Adopting puppies in lockdown has given many people a lifeline. Dogs offer invaluable company and support to see them through the lonely, worrying and isolated times. They can give absolute loyalty and love and ask very little from us in return. They grow up to accept that life is the way it is presented to […]
As soon as your puppy leaves his mother and comes to you, the socialisation clock is ticking. Up to about 14 weeks of age, however shy or outgoing your puppy is, he will be able to take new experiences in his stride. After this time however, puppies start to become more wary of things they […]
These strange times of being isolated at home and restricted from approaching people even when we do venture outside are changing the relationships we have with our dogs. Dogs are very intuitive creatures and although it may not be obvious, they can become stressed and anxious quite easily. They respond to signs of stress in […]
Dogs are placed into rescue centres for many and various reasons. These dogs do not necessarily have behaviour problems. Sometimes a loving owner may have died or cannot keep their pet any longer for other reasons. However, there is no question that even putting a balanced dog into a rescue centre will cause it […]
This method of teaching the Down command includes the use of a hand signal,which cansignificantly speed up learning and is invaluable for distance work. With your dog seated, stand still and give the command ‘Down’. Within a second, hold a treat or favourite toy in one hand and lower it to be level with the […]
Generations ago your puppy’s wild ancestors would have chosen a dark place like a cave, burrow or even a shady spot under a tree to create a safe den to sleep in and raise their families. These enclosed spaces help them to feel safe and secure and these instincts are still very strong in […]
All dogs bark. Barking is an important way for them to communicate. They bark for many reasons and most owners do not want to stop their dog barking altogether, which makes the situation more complicated. If you want to stop your dog from barking inappropriately it is important to understand why he is doing it. […]
Did you know that a recent survey conducted by the Kennel Club has estimated that up to 25% of puppies that come on the market in this country come from puppy farms? The unsuspecting buyer will probably never know this, as the owners of these factories are careful never to let prospective buyers come to […]
Last year I wrote an article about Merlin, the troubled young Golden Retriever whom I brought home to rehabilitate. After six months with me and my pack, and a lot of patience, he relaxed from a bundle of frenetic nerves into an obedient, balanced, lively and happy dog. Although my dogs got on well with […]
John Bradshaw is a biologist who has been involved in research on dogs and their behaviour for the best part of thirty years. His book, ‘In Defence of Dogs’, sets out his somewhat controversial views on why mankind, particularly in the Western world, needs to reconsider their attitude to the domesticated dog in the light […]