Parade Pets

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Dogs deserve to enjoy fall-themed activities and treats too. That’s why this adorable ball toy from Chewy is the perfect choice right now.

The Playology Apple Cider Scented Squeaky Chew Ball Dog Toy is just $13 from Chewy in size medium. You can also get it in a jumbo size at the same listing for $17.

This holiday-themed toy releases bursts of all-natural apple cider scents with every chew, helping keep your pup engaged. It’s a squeaky rubber ball that’s dishwasher-safe and child-safe, delivering “sensory-rich fun that smells like cozy fall days” to your pup.

The toy is “embedded with an all-natural scent at the microscopic level, providing fresh bursts of irresistible scent with every chew,” the manufacturer writes. It also has a satisfying squeak that dogs love too.

One buyer raves about how durable the ball is, writing: “I have a Catahoula, and her jaws can break the squeakers on most balls within a couple of days… But this ball is SO MUCH more durable and is still squeaking fine.”

Playology Apple Cider Scented Squeaky Chew Ball Dog Toy for $13 at Chewy

Courtesy of Chewy

Shop it!

On Chewy’s website, buyers have rated this 4.8 out of 5 stars. Check out some of the reviews:

• “Bought 8 new toys for 2 GSDs and they’re fighting over this one ball.”
• “Sophie actually plays with & chews on this ball. It’s tough and it squeaks.”
• “No risk of pet swallowing squeaker, can be washed, Miley loves them!!”

Chewy offers free one to three day delivery for first-time orders of over $35. They also offer free 365-day returns.

Related: Chewy’s Halloween Cat Tunnel Is a Spooky Kitty Playground

When a veterinarian asks whether I am ready to see something “totally adorable,” the answer is always yes. However, I was not remotely prepared for the tiny creature she lifted into view. The puppy has enormous ears, wild grayish black fur, and a sweet little face that looks like someone combined a teddy bear with a baby werewolf.

The unusual pup is a French Bulldog and Poodle mix, although she also received comparisons to an Ewok, a chupacabra, and the werewolf puppies from Hotel Transylvania. Personally, I think she looks like a stuffed animal that comes alive after midnight and politely asks for snackies.

@drcaitlinveterinarian

No words. #frenchie #frenchiemix #vetmed #cutestdogever

♬ original sound – drcaitlinveterinarian

The irresistible introduction was shared by @drcaitlinveterinarian, who holds the fluffy rescue puppy up for the camera so everyone can fully appreciate her remarkable little face.

“Why does he look like he’s part teddy bear, part werewolf?” one viewer asked.

Another person wrote, “He looks like he can’t believe he’s Frenchie-Poodle either.” Fair. The puppy appears just as surprised by this information as everyone else.

Related: Adorable Hairless Dachshund With a Beard Looks Like Somebody’s Tiny Grandpa

“She’s so adorable,” one commenter declared, while another simply announced, “Oh. My. Goodness. I want and need!”

This Tiny Werewolf Is a Rescue Success Story @drcaitlinveterinarian

When your cute patient goes viral. #cutestdogever #frenchie #frenchiemix #famous vetmed@Talega Animal Hospital

♬ original sound – Lachlan Sutherland

Some viewers worried that the video could encourage people to intentionally breed more Frenchie-Poodle mixes simply because this puppy looks so cute.

“I wouldn’t tell anyone what her mix is because I know some would see instant dollar signs,” one person commented.

The veterinarian stepped in to explain the puppy’s actual story. She and her littermates ended up at a shelter before Big Love Rescue took them in. Foster families bottle-fed the puppies, and this little girl was eventually adopted by a loving family.

“So this is a rescue success story,” the veterinarian emphasized.

That distinction matters. Celebrating one adorable mixed-breed puppy does not mean people should rush to find someone producing more of them. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit any combination of physical and behavioral traits from their parents, and a cute appearance cannot tell us everything about a dog’s health.

What this video can encourage is rescue. This tiny werewolf teddy bear needed help, received loving foster care, and found a family of her own. That is the part of her mix everyone should want more of.

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

I have spent entirely too long trying to understand the proportions of this magnificent Siberian cat named Thomas. He has the sweet little face of a kitten attached to what appears to be the body of a fully grown woodland bear. It should not work, and yet it is glorious.

Thomas is simply sitting outside on a patio while his floofy body spreads majestically in every possible direction. The caption “He wide” is both hilariously blunt and perhaps the only accurate way to explain what we are seeing. This cat isn’t merely large. That is a whole lot of cat.

@thomas_siberian

Big cat energy 🐈‍⬛ #cat #siberiancat #zoomies #meme

♬ original sound – Thomas 🐾

The clip was shared by @thomas_siberian, whose enormous tabby is serving nothing but “big cat energy.” Thomas barely has to move. He just sits there with his tiny kitten face, sturdy stance, and luxurious fall coat while everyone else attempts to comprehend his WIDTH.

“That’s a wide stance, my guy. Ain’t no one tipping him over,” one viewer observed.

Another person joked, “That cat is so wide he needs his own concrete foundation!” Someone else simply declared, “He double wide.”

Related: Giant Maine Coon Tries to Make a Tiny Baby Frog His Bestie

Several commenters insisted that his impressive size is largely the result of all that fur. “I guarantee you that that’s all floof,” one person wrote, while another said, “Noooo, it’s just the floof! He’s perfect.”

I agree that Thomas is perfect, although I would also like to see the engineering reports for that patio.

Siberian Cats Need Regular Grooming @nimbus_siberian

This was his most chaotic car wash so far but he’s still my perfect angel 🥰 And before anyone comes for me, Nimbus only gets a bath 1-2 times year. His dense fluff needs extra help, especially in the mudflap area we trim. This is what works for ✨US✨ #fyp #viral #siberiancat #cat #foryou #grooming

♬ Chopin Nocturne No. 2 Piano Mono – moshimo sound design

Siberian cats have thick, water-resistant coats consisting of multiple layers, which help explain why Thomas looks prepared to survive a blizzard despite lounging peacefully on a patio.

