We like to keep an eye on news, pop culture, music and entertainment for stories about our favorite subject: dogs. Our Good Dog Hotel & Spa guests also keep us current by sharing awesome tidbits, sound bites or the latest and greatest in stories or trends.

We thought it’d be fun to round up some of our favorites from the month of May and share them with you. Let us know what you think, and feel free to add your own at the bottom of this story in the comments section.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this collection of dog-related news, and have a great week!

Are Dog Lovers Genetic?

A recent study suggests that those of us who choose to have dogs might be heavily influenced by our genetic make-up. Which helps explain those of us who can’t imagine a world without them. Is it in your genes? Check out this article on Science Daily, Owning a Dog Is Influenced By Our Genetic Makeup.

Dogs Affect Your Social Life

It isn’t really news to us, but a new survey shows that having dogs is good for your social life. “The results found that 54% of dog owners believe having their pet has boosted their confidence and made it easier for them to talk to strangers.” Ready out more about it at the Good News Network.

Puppy Helps a European Thatcher Raise the Roof

A puppy named Shuck is quite the helper for his owner, Richard Haughton, in the U.K.’s East Anglia. As a thatcher, he works on roofing jobs throughout the region and brings along his Akita/Labrador mix. Check out a video of this hardworking pair here.

It’s All In A Smile

Owners often claim their dogs are smiling, but is that really what’s going on? Can they express emotions the way we do? The answer might surprise you. Live Science explores the question in this article, Are Dogs Really Smiling At Us?

Dogs Help With PTSD

We all know our dogs help us feel better when we’re down, but new research from Purdue University of Indiana is showing that service dogs are especially good at helping veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Find out more about how dogs are helping wounded warriors here.

A Trip to Disney Goes Viral

Henry the Service Dog is known for being adorable and charming during his adventures while with handler, Jessica Paulsen, Nashville, Tennessee. During a recent trip to Florida’s Walt Disney World, photos captured him enjoying a treat from Starbucks and showing his love for Dumbo. You can find him on Instagram, @kinghenryofnashville, or check out his adventures here.