Imagine the following scene: “A beautiful July evening. You are in the park, strolling carefree with your four-legged friend. A group of people with their pets approaches you. Some of the dogs are on leashes, a few are roaming freely. Your pet gets interested in the approaching group. They first approach cautiously, then trust is established and play begins. When the play ends, you slowly part ways, each heading in your own direction, satisfied that your furry friends had a wonderful evening.”

This is the ideal story every pet owner hopes for when going out for a walk with their companion. But we all know that things don’t always turn out this way. Sometimes, when dogs are not properly socialized, not accustomed to interacting with their own kind, or when stray dogs see the area you are walking in as their territory, there is a risk of unpleasant and unexpected incidents – the risk of bite wounds.

How to Know When to Move Away from Trouble with Your Pet?

By nature, dogs are pacifists and will try to avoid conflict situations if possible. However, fear, anxiety, and aggression can be provoked by the current situation or previous negative experiences. Most dogs will give warning signs before an actual attack, some of which can be subtle, such as: lip licking, turning their face away, trying to retreat, flattened and backward ears, yawning, or crouching.

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On the other hand, very direct signals are: growling, aggressive barking, baring teeth. If there is a dog nearby showing any of these signs, take your pet and calmly but quickly move away. It can be helpful to place a physical barrier between your dog and the threatening dog, such as a fence or a parked car.

What to Do if a Conflict Occurs?

If a conflict does occur, it is crucial to remain as calm and composed as possible. This is the best way to help your pet. Numerous factors influence the severity of a dog bite, and obviously, a large bite or multiple bites with heavy bleeding require immediate veterinary intervention. However, it is important to note that even very small bite wounds, barely visible under the pet's fur, should also be examined by a veterinarian due to possible complications.

When a bite occurs, the tooth not only damages the skin but also creates a pocket under the skin, which becomes an ideal environment for bacterial growth and leads to infection. Often, the entry wound is small, the skin heals relatively quickly, and can "trap" bacteria in the pocket under the skin, which will rapidly multiply and cause an abscess.

Although infection tends to be the primary concern for any dog bite, other serious health problems can develop depending on the location and severity of the bite. It is important to mention that in veterinary medicine, there is a special type of traumatic event known as “Big dog-little dog,” where fights between large and small breed dogs result in extensive and very serious injuries to the small dog, which can be widespread, affect multiple organ systems, and severely endanger the animal's life.

In most cases, the injured pet is in a state of shock with serious polytrauma, requiring urgent veterinary intervention, stabilization, and often major surgical procedures to repair the sustained injuries.

Things a veterinarian believes you should not do to your dog.

Veterinarian Amir Anvari, known for his pet care advice on TikTok, revealed three mistakes he made while raising his dog to help others avoid making the same ones.

Early Neutering

“The first mistake was neutering my dog too early. Now he has hip dysplasia and elbow issues. He’s already developing arthritis, and he’s only four years old. I was led to believe that neutering at six months is normal,” the vet revealed.

He explained that “it’s a large breed dog and that’s not normal.”

“There are different age recommendations for different breeds when it comes to neutering and spaying, so you shouldn’t listen to anyone who says to neuter them at six months,” the veterinarian pointed out.

Neutering and spaying are procedures done by a vet to prevent dogs from reproducing, but there are important differences between them.

Neutering refers to the surgical removal of sex glands in dogs. In males, it means removing the testicles, and in females, the ovaries—and often the uterus—are removed. This procedure completely stops the production of sex hormones, significantly affecting the dog’s behavior and physiology.

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Spaying refers to vasectomy (cutting the vas deferens) in males and tubal ligation in females. After spaying, the dog still produces sex hormones but can no longer reproduce.

The UK Royal Kennel Club stated that the right age to neuter a dog depends on its breed, size, and sex. They emphasized that there is frequent debate over the “best” age for this, but a vet will advise you based on the latest research and guidelines, reports Express.co.uk.

Weight Gain

Another mistake Amir admitted to was allowing his dog to gain weight. He explained that he used all kinds of excuses not to walk him, from work to bad weather.

