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Modern Dog Spring/Summer 2026

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Talking Dogs? The Science Behind Viral Button Boards

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions SPRING · SUMMER 2026

moderndogmagazine.com DISPLAY UNTIL AUG 31 ‘26

$7.95

Is Your Dog Gifted? Meet the Amazing Dogs That Learn by Listening


SPECIAL PROMOTION


22 FEATURES Is Playing Tug Bad for Dogs?

44

How and why you should play tug with your dog. BY NICOLE WILDE

38

Gifted Dogs Learn New Words by Eavesdropping “Gifted” dogs can learn new words just by overhearing them. Is your dog among this rare group of “gifted word learners”? BY TRACEY TONG

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Can These Dogs Really Talk?

Can dogs talk using button soundboards—or is it just clever conditioning? A new documentary special explores the science behind the viral phenomenon

THE GOODS 28

One list. Endless tail wags. From power chewers to puzzle pros, we have something for every pup!

BY CASSIE GILL

READ YOUR BREED 26

64

34

The French Bulldog vs The Boston Terrier Discover the differences between these two similar, brachycephalic breeds.

Floof Squad: Meet the Spitz Family

7 Dog Toys to Suit All Play Styles

The Dog Gear Look Book

Your at-a-glance guide to the best stuff for dogs. 70

26

Healthy Paws

Solution for everything from gastric distress to bad breath!

Pointy ears, curly tails, big personalities— the Spitz breeds explained. 72

The Borzoi

Is this regal sighthound for you? Get to know the loyal, affectionate, and dignified Borzoi. BY KELLY CALDWELL

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BODY & SOUL 56

Why Do Dogs Love Tennis Balls So Much?

A closer look at this canine classic, and why you might want to consider an alternative.

ILLUSTRATION BY VICTORIA SCOBBIE; INSET IMAGE: ANNA GIRALDO/SHUTTERSTOCK

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R I G H T P H OTO

L E FT P H OTO

SPRING • SUMMER 2026 V O L 2 5 N O 1


72

62

7 Things You Should Absolutely Do If Your Dog Is Approaching the End of Their Life

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BY TORY DUCHENE

How CBD can boost your dog’s health and happiness.

DOG LIFE 24

We’ve got months of incredible giveaways—from dog treats, cooling mats, and smart collars to custom artwork starring your dog— and winners every two weeks. See what’s up for grabs on page 24!

REGULAR FEATURES 6 8 10 12 22 78

Editor’s Letter Contributors Stuff We Love The Scoop Smile! Photo Contest Marketplace

32

How to Remove Dog Pee from the Carpet BY MICHELLE SIMPSON

ON THE COVER Say hello to this year’s America’s Favorite Pet Competition winner, Rockefeller, a Morkie with main character energy living his best life in NYC! Photographed by Sydney Cisco. Turn to page 52 for more.

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80

An illustrated guide to effectively eliminate all trace of “accidents.”

28

4

We’re Giving It Away!

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7 Luxury Getaways for You and Your Dog These dog-friendly hotels deliver top-notch services for two and four-legged guests alike. BY CASSIE GILL

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Connie's Book Club

Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s selection of the latest must-read books for dog people. 76

Tiny Dog Stories

Dog love in short form: miniature, reader-submitted dog stories of no more than 100 words. 80

Fascinating Puppy Facts

Interesting facts about these irresistible bundles of fur!

IMAGES L TO R: A. CHERNYAVSKAYA/BIGSTOCK; FOUR SEASONS TAMARINDO; SUSHYTSKA/BIGSTOCK. LEFT INSET: ZIPPYPAWS

Wag More, Stress Less

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EDITOR'S LETTER

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

CO N N I E W I L S O N W I T H P E N N Y, P H OTO K H A R E N H I L L

OUR READERS WRITE

Find Us at the Vet!

