13 Christmas Cards for Dog Lovers

Everyone has that friend who’s obsessed with their pooch. You know, the one that rocks pet/owner matching pajamas, posts a million pup selfies and has at least four different styles of winter jackets for their dogs? Odds are you’re probably going to get a stylized Christmas card of them posing with their pet right about now, but what exactly are you supposed to send in return? For anyone stuck on what to send your doggy mom BFF this holiday, these 13 Christmas cards are a match made in doggy heaven.

1. Dogs of a Sweater Holiday Screen Print Card ($5): For the dog owner who has more dog clothes than human clothes, this holiday greeting card is a must. Made with French paper and screen printed with matte ink, it’s a beautiful (and artisanal) way to say Merry Christmas.

2. Elfie Selfie Card ($6): Make sure your holiday is Instagram-approved this December with this unbearably cute elfie selfie card.

3. Corgi Christmas Card ($4): Christmases are for Corgi cuddling, right? This handmade A2 card is perfect for the Corgi mommy on your list. Each card comes blank, but can include a custom message — yas, ETSY!

4. Reindeer Bulldog Christmas Card ($4): We can totally see bulldog fans like Chrissy Teigen sending this out this year.

5. Bah Hum Pug Christmas Card ($4): Enjoy your Christmas pudding the right way with this too-cute-for-words pug-inspired card.

6. Funny Pug Christmas Card ($4): When you look this good, you have to flaunt it.

7. Merry Woofing Christmas Holiday Card ($5): Spread some woofing holiday cheer this Christmas with a letterpress card.

8. Dogs as Reindeer Holiday Cards ($17): This set of eight cards is perfect for a dog walker or double-duty dog mom (basically anyone who knows the #MultipleLeashStruggle).

9. Dog Holiday Card ($13): This unique wooden card is made locally in California and features exactly what you’re wishing was under your Christmas tree (a baby retriever, duh).

10. Herald Card ($4): Extra reason to love this sweet stationery: Three design school friends who bonded over their love of illustration, typography and woodland creatures founded the San Diego company that produces this adorably cute card.

11. Sweater Doxie Holiday Cards ($15): Send your BFF some warm holiday wishes with this elongated wiener dog card from Rock Scissors Paper. Each set comes with 10 recycled cardstock cards and is made in the USA.

12. A Frenchie Little Christmas Letterpress ($4): Why be merry when you can be Frenchie?

13. NOËL Dog Letterpress Card Golden Retriever ($24): Created in memory of the designer’s beloved golden retriever, this handmade card set features a beautiful printed design and is packaged with real wood embellishments and ribbon. (Psst: Card sales end today, December 15.)

Which pup-friendly holiday card is your fave? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo!

No matter what kind of furry friend you choose to welcome into your family, everyone knows that the puppy phase is tough. But aside from the typical teething and potty training problems, some breeds are more demanding than they seem.

From high energy levels to complex training needs, these canines may not be the best fit for first-time dog owners or those seeking a lower-commitment pet. If you fall in either boat, steer clear of these 10 difficult dog breeds that are more work than you might think.

Scroll to find out some of the more difficult dog breeds that require a little extra work (& a lot of commitment!)

1. Border Collie

Lauma Augstkalne

With a history of livestock herding, Border Collies are revered for their remarkable intelligence and high energy levels. They thrive when given a task to focus on, but without a way to express their natural herding instincts, they may act out and try to outsmart their owners.

Plus, they become easily stressed when they're not provided with enough mental stimulation and physical activity.

2. Saint Bernard

Patrick Barrett Jr.

Saint Bernards may look like big teddy bears, but they can also be quite stubborn. Yes, these dogs generally have sweet personalities, yet without early socialization and consistent training, these gentle giants may develop some behavioral issues.

Keeping this breed in check is harder due to their huge size. That's why any unwanted habits, like jumping up on counters or people, can spiral out of control.

Not to mention, Saint Bernards are notorious for being messy due to their excessive drooling.