Their coats generally need to be combed or brushed a few times each week to remove loose hair and help prevent tangles. Cat parents may need to groom them more frequently during heavier seasonal shedding, particularly in the spring and fall when Siberians can release an astonishing amount of floof.

A wide-tooth comb can help work through the dense coat, while a slicker brush can collect loose fur. Areas behind the ears, beneath the legs, and around the fluffy back end deserve extra attention because knots can hide there.

Of course, brushing a Siberian may leave enough fur behind to assemble an entirely new cat. Based on Thomas, possibly a small bear.

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

I have to admit that we have some pretty cool birds here in the United States. I’m a big bird lover: you never know exactly who’s going to visit the bird feeders in your yard! Unfortunately, though, as cool as our backyard birds are, we don’t have Cockatoos. I wish! I would love to see one.

In Australia, though, there are a ton of Cockatoos. They’re everywhere! It is not uncommon to see them at bird feeders throughout the country, and it’s apparently also not uncommon for them to wreak havoc on those bird feeders for fun:

@miss.leila.v

#cockatoo #funny #australia #fah #goldcoast

♬ i got this fahh – 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏💿

Leila lives in Australia, and a big part of her account is showing off the wild birds who visit her bird feeders every day. She’s even able to get really close with some of the ones who have been visiting for a while! This Cockatoo is not one of them, though: he prefers to show up, tip the thing over, and go.

The other wild birds definitely hate to see him coming. The squirrels, however, must line up and wait: once he’s visited, those seeds become a whole lot easier for them to reach. Some people probably hate that, but to be honest, I don’t mind squirrels at my feeders! They have to eat too!

Related: Cockatoo Turns Into ‘Neighborhood Watchdog’ and It’s Never Been Safer

I’d probably be a little more scared of the Cockatoo than I am of the squirrels, to be honest. He is simply not afraid to square up with anyone who gets too close to him, which is fascinating to watch:

@miss.leila.v

#bushturkey #australia #cockatoo #funny #kingvon

♬ original sound – Ditto

He even brought a friend that time, but managed to take on the bush turkey all on his own. He doesn’t need a wingman! It seems like he definitely won, too, because the turkey ended up backing away a little.

Cockatoos Are Very Territorial

Whether you’ve got a Cockatoo living in your house or they’re out terrorizing your bird feeder, there’s one simple truth about Cockatoos: they’re very territorial. Their things are theirs, and imposing can be downright dangerous!

Kirsten Walla / Getty Images

Cockatoos, especially captive ones, are said to be “childlike” and “kind.” Both of those things can be true: they can throw tantrums, complain with actual words, and they can be nice, too. However, they are wild animals, and it’s important to remember that they have instincts! A territorial Cockatoo might:

• Puff up.
• Scream.
• Lunge.
• Bite.

If you notice a Cockatoo, captive or wild, beginning to get agitated, you need to back off. Give them a minute to cool down so you don’t get bitten, and if you’re watching a wild Cockatoo show down with other birds, never interfere!

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you love bird watching, but want to get a closer look at your feathered visitors, then this bird feeder from The Home Depot would make a great addition to your yard decor. The Perky-Pet Clear Window Bird Feeder is just $11 and it’s highly rated by customers. At such a low price, you could even get several and put them on multiple windows!

This bird feeder has a large 4.5-inch entrance that fits even larger birds like cardinals. It comes with four suction cups, giving it a secure and strong hold on windows.

The feeder can hold up to half a pound of birdseed. It comes with a removable tray, making it easy to refill and clean without needing to detach it from the window. And the crystal-clear plastic ensures you’ll get a great view of the chickadees, finches, nuthatches, titmice, and any other bird that comes to visit.

Perky-Pet Clear Window Bird Feeder for $11 at The Home Depot

Courtesy of The Home Depot

Shop it!

The manufacturer notes that the feeder will mount securely to any clean window without a screen. They write that for best results, “thoroughly clean your window first” and then “moisten the feeder’s suction cups with a bit of water or vegetable oil then apply the feeder to the glass.” Moisture helps create a better suction to the window.

Why Buyers Like This Bird Feeder

Buyers on The Home Depot’s website rate this 4.4 out of 5 stars overall. They say it’s easy to install, easy to refill, sturdy, and lots of fun. They’ve also shared a lot of photos of their feeders with their reviews, including one of a cat enjoying watching the birds through the window too.

Check out some of their reviews below:

• “It is very attractive and the suction cups hold extremely well. It is fun to watch small birds up close from inside the house.”
• “My cats love it!! We have tinted windows so birds can’t see cats. Really keeps cats occupied!”
• “I love the pull out tray, it’s easy to remove and refill with seeds. I also love the little roof overhang, it keeps the seeds dry. My cat loves it, he will chatter at the birds, it’s like Cat TV for him.”

The Home Depot offers free delivery or free in-store pickup on this bird feeder.

Related: Home Depot’s 2-in-1 Pet Stairs Give Senior Dogs and Cats a Boost

Puppies are universally adored by all. These fluffy fur babies are the epitome of irresistible with their cloud-like coats, giant paws too big for their bodies, and insatiable curiosity that seems to get them into mischief.

Gus the Corgi puppy is one of those captivating canine cuties that looks like a wand of cotton candy.

@curbyscorgis

The happiest & sweetest boy ever. Gus flies to his forever home with our flight nanny in just a few days 😭🫶🏼. #corgi #puppy #happy

♬ Number 7’s Gone – Blake Whiten

In the TikTok from @curbyscorgis, Gus sat center-stage and stared into the camera with his warm, chocolate brown eyes. The tiny, four-legged puffball seemed to be more floofy fur than actual dog, with luxurious locks that billowed out in every direction.

Gus could easily be considered a walking cloud with stubby legs and two fuzzy triangles on top of his head. The precious puppy wagged his tail with joy, which made his entire body wiggle. Every now and then, he’d prance in place with his pretty paws to show even more excitement over nothing in particular. His innocent, ‘who, me?’ expression just made him all the more endearing.