“I felt bad, I overfed him. I gave him treats because he really liked them, and he gained weight. Since I have a large breed dog, I can already see the impact on his joints, and now that he’s developed arthritis, it’s hard to help him,” he said.

He stated that he’s now doing everything he can, of course, but believes he should never have let it get to that point.

“Don’t let your dogs get overweight. It’s not worth it,” the vet warned.

Punishment

The final mistake Amir admitted to was hitting his dog when it was a puppy, but only “when he was chasing animals on the farm” and he didn’t mean to hurt the animal. He said that even today “he still sees the fear in his eyes” if he raises his hand, even though he’s not trying to hit him.

Amir said he deeply regrets what he did and now understands he should have used a different technique. He asked other dog owners:

“Don’t hit your dogs. They’ll just fear you.”

He said that “admitting some of these mistakes is hard and shameful, especially because I’m a vet.”

“If this can help you avoid the same mistakes, then it’s worth admitting them,” the vet noted in the caption of his post, reports Net.hr.

A cat bite may seem cute when it’s occasional and the cat is small — but what happens when it becomes a daily habit...

If your cat bites you frequently, you’re not alone. While biting can be part of play in kittens or a way of communication in adult cats, this behavior can become unpleasant — even painful.

Fortunately, cats can be taught to stop biting, regardless of their age.

Why do cats bite?

Play: Kittens learn important social and hunting skills through play, and biting is a natural part of that.

Attention: Sometimes cats bite to remind you to pay attention to them.

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Dominance: Territorial cats may try to “rule” through biting, especially if they feel threatened.

Setting boundaries: If a cat doesn’t want to be petted, it will clearly show that by biting.

Fear or stress: Biting can be a defensive reaction, especially if the cat has learned that this helps it avoid an unpleasant situation.

Pain: A sudden bite may indicate the cat is in pain — especially in the area where it’s being touched.

How to stop your cat from biting?

Don’t pull your hand away – instead of pulling back abruptly, gently push your hand toward the cat to confuse it and make it instinctively release.

Don’t punish the cat – yelling or physically punishing the cat can worsen the behavior. It’s better to break off contact and ignore the cat for a few minutes, writes “Catster.”

Respect its boundaries – learn to recognize signs that something is bothering your cat (tail flicking, ears down, etc.).

Toys, not hands – instead of playing with your fingers, use interactive toys to keep the cat engaged.

Reward good behavior – when the cat goes for a toy or gently taps you with a paw instead of biting, offer a treat.

Keep a routine – consistency in feeding, play, and rest helps your cat feel secure.

Visit the vet – if the behavior has changed suddenly, the cat might be in pain or have a medical issue.

Parenting has never been an easy task, and perhaps that's why more and more people are walking their dogs in the park instead of pushing strollers.

A new study has confirmed what has been suspected for some time. There is a correlation between the rising number of dogs in households and the declining birth rate. In short, many couples are increasingly choosing dogs over children.

"Just One Side of the Story"

Scientists from Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary emphasize that the reason is not just that parenting is “harder.”

Professor Ádám Miklósi Kubinyi explains that some research shows dog owners often have a more negative view of motherhood, and women who already have a dog perceive parenting as an added burden, which may discourage them from having more children.

But, as he says, that is only one side of the coin. He adds that the number of dogs in the U.S. has increased by as many as 37 million since 1996, which is significantly more than the growth in the number of children during the same period.

Australians are also crazy about pets. According to data published by the RSPCA in 2023, there are about 28.7 million pets living in Australia, with dogs being the most common, present in as many as 48 percent of households.

Australian families spend nearly 2,000 euros per dog annually on average. In Croatia, 29 percent of households have a dog, which is in line with the average European trends.

We Love Dogs, But More Than Babies?

So are we really so in love with dogs that we choose them over children? Kubinyi says there’s a deeper problem behind this phenomenon, namely the declining social and family support for parents, reports Sombor.info.

“In Western societies, people increasingly feel a lack of care and support within the family, so they try to compensate for that with dogs – and probably cats as well,” he says.