3. Siberian Husky

Kateryna Babaieva

If you looked up "high-maintenance dog" in the dictionary, you might be greeted with a picture of the Siberian Husky.

This breed is independent, extremely energetic, and requires tons of exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy. Siberian Huskies also have strong-willed personalities that may make them prone to ignoring commands and doing things their way, particularly when it comes to escaping.

These escape artists are notorious for running out the door whenever they're given the chance.

4. Jack Russell Terrier

Gundula Vogel

Jack Russells have spirited personalities and seemingly boundless energy, earning them the reputation of being "hyper."

These pups have a strong prey drive as well, meaning they're prone to behaviors such as barking and digging. These tendencies can be especially challenging for first-time dog owners to handle.

Plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization are needed to keep this breed in line.

5. Australian Cattle Dog

Yo Ormedi

Much like the Siberian Husky, Australian Cattle Dogs excel when they're physically and mentally engaged. These herding dogs are often clever enough to outsmart their owners and quickly become bored, leading them to resort to mischief.

Anyone who opts to adopt an Australian Cattle Dog must provide their pup with a lot of training and a job to do, whether it's herding, agility, or another activity.

6. Rottweiler

Katia Miasoed

Rottweilers are known for their protective and territorial instincts, and if they aren't properly trained, this breed may become aggressive.

These dogs are strong-willed, large in size, and may try to assert dominance if they sense a lack of authority. Early socialization, routine training, and assertiveness are crucial for raising a Rottweiler that's well-behaved.

7. Akita

Zen Chung

Akitas have a significant prey drive since they were bred to hunt large game, and they can exhibit aggression or behavioral issues if they're not socialized and trained properly.

This breed also tends to be protective and aloof with strangers, so it may not always get along with other canines. These dogs thrive with more experienced owners who can establish clear boundaries and provide firm training.

8. Bloodhound

Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Westminster Kennel Club

Bloodhounds are renowned for their remarkable sense of smell, making them stellar hunting dogs and helpers for law enforcement officers trying to track down missing persons and fugitives.

However, this breed can be self-reliant and stubborn, which makes training more challenging. Bloodhounds can become easily distracted by scents, so traditional training techniques tend to be less effective.

9. Dachshund

Masood Aslami

Dachshunds may look tiny and harmless, but these comically long dogs also have an independent spirit (and can sometimes be stubborn).

They have a knack for being mischievous and surprising digging abilities, meaning they'll tunnel under fences or anything else that stands in their way. Consistent training is key to curbing their more curious and disruptive tendencies.

10. Dalmatian

ko tek

Last but certainly not least are Dalmatians. These dogs have loads of energy, a strong-willed nature, and crave companionship, so they need both attention and exercise to remain happy.

Otherwise, this breed can be quite chaotic. Dalmatians are well-suited for more active owners who can keep up with their lively personalities.

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Saturday Night Live just had a 50th anniversary celebration to remember, but despite some iconic callbacks and celebrity cameos, one moment everyone's talking about didn't really have to do with the sketches at all: Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's appearance.

During a Q&A with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey, Ryan Reynolds stood up to ask a question, with Blake Lively sitting right beside him. After the SNL icons asked him how he was, the Deadpool actor joked, "Great. Why, what have you heard?" And while the audience laughed at the inferred reference to the ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni, sources are saying others aren't so happy with the couple's appearance.

Here's what people are saying about Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's appearance on the SNL50 special.

Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively "have no regrets" about their SNL50 special appearance.

Following the special, SNL's cue card guy Wally Feresten told Fifi, Fev and Nick that Ryan “had a different line in rehearsal and he pitched that to replace it. That was his idea."

"We wouldn’t want to do anything too controversial unless they were in on it.”

But according to a Page Six source, Ryan didn't actually come up with that joke. “The opening joke was pitched by SNL and never changed,” they said. “The follow-up joke was rewritten in rehearsal.” So who's really behind the joke? For now, no one (except Ryan) knows.

