Category Dogs

If you are expecting to hear the pitter patter of tiny feet very soon or planning to, first of all congratulations! This is a very exciting time for all the family – a time of joy, adventure and a new journey for everyone. However, if you have already heard the pitter patter of tiny paws around the house, you may have some questions that need answering and some anxieties about how your four legged ‘baby’ is going to get on with your other new addition.

It is natural to have some concerns when a new baby is going to be entering your world and most probably turning your life upside down! All parents have heard horror stories of dogs which did not adjust to a new infant in his ‘territory’ from one person or another and it will make you wonder about what the best thing to do is. Of course, it is entirely your decision whether or not you want to take the time and trouble to help your dog meet the changes which will occur. Some parents decide that they do not feel comfortable having a dog and a baby in a house together, but this is a small minority. If you do decide that you cannot keep your dog, then speak to your vet and local charities about the possibility of finding a good, suitable new home for him in plenty of time before baby arrives. It is your responsibility to make sure this is dealt with to minimise the trauma of being separated from a much loved dog and vice versa.

However, with a little pre planning and effort on your part, there is no reason why your dog and baby cannot live harmoniously in the home together and you can train your dog to get along with your child and teach your child to respect and love your dog as much as you do. It is imperative that this plan of action is put into immediate effect, when you know you are pregnant to ensure you have the maximum amount of time to help your dog get used to the new, impending situation. Ask yourself:

• Does your dog currently have ‘access all areas?’ If so you need to start excluding him from certain rooms, such as the one you intend to use as a nursery, by keeping the door shut at all times. This way, he will not even consider it to be part of his space and learn that even though some action may be happening in there, it is not his place to be involved in it. When you then leave the room, make sure you praise him as you return to the rest of the house.
• What about the noises babies make? Desensitisation is the key word here. The high pitched and distressing sound babies make when they cry is bound to stir up his attention and make him curious. A good idea is to buy (or make) a recording of babies crying, and play it in the house before the baby is born. Start off with low noise levels, gradually increasing it over a number of days and weeks until it reaches a realistic crying ‘noise level’. Do not make a fuss or react to your dog at all when he hears the noise, whether he is scared or not. You need to pass the message on that there is nothing to be worried about and fussing over him reinforces the fact that ‘weird noise’ + attention from you = be scared/react/ bark etc.
• How is his general obedience? Spend some quality time with your dog before baby makes an appearance by investing in some training and obedience classes. Dealing with unruly behaviour from a dog with a baby in your arms or pushchair will be very difficult and you need to maximise your chances of being able to control any situations when or if they arise. A training class with other dogs and people is a good idea to help your dog get used to different situations as is taking him to a variety of environments with (preferably) other children who understand how to behave around dogs.
• What about babies first few days at home? When you finally bring your baby home, you are bound to be tired. Make life as easy as you can for yourself by limiting the contact your dog has with the baby. Place some worn baby clothes or blanket with your dog in his bed, so he can get used to the new smell of your little one. When baby has gone to bed, it is important to make sure you fuss your dog and let him know that he is still part of the family. After a day or two when it is time for introductions, make sure you dog is on a short leash and reinforce the fact that baby is a positive thing by rewarding him, stroking him and talking gently to him. Do not let him sniff baby’s face, but maybe let him sniff the well wrapped up foot area of baby. Ask your partner or friend to hold baby while you play with your dog in the same room, remembering to reward him all the time. This way, your dog will make a positive association with baby and increases the chances of a harmonious household. It is imperative that your dog and baby are never left alone together unattended.
• What about crawling? As baby gets bigger they will start to make jerky and quick movements that may startle your dog, as he will be used to baby being carried. Crawling and movements need observation at all times, and your dog is bound to be curious , terrified or see baby as a toy/prey. The key here is knowing that the dog can get used to this new situation just as well as he has done up until now. A good idea is to ask your dog to sit, then place baby on the floor to crawl or sit and move. Sit by your dog and talk gently to him and reward him for good sitting and calm behaviour. It is likely that your dog will adjust in no time at all. Seek professional advice if you have any concerns.
• Remember, never leave your baby or child and dog unattended together at any time.

Your 4 legged friend can live to a grand old age, and certainly dogs are living to a much older old then they did even just 40 years ago. In part, this is due to better access to veterinary care, improved vaccines and an greater understanding of the nutritional needs of a dog.

As a dog ages, it undergoes physiological changes which means that it has different nutritional requirements to that of a puppy or younger animal. Dogs are generally regarded as ‘senior’ if it is in the last 3rd of the breeds specific life expectancy. Some breeds live longer than others, for example, a breed such as Labrador can live up to the age of 13 years, meaning that it would be classed as ‘senior’ around the age of 8 years old. Of course, there are exceptions to this and exceptionally fit or active dogs may buckle this rule and live beyond their breed life expectancy.

Changes in the senior dog

As the dog ages, they undergo many changes, not only physical but also behavioural. Senior dogs may be less tolerant of children, their sleep patterns can be disturbed or they may display behaviour you would consider uncharacteristic for your dog, such as being snappy or growling when you touch a particular part of the body. This could be due inflammatory conditions such as arthritis which can cause pain in specific areas. With any changes in behaviour, it is always a good idea to seek veterinary advice to rule out any underlying medical causes. Generally, the older a dog gets the less active it becomes, due to a decrease in muscle mass , leading to a tendency to become overweight. Seniors are also more prone to age related conditions such as failure of some internal organs such as heart disease and their teeth, with many years of wear behind them, can become infected and diseased. Because of all these reasons, the owner needs to give special consideration to a senior dog’s diet.

