PETBOOK

PETBOOK on Site: Lab Buses for Dogs? Pet Trends from Interzoo

Saskia Schneider — Fri, 15 May 2026 08:07:00 -0400

]]> Protein bars for dogs. AI cat flaps that keep out mice. Mystery boxes for pets based on the popular Labubu figures. And in the midst of it all, the big question: When does care become anthropomorphism? Every two years, the international pet industry gathers at the “Interzoo” trade fair in Nuremberg. PETBOOK was on site in 2026. Amid smart AI technology, health hype, and luxurious lifestyle products, one thing was clear: Pets are now treated like full-fledged family members—with all the pros and cons.

At 30 Years Old: Blind and Scruffy! Papillon Lazare Is the Oldest Dog in the World

Saskia Schneider — Fri, 15 May 2026 05:43:06 -0400

]]> Disheveled fur, huge ears, and a tongue hanging loosely from his mouth—at first glance, Lazare looks like a lovable little character. But this Papillon from France is currently astonishing animal lovers worldwide: At an alleged 30 years old, the Continental Toy Spaniel could be the oldest dog in the world. His story is extraordinary and emotional.

Unexpected Abilities: “Where Friend?” – Cat Asks About Her Deceased Companion

Saskia Schneider — Fri, 15 May 2026 04:46:44 -0400

]]> Can animals ask questions, or is that a skill reserved only for humans? For a long time, the latter was considered the scientific consensus. However, more and more pet owners report astonishing observations that challenge this notion. This is the case with Bunny the dog and Flounder the cat. What they demonstrate with so-called soundboards seems to many observers to be more than trained behavior. In a PETBOOK interview, the owners of Flounder and Bunny share moments that initially made them doubt and now offer a new perspective on animal communication.

Study Shows: Why Dogs Help Humans While Cats Just Watch

Saskia Schneider — Fri, 15 May 2026 03:03:51 -0400

]]> Why do dogs help and seemingly effortlessly bring a dropped object, while cats tend to observe from a safe distance? A recent study delves into this question and provides surprisingly clear answers. It turns out that proximity to humans alone does not make a “helper.”

Asked the Expert: Does My Dog Know When I’m Pregnant?

Saskia Schneider — Thu, 14 May 2026 06:07:00 -0400

]]> Many expectant mothers wonder: Does my dog actually sense that I’m pregnant—perhaps even before I do? In fact, many dogs show early changes in behavior. Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains to PETBOOK why this happens, how dogs perceive pregnancy, and when owners should pay attention.

The 5-Minute Analysis: Is Your Dog’s Food Really Good?

Philine Ebert — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:09:00 -0400

]]> Feeding is a daily ritual for our dogs and us. Open the can or bag, fill the bowl, and off we go! Ideally, what’s left is a satisfied and full four-legged friend. But is what lands in the bowl every day actually high-quality, healthy, and good for my dog? PETBOOK author and canine nutritionist Philine Ebert explains how you can analyze your dog food in five minutes based on the information provided.

Dramatic Rescue: Cat Elmer Nearly Died in Glue–Here’s How He’s Doing Today

Saskia Schneider — Wed, 13 May 2026 07:01:00 -0400

]]> A kitten, trapped in a bucket full of industrial glue and closer to death than life, the case of Elmer the cat is currently moving animal lovers worldwide. Only through an attentive helper and the tireless efforts of an animal welfare team was he saved. PETBOOK spoke with the Humane Society of North Texas to learn how dramatic his rescue really was and why Elmer not only survived but also healed a broken heart.

Back then, commonplace: Did You Know? Why Dog Poop Used to Be White

Louisa Stoeffler — Wed, 13 May 2026 05:11:23 -0400

]]> They used to be a common sight on lawns and sidewalks: white-colored dog droppings. Today, they have practically disappeared–and not just because more owners are cleaning up after their pets. Here’s what exactly is behind this color change.