While the moment with Ryan Reynolds got some laughs, another insider reveals that, "People in Hollywood think Blake and Ryan attending the SNL 50th anniversary show was not a good look," and that it might have been a good idea for the couple to "have sat this one out.”

But even though the appearance got some mixed reviews, another source promises they "have no regrets about making an appearance at the show,” and that they “were two of the last people to leave Studio 8H."

"Blake was initially hesitant to attend the SNL 50th anniversary show but ultimately she’s glad she attended and had a really nice time,” the second source continues. “They’re glad they showed up because they have nothing to hide and no reason not to.”

The SNL50 special, and the brief look at Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, came after Blake and Justin Baldoni filed lawsuits against one another — Blake against Justin for alleged sexual harassment and Justin against Blake, Ryan, and the New York Times for defamation.

"It’s very plausible that Justin’s legal team will use this public outing to defend him,” according to the Page Six source. “Justin is taking this lawsuit in all seriousness and isn’t making a public mockery out of it."

Recently, Justin Baldoni published a website with an Amended Complaint and It Ends With Us timeline, but according to First Amendment lawyer Kevin Goldberg, the website is "unnecessary."

"I think it's unusual and I'm not sure it's appropriate once you have already filed a defamation lawsuit," he tells Forbes. "Legally speaking, it's not going to be, itself, relevant as evidence. It could be introduced in evidence but there's no need for it."

"The reason we have very strict standards for anyone who is trying to win a defamation lawsuit — and in particular, a celebrity who is trying to win a defamation lawsuit is they can do things like this," Kevin continues. "Use a website and PR team to restore their reputation, they don't need to use the courts to restore their reputation. So why did he do both is my big question. It seems like his real goal is not to win the lawsuit but restore his good name, just, generally in the public view."

What did you think about Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds' appearance on the SNL50 special? Read up on 10 Weird Moments You Missed From Viral Justin Baldoni & Blake Lively Set Video for more.

Dogs are among the most popular pets in the world, most commonly beloved for their loyalty and companionship. But beyond signature friendliness, certain breeds stand out for their intelligence and ability to learn new tricks with ease.

Whether you're searching for a quick learner to take on adventures or simply adjust to your household more easily, here are 10 of the smartest dog breeds that thrive on mental stimulation.

Here are the 10 smartest dog breeds you can bring home today!

1. Border Collie

Helena Lopes

This breed is considered one of the most intelligent and trainable, excelling in agility and obedience competitions thanks to their sharp problem-solving skills and eagerness to work.

Border Collies are part of the herding group, so they enjoy being given tasks. That's why these pups are ideal companions for ranchers and farmers.

However, if they're not herding livestock, they'll need plenty of mental and physical activity to satiate their endless energy and remain engaged.

2. German Shepherd

Thirdman

German Shepherds have sharp minds and strong work ethics, which, like the Border Collie, stem from generations of herding instincts.

This breed is adaptable and quick-thinking, allowing them to thrive in high-pressure roles that even some humans find challenging, such as police work and search and rescue operations.

Coupled with their trainability, their loyalty makes them both stellar working dogs and adorable companions.

3. Shetland Sheepdog

Elina Volkova

Sometimes referred to as "Shelties," Shetland Sheepdogs are fast learners and skilled problem solvers. They shine in various realms, from agility and herding to obedience and even therapy work.

These pups are loyal and affectionate, too. Nonetheless, given their high energy, they do best in active households.

4. Miniature Schnauzer

KIM

Originally bred in Germany for farm work, Miniature Schnauzers are smart dogs with lively personalities.

They have a strong drive to stay active and engaged, so they excel when given a purpose, whether through structured agility and obedience training or interactive games.

These canines may wow you with their eagerness to learn, making them really rewarding companions.

5. Poodle

Goochie Poochie Grooming

Poodles were first bred as hunting dogs and worked closely with humans, making them highly trainable and eager to please today.

Their fuzzy coats and cute faces have made this breed a favorite family dog. But even though Poodles do enjoy lounging at home, they truly shine in agility and obedience competitions because of their intelligence and athleticism.

