Family and dog at an outdoor table

DogWatch’s Guide to a Dog-Friendly Fourth of July BBQ

Happy 250th Birthday, America! Folks around the country are preparing for their annual cookouts, picnics and BBQs to be shared with family and friends. Outdoor feasts are a summer staple, and a dog’s dream. “So much yummy food,” says Fido, “and all within reach in my backyard!”

Luckily, there are a number of Fourth of July foods that you can share with your furry family member. We’ve compiled a dog-friendly BBQ menu to help you put together that special summer bowl just for your pup. These tips will also help you keep an eye out for dangerous foods that dogs should NOT eat on the Fourth (or any other day).

As always, pay attention to ingredients, keep servings of the “good” people food small, and don’t leave the food or trash unattended – these are some of the steps to making this a safe and healthy holiday for your dog!

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Pug hiding under couch

Managing Your Dog’s Fear of Fireworks

Fireworks combine awe-inspiring visuals with pulse-pounding sound to create dramatic, can’t miss effects. Yet while we “ooh” and “aah” at these colorful explosions, our animals are often more frightened than enlightened.

In this week’s post, DogWatch has compiled information from dog experts across the country to help you prepare your dog for the holiday fireworks shows. We have also looked into another related summer-themed fear common among pets – thunderstorms – and will share those tips with you as well. Your dog may never love fireworks as much as you do, but you can still help him or her stay calm and happy on this most exciting day of the summer. Read post »

Australian Shepherd with books on a summer day

DogTails’ 2026 Summer Reading List For Dog Lovers

Are you a dog lover looking for your next great summer beach read? Check out the 2026 edition of our annual Summer Reading List for Dog Lovers. Enjoy, and happy reading!

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DogWatch dog in front of flower garden

Dog-Friendly Plants That Will Make Your Garden Beautiful

You love gardening. You love dogs. Gardening plus dogs, however, is not always a winning combination. In addition to our 8-step Dog-Friendly Gardening Checklist, we’ve compiled a list of pet-safe plants for your spring garden, and some plants to avoid. Check it out, and share photos of your garden and your dogs on our Facebook pageRead post »