Mental Floss

DOGS









Dog and pony shows were once all the rage.

When people talk about a dog and pony show today, they usually mean a flashy presentation or event that's all about appearances, with little real substance. But where does this phrase come from, and what's its history?

Anne Taylor
Being this cute and well-liked takes a lot of work.

Curious about the most popular dog breed in your state? From feisty Chihuahuas to chill golden retrievers, discover which canine variety has your neighbors feeling the most captivated.

Rudie Obias


Barking at nothing is a popular dog pastime.

Barking into the abyss is a frequent complaint of pet owners, but there's an explanation. (And no, it's not aliens.)

Jake Rossen






Not something a driver wants to see in their rear-view mirror.

A professional dog trainer explains the instinctual reason driving the behavior and offers some expert advice on how to stop your dog from chasing cars.

Alexia Kontolemos