T

here’s a special kind of magic in the bond between humans and dogs—a connection that has spanned millennia. While the ways we live with dogs have evolved over time, the love, devotion, laughter, and sheer joy that come from this interspecies partnership endures and grows. In this issue, we explore how to enrich your dog’s life—and how they enrich ours—while sharing practical tips, expert advice, and ideas to make every day with your pup brighter and more tail-waggingly fun. Ever wondered if tug-of-war is actually good for your dog? Or if your furry companion might secretly be a “gifted word learner”? Our feature stories fetch answers to these questions and more. We bring you fascinating insights into the canine mind and what dogs are capable of in a behind-thescenes sniff at the science of dogs “talking” with button soundboards (p 44). You’ll also discover the latest and greatest in dog gear, toys, and wellness picks to keep your pup happy and thriving—from daily care to concerns like cancer. And we can’t forget our incredible dog breeds. We look at the incredible diversity of dogs: from the brachycephalic charm of French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers to the regal elegance of Borzois and the spirited Spitz family, our breed profiles help you understand what makes each dog truly special. Of course, we’ve packed this issue with giveaways, bite-sized dog stories, adorable photos, and fascinating puppy facts that remind us why dogs hold such a permanent place in our hearts—and our homes. We’re honoured to bring you stories, insights, and tips that honour that remarkable bond. Whether you’re here to learn, laugh, shop, or simply smile, this issue is a celebration of dogs in all their glory. Here’s to early morning walks, muddy backseats, enthusiastic greetings, and every unforgettable moment in between—the everyday joys that make life with dogs truly magical.

When you get extra comfy waiting for your dog at the vet & discover the best magazines ever!!!! —@akay.on.the.go

Breed Highlight

We loved reading the article on Cotons in @modern_dog_mag!! We love that magazine and got so excited to see Cotons as the featured breed–I even learned some new things!—@vegasthecotonpoo

With love,

Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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The Paw-fect Sunday Read

My Doberman Kaiba enjoys her Sunday mornings with a pup cup and Modern Dog magazine :) —Michelle


C ON TRIBU TO R S SPRING • SUMMER 2026 • VOL 25 NO 1 Publisher

Cassie Gill is a Canadian lifestyle

Modern Dog Inc.

and entertainment journalist based in New York City, where she covers celebrity, travel, and fashion for outlets like Vogue, The Daily Beast, and Elle Canada. Cassie is particularly passionate about dog lifestyle trends, from the latest in canine fashion to the best hotels to check in to with your pooch. In this issue, she explores the fascinating question of whether dogs can really “talk” using button soundboards (p 44), and rounds up luxury getaways designed for both you and your fourlegged travel companion (p 62).

Editor-in-Chief

Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director

Jennifer Nosek Design & Production

Megan Carpick Marketing & Sales Director

Jessica Nosek Subscriptions & Office Administration

Anna Regino Administrative Assistant

Mina Zivkovic Comptroller

Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA

GET YOURSELF A SUBSCRIPTION!

Victoria Scobbie is an Oakville, Ontario-based illustrator inspired by nature, animals, and all things whimsical. She’s always looking to brighten someone’s day with her joyful illustrations. Working primarily with digital media, she nonetheless captures the texture of traditional media like watercolours and gouache. When she’s not drawing dogs and cats, she loves knitting, travelling, and yoga. Turn to page 44 for Victoria’s illustration for Can These Dogs Really Talk?, a look at the viral button soundboard movement.

Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 or email advertising@moderndogmagazine.com MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 25, Issue 1. Published semi-annually by Modern Dog Inc. at Suite 101–2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9 In Canada POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, Suite 101–2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9 In USA POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog,

PO Box 4767 Blaine, WA 98231-9901. PHONE (

Tory Duchene is a Certified Pet Grief Specialist and End-of-Life Pet Doula, as well as the founder of Empawthy Pet Support. She guides pet parents through the complexities of aging, chronic illness, and the profound emotional journey of grief and end-of-life care, honouring the deep bond between people and their pets. Based in San Francisco, she offers virtual services, as well as in-person support locally (empawthypet.com). Turn to page 58 for essential guidance on what to do when your dog is nearing the end of their life. 8

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604) 734-3131 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3131

FAX (604) 734-3031 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3031

The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements. Copyright 2026 by Modern Dog Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the Internet or photocopying without the written permission of the Publisher. Modern Dog and its logotype are the trademarks of Modern Dog Inc. Modern Dog is published two times a year. Two-year subscription prices: Canada $18CAD, U.S.A. $18USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Dog Subscription Services, Suite 101–2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9

PROUDLY PRODUCED AND PRINTED IN CANADA

www.moderndogmagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40743013 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.


