ALASKAN MALAMUTE

IN PROFILE
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YOUR DOG
JUNIOR SECTION
WITH FACTS, FUN
NAUGHTY DOGS: AND PUZZLES!

HOW TO PREVENT
AND REVERSE
UNWANTED BEHAVIOURS
EXTRACT FROM
COMEDIAN BILL
BAILEY’S NEW BOOK
DOES MY DOG ABOUT HIS PETS
HAVE CANINE
COMPULSIVE
DISORDER? AUTUMN ADVENTURES!
BRILLIANT PLACES TO STAY FOR
A MAGICAL GETAWAY

YOUR DOG TOURIST GUIDE

CANINE-THEMED PLACES TO VISIT
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 EDITOR’S LETTER

"³ł
ÖŘ
I
am sorry to say that Lara is no longer the editor of Your D Do
Dog.
og.
g
She has left the company but I wanted to use this opening ng
letter to say what a fantastic job she has done for Your Dog,og,
og
not just as editor in recent times but in over a decade working
kin ng
on the websites, social media, and a whole host of other
projects. You will be missed, Lara!
As for me, it is a real honour and joy to step into the role
of editor. I’ve worked on Your Dog for over a decade too and nd
know how strong our community is. Many people own dogs, gs,,
gs
while others love dogs and make them part of not just their ir
family, but their lives too. Your Dog readers are definitely in n
the latter group. So the editor may have changed, but Yourr
Dog won’t, we’re here to help you make the most of life with tth
h
your dog with inspiration, advice, and feel good stories that at
remind us why we’re so lucky to have canine companions.
This month, we lead with a new series I’ve been really
looking forward to bringing you – the Your Dog Tourist
Guide. I love hearing stories about places that have become me
synonymous with dogs. From dog statues to iconic landmarks, arks ks,
I think it is brilliant as it shows how dogs are woven into ourur
history. In the series, we’re going to take you to some and
hopefully inspire you to visit them. We start on the trail of a
legendary hound…
There’s that and so much more in this issue, including yourou ur
content! Thank you to all of you who continue to share your ur
pictures and recommendations with us; it’s really worthwhile hille
hi le
making your views and experiences part of the magazine
(that’s the community I was talking about!).
Enjoy this issue and if you want to reach out to me with a any
nyy
thoughts, ideas or feedback, please do! My email is
Michael.hallam@warnersgroup.co.uk

2Àȳ

3
www.yourdog.co.uk
WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE?

@yourdogmag yourdogmagazine yourdogmagazine

 

QUICK READS
6 Breathtaking views — we share an
iconic view over picturesque Whitby
8 Dog-friendly diary – inspiration for
things to do and places to visit
10 Spotted – the latest compilation
of dog photos from around the
world
61 Q&A special – how brain games REGULARS
can help stimulate our dogs 12 Community – photos of your dogs pulling funny faces!
14 Travel – Andrea McHugh’s accommodation guide for a magical

 autumn adventure
38 Breeds – the Alaskan Malamute
42 Nutrition – all about antioxidants
58 Rescue dogs – a selection of delightful dogs
looking for homes
62 Giveaways – your chance to win paw-rizes!


1DXJKW\GRJV
What does is mean for
a dog to be naughty?
YOUR DOG JUNIOR And how can we stop
Why do dogs roll in smelly things?
it? Expert trainer Tony
Make a home-made dog toy,
teach your dog a whistle recall, Cruse explains all.
a focus on flyball, and lots of
great puzzles! 4
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

THIS MONTH’S FEATURES

20 Me and my dog – a poorly bred pup is rescued by a family who thought 
having a dog wasn’t possible
24 Your Dog tourist guide – places you can visit with a canine connection
26 New products – a showcase of the dog products we like the look of
34 Bill Bailey book extract – we have an exclusive extract from comedian
Bill Bailey’s new memoir about his pets
44 Vet Vicky Payne breaks down everything you need to consider when
deciding whether to neuter your dog
50 Does my dog have canine compulsive disorder? Toni Shelbourne
explores this condition
52 Jackie Drakeford explains how to avoid incidents on dog walks
55 Dog answers – how to raise a puppy

