat hair seems to be everywhere in the house, often tangled in furniture and various items. If you neglect grooming, it’s easy to watch fur falling freely from your cat. Thus, using a pet comb regularly is essential—not only for managing their coat but also for checking their health and easing their physical burden. With so many pet comb options available, how should cat owners choose? Some owners, skilled with their hands, can use an ordinary human comb to groom their cats to perfection. Others choose cat breeds with less shedding, like the Sphynx, to avoid grooming headaches altogether. But for ...

Nowadays, many people enjoy having a dog as a companion, and taking their dogs for walks with a leash has become a regular activity. However, dog owners must be mindful of how they use the leash and the level of force they apply to avoid causing harm to themselves or their dogs. Walking Your Dog Without a Leash It has become a common understanding among most dog owners that a leash is essential when taking a dog outside. Using a leash helps the owner guide the dog to engage in proper activities, such as walking, playing, staying away from dangerous objects, and not running around erratically. This ensures the dog’s safety and prevents unnecessary disruptions to public order, promoting responsible pet ownership. Excessive Intensity During Walks Some owners subject their dogs to high-intensity training without considering the dog’s physical condition. For example, the exercise needs of a Shar Pei and an Alaskan Malamute are vastly different. No matter how fast a dog runs, it cannot...

As the saying goes, "If you don't pet your pet, you're losing out." This is especially true for dogs, with their silly, adorable smiles. As a responsible pet owner, not petting your dog would feel like a missed opportunity. After brushing your dog with a pet comb or taking it for a walk on a leash, you might be tempted to pet its head, and the dog seems to enjoy it. However, in reality, petting a dog’s head doesn’t always mean they interpret it as affection. First: Dogs May See Head Petting as a Potential Threat Dogs are highly sensitive to touch, but their heads are also a blind spot in their field of vision. Sudden contact with the head can make a dog feel alert and uneasy. You might wonder, "But my dog is fine when I brush its head." This is because the dog is familiar with your scent, and out of trust and affection, it allows you to comb or touch its head. However, if a stranger tries to pet the dog’s head, it may instinctively avoid or defend itself ...