Stuff We Love

Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter! 1 Cuddle up in BOBS® from Skechers®: the brand that’s helped millions of shelter pets! Cute casuals, fast Hands Free Slip-ins®, and machine washable features make every outdoor stroll just seconds (and a happy tail wag) away. (BOBSfromSkechers.com) 2 Upgrade your dog’s dinner with Zealandia Beef Pâté Wet Dog Food featuring world famous New Zealand grass-fed beef. This grain-free recipe boasts 95% free-range meat plus lamb organs and New Zealand green mussels, serving up slow-cooked flavour, powerhouse nutrition, and tail-wagging satisfaction for wellness from the inside out. ($4 a can, zealandiapets.com) 3 Is your dog struggling with eye conditions or aging eyes? Ocu-GLO, a veterinarian ophthalmologist-formulated vision supplement for dogs, features a blend of 12 antioxidants—including Grapeseed Extract, Lutein, and Omega-3 fatty acids—to protect against oxidative damage. ($38, shop.ocuglo.com) 4 Get your dog extra excited with Zignature Duck Treats! They pack big flavour in tiny bites—perfect for training, picky pups, and sensitive tummies. One sniff, and your dog will suddenly know every trick! ($8, chewy.com) 5 One spray, odours gone! Bud’s Wonder Solution is a pet-safe enzymatic odour eliminator that gets rid of pet odours at the source. Powerful enzymes break down organic messes, leaving your home fresh and clean! ($18, budswondersolution.com) 6 Support your dog’s cancer fight with I’m-Yunity, a research-backed supplement containing a proprietary polysaccharopeptide (PSP) extract from the Coriolus versicolor mushroom. Studies show it supports immune function and helps maintain white blood cell levels, energy, and appetite. ($95, buyimyunity.com) 7 When stiffness starts slowing your dog down, Canine Health Solutions’ Joint Jelly helps restore mobility. Packed with powerhouse ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid to support cartilage and joints, it calms inflammation and reduces joint pain so your dog can move more freely. ($45, caninehealthsolutions.com) 8 Vetericyn Plus is your dog’s new healing hero! This gentle, lick-safe spray cleans, protects, and speeds recovery without antibiotics or steroids, making wound care easy, safe, and stress-free. ($16, vetericyn.com) 9 Cleanup just got satisfying with Dofu Cat’s Furever Cling Sticky Wipes! These sticky, eco-friendly wipes instantly trap fur, dust, and dander, leaving your space fresh and your home happily free from dog fur tumbleweeds. ($25, dofucat.com) 10 Ditch the yellow patches on your lawn. Dog Rocks are a pet-safe, 100% natural solution to lawn burn caused by pet urine. Just place these Australian-mined rocks in your dog’s water bowl to filter impurities and reduce nitrogen levels—without altering urine pH—preventing yellow spots. ($17, dogrocks.com) 11 Safely bike with your dogs—Bike Tow Leash’s secure, stable bike attachment keeps every ride smooth, safe, and fun! The Double Dog leash attachment lets you cruise without tangles, stress, or leaving anyone behind. ($380, biketowleash.com) 12 Simple, tasty, and perfectly sized for training, Ernie’s Ostrich Bites are loved by dogs. These easy to digest, high quality, protein-rich treats are ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. Plus, every purchase supports the Els for Autism Foundation. ($36 for a two pack, ernieelspetproducts.com) 13 Tummy trouble? CaniOtic bacon-flavoured probiotic tablets to the rescue! Vet formulated using only canine cultured bacteria strain Lactobacillus reuteri, they support digestion, fight nasties, reduce diarrhea and loose stools, and keep tails wagging! ($21, bluegrassanimalproducts.com) 14 Capture the moment every time. Squeak n Snap is an ingenious smart phone accessory for taking adorable dog photos. Connected to your phone, it helps your dog look at the camera and takes the photo simultaneously—no more missed shots! ($25, squeaknsnap.com) 15 Snack time just got yummier! Cookie Pal’s peanut butter & apple soft-baked bites deliver goodness with every chewy nibble! Healthy, organic, and so delicious that your dog will keep coming back for more. ($9, petsmart.com) 16 Keep your dog out of the cat food and litter box! The Door Buddy Dog Door Prop keeps doors open just wide enough for cats to enter while blocking pups, saving your sanity and your cat’s dignity. ($21, thedoorbuddy.com)