The importance of maintaining a healthy weight

As your dog starts to enjoy its senior years, a certain amount of decrease in activity is inevitable, for many dogs at least. Being overweight can lead to many health issues, such as increased pressure on joints and heart conditions. As a responsible owner, you will want to do the best for your beloved dog, so the best option is to not let your dog become overweight in the first place. This is sometimes easier said than done! After all, who does not like making sure your dog has the occasional treat? The kindest thing you can do for your dog though is help it to maintain a good weight for its breed but tackling any weight gain is the most important aspect of care of a senior dog, should it happen. Usually overfeeding is the simple and main cause of obesity in dogs, but it is always wise to follow your vets or canine nutritionist advice in these matters.

Senior diets

Senior diets are a fine balance of protein, fat and fibre. Many dogs are able to continue with their usual diet, but in smaller portions. Foods which are manufactured as ‘senior’ diets are usually formulated to have fewer calories, lower fat and are high in fibre to maintain a good passage of the food through the gut to prevent constipation. If your dog has kidney issues, a diet with lower levels of phosphorus has been shown to be beneficial to the health of the dog. The level of protein in the diet is also critical in a dogs diet which has kidney issues and it is always wise to talk to your vet about this.

Leftovers in the fridge? Your dog will love them, but just follow these few tips.

Adding vegetables or lean meats such as chicken or turkey to your dogs food is a great way to increase essential vitamins and fibre to your dogs diet and can bulk up a meal. The addition of white or oily fish is also very beneficial to, with some oils found in fish improving symptoms of conditions such as arthritis. While usually being lower in fat, vegetables can be a good idea for dogs that need to shed a few pounds. If the meat is cooked in any stock, make sure it is a low sodium stock where possible, to prevent any extra strain on the heart. Adding some cereals or grains such as bran or brown rice can also be a good idea (although white rice is lower in phosphorus for dogs with kidney issues). In addition, some dogs may also be able to tolerate higher proteins in their diet and may enjoy the occasional boiled egg.

Home cooked diets are optimal for many seniors, and provided you do your research and ask your vets advice of what is suitable for your dog, and can provide a well balanced, additive free diet for your dog. That said, the quality of ‘off the shelf’ formulations of dog food has never been better. Whatever option you choose, many senior dogs will cope better with smaller meals.

Always make sure your dog has a bowl of clean, fresh water available.

Treats

Ideally, limit food treats and instead reward your senior dog with an extra stroke and cuddle. When you do feed treats, it is essential you make sure they are low fat or why not make your own? There are many recipes available which use healthy ingredients to make patties and biscuits which can be frozen in batches and defrosted in advance for a days’ supply. If your kitchen skills do not stretch this far, a simple boiled chicken breast cut into treat sized portions can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for a few days’ supply of treats, or use the left over portion as a meal.

Supplements

Feeding of daily supplements such as glucosamine may aid and support older joints or fibre supplements will help your dog have regular toilet habits. If your dog does not or cannot eat a well balanced diet, supplements are essential so ask your vet for advice.

The last word……

Remember that your senior dog has specific physiological requirements and weight control is essential to keep your dog in tip top condition. Exercise tailored to your dogs ability is essential to maintain a healthy weight. Your dog deserves the best as it ages and by following advice from your vet or canine nutritionist, you can make sure its twilight years are the best you can possibly give it.

There are many breeds of dog which traditionally had their tails docked such as some Spaniels, Doberman Pinchers, most Terrier types and Rottweilers. However, in 2007 this was effectively banned in the UK, with some permitted exceptions*. This ban also extended to the showing of some dogs with docked tails, with the exception of dogs who are demonstrating their working skills. Until the 1990’s, lay persons were allowed to dock dogs tails, but now it is only veterinary professionals who can carry out this procedure, and even then, only under some circumstances*. This is something to bear in mind when buying a puppy as heavy fines can be imposed if someone is found to be in contravention to these regulations*.

So what’s all the fuss about?

Any dog employs a wide range of body postures and vocalisations (barks, growls, yelps for example), to communicate its emotional state to other dogs and other species, including humans. The body postures it adopts represent a large proportion of a dog’s visible body language, in which the carriage and position of the tail is but one of the visible cues. Most people, who consider themselves familiar with dogs, interpret a ‘dog with a waggy tail’, to be friendly and approachable. This may be the case on the majority of occasions, it is not necessarily the absolute, and in the case of dogs with no tail could potentially be very difficult to interpret, and could result in undesirable or aggressive situations. In addition to dog to dog aggression, unwarranted aggression may also be directed towards other human household members, if the dog resides as part of a family group. An example of this could be a young child, who may find it difficult to interpret and understand the cues and body language a dog displays anyway. For reasons such as this, play or contact between children and dogs should always be supervised.