Rare Dog Breed: The Patterdale Terrier Pushes Even Professionals to Their Limits

Dennis Agyemang — Wed, 13 May 2026 02:54:33 -0400

]]> Energetic, fearless, and full of drive: The Patterdale Terrier is not a dog for the faint-hearted. Originally bred as a tireless working dog in the hills of northern England, it impresses with its determination and robust physique. Yet behind the muscular terrier type lies a companionable dog that forms close bonds with its people.

Flirting with Consequences: Unbelievable! Male Turtles Push Females Off the Cliff

Jasmin Reddmann — Wed, 13 May 2026 00:09:00 -0400

]]> What sounds like a perfect retreat for animals is turning into a rather absurd and simultaneously tragic experiment of nature. Everything seems perfect in North Macedonia: no natural predators, a mild climate, and plenty of food. Yet, the Hermann’s tortoises on the small island of Golem Grad are in great danger. The reason seems almost trivial: The males are a bit too enthusiastic about flirting.

PETBOOK Interview: Judith Rakers: “You Should Never Betray a Horse’s Trust”

Emily Reimann — Tue, 12 May 2026 11:09:00 -0400

]]> Most people know Judith Rakers from the Tagesschau as a professional news anchor. However, few are aware that she spends her time away from the studio among neighing horses, clucking chickens, and gardening. It’s a life that is intentionally slowed down and marked by a close connection to nature and her animals. In her book series “Judith’s Little Farm,” she gives children a playful insight into life with animals. In an interview with PETBOOK, the journalist shares how much we can learn from horses about trust, responsibility, and respectful interaction.

Questionable Trend: What Does “Garlic Clove Fur” Mean for Cats?

Louisa Stoeffler — Tue, 12 May 2026 02:52:10 -0400

]]> A new term is making the rounds among cat lovers on social media: “garlic clove fur.” This refers to the particularly plush, layered fur that looks as if a cat’s coat consists of many overlapping layers. Why do some cats look like this? There are plenty of theories circulating online.

Behavior Explained: Did You Know? Why Cats Always Settle in Boxes

Natalie Decker — Tue, 12 May 2026 02:26:45 -0400

]]> Almost every cat owner knows the phenomenon: You buy a cozy cave or a cat basket for your feline. But instead of making themselves comfortable in it, the cat jumps into the empty box on the floor. Cats like to choose their favorite spot themselves. They often opt for a square structure like a box. But why do cats love boxes so much? PETBOOK explains the behavior behind the phenomenon.

Unpleasant Truth: The Real Reason Butterflies Land on People

Jasmin Reddmann — Mon, 11 May 2026 23:51:00 -0400

]]> A butterfly gently landing on someone is a special moment for many. These delicate creatures are considered symbols of lightness and freedom for a reason. But as beautiful as this moment is, there’s often a much more practical reason behind the behavior. When butterflies land on people, it’s usually not about seeking closeness but rather something we produce.

Often Underestimated: How Much Hay a Horse Consumes Per Day

Emily Reimann — Mon, 11 May 2026 10:40:46 -0400

]]> Horses spend many hours a day eating—and for good reason. Their digestive system is designed for nearly constant food intake. What many horse owners underestimate: Too little hay can have serious consequences for health and well-being. Why hay is more than just a filler and how much a horse actually needs daily is explained by PETBOOK.

No Breadcrumbs: What Do Pigeons Eat in the Wild?

Emily Reimann — Mon, 11 May 2026 08:18:50 -0400

]]> A fallen French fry or crumbs from a sandwich? Many think that’s a feast for pigeons. But in reality, this type of diet not only causes stomach issues for pigeons but also for many car owners. Find out what pigeons really eat and how their diet is related to car paint damage at PETBOOK.