The caption revealed that Gus is the “happiest and sweetest boy ever” and will soon be going to his forever home. Followers fell head over heels for Gus and didn’t hide their affection for the floofy fur baby:

• “Just a little potato with feet,” one remarked.
• “Gimme the Gus!!!” another raved.
• “So cute!” a follower gushed.
• “I love him!!!” someone posted.

How Big Do Corgi Puppies Get?

Gus is listed as a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. These Corgis usually have a docked tail and are lighter and more compact than Cardigan Welsh Corgis, who have long, fox-like tails.

A Corgi’s growth progression follows a certain pattern that typically stops at about two years old:

• 8 weeks: 7 to 9 pounds and 4 to 6 inches in height.
• 3 months: 9 to 11 pounds and 5 to 7 inches in height.
• 6 months: 17 to 21 pounds and 7 to 8 inches in height.
• 9 months: 18 to 20 pounds and 9 to 10 inches in height.
• 1 year: 20 to 26 pounds and 9 to 11 inches in height.
• 2 years: 22 to 30 pounds and 9 to 11 inches in height.

Related: Corgi Helps Herself to Cheetos with Zero Regrets and We’re Living for Her Energy

These average weight and height numbers tend to be on the higher end for Cardigan Welsh Corgis.

Though Corgis are considered small dogs, like Gus, they have big, adorable personalities that win everyone over.

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

British Shorthair cats have such a distinguished look with their big round eyes, jowls and prominent whisker pads.

They are easy to identify amongst other cat breeds.

Though this British Shorthair kitten has all the classic features of the breed, with her rich brown coat and cute little face, she resembles another species altogether.

@olivethechocolatecat

I’m just a baby bear kitten 🧸 #bsh #britishshorthair #chocolatecat

♬ original sound – North Haven Ragdoll Cattery

As you can imagine, there were quite a few fans in the comment section for this brown British Shorthair kitten.

One person wrote, “That is an extremely adorable cat.”

Another commented on the kitten’s rare chocolate color.

And though some people thought the British Shorthair kitten looked like a bear, others thought she resembled other notable animals and people.

One person compared her face to Ron Swanson from Parks & Recreation.

Another thought she looked like Puss as a kitten from Puss in Boots.

Related: Funny Dog Who Acts Like a Cat Is ‘German Shorthaired Pointer by Blood, British Shorthair by Choice’

What Colors and Patterns Do British Shorthairs Come In?

The British Shorthair is a beloved cat breed that originated in Rome and was then brought to England in the first century AD.

They come in many colors and patterns, according to the UK’s premier cat registration body, GCCF:

• Blue
• Black
• White
• Chocolate or Brown
• Lilac
• Cinnamon
• Fawn
• Red
• Cream
• Golden
• Silver
• Tortoiseshell
• Tabby
• Bi-colour and Van patterns
• Colorpoint
• Tipped and shaded

This adorable kitten is clearly chocolate or brown, which is a relatively rare color for British Shorthairs.

 The brown pigment is produced by the B gene locus.

In order for the kitten to display a brown coat, they have to carry two copies of this recessive gene (so one from each parent).

This is why you may see a brown British Shorthair kitten be the offspring of two black British Shorthair parents.

But how these cats ended up with a cute little brown hair, we will never know!

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Dogs are generally very friendly creatures. They are always willing to stop to say hello on walks and offer their head for a few scratches — and this special pup is certainly no exception.

A Bernese Mountain Dog named Weller is easily capturing hearts in a recent Instagram video. In the clip, the text reads that he “tries to be friends with every creature he comes into contact with.” The proof is the accompanying, must-see footage!

View this post on Instagram

Weller is adorable! This sweet pup truly made friends with every creature he met, including but not limited to, a koi fish, a toad, and chickens. There’s no animal he won’t befriend!

People in the comments are comparing the wholesomeness of Weller’s behavior to children’s media. One person said, “Oh, please turn this into a children’s book!” and another commented, “So your dog is a real life Pixar movie.”

Others are simply enamored with Weller, such as one user who said, “The smile!!!! Not to be dramatic, but I would die for this dog.” Another person commented, “This is my favorite video on the internet. Well done! I will be Weller’s friend. Pick me! Pick me!”

Weller truly is magical like a Disney princess. It’s no surprise that he has made a few fans. He is irresistible!

Why Are Bernese Mountain Dogs So Friendly?

What is it about Weller that makes him such an approachable pup? Well, Bernese Mountain Dogs are famous for being gentle giants because of their history, easygoing personality, and deep emotional connection to people.

Related: Bernese Mountain Dog’s Method of Playing With New Kitten Is Chaotic Cuteness

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a history of being working dogs. They were bred in the Swiss Alps to pull carts, watch livestock, and be general farm helpers. Dogs that showed aggression were not useful on a busy family farm, so breeders opted for dogs with a calm, patient, and reliable nature.

These pups also have a people-pleasing personality. The breed is naturally placid and easygoing, meaning they rarely see other animals as a threat. Their patient demeanor means if another animal gets too rowdy, a Berner will usually just walk away rather than fight back.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are emotionally sensitive as well. They can read emotions and notice tiny changes in moods, breathing, and stress levels. When they sense sadness, they often rest their heavy headass on your lap to offer quiet support.

Weller embodies his breed well. This pup’s friendly nature has made him plenty of friends and endeared thousands of people to him. Weller is doing just fine!

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Homemade beef stew plated on china and garnished with crackers. Purified water served in a stemmed cocktail glass.

This is lunch at “Chez Grandma,” and the guest of honor is her grandpuppy, a Boxer named Poppy. Princess Poppy visits regularly and has apparently never once been served anything out of a bowl.

Poppy’s mom has objections. “Is this really necessary?” she asks.

One terrifying look from Grandma settles the matter: Grandma’s house; Grandma’s rules.