It is precisely that lack of a sense of community and the disappearance of the "village it takes to raise a child" that discourages many from parenthood, the professor believes. The declining birth rate, which worries governments around the world, thus goes hand in hand with the increasing number of pets.

“We need to strengthen family-based social support and reduce social isolation. Dog ownership is a wonderful thing – especially when it brings people together,” said Kubinyi.

The Belgian Shepherd (Malinois) is a versatile and intelligent dog. They have a great ability to adapt, which makes them suitable for various purposes. They are primarily working dogs, but due to their adaptability, they can also serve as police, military, rescue dogs, or even for specialized operations. These are also very energetic and athletically built dogs, which allows them to be so versatile. In addition to intelligence, Belgian Shepherds are also known for their loyalty. This naturally makes them perfect pets who will love and try to protect their owner at all costs. But be careful, because their protective instinct is so strong that the dog may easily bark at your best friend if they make the wrong move.

Characteristics

Belgian Shepherds are very grateful dogs. Their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility help them adapt to various types of training. Training should of course start early, but they will quickly and easily master basic commands and progress to advanced ones in no time.

Their desire to protect their owners makes them not only good and loyal pets but also excellent guard dogs. Be assured, no one will get past them unless you allow it first.

However, all their energy and desire to please and defend their owner comes with the need to burn that energy somewhere. Belgian Shepherds thrive best in large households or places where they have plenty of space to expend energy. Owners must not neglect this breed, as they need the attention of their best friend and plenty of playtime.

Temperament and Personality

The Belgian Shepherd is the perfect type of dog for a very active person. It is a loyal and intelligent working dog that is used to freedom, especially because it can adapt to almost any climate.

Their character is a strong suit – they are alert, cautious, and attentive, but also curious. However, they are not mischievous, so you don't need to worry about them running away for no reason.

As an athletic and energetic dog, it's reasonable to assume they need a lot of physical activity. But mental stimulation is equally important. So during training, it's good to frequently change activities, and when they grow up, you'll need to find additional ways to keep them engaged.

Unfortunately, even though they are great dogs for households, they are not recommended for families with small children. It’s very important to train them to be calm around children because even if you don't have any, it can be problematic when you’re in environments where kids are present.

Health

The Malinois is generally a very healthy breed. Thanks to their adaptability, they adjust easily to all types of climates. This makes it easy to get them used to life in an apartment or house, as long as they get regular walks. Ideally, a Malinois can live between 12 and 14 years.

Common Illnesses and Issues

Despite everything, like all dog breeds, the Malinois is also susceptible to certain illnesses and problems. However, there's no need for excessive concern because they truly are quite healthy and very resilient. The most common issues are usually inherited, and may include:

Coronary artery disease,
Shoulder and hip dysplasia,
Epilepsy,
Certain skin allergies,
Eye problems.

Grooming

Like other dog breeds, the Belgian Shepherd also requires a certain level of care. They are considered moderately demanding, but it’s important to maintain regular care routines to ensure their health and make regular vet visits for early detection of any issues.

Coat Care

Though the Malinois has short hair, it has a very dense undercoat, requiring more than just basic grooming. Regular brushing is necessary. They usually shed in the spring and autumn, and brushing at least once a week will reduce the amount of shedding during those crucial times.

Regular brushing will also help prevent tangles. Bathing is also recommended, but in moderation. Avoid overbathing, especially because of their thick coat which takes longer to dry naturally.

Dental Care

Dental care for the Belgian Shepherd is more than important. They have strong and sharp teeth, but to keep them that way, you need to brush and clean them regularly. This will prevent tartar buildup and more serious diseases that could endanger your pet.

Ear Care

Since Malinois can suffer from certain ear problems, you must also take care of their ears. Regular checks and cleaning are highly recommended. These can be done during baths or vet visits.

Bone Care

As for bones, Malinois may experience issues. To prevent this, it's best to follow a prescribed diet, ensuring they receive enough nutrients to avoid bone problems. Regular exercise and long walks will also help maintain strong and healthy bones.