The issues surrounding tail docking in dogs continues to be a much debated subject. It is agreed upon by the majority of people that a dog uses its tail for communication purposes (amongst other things such as balance); however, to what extent the tails importance is in the communication process is still widely argued. The uses of the tail are well documented in veterinary and academic research and logic suggests that it the whole or part of the tail was to be amputated, then these uses may be impaired in some way.

Arguments put forward by pro docking groups (such as the Council for Docked Breeds), to support the need for docking such as fewer injuries in the field, appear to be based upon personal observations and anecdotal evidence but must be considered in the argument, whereas, anti tail docking groups argue that extensive research done by universities and the veterinary profession shows that it can be justifiably said that there is evidence that docking a dog’s tail does indeed interfere with its ability to communicate effectively, both with other dogs and humans and also causes pain at the time and after docking.

In conclusion, it could be said that if this form of communication is impaired, it may lead to undesirable situations, both for the dog in question, other dogs and in some cases humans. This may lead to antagonistic or dangerous situations, in which a dog may attack if either another dog or a human misinterprets the visual cues given by its tail, but to what extent this is still widely not known.

* As defined by the Docking of Working Dogs Tails (England) Regulations 2007 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Are you planning a day out, trip or holiday? Home or abroad? Camping or hotel? Car or plane? Taking your dog? The questions are, of course, endless and this is one you will have asked yourself if your dog is a much loved part of the family. Travelling, taking a trip or holiday with your dog can be lots of fun providing you take the time to make the right arrangements for you, your family and your pet as poor planning can ruin a holiday for all concerned.

If it is not possible, or you do not want, to take your dog with you, then do you have the number of a good and reliable pet sitter or boarding kennel who you trust? If possible, find a local one by word of mouth as other people experiences are invaluable to provide a service which is right for you and your pet. Are your animals vaccinations up to date to go into a boarding kennel including kennel cough? And have you let the kennel owners or the pet sitter aware of any food allergies, medicines or peculiar habits fido has?

On the other hand, if your four legged best friend is joining you then read on. Forward planning is the name of the game to make sure your vacation goes as smoothly as possible and does not cause you any unnecessary headaches when it comes to travel, accommodation and activities.

But before you take any trip with your dog, whether it is to the local park or a little more far flung, it is worth bearing in mind some basics. Make sure your dog has a securely fitted collar with an up to date address, telephone number and maybe your vets’ telephone number. For holidays and trips further from home some vets recommend having a disc inscribed ‘I am on holiday’ with a mobile telephone number and maybe the number of a responsible friend or family member who is willing to be a contact in case of an emergency. It is also worth investing in a microchip for your dog for extra piece of mind it gives for a relatively low cost. So with the basics covered, and maybe your dogs training is as tip top as it can be to ensure the best possible behaviour during the trip, will mean that you are now ready for the next part, the fun part – planning your trip!

The pet friendly holiday market has boomed recently, especially with the rise of the ‘staycation’ (holidays at home within Scotland, England, Ireland or Wales).

There are various sources you can try to find the best holiday for you and your family including the 4 legged variety.

Camping remains a firm favourite of many and most campsite welcome well behaved dogs. The advantage of this is that the sites are often in areas which have good access to walks and trails. In the north if England (almost south Scotland!), the Hadrian’s Wall Camping, Caravan Site and Bunk Barn is a good bet, being very dog and child friendly on level tent sites and excellent site facilities. This is a beautiful area of the country with walks along the entire 73 mile route of the famous fortified wall, meaning that you can make them as long or as short as you like.

If you are looking for something a little further south, then the spectacular South West Coast Path cannot be beaten. The varied 630 mile length of this walk runs from Somerset taking in the Exmoor National Park through to the breathtaking coastal scenery of Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. It can easily be broken up into smaller sections and gives you the chance to walk on some of the finest beaches in England, an ideal place to try to tire out you canine companion, (but please observe the local authority rules about dogs on beaches at certain times of the year and remember to scoop any poop). Cliff top walks are also great fun and are the best vantage point for the glorious views, but remember to keep your dog under close control or on a lead here. The excellent Namparra Campsite near the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall is pet friendly and is well located with several beaches, cove and walks just waiting for you to explore them.

If camping is not for you, and you want to try something different, why not try a holiday especially tailored for dogs and their owners? The Royvon Dog Boarding and Training Centre in Wales offers 3 day residential packages for dogs and their owners. During the 3 days, owners can expects a warm a welcome as their dogs and learn new training techniques, behaviour management, leadership and understanding your dog and, of course, long hikes and walks.

Another option is a boating holiday. Your dog can become a waterdog on one of Britain’s many miles of canals and inland waterways. A good company to try is Shire Cruises, which runs its canal and narrow boats through the deep, lush valleys of the Pennines and Yorkshire on canals which take you through remote countryside to the industrial heartlands of England. Canal holidays are great for dogs, and as canal banks are usually full of other dog walkers, your pet will have no shortage of company. Routes can be organised with Shire Cruises as a one way trip or return, plus day sails and shorter breaks may also be available.

Inspired? Your dog will certainly hope so! With such a plethora of choice available there will be something to suit everyone and information can be easily found on the internet.

There is an overwhelming choice of dog food brands to choose from in the supermarket which are convenient and reasonably priced. If you glance at the labels then you will notice there are a variety of appetizing recipes and types tailored to specific health conditions; so with this is in mind why should you bother going to the trouble of making homemade dog food from scratch?