WHO’S WHO AT YOUR DOG

EDITOR REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS/EXPERTS
ANDREA MCHUGH, JACQUELINE BOYD, JOANNE BEDNALL,
LL,
TONY CRUSE, TONI SHELBOURNE, TAMSIN DURSTON,
VICKY PAYNE, JACKIE DRAKEFORD, HOLLY MASH

Your Dog Magazine, Warners Group Publications,

The Maltings, West Street, Bourne,
Lincolnshire, PE10 9PH
MICHAEL HALLAM Call 01778 395070 Email: Editorial@yourdog.co.uk

BEHIND THE SCENES… OUR ADVERTISING TEAM

Marketing managers Stephen Tanner
Lucie Cox, Vicki Gates 01778 392404,
Art editor stephen.tanner@warnersgroup.co.uk
Nigel Fish Andrea Walters
Production managers 01778 395064,
Natalie Reynolds, Sarah Machin andrea.walters@warnersgroup.co.uk

Published by Warners Group Publications

& BROCHURE
NE PR
ZI

This publication is printed

IN
GA

TE
MA

by Warners Midlands PLC

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Telephone: 01778 391000
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O The views expressed by contributors in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. While every care is taken to
ensure that the content of the magazine is accurate, neither the editor nor publisher assumes responsibility for any omissions or errors. We

SUBSCRIBE do not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage, however caused, resulting from the recommendation or the use of advice/material
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TO YOUR DOG the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. No warranty is implied in respect of any product
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3 issues for £3! O Prizes, gifts, or giveaways offered in competitions might be substituted with ones of similar value. Unless otherwise stated, all
competitions, free samplings, discounts, and offers are only available to readers in the United Kingdom. Full terms and conditions are
available on our website at www.warnersgroup.co.uk/competition-terms
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a month – cancel The paper used for this publication is a recyclable and renewable product. It has been produced using wood sourced from
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anytime! your kerbside collection, or at a local recycling point. Log on to www.recyclenow.com and enter your postcode to find the nearest sites.
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5
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BREATHTAKING VIEWS

6
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

Whitby
P
icturesque, historic, and also an alluring experience.
iconic, Whitby is one of the From quaint and narrow streets,
jewels in the crown of the to the stretching pier and
British coastline — and a haven sprawling beaches, the town is
for dogs. alive with culture and is a real
Looking through the sensory experience. You and your
Whalebone Arch (yes, they are canine companion can head into
real whale bones!), the dramatic local coffee shops or pubs, or
Whitby Abbey stands tall on the even go on a boat cruise or hop
opposite side of the bay, looming aboard a sightseeing bus. There
over the town literally and are lots of ideal walking routes
metaphorically. Atop the famous too on nearby beaches and on
199 steps, the Gothic ruins National Trails.
are steeped in history and are From the Captain Cook
synonymous with Bram Stoker’s Memorial in the west to the Abbey
novel Dracula and well-behaved on the east side, with the town
dogs on short leads are welcome entwining the River Esk in the
to visit the enchanting landmark. middle, there are breathtaking
Heading down into the town is views around almost every corner.

7
www.yourdog.co.uk
 THINGS TO DO

Dog-friendly ÀŸãĀ
What’s on and places to visit with your dog…
* Check before travel.

PEDIGREE
DOG SHOWS
THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER
Dog showing doesn’t stop as we head into
winter! Breed clubs and associations run a
whole host of different shows for different
pedigree dog breeds. If you have a pedigree
pet but have never tried showing before, the
Kennel Club has a really handy guide called
‘New to dog showing?’ (www.thekennelclub.
org.uk/events-and-activities/dog-showing/
new-to-dog-showing) While showing can be
taken quite seriously, it can also be just a fun
activity to enjoy with your canine companion.
O To find show dates, visitfossedata.co.uk/
shows/shows-to-enter.aspx

WOODGREEN WEBINARS
ANY TIME
Woodgreen Pets Charity offers a range of help to pet owners,
including a set of webinars for dog owners. Covering a host of
topics, from coping with fireworks and reactive dogs, to helping
dogs cope with visitors and the reality of puppyhood, the webinars
are free and are pre-recorded so can be viewed any time. Each
webinar tells you how long it is so you can fit it into your schedule.
If you have things you want to work on with your dog, a Woodgreen
webinar could be perfect.
O To view the list of webinars, visit woodgreen.org.uk/events

8
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

PLACES TO VISIT

Image: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey.