Regardless of whether you hope to compete with your pup or teach them some simple commands, this breed is one of the smartest and most versatile.

6. Papillon

Blue Bird

With their tiny stature and floppy ears, Papillons can be deceiving, but don't be fooled. These little dogs are incredibly sharp and make training both easy and fun.

Papillons are energetic and, despite their small size, full of confidence and enthusiasm. Plus, their playful and affectionate temperament makes them wonderful additions to families with young kids.

7. Bloodhound

Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Westminster Kennel Club

Next up are Bloodhounds, a breed with an unmatched sense of smell. These canines have been tracking both humans and animals for hundreds of years, which is why they're invaluable in search and rescue efforts. Moreover, they're known for having a loving and loyal nature.

Even so, their powerful noses can cause strong independent streaks. Once they catch a scent, they can be relentless in following it. So, Bloodhounds need plenty of space to explore, along with activities to keep them engaged.

8. English Springer Spaniel

Sharon Snider

Revered for their friendliness and trainability, English Springer Spaniels are very intelligent sporting dogs. They were initially bred for hunting and retrieving, so they thrive in the field and are devoted to their family members.

If you lead an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking or hunting, this breed may be a perfect match.

9. German Shorthaired Pointer

Brixiv

Those searching for a hunting companion should consider adopting a German Shorthaired Pointer. This breed is always up for an adventure and loves to please, meaning training is typically a smooth process.

Just keep in mind that these pups are full of energy and will need a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy.

10. Labrador Retriever

Paul Groom Photography Bristol

Last but certainly not least is the Labrador Retriever, one of the most popular breads in the United States. Yet, they're not just known for their friendliness; Labrador Retrievers are also highly intelligent.

These dogs were historically bred to assist with hunting and retrieving, so they've developed sharp instincts, quick learning abilities, and an adoration for humans.

With the right training, this breed can excel in retrieving, obedience, and service work while simultaneously being affectionate and gentle family companions.

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You read that correctly: Tom Brady and Irina Shayk (yes, Bradley Cooper's ex-wife) may be back together. Despite the fact we thought the former pro-football player and Gisele Bündchen were endgame, we discovered some good things don't last forever. But the heartbreak didn't seem to matter once Tom found model Irina Shayk — at least until they broke up for a while.

Imagine everyone's surprise now that the two are allegedly dating again. It's like the tale of the two exes who can't leave each other alone no matter how hard they try. Whether this is good or bad is TBD, but we're intrigued either way!

Here's what to know about Tom Brady & Irina Shayk's potentially rekindled relationship!

Victor Boyko/Getty Images

Page Sixreported Tom Brady and Irina Shayk are rumored to be dating again, per a source. The anonymous person said, "Tom and Irina have started dating each other again and are open to see where things go" which seems extremely vague.

Adding more ambiguity to the will-they-won't-they rumor mill? A second source revealedthat the former couple had "been talking on the phone" around the New Year — and were allegedly planning a trip together — according to Page Six. "Neither one is in a serious relationship right now, so why not take a trip.”

Jane Gershovich/Getty Images

Prior to this, Tom Brady and Irina Shayk only dated for a short time before closing their door on their relationship. TMZ exclusively reported they'd chosen to amicably break up because things simply "fizzled out." According to an earlier Page Six article, the sexy couple were no longer spotted together at different events which raised eyebrows about their dating status.

It's safe to say that Tom Brady & Irina Shayk's "relationship" may have been more of a "situationship" because they were first linked after paparazzi spotted the latter being picked up from Hotel Bel-Air by Brady last summer (via Page Six). The eager photographers must've camped out at Tom's house overnight because they also spotted the two leaving his home the next morning. One can only assumed what happened, but it seems like they reportedly had a date shortly after that (via Page Six).

Beatriz Velasco/Getty Images

The former couple have yet to make public comments about if they're dating or not — they could just be having fun! If either way is the case, we wish them all the luck in the world!