In actual fact many of the dog food brands that you find on supermarket shelves contain harmful chemicals and poor quality meat. If you read the ingredients list on a can or bag of pet food you will most likely see “meat by-products” listed as one of the main ingredients, unfortunately these byproducts are made from the parts of the animal not fit for human consumption such as feet, entrails and bones. These ingredients may not do any harm to your dog in the short term but they are certainly not providing your pet with optimum nutrition for the future, with poor quality dog food being linked to long-term health concerns such as cancer. Not all dog foods are the same and by researching different brands in depth you will be able to find the ones that contain the best quality, all-natural ingredients. However no canned dog food could beat good quality home cooking, and with the right information you can make homemade dog food quickly and cheaply.

Raw Vs. Cooked?

When making homemade dog food it is important to ensure your dog gets all the nutrition he needs and the best way to do that is to base his diet on 70% meat with the remaining 30% consisting of fibre and carbohydrates. The best meats to feed your dog depend upon the dogs age and health concern (if any), for example senior dogs and over-weight dogs will benefit from chicken, turkey and fish because they are low in fat.

In the wild dogs would obviously only ever eat raw meat but it is still a debatable subject as to whether owners should feed their pet dogs raw or cooked food at home. Some people believe raw meat contains diseases and that domesticated dogs have evolved to digest cooked meat more easily than raw meat. At the end of the day nobody is completely sure whether a raw food diet is beneficial or not and it is up to the individual owner whether to feed their dog raw meat.

Keeping Costs Down

The two main problems when making your dog’s food from scratch are the cost and the time commitment. If you buy your dog a fillet steak every day of the week then you will end up with nothing but dry bread on your dinner plate! Clearly buying the best quality meat on a daily basis isn’t reasonable for most people, especially if you have more than one dog or a large dog breed. Here are some tips on how to make homemade dog food affordable:

• Leftovers. An excellent way to reduce the cost of meat is to feed your dog leftovers of the family meal; so if you have a Sunday roast then scrape the leftover chicken or beef into your dogs bowl.
• Reduced Meat. Look for reduced meat/fish in the supermarket at the end of the day. If you go to the meat and fish counters around supermarket closing hours you may be able to grab yourself a bargain.
• Cut Offs. Ask your local butcher for meat cut offs. It obviously helps if you are a regular customer but most butchers will happily give away cut offs if you ask nicely.
• Special Nights. Choose one or two nights a week that your dog has “special” dinners, and the rest of the week feed him his normal dog food. One night a week might not sound like much but it adds up to 52 days of the year and will certainly have a positive impact on your pets health.
• Cook in Bulk and Freeze. Making homemade dog food doesn’t mean slaving over the hob every night. If you cook up a large pan of mincemeat, veg and pasta you can then freeze it and defrost a portion each evening.
• Buy Better Quality Dog Food. If you don’t have the time to cook for your dog then the next best thing is to by the best quality dog food available. Obviously this is going to cost more than standard dog food but if you buy in bulk or only buy the high quality stuff a percentage of the time then you can reduce the cost.

Warning – Food’s To Avoid

You should not feed your dog – Grapes, Raisins, Chocolate or Pork. If you are ever unsure whether it is safe to feed your dog a certain ingredient then contact your vet first.

Homemade Dog Food Recipes

Doggy Casserole RecipeCooking time – 15 minutes 200g of chicken or turkey 100g cooked vegetables such as broccoli, carrots or cabbage100g cooked brown rice A small amount of gravy for flavourSimply combine all the ingredients. Luxury StewCooking time – 20 minutes 400g of mincemeat or stewing meat200g of cooked vegetables A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar 1 cloves garlic 100g cottage cheese2 raw eggs Gently cook the meat in a oiled pan for 10 minutes. Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Take the pan off the heat and allow to cool. Add the remaining ingredients and give a quick stir. Freeze any leftovers for another night.

Whatever your reasons are for adding a dog to your family, it is an important decision that should be not made on a whim and deserves research to make sure you make the right choice of dog breed for you, your family and lifestyle.

For the most part, children and dogs form great bonds and friendships that benefit both beyond words. But just like your children, all dogs are individuals and there is no guarantee you will get what you want or expect, even when you have made the most informed of choices. The breed of the dog is perhaps the single most important factor you can take into account though, when deciding what dog is right for you. We all know that fashions come and go, but making a dog part of your family is for the long haul, and should you should try to not place too much weight on the exterior packaging of a dog. Of course, we all remember dogs we grew up with ourselves or are influenced by current dog breed trends, but just because you have fond memories of a particular breed or that dog in the magazine looks cute and cuddly, does not make it the right dog for your situation. No one is suggesting that you do not get what you want, but its pays to research the breed first, then make the decision based on the evidence.

Of course, before bringing a dog into your home, it is essential that some ground rules are set which any children in the house (an adults!) need to observe. Kids need to be taught that the dog is a living, breathing being, capable of feeling pain and distress. They need to know what type of behaviour is suitable and what is not acceptable or potentially dangerous. When they can play and when the dog needs peace and quiet. The best way to teach your children these rules is to lead by example and show them the way. They will take notice of your actions around the dog and also become more aware of the dogs body language and posture through this. Another point to note is that no matter how reliable you think your dog is, you should never, under any circumstances leave your children and dog unattended at any time. It only takes a split second for an accident to happen, so make sure it does not happen between your child and dog.