Paws & Stay Where guests check in and dogs find homes: Aloft Hotel’s heartwarming foster dog program

C

heck in to the Aloft hotel’s Ashville, NC location, and you’ll likely be greeted by the wagging tail of a pup clad in an “Adopt Me” vest. For over 11 years, the hotel has been delighting guests and earning accolades for its unique program that gives shelter dogs exposure to would-be adopters by temporarily housing them in the hotel. Fostered by the hotel itself, the adoptable pups hang out in a lobby enclosure, guaranteeing lots of visibility outside of a traditional shelter setting. Hotel staff sign up to feed and walk the dogs through revolving, coveted shifts, guests can adopt the pup that greets them, and the dogs get to socialize in a warm and safe environment. It’s a win all the way around. The program has been incredibly popular among guests and hotel staff alike—particularly the front desk, who cuddle and play with the pups during downtime. “Our staff love the program,” says Aloft/Moxy General Manager Dexter Hazel. “They fall in love with each dog that is brought in from Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue—the hotel’s partnering rescue organization—and they are sad to see them leave, every time. Morale has always been great but having a cute puppy certainly has helped.”

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DOGS WELCOME: Travelling with your dogs? Two pets of any size are welcome at the Aloft Asheville Downtown for no additional fee. Both dogs and cats are allowed, and well-behaved pets may be left unattended in rooms with permission of the front desk. Pet beds and bowls are available upon request.

Guests have also fallen for the program. “We have repeat guest that always ask and want to see our newest foster pup,” says Hazel. “We also have guests that heard about the program prior to arriving and are excited to see which pup we have on their visit.” Most importantly, the program has been effective in securing permanent homes for the foster dogs. To date, over 400 pups have found their forever home through the program. Adopters are split almost evenly between guests and staff who have adopted the hotel’s temporary four-legged guests. In fact, it’s been playfully coined the “Foster Fail” program, given the number of employees that have ended up adopting dogs fostered by the hotel. Former Aloft General Manager David McCarthy, one of the program’s founding members and biggest advocates, has adopted not one but two foster pups through the program. Not to be outdone, Aloft’s Tallahassee, Greenville, and Orlando hotels also run foster dog programs. Between the four properties, almost 1,000 dogs have been adopted. So if you miss canine cuddles while travelling, book yourself a stay at the Aloft. But be forewarned, you just might go home with an extra dog.


TikTok’s Bridgerton pet-name trend fuels real-life popularity surge

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ITH THE LONG-AWAITED SEASON FOUR of Netflix’s hit

series Bridgerton now streaming, mania for all things inspired by the alternative-history regency romance is at an all-time high. The show has already left its mark on fashion and beauty, but there’s another, lesser-known influence beginning to emerge— Bridgerton-influenced pet names.

TOP BRIDGERTON-THEMED PET NAMES IN THE UK: #1. Daphne #2. Lady #3. Violet #4. Colin

#5. Simon/Penelope ( TIE)

WHAT'S YOUR PET'S BRIDGERTON NAME? #1. Lord or Lady

#2. Your pet's name

#3. Your pet's favourite food + ‘ton’ at the end #4. ‘of’ your pet's breed

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After the previous season dropped in May 2024, a new TikTok trend emerged. The viral “Bridgerton pet name reveal” videos worked by choosing Lady or Lord, then combining your pet’s real name with their favourite food and adding ‘-ton.’ To complete the full title, “of” and the pet’s breed is added to the end. Comical results like Lady Shakira Cheeseton of Dachshund, Lord Joey Cheerioton of Tabby, and Lady Willow Watermelonton of Mutt had many pet lovers jumping on the bandwagon. The trend was huge, with some videos racking up over half a million views—but for some pet owners, this wasn’t just a viral moment. Among the show’s devoted fanbase, actual Bridgerton-inspired pet names are growing in popularity. Delving into the trend, global pet-sitting platform TrustedHousesitters surveyed its members to reveal the most popular Bridgerton-inspired pet names in the UK. Out of the 75,000 registered pets in the UK, these were the top-ranking Bridgerton-inspired names. In the #1 spot, Daphne—the eldest Bridgerton daughter— embodies elegance and grace. Next up, Lady gives a regal feeling. For the male pet names, Colin topped the charts. The Bridgerton character is known to be charming and loyal, much like many loved pets. Simon was the second most popular boy’s pet name inspired by the show. The character is known to be loyal to those he loves, just like our four-legged friends. In addition to leading monikers like Daphne and Lady, the names Charlotte, Portia, Lord, and even Benedict received honourable mentions.