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1923 is back! After two years of wondering how Alex and Spencer would find each other after their separation, if Jacob and Cara would survive the attempt to steal their ranch, and if Teonna would make it to safety, the 1923 season 2 premiere is answering some of our biggest questions. Although actress Michelle Randolph told me we might have to wait until the end of the season to see whether the show "fills in some blanks" in the Dutton family tree, we're already getting plenty of info.

Here's everything you missed in the 1923 season 2 premiere, "The Killing Season."

In the '1923' season 2 premiere, Jacob & Cara Dutton are protecting their ranch.

Right at the beginning of the episode, we get a beautiful look at Montana and the Yellowstone ranch, with Cara Dutton revealing via narration they've sold everything except 4 bulls and 100 heifers to pay off some of the money they owe Whitfield — and that it's up to Spencer to rebuild everything they've lost.

Jacob and Jack leave the ranch for a hearing — and come face-to-face with a mountain lion on the porch. However, the lion races off before Jacob can kill it, and after Cara jokes it's comforting Jacob now has something to worry about, Jacob tells her he's "always worried, honey" and gives her a kiss. I am simply obsessed with them!! (I also need them both to make it to the end of the series, I'm so serious).

The mountain lion doesn't last for long, however, after it returns, almost attacks Elizabeth, and gets shot by Cara.

In town, Jacob (and us) learn Zane and Alice's marriage has been rendered void after they were attacked & arrested for miscegenation last season — and that Whitfield is behind everything...to literally no one's surprise.

Whitfield's still thinking about the Duttons himself, talking about how Jacob might be strong and mighty like a bear, but enough bee stings can lead to the bear's death ("Death by a Thousand Cuts" anyone?). He finds reassurance in the knowledge the trial is another metaphorical bee sting for Jacob Dutton to, well, bear.

Banner Creighton's also preparing for the trial, and tells his wife that after a lifetime of struggle, Whitfield's new provision means their son has a future. "I'll lay with the devil to give him that," he says. Chills me to my very core.

Teonna Rainwater is still on the run.

Father Renaud and his men are still on the hunt for Teonna. Unfortunately I do mean that very literally because they attack a Comanche village in their pursuit, but Teonna, thank goodness, is safe with her father and Pete, the latter of whom she finally starts a romantic relationship with.

But right when they're starting to get ~cozy~ (if you catch my drift), they notice a horseback rider — and learn from him that they're in Texas (don't worry, the horseback rider isn't Father Renaud).

And Spencer & Alex are fighting to get back to each other.

Spencer's latest sea voyage is a lot less relaxing than we saw at the end of season 1; he's working in the bottom of a ship, where he becomes friends with Luca after defending the younger man from a rapist and saving him from jumping into the ocean. And, okay, we're only one episode in and they've already formed a really sweet bond that I hope continues through the whole season — maybe Luca can come back to the ranch!

Our favorite Dutton hero now has two missions: get back to his family and find Alex. So, to get some money and get it quick, Spencer starts a couple of one-on-one fights while Luca collects bets. Of course, Spencer wins. (Duh).

Meanwhile, back in England, Alex is still mourning her separation from Spencer. And when Jennifer visits her, Alex reveals she's desperate to get to Montana is because she's actually pregnant with Spencer's child. WHAT! I need 5-7 business days to process this information! Who knows, maybe Alex and Spencer are ancestors of John Dutton? (Beth definitely shares Alex and Spencer's grit and spunk, hello). Alex ropes Jennifer into selling her jewelry to book passage to America...even if that passage ends up being in the thieves and beggars class.

Whew! I can't wait to tune in next week to see what the future has in store for the Duttons.

What time does 1923 air?

New episodes of 1923 season 2 airs on Paramount+ at 12 AM EST/9PM EST.

See our interview with Julia Schlaepfer for more — and read up on The 1923 Season 1 Ending, Deaths, & Betrayals, Explained for a refresher.

This post has been updated.