Dogs which are going to be part of a family, especially with young children, all need to have some basic characteristics in common. They must be robust, fun, friendly, patient and reliable – basically a well balanced temperament. There are many dog breeds that fit this description, so if you are stuck for inspiration on the breed for you and your family, read on……

• Labrador and Golden Retriever – Eager to please, intelligent, loyal and affectionate with a high tolerance for children, these two breeds have been firm family favourites for many years. Their pliable, trainable nature (usually via means of food rewards) means that they learn new commands and rules very easily. They gravitate towards people naturally and their calm, laid back and consistently reliable nature means they are good for families with children of all ages. While they can have a tendency towards being a couch potato, they do have enough stamina and appetite for life to play all day. It is no wonder then, than many service dogs are one of these two breeds and with that as a recommendation, a Lab or Golden could be the dog for you.
• Beagles – Life is always fun with a Beagle! Loveable, with a heart of gold and patient enough to deal with the most rambunctious of children, the Beagle is not always an obvious choice, but is consistently named in the top 5 breeds for families with children. Beagles tend to love a cuddle and actively like all people and rarely show any aggression. Being ‘pack’ animals they thrive on attention and welcome it in all forms.
• Crossbreeds – People often over look cross breed dogs, but they can turn out to be little gems. Cross breed dogs do not tend to have the genetic physical and behavioural problems found in many pedigree dogs as they have fewer limitations placed on them genetically when they breed, whereas breeding pedigree dogs limits the amount of dogs the breeder can choose from, and therefore any negative behavioural traits are more frequently passed from dog to dog. Recently, cross breed dogs such as the Labradoodle have become very popular due to their laid back Labrador temperament, combined with the low shed coat and intelligence of the Poodle. With dogs such as these, prospective purchasers can be made aware of the temperament of or meet the both parents as a good breeder will always be happy to let you do so.
• St Bernard – A seriously big dog, with an even bigger personality! The St Bernard may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the lucky owner of this dog will find out the true meaning of loyalty. St Bernard’s were bred to help people, and this innate love of humans has transcended the ages, morphing it into a very well behaved, loveable and relaxed dog. Big enough to handle anything a child can throw at it, the patience of this breed is legendary, however due to their sheer size and weight, when in full play mode they can tend to be a little clumsy, but never with aggression attached. The Newfoundland also shows the same characteristics as the St Bernard, making it just as amiable and willing to please as its counterpart.
• Boxers – With the correct guidance, this joker of the dog world will ender itself everyone and everything it meets within seconds! Given their rather hyperactive nature, they are best suited to a family who are very active and want a dog who they can involve with everyday life. With a high levels of intelligence and energy and low levels of aggression , this happy go lucky breed could be the dog for you, so long as you are prepared to give it firm leadership.
• Bichon Frise – this merry little dog has a wonderful approach to life and a sunny disposition. With a gentle nature and a natural tendency to like people, if you are in the market for a smaller dog then this one is worth a look. With the added bonus of a low shedding and hypoallergenic coat, this intelligent and friendly dog can learn new tricks easily and will delight all it meets. With early socialisation to children, this further enhances the prospects of this dog as a perfect family pet.
• Hungarian Vizsla – often called the ‘velcro’ dog, this breed can form strong bonds with people and is particularly fond of and patient with children. It possesses a lively mix of energy, loyalty, protectiveness and obedience and will make a surprisingly good companion and playmate for children. It does need a lot of input in terms of walking and stimulation, but with the right family, this dog can flourish.

Of course, there are many, many other dog breeds that may be suitable for your family situation.

Remember, you need to take into account various factors when choosing a dog to be part of your family including the age of any children, other pets in the house, your lifestyle ( Are you active or not? At work or not?), your time budget, the commitment involved…. the list really does go on and on! There are so many breeds of dogs to choose from and you must remember that all dogs are as individual as you are! Whatever breed you are thinking of, why not look at our dog breeds pages for more information?

There are currently over 7 million dogs owned in the UK , overtaking cats as Britain’s most popular pet. The fun, love, bond and devotion experienced by dog owners from their beloved pet is unbelievable, almost to the point where you cannot put a price on it. But if you did how much do you think it would cost in hard pounds and pence? Whatever your reasons for choosing to include a dog in your life, whether it be work, play or simple companionship, the actual cost can vary widely depending on the breed you choose. Owning a dog is a huge commitment and you need to realise that some dogs can live 15 years or longer. There will be financial implications to owning a dog and prospective owners must not underestimate this and impulse buy a dog or puppy without thinking through the long term costs. With this in mind, it is worth asking yourself the following questions:

• Do you have the income to care for the dog for its entire lifetime, however long or short?
• Can you account for changes in circumstances? Loosing you job or house? Extra training classes should you dog develop behavioural issues? Vets fees in case of any unforeseen medical costs not covered by insurance (if you have it).
• It goes without saying that a larger breed of dog, for example St Bernards, Wolfhounds or Newfoundlands, will inevitably come with higher cost simply because of its physical size. It will require more food and bigger bowls, but smaller dogs such as most terrier types do tend to live longer than their larger counterparts meaning extra years costs. This is something you will have to consider.
• Costs often escalate as the dog ages – are you prepared for this?