And lunch is served.

@princess.poppyyy

IM DONE WITH THESE TWO 🤣🤣🤣 #boxerdog #foryoupage #dogmom #doggrandma #fyp

♬ original sound – Princess Poppy

Viewers know better than to criticize:

“Don’t mess with Grandma’s girl,” says one.

“That stare could fix the world. Make us all behave,” agrees another.

“You can’t compete where you can’t compare,” adds a third.

But isn’t spoiling what grandmothers are for?

Related: Charming Golden Retriever Crashes Strangers’ Lunch and ‘Leaves Without Paying the Bill’

Is There a Safe Way to Spoil a Dog?

Yes, but the best ones share attention, novelty, and time, not calories. The American Kennel Club’s suggestions for safely spoiling a dog read less like a menu and more like a good day out:

Take your baby to the pet supply store and let her pick her own toy; the smells and the sights do as much for her as the toy will.

Stuff a Kong with peanut butter and freeze it for a few hours before playtime — on a hot afternoon, that’s a gift.

Buy your pup something both ridiculous and useful, like a personalized collar (ok that might be more for us than them, but still).

Give your canine a relaxing massage. It not only pampers your pup in the moment, but it can also make your dog more comfortable at the vet or groomer.

Take him swimming somewhere without a current, hiking somewhere he’s never been, or to the dog park to run himself ragged.

And if you want to cook, baking homemade canine-safe biscuits lets you control exactly what goes into them.

When you do reach for food, there’s a number worth knowing. Tufts veterinary nutritionist Deborah Linder recommends that no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories come from treats — for a 75-pound dog eating around 1,400 calories a day, that’s roughly 140 calories of extras. Which is to say Poppy can absolutely have the stew. She just can’t have the stew and everything else.

Related: Gorgeous Maine Coon Kitten Getting Repeatedly Thwacked by Dog Tail Refuses to Move an Inch

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Kittens are so demanding. Whenever they’re awake, it seems like there’s always something they need, and it’s honestly a little overwhelming. It just never ends, and that’s how they get you! They tire you out so they can do whatever they want!

Most of the time, anyway. When it comes to these precious Maine Coon kittens, they just want to cuddle! They did what any cat would: found a puddle of sunshine and decided to snuggle up. It’s so cute that it made me jealous:

@greekgardenmainecoons

I could sit and watch them all day. And I have. 🥹 #kittens #peaceful #mainecoon

♬ original sound – GreekGardenMaineCoons

Greek Garden Maine Coons has the cutest kittens ever, and that name certainly helps them feel whimsical! These kittens are basically brand-new, waiting for the day they can finally go off to their forever homes. It will be a while before that happens, but until then, they’re having the time of their lives!

These kittens are a few weeks old; they’re able to explore their home a little better now than they were when they were little. Once they’d officially had enough of snuggling and nursing and opened their eyes, it was time to venture out… Right into a puddle of sun, where they’ve mostly stayed ever since.

Related: Orange Maine Coon Gives Birth to a Perfect Pumpkin Patch

These kittens are some of my favorites that this cattery has ever had. They’re just precious, and as they grow, they’ve only gotten cuter. I’m in love! They’re getting so big now that their mom has kind of forgotten how to pick them up!

@greekgardenmainecoons

We’ve all temporarily forgotten how to do something before, right? 😅 mainecoons #kitten #fail

♬ original sound – GreekGardenMaineCoons

This is so sweet. I don’t think I could ever run a cattery. I would just end up keeping all of the kittens. Luckily, though, they’re much better than me, and their kittens always find a loving home!

Why Do Cats Love the Sun?

These sweet little Maine Coon kittens can be found in their favorite sun spot whenever it’s available, and when it isn’t, they’re picking another one. They love to lie in the sunshine, and so does every other cat!

Kathrin Ziegler / Getty Images

Cats like to be warm: it’s a survival instinct. They’ll do just about anything to keep warm, including:

• Curling up (especially in spaces that are too small for them).
• Lying on top of warm things, like floor vents or radiators.
• In the case of stray cats, curling up in the wheel wells or underneath cars.
• Finding sunny spots to lounge in.

If you want to encourage them to lie in a certain spot, you can try to place their cat tree in front of the window, or have their beds on top of tables that get a lot of sun (console tables under windows are great for this!). Don’t worry, though: they’ll find some sun regardless!

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

There are some childhood characters you outgrow. Thankfully, Wallace and Gromit aren’t really among them.

If you grew up watching a man and his dog build a rocket out of spare parts to go to the moon for cheese, this one is going to hit you right in the childhood. The eccentric inventor and his wonderfully patient dog are coming to your home as a Lego set.

🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Lego Ideas Wallace & Gromit Building Set (#21371), $99.99 at Target

Target

Shop It!

The 1,038-piece Lego Ideas Wallace & Gromit Building Set recreates the iconic motorbike-and-sidecar scene with the kind of detail that will satisfy any fan of the franchise. Priced at $99.99, the set is designed for builder ages 18 and up and is available for pre-order with an expected release date of Oct. 1.

The set measures nine inches high, nine inches long, and seven inches wide, meaning it’s a fairly large piece than can be displayed on a shelf. It’s packed with plenty Easter eggs and the Wallace and Gromit figures can be arranged in different riding positions.

The small details make the set that much better. Gromit’s goggles magnify his eyes, just like in the movie. And if you open the seat hatch on the motorbike, you will find a hidden diamond, a reference to the plot of A Close Shave. But I’ll let you explore and find all the hidden Easter Eggs for yourself.

Related: Aldi’s 336-Piece Lego Puppy Set Packs Three Whimsical Builds in One

How Wallace and Gromit Became Huge in the 1990s

Wallace & Gromit first came to the big screen with A Grand Day Out, followed by The Wrong Trousers and A Close Shave, with the latter winning an Oscar for Best Animated Short Film at the 68th Academy Awards. The recognition helped the duo go from a British animation favorite into internationally recognizable characters.

