PETBOOK

Cooling Down in Summer: How Well Can Horses Swim?

Manuela Bauer — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:01:00 -0400

]]> At the latest, during a ride by the lake, many horse enthusiasts wonder if horses can actually swim. PETBOOK explains how these animals move in water and why swimming is more strenuous for them than many assume.

"The pain must have been unbearable.": Only after 1.5 years did the cat Raven regain trust.

Jasmin Reddmann — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:43:00 -0400

]]> When Sherilee “Shelly” Francis first saw a photo of Raven, she could hardly take her eyes off the black cat. Part of her face was covered with an emoji, hiding severe injuries. The animal welfare post explained that Raven had been kicked in the face and urgently needed a loving home, or she would have to return to the streets. Today, the former stray lives in safety. But the journey there was long and required an incredible amount of time and patience. In an interview with PETBOOK, Shelly shares Raven’s challenging yet touching story.

Many pet owners are familiar with this.: Does Your Cat Groom Itself After Being Petted? Here’s What It Really Means

Louisa Stoeffler — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 07:25:46 -0400

]]> Cats are considered independent yet affectionate animals. It can be all the more puzzling for many owners when their cat immediately starts licking the spot that was just petted—almost as if trying to “wipe off” the touch. I observe this behavior in my cat Remo as well. I used to think he just wanted to get rid of my scent. But that’s not true. In fact, this behavior is a completely normal instinct that many cats exhibit.

Expert Reveals: Why Dogs Tend to Approach People Who Are Anxious

Saskia Schneider — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 03:12:01 -0400

]]> Not everyone likes dogs–some are even afraid of them. It’s all the more surprising that these individuals are often approached by dogs more frequently. Many dog owners know the situation: Their own dog runs up to a neighbor or friend who actually prefers to keep their distance from dogs. This is no coincidence. Why dogs exhibit this behavior and what’s behind it is explained by dog trainer and canine behavior expert Katharina Marioth in an interview with PETBOOK.

Spider plant, shield fern, papyrus grass ...: These Houseplants Are Safe for Cats

Manuela Bauer — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:12:00 -0400

]]> Cats love to nibble on houseplants–but many popular types are toxic to them. Fortunately, there are numerous beautiful alternatives that cats can safely enjoy. PETBOOK shows which plants are suitable for cat households.

Who Will Advance to the World Cup Round of 16?: Germany vs. Paraguay! Our Animal Oracles Make Their Predictions

Jasmin Reddmann — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 10:58:41 -0400

]]> Germany faces its next knockout match at the 2026 World Cup. In the round of 16, they go up against Paraguay, and this time, our animal experts have no way out. A draw? Not an option. Since a winner must be decided, the PETBOOK oracle had only two bowls ready: Germany or Paraguay.

Coach Warns: This Social Media Trend Unnecessarily Stresses Dogs

Emily Reimann — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 08:07:15 -0400

]]> Blowing in a dog’s face, pretending to pet it, or deliberately annoying it: Such videos are part of what’s called ragebaiting and are currently garnering millions of views on TikTok and Instagram. But what many users find funny can mean significant stress for the animals. Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains to PETBOOK why she views the trend critically.

Skin Fold Test: How Much Water Do Horses Need to Drink Daily?

Emily Reimann — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:56:00 -0400

]]> When temperatures rise, so do the water requirements of horses. But how much does a horse actually drink in a day? And how can you tell when heat and lack of fluids become a problem?

Flatulence in Dogs: Did You Know? Why Dog Farts Smell So Bad

Manuela Lieflaender — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:44:38 -0400

]]> When the office dog is present during an important conference and it suddenly smells suspiciously like dog flatulence, it gets embarrassing. Especially when colleagues suddenly make a run for it because the “scent cloud” is too much. But for the dog, it’s often mainly one thing: a sign that something is out of balance in the stomach.

World Cup Oracle 2026: Germany or Ecuador? PETBOOK Animals Make Their Predictions

Jasmin Reddmann — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:31:00 -0400

]]> Germany has won every match at the 2026 World Cup so far. Logically, the mood before the group match against Ecuador should be clear. Logically. However, the PETBOOK editorial animals seem to have other plans for June 25. While the petfluencer community clearly sees Germany ahead, the animal experts from the editorial team are surprisingly cautious this time.

Absurd, but True: Why Capybaras Were Suddenly Considered “Fish”

Louisa Stoeffler — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:13:00 -0400

]]> Few animals have sparked such an internet craze in recent years as the capybara. These laid-back water-loving rodents have become cult figures as memes, plush toys, and social media stars. Yet, few know that the world’s largest rodents were once briefly declared “fish.” But that’s not the only curious fact about capybaras. PETBOOK presents 13 fascinating facts about these popular animals.

New Study: Is Your Dog’s Gait Changing? It Could Be a Warning Sign of Dementia

Emily Reimann — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:46:12 -0400

]]> Many dogs change their gait as they age. This is usually considered a normal part of getting older. However, researchers have now discovered a previously overlooked trait that could be linked to the onset of dementia or age-related cognitive decline. PETBOOK reveals why a dog’s gait plays an important role in this.

Behavior Explained: Why Some Cats Don’t Like Their Paws Touched

Saskia Schneider — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:52:00 -0400

]]> Cat paws look cute, but for many animals, they are considered a real taboo zone. PETBOOK editor and cat behavior expert Saskia Schneider explains why touches there are often unwelcome, what might be behind this, and why a closer look is worthwhile for owners.

