How we read the research, rate the evidence, choose what to recommend, and make money. In plain terms.
We start with the studies
Every guide starts with primary sources: peer-reviewed studies, veterinary associations, and behavioral research. We read those first, translate what they say into plain English, and only then look at products. We use AI tools to help read and organize the research faster. A real person checks every source and makes every editorial call.
How we rate the evidence
Not all evidence is equal, so we put the same four-point label on everything we cover. It’s the same scale you’ll see in every guide.
Consistent findings across several well-run studies.
Real support, but the research is limited, mixed, or still early.
A little to go on: small studies, indirect evidence, or mostly theory.
Popular, but the evidence is thin or points the other way.
When something is genuinely unsafe, or overclaims against thin evidence, we say so plainly, or it doesn’t make it onto the site.
How we pick what to recommend
We recommend by two things: how strong the evidence is, and how well it fits your dog and your situation. Commission never decides the ranking. If a cheaper option, or one that pays us nothing, is the better fit, that’s the one we name. And when we’re not sure something is worth it, we leave it out. A recommendation we hold back protects your trust more than one we don’t quite believe.
How we make money
Some links on the site are affiliate links, through Amazon Associates and select programs like Clickbank and a few dog-training partners. If you buy through one, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. That’s what keeps the site running, and it never changes what we recommend. The full breakdown is on our Affiliate Disclosure page.
Who writes this
PetPalTheory is written by a real, named person. I’m Stephan Zanga, and I sign my guides as SZa. I’m not a vet; I read studies and report what I find. There’s more about me and my dog Maluco on the About page.