Nutrition

Given that the Belgian Shepherd is a very energetic breed, their diet must match their energy needs. They require a quality, high-protein diet. Due to their active lifestyle, it’s best to feed them high-quality dry dog food suited to their energy level and size.

The most important part of their nutrition is getting enough protein and fat to maintain muscle mass and energy levels. However, don’t overdo it – follow the recommended food portions. Two meals a day are sufficient, and overfeeding can easily lead to obesity in this breed.

Training

Training a Malinois is not overly difficult, but it requires consistency and patience. It’s best to start while they are young, making training easier and helping develop good behavior. Set the foundation early by teaching commands like "sit," "down," and "come." This will build the base for more advanced training later.

Be consistent with the rules, but always reward good behavior. This will strengthen the bond between owner and dog and establish boundaries and expectations the dog will follow in the future.

To raise a well-adjusted and balanced Belgian Shepherd, socialization with other dogs and people is very important. They need to be exposed to different environments, sounds, people, and animals. This will reduce fear and anxiety and boost their confidence.

Appearance

The Belgian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a strong and athletic build. Males typically reach a height of 61–66 cm, while females are about 56–61 cm. Males weigh between 25 and 30 kg, and females between 20 and 25 kg. Their coat is short and smooth, usually coming in black, brown, or gray.

They have a long and muscular neck, straight and muscular legs, and a medium-length tail with a slight curve. Their body is well-proportioned with a medium-length head and a muzzle that narrows towards the nose. They have a strong jaw, sharp teeth, and almond-shaped brown eyes.

Colors

The most common coat color of Belgian Shepherds is fawn with black overlay and a dark mask on the face. There are also varieties in black, brown, and gray tones, but these are not Malinois and fall under other subtypes of Belgian Shepherds.

FCI Standard

Belgian Shepherds belong to Group I, which includes herding and cattle-driving dogs. Other breeds in this group include the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, Australian Cattle Dog, and Polish Lowland Sheepdog. However, in terms of appearance and characteristics, the Belgian Shepherd is most similar to the German Shepherd.

Breed name: Belgian Shepherd
Original breed name: Chien De Berger Belge
Standard number: 15
FCI Classification: Group I – Herding and Cattle Driving Dogs
Origin: Belgium

Belgian Shepherd Puppies

Even as puppies, Belgian Shepherds require almost the same attention as adult dogs. To ensure proper development, you need to adjust their diet based on age and size and feed them multiple times a day until maturity. Early training is crucial for both physical and mental development. It helps establish rules and boundaries and allows for proper physical development through active play.

Breed Specifics

Belgian Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs and must be socialized from an early age. If done properly, you’ll have the most loyal pet who will love and respect only one owner. They don’t like changing owners.

During training, you must be authoritative but never overly strict. They won’t follow commands blindly and have a bit of a stubborn streak. They are not aggressive by nature – on the contrary, they can be very gentle. All of their traits make them perfect for nearly any purpose.

History

The Malinois originated in Belgium in the late 19th century. At that time, there were many types of herding dogs with various coat lengths and colors. Professor Reul from the Veterinary Faculty in Cureghem took on the task and established the breed's characteristics. The Belgian Shepherd was officially recognized between 1891 and 1897 when the first detailed breed standard was created, acknowledging one breed in three varieties.

However, it wasn’t until 1901 that the Belgian Shepherd was registered in the pedigree book of the Belgian Kennel Club, establishing its breed characteristics and temperament. Though they began as herding dogs, their versatility and adaptability allowed them to take on various tasks on farms and guarding livestock.

The Belgian Shepherd slowly became a working dog, and during World War I, they were used in the military, carrying messages or performing specialized missions. Thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, bravery, speed, and endurance, the Malinois was adopted in the U.S. throughout the 20th century for police work.

Over the years, due to all these qualities, they gained popularity as family pets, especially for their protective nature and loyalty. Though they require an active and experienced owner, many people still choose to keep Belgian Shepherds as household companions.