I M AG ES CO U RT ESY O F N E T F L I X

Most Popular Bridgerton-Inspired Pet Names Revealed


MEET GERTY,

the Human-Shaped Security Blanket for Dogs It might look like a joke, but this smiling inflatable doll may be your dog’s new best friend

“M

ost people’s first reaction to Gerty is laughter,” says Gerty founder, Todd Schram. “They often assume it’s a funny gimmick and aren’t sure what to make of it. That perception quickly changes once they see how effective it is.” Schram would know; Gerty was born of necessity. Schram, who has a background in business and technology, adopted a small dog named Hamlet who suffered from separation anxiety. Any time he left the house, the dog would “cry, bark, howl, and run around frantically,” Schram recalls. In his search for solutions, he came across the story of a woman who helped her dog’s anxiety by placing a lifelike mannequin in her home. “Out of desperation, I tried the same thing—and to my amazement, it worked.” He decided to design a cost-effective, inflatable version of the concept, naming the first prototype Gerty. He set up a camera and left Hamlet alone with the doll. “What I saw changed everything,” says Schram. “Hamlet was calmly sleeping under Gerty. At that moment, I knew I had something that could truly change millions of canine and human lives.” On a whim, Schram attended an open casting call in early 2025 for Shark Tank in Las Vegas, thinking his chances of getting on the show were incredibly slim. Fast forward seven months, and Gerty was in front of the Sharks.

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Kevin O’Leary, aka Mr. Wonderful, invested $50,000 in the company in exchange for 22.5% royalty and 7.5% equity. “The experience was surreal, and the appearance has changed everything for the company,” says Schram. “The exposure brought credibility and opened doors that simply wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.” Several thousand Gertys have been sold within the first 16 months of being in business. One of their fastest-growing options is the custom Gerty, which allows customers to print their own face on the product, says Schram. “We’re receiving incredible feedback from dog owners who say Gerty has truly changed their lives,” says Schram, who is now also testing Gerty in animal shelters to see if it can provide a calming presence for anxious and frightened animals waiting for adoption. “What I’m most proud of is the simple fact that we’re improving pets’ lives every single day,” says Schram. “Seeing the difference Gerty makes for both dogs and their families is incredibly rewarding.”

Getting to Know Gerty

Dress Gerty in your worn clothes so that the dog recognizes the scent, Schram says. The most important instruction is to introduce Gerty slowly to the dog, as if it’s a real person, he notes. » You can find Gerty at thegerty.com and on Amazon.


H E A RT B E H I N D T H E H E L M ET:

Q&A with

Ronnie Stanley By Rose Frosek

N

FL STAR RONNIE STANLEY is known for

protecting quarterbacks on game day—but off the field, his biggest mission is protecting animals in need. Through the Ronnie Stanley Foundation, Stanley is using his platform to promote rescue, support shelters, and help dogs find loving homes. In this exclusive Q&A, he shares the story that touched his heart most, life with his rescue pup Rico, and why every adoption can change a life.

“I just want to spread awareness about how many amazing animals are in shelters waiting for homes.” T H E S TO RY T H AT S T U CK

Q: Everyone knows you for protecting quarterbacks. What made you want to start protecting dogs too? A: I always loved animals growing up, especially dogs. There’s something about their loyalty and unconditional love that’s always meant a lot to me. As I got older and learned more about the number of animals sitting in shelters or being abandoned, it really stuck with me. Starting the Ronnie Stanley Foundation was my way of using my platform to help animals that don’t have a voice and bring more attention to the need for adoption and rescue.