Part of the character’s appeal is their chemistry. Wallace is the enthusiastic inventor, whose ideas tended to create new problems. Gromit is his almost entirely silent dog, communicating with facial expressions and perfectly timed reactions. Their humor strikes the perfect middle ground. Children enjoyed the slapstick and strange inventions, while adults appreciated the dry jokes and visual details.

Related: Aldi’s 312-Piece Lego Hummingbird Set Turns Into Three Whimsical Nature Scenes

Forget the turkey. Some dogs consider every day with you to be Thanksgiving. But how can you truly know the ways dogs show they’re grateful to be part of your family? After all, since they speak a different language it can be hard to decode what they’re trying to communicate with you and how they feel about you. The good news is, a veterinarian says you just need to watch your dog closely and you’ll be able to recognize how dogs show they appreciate you and love you. In fact, Dr. Hilary Humm-Beatty, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, says dogs can use their body language and behavior to send us daily thank-you notes.

“Dog thankfulness is more like a deep attachment, trust and security with their owner,” Dr. Humm-Beatty states. “Dogs are grateful to us because we meet their basic core needs for food, water and safety. They enjoy and appreciate playing with us and our companionship.”

Dr. Humm-Beatty notes that dogs have developed deep bonds with humans over the course of centuries, and they know how to read our body language, form attachments and protect us. “Dogs definitely have and demonstrate a less reflective form of ‘gratitude,'” she explains.

In other words, with cute and heartwarming behaviors and body language, there are ways dogs show they’re grateful to be a part of your family, like only they can. Scroll on for Dr. Humm-Beatty’s take on the many ways dogs say, “I’m so thankful!”

Related: 7 Signs Your Dog Feels Happy, Heard and Understood, Say Experts

7 Ways Dogs Show They’re Grateful to Be Part of Your Family A dog softly gazing into its dog dad’s eyes.

Getty Images Mariia Vitkovska

There are many ways dogs show they’re glad you’re in their life, but you have to know what to look for.

1. They Share Their Toys With You

How dogs show love to their humans and than us may not be what you expect. That’s why you should take the slobbery bones or tennis balls they bring you in stride and with a smile. Dr. Humm-Beatty explains that dogs adore their toys and consider them “prized possessions.” So, for them, sharing toys is a way of showing they care in the dog world.

“When they bring toys to us, it is a sign that they consider us a member of their pack,” Dr. Humm-Beatty says. “Our dogs will only share their toys when they feel safe and secure in your presence.” It’s a way they can give you with something as a thank you.

2. They Gaze At You Softly

Fur isn’t the only “soft” part of a beloved pup. Dr. Humm-Beatty shares that soft—or relaxed—body movements, like loose movements, gentle eye contact and relaxed ears, indicate your dog feels safe and unthreatened around you. She says this posture is also a show of confidence in your pet-parenting abilities and that they appreciate you more than you know.

“Gentle eye contact between a dog and its pet parent causes oxytocin—the love hormone— to be released in both the dog and the human,” Dr. Humm-Beatty states. “This increases the felt experience of affection, relaxation and connection between your dog and you.”

3. They Cuddle You While They Sleep

One signs your dog loves you and appreciate you is if they snuggle with you. Dr. Humm-Beatty explains that dogs sleep and live together in packs to stay safe and warm. So, when a dog cuddles with you while sleeping, they’re letting you know they trust you and feel content with you.

Like with soft body language, Dr. Humm-Beatty says you and your dog release oxytocin during snuggle sessions, lowering both your heart rates and stress and increasing feelings of connection and safety for both of you.

4. They Lick You

Yes, licks can show that your dog loves you and is how dogs show how grateful they are to their pet parents. So don’t mistake that behavior as a not-so-subtle attempt to taste whatever you had for breakfast. Dr. Humm-Beatty notes that mother dogs lick their puppies to clean and comfort them. And guess what these puppies release? That’s right, oxytocin.

“Evolutionarily, dogs in a pack groom and lick each other to communicate respect and unity,” Dr. Humm-Beatty says. “When our dogs lick us, they communicate, in their instinctual way, that they feel secure and connected.”

Related: 7 Funny Things Dogs Do When They Can’t Get Enough of You, Says a Trainer

5. They Greet You With a Wagging Tail

The quintessential welcome-home happy isn’t just adorable, it can be your dog’s way of showing how much you mean to them. When your dog greets you with a full-body wiggle, wagging tail and unmistakable excitement, Dr. Humm-Beatty explains that these behaviors can signal affection, happiness and love. In other words, that joyful greeting may be one of the ways your dog says, “I’m so glad you’re here.”

6. They Follow You Around or Choose to Join Family Activities

If your dog regularly follows you from room to room or chooses to join in family activities, it can be a sign that they feel safe, secure, and connected to you. Evolutionarily, Dr. Humm-Beatty says dogs stay close to their pack for safety and companionship. So, when they follow you to the bathroom, or gets up to join you in another part of the house or yard, they may be showing that they value being near you.

“If your dog can do this and often chooses to get up and follow you around the house or around the yard, they are communicating that they feel connected, safe and secure with you as their leader,” she reports.

7. They Gently Lean In

How dogs show appreciation can also be simple. For instance, an adorable behavior like leaning in is another way dogs show you they consider you part of the “pack” and are happy about it. As with shadowing and cuddling, Dr. Humm-Beatty shares that the gentle lean is a means of seeking proximity.

“This can be another sign that your dog wants to be as close to you as possible because they feel safe and secure in your presence,” Dr. Humm-Beatty says.

If your dog wasn’t thankful for you, they wouldn’t do that.

Source:

• Dr. Hilary Humm-Beatty, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance

When you hear about two dog breeds coming together to have a puppy, you often can’t even conceptualize what their offspring will look like.

In the case of a Chocolate Merle Lab Australian Shepherd, the dog is so beautiful, he almost looks unreal.