Fun Facts

People often confuse the Belgian Shepherd with the German Shepherd. While they do have similarities, there are notable differences. Belgian Shepherds (Malinois) are slimmer, while the German Shepherd (often called the Wolfdog) is larger and bulkier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Belgian Shepherd suitable for children?
The Belgian Shepherd can be suitable for children if properly trained. It is not recommended to keep them around small children unless they are used to them.

Is the Belgian Shepherd hard to maintain?
Maintenance is moderate. While not overly demanding, care must be taken with their diet, hygiene, and especially physical activity.

Do Belgian Shepherds shed?
Belgian Shepherds shed moderately, most during spring and autumn.

Can Belgian Shepherds live in an apartment?
Belgian Shepherds adapt very quickly to various conditions, including apartment life. However, it’s crucial to walk them often and let them burn off energy.

Conclusion

Belgian Shepherds, or Malinois, are among the most loyal dog breeds you will ever meet. They are impeccable guards, highly intelligent, and adaptable to all conditions, including extreme weather. It’s no wonder they are used in almost every field, including the military.

What’s important is that they will be a loyal and grateful pet, but only if you train them properly. They will love only one owner, making you the most important person in their life. Don’t be too harsh – it won’t help their development. But you must be authoritative and guide them in the best way possible.

Only then will you have the perfect pet for your family and the most loyal friend you could ask for – as written by Doggster.

A veterinarian advises how often you should wash your dog’s bed to prevent the buildup of bacteria, fleas, and unpleasant odors.

Many dog owners often neglect cleaning the dog’s bed, as it usually sits in a corner of the room while the dog spends most of its time on the sofa or in your bed.

However, if you can’t remember the last time you washed it, it’s probably time for a deep clean.

Veterinarian Dr. Mehdi Esmatparast, with over 15 years of experience, recommends washing your dog’s bed at least every two weeks.

If your dog sheds a lot, has allergies, or spends a lot of time outdoors, it’s recommended to wash the bedding every three to four days, according to *Real Simple*.

Dogs bring in dirt, bacteria, and pollen from outside, which can be harmful to their health if allowed to accumulate in their bed.

Regular bathing helps keep your pet healthy. If you don’t wash your dog’s bed, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, fleas, and fungi, which may cause skin infections and unpleasant smells.

This can also negatively affect your own health, especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma.

Cleaning procedure for your dog’s bed

To clean the bed, first check the care instructions on the bedding. If there are none, remove the cover and wash it separately using hot water to effectively eliminate bacteria, fleas, and allergens. Drying it in the sun or in a dryer on high heat will also help kill germs.

Use a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent to avoid skin irritation. To remove unpleasant odors, you can add a bit of white vinegar during the rinse cycle. This will keep your dog’s bed clean and fresh without synthetic fragrances.

Even if your dog spends more time in your bed than its own, it’s still important to wash its bed regularly.

“A dirty bed can worsen respiratory problems in both dogs and humans, especially in those with allergies or asthma,” explains Esmatparast.

By regularly washing your dog’s bed, you create a healthier environment for your pet and your entire family, reports Sombor.info.

Do you think only dogs are good therapists? Maybe it’s time to rethink this stereotype.

Some cats handle this task just as well as dogs, and now there is scientific evidence to support this.

Researchers from the University of Washington conducted an extensive study, the results of which were published by Newsweek. They studied the behavior of cats across Belgium and compared animals involved in therapeutic programs with regular house cats.

It turns out that therapeutic cats really do exist – and they have a special character. They are more social, communicative, and more willing to interact with people, showing behaviors similar to those that make dogs irreplaceable emotional support helpers.

Interestingly, these cats do not require special training. Unlike dogs, many of them are simply born with the right traits – and this is in no way dependent on breed.

“Our goal is not to make cats into new therapists,” emphasize the authors of the study, adding that it’s important to recognize cats that genuinely enjoy being around people and bringing them peace,” the researchers wrote.

In the right environment, taking individual characteristics into account, such cats can become quiet allies for those who need psychological support, reports Slobodna Dalmacija.