Recent estimates by pet insurance companies put the average lifetime ownership costs of a dog at anywhere between £10, 000- £16,000. Depending on the duration of the dogs life, this can cost the owner over £1000 per year. Whichever way you look at it, that is a hefty chunk of your hard earned cash! With living costs rising on a daily basis, you need to be sure that you are willing and happy to part with the money for the privilege of having man’s best friend, eagerly waiting for you to come home. The relationship you have with your dog deserves to be special, so to help you make this decision, here is a guide of what costs you can expect to meet over the course of a dog’s life, notwithstanding the actual cost of buying or adopting the dog itself!

• Leading pet insurers have found that on average, feeding your dog accounts for over one third of the costs incurred by owners. With this in mind, it is worth investing the best quality pet food you can afford, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions! With dog obesity becoming a one of the fastest riding causes of health issues, you can save yourself money in terms of the actual food and subsequent trips to the vets! Costs for food are estimated to cost around between £300-£450 per year.
• Pet insurance is a double edged sword – it is the safety net you need should something unthinkable happen, but many people do not do their research properly and end up with a substandard policy which does not provide the cover you may need. For example, if your dog develops diabetes, over the course of its life it may cost you over £10,000 in medical costs and special diet alone! You need to check the details of the policy cover to ensure that ongoing medication and treatment is covered. This is one area it really does pay to shop around. Of course, the cost of the cover also depends on the breed, the size of the dog and its age, but you can account for anywhere between £150-£300 on average.
• Going on holiday? Who is looking after Fido for your well earned week or two away? Of course, with the increase in dog friendly holidays in the UK the option is there to take your dog with you, but if this is not possible or you prefer to have some alone time then a pet/house sitter or boarding kennel may be your only option. Costs for this range from £8 £20 per day, depending where or who you choose. So for an average weekly holiday you may face up to £140 for a weeks care. Again, you will want to make sure the care your beloved dog receives while you are away is first class, so choose wisely taking into account any reports from friends who may have used certain service providers previously.
• Dog walkers if you have to be out of the house at work, professional grooming costs and sundries such as treats, bowls, beds and presents all also add up! Some of these costs vary on the service you use and the size of your dog, (larger dog +more coat to cut and groom=a higher cost!), but you need to account for anywhere between £10-£15 per day for dog walkers, to £20 and over for a session at the groomers! Of course, these costs are wide ranging as some people may employ a dog walker each day and some on none, so costs such as these are very individual.
• Routine veterinary costs not covered by insurance such as worm and flea treatment, pet passport of you take your dog abroad and routine vaccinations all add up. This cost of this can cost easily over £150 per year.
• Remember that dogs do not care how much things cost and are just as happy to play with a homemade (but safe) toy as one costing £15 from a fancy pet shop. Be original and creative, share tips and advice from other dog owners and you will see that savings can be made in many of the areas outlined above.

Like a marriage, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer and until death do you part, the unconditional relationship with your dog can be one of the most rewarding ones you can have. Before you make the decision, make sure you afford the commitment and ultimately you will find that the ride with your dog will be worth it.

Your 4 legged friend can live to a grand old age, and certainly dogs are living to a much older old then they did even just 40 years ago. In part, this is due to better access to veterinary care, improved vaccines and an greater understanding of the nutritional needs of a dog.

As a dog ages, it undergoes physiological changes which means that it has different nutritional requirements to that of a puppy or younger animal. Dogs are generally regarded as ‘senior’ if it is in the last 3rd of the breeds specific life expectancy. Some breeds live longer than others, for example, a breed such as Labrador can live up to the age of 13 years, meaning that it would be classed as ‘senior’ around the age of 8 years old. Of course, there are exceptions to this and exceptionally fit or active dogs may buckle this rule and live beyond their breed life expectancy.

Changes in the senior dog

As the dog ages, they undergo many changes, not only physical but also behavioural. Senior dogs may be less tolerant of children, their sleep patterns can be disturbed or they may display behaviour you would consider uncharacteristic for your dog, such as being snappy or growling when you touch a particular part of the body. This could be due inflammatory conditions such as arthritis which can cause pain in specific areas. With any changes in behaviour, it is always a good idea to seek veterinary advice to rule out any underlying medical causes. Generally, the older a dog gets the less active it becomes, due to a decrease in muscle mass , leading to a tendency to become overweight. Seniors are also more prone to age related conditions such as failure of some internal organs such as heart disease and their teeth, with many years of wear behind them, can become infected and diseased. Because of all these reasons, the owner needs to give special consideration to a senior dog’s diet.

The importance of maintaining a healthy weight

As your dog starts to enjoy its senior years, a certain amount of decrease in activity is inevitable, for many dogs at least. Being overweight can lead to many health issues, such as increased pressure on joints and heart conditions. As a responsible owner, you will want to do the best for your beloved dog, so the best option is to not let your dog become overweight in the first place. This is sometimes easier said than done! After all, who does not like making sure your dog has the occasional treat? The kindest thing you can do for your dog though is help it to maintain a good weight for its breed but tackling any weight gain is the most important aspect of care of a senior dog, should it happen. Usually overfeeding is the simple and main cause of obesity in dogs, but it is always wise to follow your vets or canine nutritionist advice in these matters.