Studies Show: Twelve Million Years Ago, Anacondas Were Already Giant Snakes

Saskia Schneider — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:05:00 -0400

]]> Anacondas are among the largest snakes on Earth. But when did their development toward these massive body sizes actually begin? A new paleontological study now provides clarity—and for the first time, clear fossil evidence: As early as 12.4 million years ago, the ancestors of today’s anacondas reached lengths of over five meters. The study from Venezuela not only shows how early this gigantism emerged but also why anacondas, unlike many other giant reptiles, have remained so large to this day.

Dog Trainer Explains: Why Dogs Suddenly Get More Stressed in Summer

Katharina Marioth — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:51:29 -0400

]]> In summer, many dogs experience significantly more stress than in winter. Long bright days, crowded streets, playing children, bicycles, and numerous other stimuli often overwhelm their nervous systems. The consequences often manifest in behavioral changes: Dogs bark more, pull harder on the leash, and seem restless or irritable at home. Many owners then suspect training errors or blame themselves. However, the cause often lies elsewhere, as dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains.

Lifespan: Factors That Affect How Long Your Dog Lives

Emily Reimann — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:51:57 -0400

]]> For many, a dog is much more than a pet–it’s a family member, loyal companion, and best friend. The moment when the dog starts to age is all the more difficult. At the latest, many owners ask themselves: How old can dogs actually get, and what can be done to keep them healthy and fit for as long as possible?

The Ugliest Animal in the World?: Why the Blobfish Actually Looks Quite Unique

Emily Reimann — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:17:00 -0400

]]> Voted the world’s ugliest animal, turned into an internet star, and yet completely misunderstood: The blobfish is probably the most recognizable face of the deep sea. However, the famous photo that made it world-famous does not show the fish as it appears in its natural habitat. PETBOOK explains why the image is misleading and what secrets the blobfish still holds today.

Caution in the Pasture: Plants Horse Owners Should Protect Their Animals From

Marike Stucke — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 07:03:00 -0400

]]> Horses don’t just eat grass in the pasture. Among the blades, plants can grow that cause severe poisoning and, in the worst case, can even be fatal. PETBOOK reveals which pasture plants are toxic for horses and how owners can recognize them.

Comprehensive Overview: How Long Do Cats Actually Live?

Emily Reimann — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:05:44 -0400

]]> Cats are considered true survival artists: elegant, headstrong, and often remarkably tough. No wonder the myth persists that they have nine lives. But what actually determines a cat’s life expectancy? Do care and breed play a role? PETBOOK answers the most important questions about cat age.

Arriving in the Apartment: How Toxic Is the Wolf Spider Really?

Isa Kabakci — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 03:18:56 -0400

]]> Wolf spiders are among the most well-known spider species worldwide, fascinating with their hunting techniques as well as their unusual brood care. With numerous species found in almost all habitats, they are one of the largest spider families. In Germany, many species are native, ranging from inconspicuously small to noticeably large representatives. Their role in the ecosystem and adaptability make them a significant part of the local wildlife. But are these spiders dangerous or rather harmless eight-legged creatures? PETBOOK clarifies.

Researchers Discover New Species: This Shark “Walks” on the Ocean Floor

Jasmin Reddmann — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:56:00 -0400

]]> Sharks are considered elegant hunters, gliding through the oceans. But a newly discovered species does the exact opposite: It prefers to move by walking. Instead of swimming, the newly discovered specimens prefer to “walk” on the ocean floor. A research team led by Jessica-Anne Blakeway from Australia’s University of the Sunshine Coast discovered the previously unknown species off the coast of Papua New Guinea. The scientists have now officially described the shark in a scientific study.

Cnidarians: Which Jellyfish Are Dangerous in the Mediterranean?

Manuela Bauer — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:39:58 -0400

]]> Jellyfish are among the oldest animals on Earth, often appearing like creatures from another planet with their floating bodies. However, not all encounters with these fascinating marine creatures end harmlessly. In the Mediterranean, vacationers are increasingly encountering various jellyfish species—a trend experts link to the warming of the seas. While most species are harmless to humans, some can cause painful injuries or even pose health risks. PETBOOK reveals which jellyfish are most common in the Mediterranean, which species vacationers should be aware of, and what to do after a jellyfish sting.

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

Jasmin Reddmann — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:51:41 -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.

World Cup Oracle: Who Will Win? PETBOOK Animals Predict Germany vs. Ivory Coast

Jasmin Reddmann — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 11:13:00 -0400

]]> The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already shown that predictions are currently about as reliable as a Labrador in front of an open treat cabinet. Germany’s 7-1 win against Curaçao left people astonished, Spain couldn’t get past a 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, and Australia surprisingly defeated Turkey 2-0. While fans and experts are still trying to make sense of the tournament, the animal experts at the PETBOOK editorial team have already made their predictions for Germany’s next match against the Ivory Coast—with surprising results.

Rescued From Engine Compartment: People Call This Cat an “Ugly Beast”—Yet Labubu Has Thousands of Fans

Emily Reimann — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:43:00 -0400

]]> She is small, crooked, a bit peculiar—and that’s exactly why thousands of people have fallen in love with her. Labubu’s story begins with a last-minute rescue and leads to a viral moment that tells far more than just the story of a cat.