National Trust Pooch Passport
The National Trust has made it even easier to find a brilliant day
out at its properties for you and your canine companion. It has
created a new filter system on its website, making it simpler
to find the best dog-friendly attractions to visit, with a paw
system rating how dog friendly the attractions are. Proving
how welcoming it is to dogs, the National Trust has launched
the Pooch Passport initiative which will see owners collect
stamps in order to receive free Forthglade natural dog treats Ickworth Estate, Suffolk
and a National Trust snood. Here, we pick out three great places An Italianate palace in the heart of Suffolk with over 1,800 acres
where you can get your Pooch Passport stamped: of parkland, gardens, and an all-weather trail to enjoy, Ickworth
Estate is the perfect place to get back to nature. Treat yourself to
Image: National Trust Image/Annapurna Mellor.

a cuppa and piece of cake at the dog-friendly Porters Lodge café.

Need to borrow anything? Head to the Welcome Point and Plant
Shop in the main car park where there are blankets and dog beds,
and you can borrow leads, poo bags, and pick up dog treats, too.
Ickworth also runs free dog-training sessions for beginners, kids,
and advanced owners, and parkour courses for more athletic
dogs.

For more information about the Pooch Passport,

visitnationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dog-friendly/pooch-passport-
terms-and-conditions
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Carved out of the ancient forests of Sherwood, Clumber Park
is a beautiful expanse of parkland, heath, and woods. Once
the country estate of the Dukes of Newcastle, there are many


glimpses of its grand past to explore. As a three pawprint-rated

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Social every Wednesday at 10am and a Monthly Family Dog Walk
on the first Sunday of every month at 10:30am from Central Bark.
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Arlington Court and the National Trust

Carriage Museum, Devon
An intriguing Regency house and impressive collection of
horse-drawn vehicles, set in a picturesque garden, Arlington is an
unexpected jewel on the edge of Exmoor. The Carriage Museum
in the stables has a vehicle for every occasion, from cradle to
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9
www.yourdog.co.uk
 SPOTTED

W To honour the second anniversary of the passing of

Queen Elizabeth II, Corgi owners and their four-legged
friends gathered for a memorial walk from Green Park to
Kensington Gardens. The monarch adored the breed and
was given a dog of her own when she turned 18 years old.
She owned more than 30 Corgis in her lifetime.
Image: Carsten Koall/dpa/Alamy Live News.

Image: Eleventh Hour Photography/Alamy Live News.

W
Described as the “AI pet of the future,” visitors photograph the
Dynamic 1 robot dog at the stand of Chinese exhibitor Tecno on the
first public day of the IFA 2024 International Consumer Electronics
Fair in Berlin, the leading trade fair for consumer electronics and
household appliances. We can’t even imagine AI pets taking the
place of our canine companions!
Image: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo.

W
Landlady Ella Wolfenden with her dog Albie at The Lion at Basford, Nottingham, which was crowned the UK’s most dog-friendly pub
by online petcare site Rover.com The pub stood out to the Tavern Testers who commented: “The Lion at Basford stands out as a canine
haven, with every detail designed with dog lovers in mind. From plush dog beds and cushions piled high, carabiners attached to the
furniture for guests to put their dog’s leads on, treats and doggy ice cream on demand, and even staff trained in first aid for dogs, The
Lion at Basford is setting the gold standard for dog-friendly hospitality in the UK.

10
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

W This beautiful photograph captures a man and his dog silhouetted by the sun as they walk along the beach
by the Atlantic Ocean horizon at Wild Dunes, in Isle of Palms, South Carolina.
Image: Richard Ellis/Richard Ellis/Alamy Live News

W A dog swims in a makeshift swimming pool in Seoul, South Korea.