Senior diets

Senior diets are a fine balance of protein, fat and fibre. Many dogs are able to continue with their usual diet, but in smaller portions. Foods which are manufactured as ‘senior’ diets are usually formulated to have fewer calories, lower fat and are high in fibre to maintain a good passage of the food through the gut to prevent constipation. If your dog has kidney issues, a diet with lower levels of phosphorus has been shown to be beneficial to the health of the dog. The level of protein in the diet is also critical in a dogs diet which has kidney issues and it is always wise to talk to your vet about this.

Leftovers in the fridge? Your dog will love them, but just follow these few tips.

Adding vegetables or lean meats such as chicken or turkey to your dogs food is a great way to increase essential vitamins and fibre to your dogs diet and can bulk up a meal. The addition of white or oily fish is also very beneficial to, with some oils found in fish improving symptoms of conditions such as arthritis. While usually being lower in fat, vegetables can be a good idea for dogs that need to shed a few pounds. If the meat is cooked in any stock, make sure it is a low sodium stock where possible, to prevent any extra strain on the heart. Adding some cereals or grains such as bran or brown rice can also be a good idea (although white rice is lower in phosphorus for dogs with kidney issues). In addition, some dogs may also be able to tolerate higher proteins in their diet and may enjoy the occasional boiled egg.

Home cooked diets are optimal for many seniors, and provided you do your research and ask your vets advice of what is suitable for your dog, and can provide a well balanced, additive free diet for your dog. That said, the quality of ‘off the shelf’ formulations of dog food has never been better. Whatever option you choose, many senior dogs will cope better with smaller meals.

Always make sure your dog has a bowl of clean, fresh water available.

Treats

Ideally, limit food treats and instead reward your senior dog with an extra stroke and cuddle. When you do feed treats, it is essential you make sure they are low fat or why not make your own? There are many recipes available which use healthy ingredients to make patties and biscuits which can be frozen in batches and defrosted in advance for a days’ supply. If your kitchen skills do not stretch this far, a simple boiled chicken breast cut into treat sized portions can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for a few days’ supply of treats, or use the left over portion as a meal.

Supplements

Feeding of daily supplements such as glucosamine may aid and support older joints or fibre supplements will help your dog have regular toilet habits. If your dog does not or cannot eat a well balanced diet, supplements are essential so ask your vet for advice.

The last word……

Remember that your senior dog has specific physiological requirements and weight control is essential to keep your dog in tip top condition. Exercise tailored to your dogs ability is essential to maintain a healthy weight. Your dog deserves the best as it ages and by following advice from your vet or canine nutritionist, you can make sure its twilight years are the best you can possibly give it.

Are you planning a day out, trip or holiday? Home or abroad? Camping or hotel? Car or plane? Taking your dog? The questions are, of course, endless and this is one you will have asked yourself if your dog is a much loved part of the family. Travelling, taking a trip or holiday with your dog can be lots of fun providing you take the time to make the right arrangements for you, your family and your pet as poor planning can ruin a holiday for all concerned.

If it is not possible, or you do not want, to take your dog with you, then do you have the number of a good and reliable pet sitter or boarding kennel who you trust? If possible, find a local one by word of mouth as other people experiences are invaluable to provide a service which is right for you and your pet. Are your animals vaccinations up to date to go into a boarding kennel including kennel cough? And have you let the kennel owners or the pet sitter aware of any food allergies, medicines or peculiar habits fido has?

On the other hand, if your four legged best friend is joining you then read on. Forward planning is the name of the game to make sure your vacation goes as smoothly as possible and does not cause you any unnecessary headaches when it comes to travel, accommodation and activities.

But before you take any trip with your dog, whether it is to the local park or a little more far flung, it is worth bearing in mind some basics. Make sure your dog has a securely fitted collar with an up to date address, telephone number and maybe your vets’ telephone number. For holidays and trips further from home some vets recommend having a disc inscribed ‘I am on holiday’ with a mobile telephone number and maybe the number of a responsible friend or family member who is willing to be a contact in case of an emergency. It is also worth investing in a microchip for your dog for extra piece of mind it gives for a relatively low cost. So with the basics covered, and maybe your dogs training is as tip top as it can be to ensure the best possible behaviour during the trip, will mean that you are now ready for the next part, the fun part – planning your trip!

The pet friendly holiday market has boomed recently, especially with the rise of the ‘staycation’ (holidays at home within Scotland, England, Ireland or Wales).

There are various sources you can try to find the best holiday for you and your family including the 4 legged variety.

Camping remains a firm favourite of many and most campsite welcome well behaved dogs. The advantage of this is that the sites are often in areas which have good access to walks and trails. In the north if England (almost south Scotland!), the Hadrian’s Wall Camping, Caravan Site and Bunk Barn is a good bet, being very dog and child friendly on level tent sites and excellent site facilities. This is a beautiful area of the country with walks along the entire 73 mile route of the famous fortified wall, meaning that you can make them as long or as short as you like.