@pawpointuk

Meet Rascal 🤎🐾 🐾 Labrador × Australian Shepherd 🧬 Chocolate Merle 🏠 Owner: @farmfamilyofsix If you’re interested in content like this and collaborating with us, Drop us a DM @pawpointuk ➖ ➖ ➖ #Aussiedor #AustralianShepherd #LabradorRetriever #MerleDog #DogLovers

♬ Quiet Helm Patrol – Ivan Barrow

Viewers couldn’t get enough of this sweet boy named Rascal.

Two iconic breeds made for one iconic puppy!

“Gorgeous! Absolutely gorgeous baby!” one person commented.

With those striking blue eyes and that beautiful chocolate and merle coat, Rascal looks like he came out of a dream!

Related: Chocolate Labrador Puppy Looks Just Like a Baby Otter During Bath Time

What Makes a Chocolate Merle Coat So Unique?

Chocolate Australian Shepherd–Labrador mixes are not that rare (they are even known as Aussiedors or Aussiedor Chocolate), as they are such a beautiful dog that it is no surprise they would be in demand.

They are an ideal mid-sized dog usually weighing between 40 to 80 pounds.

But these are both high-energy breeds so get ready for an active dog!

However, what makes this puppy extremely unique is its merle coat.

The diluting merle gene, which creates a marbled effect by displaying patches of light and dark fur, affects how color is distributed through a dog’s fur.

Australian Shepherds often have blue merle coats.

They can also have red merle coats, but this is less common.

However, purebred Australian Shepherds can not have chocolate coats.

The chocolate color in the Labrador is a recessive allele.

This means it is rather extraordinary to get a Merle Chocolate Labrador and Australian Shepherd mix because two uncommon genes have to be carried by the parents to have it show up in the offspring.

In order to get that beautiful chocolate color, crossbreeding most likely has to occur.

And in this case it clearly made a beautiful puppy!

🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Dogs and cats in shelters wait every day for someone to give them a new leash on life. These animals long to be chosen as a family member so they can leave the chaotic shelter environment behind. Once they get adopted, it seems like smooth sailing until something unexpected prevents it from happening.

Starfish the fluffy white cat was selected by a family who was about to take her home, but those plans changed when they learned of a diagnosis.

@franflight

Our sweet girl Starfish is looking for an adopter who will be okay with adopting a FIV+ cat. We currently have such a large handful of FIV+ cats at the shelter who desperately are in need of homes so I’m hoping that this video gets the ball rolling to find them all their homes. Starfish is 6 years old and is used to living with other cats, she is very playful, and an absolute love bug. She is a tiny little girl who is truly so beyond deserving of a forever home. FIV is NOT transferred to other cats by sharing a litter box or food bowls, but through a deep muscle puncture wound. As long as all of the cats get along in the home FIV+ and FIV- cats can coexist happily without transferring the virus. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me and if you are serious about adopting Starfish, please submit a cat adoption application at nawsus.org under the tab “adoption center”. I love you guys, let’s get this girl home. 🥹🤍🫂 #cat #adoptdontshop #catsoftiktok #catadoption #adopt

♬ Lighthouse – Noah Kahan

The TikTok from @franflight told Starfish’s story and why her adoptive family had a change of heart.

“She’s pretty, but I don’t want a sick cat,” the on-screen text read, sharing what may have transpired when Starfish’s adoption fell through. “Starfish is FIV positive. Three letters shouldn’t be costing her a forever home. But they are.”

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a bloodborne viral infection that affects cats by gradually weakening their immune system. While this virus can have a significant impact on a cat’s health, they can live a normal and healthy life with the proper care.

“Starfish had a family waiting to adopt her, but decided against her when they realized she was FIV positive,” the story continued. “Feline Immunodeficiency Virus isn’t a death sentence… FIV+ cats are not ‘sick’ cats.”

How Does FIV Spread?

FIV typically spreads through deep puncture wounds during aggressive fights. The illness cannot be transferred through grooming, casual contact with other cats, or sharing a litter box or food bowls. Cats with FIV can live safely with other cats without infecting them with the virus. FIV also does not spread through the environment and cannot be transferred to humans.

Related: Calico Cat Spends 13 Years on the Streets — Her First Safe Sleep in a Real Home Says It All

“Our sweet girl Starfish is looking for an adopter who will be okay with adopting a FIV+ cat,” the caption noted. “Starfish is 6 years old and is used to living with other cats, she is very playful, and an absolute love bug. She is a tiny little girl who is truly so beyond deserving of a forever home.”

This feline fur baby would make a wonderful addition to any family and is hoping for another chance at happiness.

For more information, visit the NAWS Humane Society website.

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Blending your pets’ needs with your own is no easy task. Sure, some things require less thought, like having the right toys, a cozy bed and plenty of food and treats, but when it comes to furniture, finding pieces that blend seamlessly with the rest of your home takes a little more planning.

That’s where Target comes in with a truly elevated piece of furniture any pet parent can appreciate: the Feandrea Dog Crate End Table. Featuring a dual-purpose design that’s light-years beyond the average dog crate, it seamlessly blends with a variety of modern decor styles, doubling as both a functional end table and a cozy hideaway for your pet.

🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Feandrea Dog Crate End Table, $99.99 at Target

Target

Shop It!

Currently on sale for just $100, this stylish crate normally retails for $149.99, giving you a $50 discount for a limited time. Available in Heather Greige and Natural Walnut finishes, it offers your furry friend a safe haven to retreat to while doubling as a stylish side table or nightstand for you, complete with a built-in charging station and a stunning appearance.

Crafted with premium materials and intended for indoor use, this cozy crate features a flip-up door that tucks neatly beneath the top to maximize space, along with ventilation slots on the sides for optimal airflow and visibility. Designed for dogs up to 45 pounds, such as French Bulldogs, Corgis and Dachshunds, it offers all the training functionality of a standard crate while pairing it with a comfortable, elevated design that looks right at home alongside the rest of your furniture.