Q: Can you tell us about a dog or family you’ve helped through your foundation that really melted your heart? A: One dog who’s especially close to my heart is Lyric. Nikira was the first child to receive a dog through the foundation, and Lyric became her companion. Nikira has Sickle Cell Disease, which causes severe pain episodes, frequent hospital visits, and often forced her to miss school. After she was matched with Lyric, everything began to change. Having Lyric by her side helped her relax, focus, and manage the stress that came with her condition. She began missing fewer days of school, and her grades improved significantly. Nikira ultimately earned straight A’s and graduated high school last year with honours. Lyric also had a big impact on Nikira’s younger sister. While Nikira was busy with school and activities, Lyric kept her sister company and gave her a sense of comfort. During that time, she began focusing more on her artwork—and today her pieces are featured in galleries across Maryland.

GA M E DAY VS . G I V I N G BACK

U S I N G T H E P L AT FO R M

P R OT ECT I N G MO R E T H A N Q UA RT E R BACK S

Q: How do you juggle the intensity of NFL life with running a foundation and helping rescue dogs? A: Football obviously takes a lot of focus and discipline, but helping animals is something that genuinely motivates me off the field. My foundation has an incredible team that helps keep everything running smoothly. When I have off days during the season, I like to take part in events and stay involved however I can. It’s not really about balancing everything perfectly—it’s about making the time when I can, because it’s always worth it.

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Q: You have millions of fans. How do you hope to inspire them to get involved in pet rescue? A: For me, it starts with awareness. There are so many amazing animals sitting in shelters waiting for homes, and sometimes people don’t realize how simple it can be to make a difference. Whether that’s adopting, fostering, donating, or even just sharing information about rescues and shelters—every little bit helps. If my platform encourages even a few people to get involved, that can end up changing a lot of lives for these animals.

P H OTOS CO U RT ESY O F T H E RO N N I E STA N L E Y F O U N DAT I O N

Blocking for the voiceless: Ronnie Stanley’s mission to rescue dogs


CAPTION THIS!

C A RTO O N S BY J O H N K LO SS N E R ; J K LO SS N E R . CO M

Exercise your funny bone. Create a caption for this cartoon and submit your entry at moderndogmagazine.com/cartooncaption. The most comic captions will be published in the next issue.

Lyric with Nikira, sister Neveah, and mom Dominique

AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE LAST ISSUE IS…

Q: If you could see your foundation five years from now, what would success look like? A: In five years, I’d love to see the foundation grow nationally and work with all types of animals across the country. Success to me would mean helping more people, supporting more shelters, and ultimately getting more animals into loving homes. I also hope it continues building a community of people who care about animal welfare and want to be part of the solution.

*B O N U S R O U N D

YOUR PACK: My dog Rico is a Pitbull mix adopted from Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) in Maryland. DOG PERSONALITY CHECK: If Rico had a football position, he’d be a nickelback—versatile enough to cover the slot but physical enough to help in the run game. OFF-THE-FIELD ROUTINE: After a tough game or practice, we wrestle. It’s our way of letting loose, burning off energy, and just having fun together. FAVOURITE TREAT: Wagyu. PET SUPERPOWER: If Rico could talk for one day, he’d probably ask to play—or just ask for attention. PAW-SOME PLAYLIST: Haha, he doesn’t have a walk song… but maybe we need to find one. ■

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“It was at that very moment they decided to start drinking out of their water bowls.” SUBMITTED BY BENJAMIN LOCKHART

RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS “And the three loyal sidekicks waited patiently for their master who was on the throne…” SUBMITTED BY ANGELA MOORE

“Toilet paper…can any of you three fetch me some toilet paper?” SUBMITTED BY JOSEPH DEWAN

“I can't wait to see him pooper scoop.” SUBMITTED BY ANGELA PENNA

“I thought we agreed to go outside.” SUBMITTED BY JOHN GALLAGHER

P H OTO X X X

LO O K I N G A H E A D


! E L I SM ! Awww

MILES & FORREST Airedale Terrier & Welsh Terrier

bentley

pineapple

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Siberian Husky

ace

Mixed Breed

sarabella

Shetland Sheepdog

bella

finley

Maltese

comet

Mixed Breed

coco

French Bulldog

snickers

Pomeranian

bentley

Golden Retriever

Cuties!