Turned in for hedgehog care: Found with 70 Ticks! Rescuers Fight to Save Hedgehog Uschi

Emily Reimann — Mon, 11 May 2026 05:30:08 -0400

]]> On March 25, 2026, hedgehog lady Uschi was found at a feeding station. The knowledgeable finders of the animal noticed Uschi for a reason: Her body was covered with large ticks. Her finders quickly took the hedgehog lady to the Hedgehog Care Station Rotenburg/Wümme e.V. PETBOOK inquired about how Uschi is doing today.

The Largest Deer in the World: Elks Return to Germany–Here’s Where They Live

Jasmin Reddmann — Mon, 11 May 2026 05:12:00 -0400

]]> Moose are typically associated with Scandinavia, endless forests in Sweden, or Canada. It’s all the more surprising that these large wild animals are slowly reappearing in Germany. And increasingly so. What long seemed unthinkable is becoming reality step by step: The moose is back.

Bizarre Requests: Dog Trainer Reveals: “I Would Definitely Turn Down These 5 Jobs”

Katharina Marioth — Mon, 11 May 2026 00:13:00 -0400

]]> When dog trainer and PETBOOK author Katharina Marioth gets a call, it’s rarely just about a “small training request.” Often, the initial question “Can you stop my dog from doing that?” has more behind it than one might initially think. There’s a good reason why dog trainers sometimes decline such requests.

Bizarre Behavior: Artificial Light at Night Causes These Animals to Run in Deadly Circles

Saskia Schneider — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:04:00 -0400

]]> What appears to be a fascinating natural spectacle could become a trap for the animals themselves: Thousands of isopods suddenly move in perfectly coordinated circles—triggered by a common element of modern cities. A new study shows how artificial light induces previously unknown behavior and what consequences this may have.

Eerie 'Goth' Bird: Blood-Curdling Scream! Have You Heard of the Dracula Parrot?

Louisa Stoeffler — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:00:23 -0400

]]> Are you familiar with the “Dracula Parrot”? The reason for the bird’s name is likely obvious due to its appearance. What else distinguishes this unique “Goth” bird can be found in this article.

Dog Trainer Reveals: People Who Are Barked at Most Often Revealed by a Trainer

Saskia Schneider — Fri, 08 May 2026 00:13:00 -0400

]]> Many dog owners know the situation: Their own dog barks seemingly without reason at certain people—like the colleague in a hoodie or the jogger in the park—while completely ignoring others. Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains to PETBOOK which external features or types of people dogs are particularly sensitive to and how this behavior can be specifically trained.

Surprising Study Result: Birds Flee Sooner From Women Than Men

Saskia Schneider — Thu, 07 May 2026 11:12:00 -0400

]]> How close can you get to a bird before it takes flight? If you walk your dog in the park or enjoy watching animals, you’ve probably asked yourself this question. A new Europe-wide study now provides a surprising answer: It depends not only on your behavior but also on whether you are a woman or a man. And the result is likely to surprise many.

Fishing Cat: This Wildcat Loves Water and Barks—Hardly Anyone Knows It

Louisa Stoeffler — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:49:16 -0400

]]> They swim like otters and bark like dogs—yet they belong to a completely different family tree: fishing cats. These clever and little-known wildcats have remarkably adapted to their habitat, which is unfortunately shrinking.

This danger is greatly underestimated.: Shocking Images: More Hedgehogs Mutilated by Robotic Lawn Mowers

Jasmin Reddmann — Thu, 07 May 2026 07:22:00 -0400

]]> What is practical for the lawn can be deadly for hedgehogs. Robotic lawn mowers pose an underestimated danger to these small wild animals. Especially at night, when hedgehogs are foraging, they often encounter the devices defenselessly. Instead of fleeing, they instinctively curl up when threatened. This behavior protects them from natural predators but not from the rotating blades of the robots. Rescue centers frequently report injured animals suffering severe cuts. PETBOOK spoke with Carina Draken from the emergency station Casa dei Riccio – House of Hedgehogs e.V. about the dramatic consequences.