Related: Sam’s Club’s $20 Pet Bed Is ‘Fit for a King, Comfy for a Princess’

Details That Make a Difference

Where this crate really stands out is in its safety-first construction, rivaling traditional wire crates with smooth surfaces, curved edges and a timeless look. Whether sitting beside your living room couch or next to your bed, the spacious top level provides ample room for framed photos, small potted plants and a couple of books, while its four-in-one charging hub keeps your phone, laptop and smart collars powered up and ready to go.

As for its overall footprint, the crate stands 22.8 inches tall, 22 inches wide and 30 inches deep, making it decently compact for its size. Inside, it measures 19.7 inches tall, 22 inches wide and 29.5 inches deep, giving your little one plenty of space to stretch out and curl up on a rectangular cuddle mattress, which doesn’t appear to be included.

If you’re already eyeing it up for your house, however, don’t wait too long to snatch one up. The $100 sale price won’t last forever, and it’s a pretty solid deal compared to the usual $150 price tag. While you’re there, keep your eyes peeled for Target’s Multi-Functional Cat House Coffee Table for even more ways to elevate life at home with your pets.

Related: Target’s Beautiful Mid-Century Modern Side Table Doubles as a Chic Hideaway for Cats

Caring for a foster kitten comes with a lot of responsibility: Aside from regular cat care, they often need a lot of extra veterinary visits and procedures to get them healthy and happy and ready to find a forever home.

This tiny Persian kitten is finally getting the care he needs from his foster mom, and now that she’s sharing his story on TikTok, he has the whole internet rooting for him, too.

@malpluscats

herb 🖤

♬ original sound – mallory brooks

Foster mom Mallory Brooks shared an update on Herbert the kitten with her followers on Monday, September 21, and so far, it seems like a lot of good news is coming their way.

After his first vet appointment, Mallory says that Herbie’s heart and lungs all sound good, but he does have clogged tear ducts that may need to be treated if they don’t fix themselves. Poor guy!

For now, Herbert is staying in an enclosed spot at home while he adjusts to his new surroundings, but she hopes that he’ll be able to be out and playing with her other cat, Larry, very soon.

He is absolutely just a ball of lint, but the most precious ball of lint ever.

Related: Persian Cat Is Such an Adorable Grump After Waking Up on the Wrong Side of a Nap

Herbert’s Back Story

Herbert is already on the road to recovery thanks to his awesome foster mom, but he has a very sweet story behind his name, too.

As Mallory explained in her first video featuring Herbert, she named him after her late grandfather, who “also had absolutely uncontrollable hair” just like the cat does, and he also “had a super grumpy face but he was actually the biggest sweetheart,” which is exactly how she’s described her new foster cat.

@malpluscats

everyone say hi herbie 🩶

♬ original sound – mallory brooks

When she took him in, Herbie was eight weeks old and weighed just one pound and two ounces, which is so tiny it’s hard to even fathom. Under all that hair, I never would have guessed his little body was that small.

Herbie needs a lot of love and care before he’ll be ready to find his forever family, but it looks like he’s in the right place for him to get everything he needs.

Fingers crossed Herbie’s foster mom shares more of his journey soon. I can’t wait to see him grow.

🐶 SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re in the market for low-cost Halloween-themed toys that both you and your dog will love, then you should really check out this great Walmart deal. The Multipet Halloween Smiling Dog 3-Piece Toy Pack is just $7. And it’s almost too cute to even consider passing up!

This toy pack includes 3 small plush dog toys, each 6 inches long. They come in fun Halloween-themed designs, including one wearing a ghost costume pattern, one wearing a skeleton bones pattern, and one dressed in “Tricks or Treats” print. Plus, they come in fun Halloween colors like orange, black, yellow, and purple.

Each plushie is made of a soft plush material that’s easy for dogs to carry and toss. And they come with built-in squeakers for more fun. Walmart calls them “ideal for smaller dogs.”

Multipet Halloween Smiling Dog 3-Piece Toy Pack for $7 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop it!

Buyers rate this plushie 3-pack a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars on Walmart’s website. And they’re sharing lots of photos of their pups enjoying and playing with the toys.

Here are some of the happy reviews being left:

• “They really like playing fetch with them and will play with them at random times throughout the day. The two that play with them are about 45 and 60 lbs, so even though the toys are fairly small, they are still a big hit.”
• “These were a huge hit! My big and small dogs both loved these and we’ve had them for more than a month and they’ve held up, which never happens.”
• “They are the perfect size for my small size dog. He loves that he can squeeze them and they squeak – that’s his favorite part.”

Walmart offers free shipping options and free 90-day returns. In-store pickup is also an option where available.

Related: Walmart’s Clever Dog Crate Doubles as a Stylish End Table

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re looking for a beautiful bird feeder that will look like a piece of art in your yard, then check out this Tractor Supply Co deal. The Mosaic Hanging Daisy Glass Bird Feeder is just $25 and makes every day a little brighter.

This cute bird feeder is made of recycled glass and metal, and shaped to look like a daisy. It’s a beautiful aqua blue shade and holds about 10 ounces of bird food. This one doesn’t come with drainage holes, making it a great choice for mealworms, jelly or suet.

The feeder can accommodate several birds at once, and comes with an open top hook with a metal chain to allow for easy hanging wherever you want. The flared petal design provides multiple perches for birds to rest on, and the recycled construction is eco-friendly.

This bowl is hand wash only, and painted and baked with lead free paint.

Tractor Supply Co writes: “It attracts an array of birds including Blue Birds, Orioles, Juncos, Songbirds and more depending upon your location and season.”

Mosaic Hanging Daisy Glass Bird Feeder for $25 at Tractor Supply Co

Courtesy of Tractor Supply Co

Shop it!

This product has a 4.8 out of 5 star overall rating so far at Tractor Supply Co. It measures 8 inches wide in diameter.

One buyer gushes: “I love this! The color is amazing. Great quality! Will hold a good amount of seed for chickadees and wrens.”