If you are looking for something a little further south, then the spectacular South West Coast Path cannot be beaten. The varied 630 mile length of this walk runs from Somerset taking in the Exmoor National Park through to the breathtaking coastal scenery of Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. It can easily be broken up into smaller sections and gives you the chance to walk on some of the finest beaches in England, an ideal place to try to tire out you canine companion, (but please observe the local authority rules about dogs on beaches at certain times of the year and remember to scoop any poop). Cliff top walks are also great fun and are the best vantage point for the glorious views, but remember to keep your dog under close control or on a lead here. The excellent Namparra Campsite near the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall is pet friendly and is well located with several beaches, cove and walks just waiting for you to explore them.

If camping is not for you, and you want to try something different, why not try a holiday especially tailored for dogs and their owners? The Royvon Dog Boarding and Training Centre in Wales offers 3 day residential packages for dogs and their owners. During the 3 days, owners can expects a warm a welcome as their dogs and learn new training techniques, behaviour management, leadership and understanding your dog and, of course, long hikes and walks.

Another option is a boating holiday. Your dog can become a waterdog on one of Britain’s many miles of canals and inland waterways. A good company to try is Shire Cruises, which runs its canal and narrow boats through the deep, lush valleys of the Pennines and Yorkshire on canals which take you through remote countryside to the industrial heartlands of England. Canal holidays are great for dogs, and as canal banks are usually full of other dog walkers, your pet will have no shortage of company. Routes can be organised with Shire Cruises as a one way trip or return, plus day sails and shorter breaks may also be available.

Inspired? Your dog will certainly hope so! With such a plethora of choice available there will be something to suit everyone and information can be easily found on the internet.

It is a scenario that every dog owner has undoubtedly faced at some stage: The persistent canine that simply cannot or will not recognise what is “theirs” versus what is “yours,” and continually attempts to play with, chew or steal your own possessions. Whether it is your favourite slippers, the newspaper, children’s toys or even items of clothing or furniture, this annoying habit can be both destructive and inconvenient, as well as even potentially proving dangerous to your dog.

The usual reaction of “no!” or “leave it!” followed up by energetically pursuing the errant canine around the home and wrestling the prize from them might seem like the most obvious course of action to follow, particularly if the chances of damage to your property rise the longer you leave it; for instance, if your dog has taken your newspaper or something else that can easily become damaged by your dog. However, following this course of action, no matter how obvious it might seem at the time, can in fact cause more problems than it solves. If your dog gets an exaggerated reaction out of you when they take your things, even if that reaction is negative, you are in effect rewarding their behaviour with your response, something that can lead to an ongoing cycle of negative action by your dog and corresponding attention from yourself. This is particularly true if you then turn reclaiming your possessions into a chasing game, ended with a hearty bout of wrestling at the end!

So, how on earth can you reclaim your possessions from your errant dog effectively without storing up difficulty for later on down the line when the problem arises again? Read on to learn five simple steps to training your dog to leave your things alone when told!

1. Keep your cool

Step one of reclaiming what is rightfully yours is the key to the whole process: Keep your cool and don’t react instinctively by yelling and chasing after your dog. This can be difficult to achieve if your dog has taken something valuable or something that they will easily be able to destroy, but it is vital to get stage one down perfectly before you can continue through stages two through five. Getting your dog excited, wound up or stressed about things, even if they have been bad, will only escalate the situation, and may lead to them persistently looking for new things to steal and chew on or play with in order to find an outlet for their desire to chew and take ownership of things, or to ease their anxiety!

2. Make sure your dog knows they have done wrong

Don’t lunge for your dog or try to grab the item in question away from them, and don’t yell or smack your dog. Get your dog’s attention by using their name and movement to draw their eye, then give a command that they recognise (such as “no” or “leave it” or “drop it”). Reinforce this by placing a hand on your dog’s neck or rump to further divert them to look to you and follow your instruction, rather than focusing on the item they have made off with.

3. Divert your dog’s attention

Once your dog has surrendered the item in question, divert their attention away from it and what you are doing with it by offering them an alternative or reward, such as an appropriate toy that they particularly like, or a treat. If you haven’t managed to convince your dog to drop the item already following step two, this stage can also be used as a bargaining tool to convince your dog to hand over the thing that you want and receive something else instead.

Never offer your dog a “swap” and then take both the forbidden item and the offered swap away; this will cause your dog to reject your deal in future! Also, always ensure that your dog has dropped and given up the item that you want before you give them the alternative; do not accept your dog trying to keep both, or lunging for the original item when they already have the replacement in their posession!

4. Take ownership of the item in question

Taking ownership of the item that your dog has given up is important, and this means more than simply picking up the item and walking away with it. Make it clear to your dog through your body language and tone of voice that the item they took is yours, and not for sharing! This is an effective method of pack communication with your dog, and is how the pack leader (you, in this case!) will transmit to other dogs that they are not willing to share, in a language that your dog will easily understand.

5. Provide alternatives

Chewing things, burying toys and resource guarding are all natural canine behaviours, and if your dog has a particular propensity to undertake them you must allow an outlet for these needs in appropriate, healthy ways. Dogs also enjoy chewing things to relieve teething pain at the juvenile stage, and to ease stress and keep them occupied as adults.

Make sure that your dog has a suitable range of chews, toys and puzzles that they are allowed access to, in order to keep them on an even keel and divert them from taking your things instead!