Husky

henry

French Bulldog

munster

Labrador Retriever

riley

Mixed Breed


ace

laila

charo

luna

Adorable !

Aussie Doodle

tug

Chihuahua

Labrador Retriever

German Shepherd Dog

chaos

Mini Schnauzer

hazel

Dachshund

Blue Heeler Mix

bear

Pomeranian

brownie dickie

Basset Hound

Yossarian

Dachshund

Mixed Breed

taters

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Think your dog ought To be in Modern Dog?

boone

Border Collie

kali

French Bulldog

Upload your dog’s photo at moderndogmagazine.com/ photocontest. Not only will he or she be entered to be our Dog of the Week, but a selection of the photos entered will appear on these pages!


ENTER TO WIN

We’re giving it away! Enter to win fabulous giveaways every two weeks from May through October. Go to moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways to enter! Lucky readers will win every two weeks.

June

May

1 14 st -

th

Win 1 of 5 $100 gift cards for Ollie B. Good, makers of highquality, BPA-free, food-grade silicone slow feeders and enrichment tools for dogs and cats!

15th - 31st

Win 1 of 3 pairs of Heatrelief Cooling Dog Mats from Pelsbarn! Made from non-toxic, bite-resistant ice silk material to keep your dog cool and comfortable!

July

Win 1 of 2 prize packs from Bailey’s CBD for Dogs! Each winner will receive 2 bottles of Calming CBD Oil For Dogs and 4 bags of Calming CBD Yummies.

15th - 30th

Win 1 of 3 Oh Norman! prize packages, including the entire Oh Norman! product line and a copy of Modern Dog magazine signed by Kaley Cuoco!

August

1st -14th

Win 1 of 3 prizes from Pup Oils! Grand prize includes their AKC Scent Kit, plus Itchy Pup, Healing, Calm Pup, and Sick Pup Essential Oils, plus a “Covered in Tattoos & Dog Hair” sweatshirt. 2 other prizes include the Scent Kit and sweatshirt!

15

th -

31

st

Win a PetPace smart collar—the only health-monitoring collar that includes 24/7 telehealth via chat and video! Track vital signs and activity for daily insights into your dog’s health. (Subscription not included.)

September

1 14 st -

1st -14th

th

Win 1 of 4 prize packs from Cookie Pal, makers of humangrade organic dog treats! Includes 8 bags of Cookie Pal Soft Baked Bites, treats dogs go crazy for.

1st -14th

Win 1 of 6 Gertys, the inflatable friend that makes your dog feel safe and relaxed when you’re not home. As seen on Shark Tank!

15th - 31st

Win 1 of 2 $125 gift baskets from J.R. LIGGETT’S ®! Includes their famous gentle and fragrance-free pet shampoo! Perfect for dogs with sensitive, dry or allergyprone skin, it naturally soothes irritation and relieves itching.

October

15th - 30th

Win 1 of 2 canine wellness packs from Vetericyn! Includes Vetericyn FoamCare Pet Shampoo (choice of regular, thick coat, or medicated), plus Ear Rinse, Eye Wash, Hot Spot Spray, and Wound Dressing Gel!

1 14 st -

th

Win 1 of 3 prize packs from Fetch Coffee Roasters! Includes 2 bags of coffee and a 16oz ceramic-coated stainless steel travel cup!

15th - 31st

Win 1 of 3 custom artworks from Crown & Paw—starring your dog! Includes 1 Modern Pet Framed Print, 1 Renaissance-style Canvas (unframed), and 1 Bathroom Art Poster Print–each up to 18” × 24”.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning May 1, 2026 at 12:01 AM (PST) through October 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM (PST), enter each day at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways. Each week’s giveaway ends at 11:59 PM (PST). Each week, the specified number of winners for that week’s giveaway will win the prize featured in the giveaway calendar (ARV: $200). Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Contest is open to legal Canadian and US residents 18 and older as of date of entry. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. Giveaway subject to complete official rules available at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways.

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S P RING • SUMMER 2 0 2 6

INSET PHOTO: THEO SUBMITTED BY JESSICA

s y a w a e v i G t a Gre


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Modern Dog Spring/Summer 2026 by Modern Dog Magazine - Issuu