Another writes: “So pleased with this awesome blue glass bird feeder! The chain hanger is unique. Would purchase this item again and again! Thank you.”

Tractor Supply offers fast delivery options and fast in-store pickup where available.

Related: Tractor Supply’s Minimalist Farmhouse Bird Feeder Brings Chic Style to Any Yard

Rego has lived at the Animal Welfare Society of Monroe (AWSOM) in Stroudsburg, Pa., for four years. He is 8 years old. If you do the math, you’ll soon realize this good boy has spent half his life in a shelter, watching other dogs get picked while he stays behind.

Animal advocate and volunteer Drew Bridge has decided to try something different: launching a 30-day challenge to do something new every single day to help him get adopted.

🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

The most recent post is from day 14, and the campaign is picking up speed. If you’ve stumbled upon Rego’s campaign, share it so he can find someone who loves walks, hiking and lots of cuddling.

Everyday Is a New Opportunity View this post on Instagram

Bridge’s idea is simple: Every day, he tries a new approach to put Rego in front of people and show potential adopters how amazing he is. Posts have given the internet a glimpse of what an entire day in Rego’s life looks like. He’s transformed into “Pupcasso” and let his creativity run wild on a canvas. He’s even appeared on the local news and tried out the shelter’s meet-and-greet room.

For day 14, Bridge put out an open call to businesses, asking them to feature him on anything they could think of: advertisements, billboards and even pizza boxes. “We’ll work with any brand that comments on this post. Let’s make this guy famous and find his forever home,” the post reads. It’s an unusual approach, but after four years, the people advocating for him are clearly willing to try anything that could get Rego more visibility.

Related: Rescue Pit Bull Found by a Dumpster Does the Cutest Stomps for Treats — and He’s Up for Adoption

The Dog Behind the Kennel Door

AWSOM describes Rego as affectionate and cuddly, loving and craving attention. He’s an 8-year-old gray pit bull-terrier mix who has been neutered. His supporters call him a “chunky monkey.”

If four years in a shelter have taken a toll on Rego, he doesn’t seem to show it. He remains personable and friendly with everyone he meets. Still, according to the shelter, a calmer, low-traffic home would suit him best.

Pit bull mixes face longer stays in shelters because of breed stigma. However, at a glance, you can tell Rego is one of the friendliest pups you will meet.

The Internet Is Pulling for Him

The comments under Bridge’s videos show Rego has the entire internet rooting for him, with people tagging friends and rescue organizations.

One commenter called him “a beautiful and proud pittie” and wished him luck. Another described the breed as “dogs who will lay their life down for you without a second’s notice.”

Many prayed that the right family would find him. He doesn’t need to go viral; what he needs is the right person with the right lifestyle to see him. Help Rego find that person!

Rego is available for adoption right now at Animal Welfare Society of Monroe. Call 570-421-DOGS or fill out the pre-adoption application at awsomanimals.org.

Related: Phoenix Shelter Has a Class of Adolescent Dogs Who Keep Getting Passed Over—and Time Is Running Out

Kenny the Pony does not care that Eddie is a sheep. He never got the memo that horses and sheep are supposed to ignore each other. Every time his caretaker lets him back into the front pasture at Black Goat Farm and Sanctuary, a 10-acre farm in Ontario, Canada, he trots straight to Eddy’s fence, plants his hooves, and waits.

It’s like he is saying, “Can Eddie come out and play?”

🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾

Their friendship started about four months ago, and in that short window the two have become inseparable. Kenny dances at the gate, while Eddy bolts over the second it opens. They then chase each other across the main pasture like brothers who haven’t seen each other in a week, even though it’s been maybe an hour.

Some Friendships Don’t Need an Explanation

Kenny and Eddie live on Black Goat Farm and Sanctuary, a nonprofit animal sanctuary for farm animals in need.

In the sanctuary’s most recent video, Kenny just finished his massage session. After that type of pampering, most animals would just lie around, but the second he was released, he hurried to the front pasture and found his friend Eddie hanging out behind the fence.

Eddie has been separated from the female sheep on the farm because he has not yet been neutered. He spends his days in a section of the pasture where he can see the flock but cannot mingle with them unsupervised.

That arrangement had the unexpected side effect of making Kenny Eddie’s primary companion. The moment the gate opens, the two go into their usual routine. They graze side by side, play chase, and bump into each other.

At the end of the latest video, Kenny delivered his signature move, a drive-by booty bite. That’s his love language.

Related: Ragdoll Cat’s Reaction at the Groomer Is So Unexpected, People Say His Owners ‘Won the Cat Lottery’

Animals Thrive in Cross-Species Friendships

Farm animals can form bonds that don’t follow the species chart. Goats pair up with dogs. Cows adopt barn cats. And now we have a sheep and a pony becoming brothers. That’s not even the strangest combination out there.

Farm animals are social animals and are wired to seek companionship. Sheep, for example, are flock animals that feel safer in pairs or groups.

Kenny and Eddie fit that profile perfectly. Kenny needed a buddy. His sheep friend was right there behind the fence, separated from his own flock. Their friendship filled a gap for both of them.

One commenter summed it perfectly: “Kenny thinks Eddie is a mini horse while Eddie thinks Kenny is a sheep. Those two are like brothers. That’s how I can describe their bond.”

The Farm That Made All Possible

Kenny and Eddie live at Black Goat Farm and Sanctuary. The nonprofit organization provides permanent homes for animals that might otherwise be slaughtered, abandoned or neglected. It’s the type of place where a pony horse and a sheep can be friends without anyone interrupting their play.

Organizations like Black Goat Farm are not rehoming pets or running adoption drives. They give farm animals the one thing they rarely get: a fulfilling life on their own terms. For Kenny and Eddit, that means a pasture to share and a gate that opens every day so they can play together.

Related: Man Took in an Adorable Spotted ‘Kitten’ That Weighed Just 3 Pounds; He Quickly Realized Something About His Tiny Rescue Wasn’t Right