The event was for dogs and dog owners to cool off amid a heatwave.
Image: Jun Hyosang/Xinhua/Alamy Live News.

Image: NurPhoto SRL/Alamy Live News.

Bing the Dog attends the premiere of The Friend during the
W

2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The film is based on

a book of the same title, which tells the story of an unnamed
novelist who adopts a Great Dane that belonged to a deceased
friend and mentor.

11
www.yourdog.co.uk
 COMMUNITY

Reade
og r'
D
s
r

Pi

Funny faces!
You

cs

We asked you to share photos of your dog’s goofiest expressions.

Here’s a selection of our favourites…

1. Bette – Karen K. 1 2
2. Jemma – Maysie.

3. Molly – Tracey M.

4. George – Nina F.

5. Dee family – Jules D.

6. Andromeda – Gemma J.

7. Scout – Pat R.

8. Nelson – Zoe P.

9. Bella – Debbie H.

10. Bonnie – Pamela H.

11. Kali – Sandra S.

12. Maverick – Karen C.

3
13. Echo – Penny B.

14. Skye – Toni M.

15. Reggie – Lizz T.

16. Marley and Maggie – Karina N.

17. Holly – Frankie R.

4 5

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Your Dog November 2024
 14

6 10

15

11

16

12

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13

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www.yourdog.co.uk
 TRAVEL

Autumn
adventures!
This time of year is always magical, with misty mornings, long
walks, golden leaves, and log fires. Andrea McHugh has found
three great examples of places for you and your dog to enjoy an
enchanting getaway…

Andrea McHugh is a
freelance journalist
and author of several
dog-related books. She
competes in agility and
heelwork to music

Illogan, Cornwall

14
Your Dog November 2024
 RKS O
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TRAVEL

COZY HOLIDAY COTTAGES

YORKSHIRE DALES
Jonathan Spivey and Kitty White enjoy running Cozy nearby and there are several dog-friendly pubs in the
Holiday Cottages and are extremely welcoming of area, plus lots of interesting attractions and waterfalls
guests and their dogs. to visit.
“We have two dog-friendly cottages — Willow Moss View Cottage is a delightful 17th century
Cottage and Moss View — and dogs are allowed cottage, full of character features and can sleep up to
everywhere, because we know they are part of five people. There is a private hot tub on the patio, plus
the family and we want people to feel at home,” a large, enclosed rear garden, and the kitchen is modern
says Jonathan. and fully equipped, plus there is a very cosy living room
“We are both animal lovers and we live next door with log burner.
to Willow Cottage, so we are always available to help Beautiful Willow Cottage has three bedrooms, with
with anything if needed. We pride ourselves on being a small, enclosed garden to the front, and a private
very friendly and offering that extra personal touch to hot tub to the rear, plus a large paddock and
guests, with nothing being too much trouble. Dogs love woodland for guests to explore. You can also enjoy the
staying here, and as we’ve never seen or heard a single open-plan living accommodation and the free-standing
firework this is always a popular place in November and log burner, which is always lovely to curl up in front of
at New Year.” after a fun day of autumn walks.
Cozy Holiday Cottages are based in Langstrothdale, Guests are invited to bring extra throws for the
Upper Wharfdale, in the Yorkshire Dales. It is quite furniture and beds to help keep them clean. Multiple
a remote area that is surrounded by stunning dogs are welcome, although the size of the cottages
countryside, which will make those long autumn will dictate how many will be comfortable, so it’s worth
walks even more beautiful and peaceful. Although the checking with the owners for advice on this.
cottages are quite remote, there is excellent WiFi, and
the popular market town of Hawes is a 25-minute drive O For more information, visit:
away. The villages of Buckden and Kettlewell are also cozyholidaycottages.co.uk

16
Your Dog November 2024
WILD ROSE COTTAGE
ILLOGAN, CORNWALL
This beautiful dog-friendly cottage is ideally situated
for a relaxing getaway, with the beach, shops, and
a pub in easy reach. It is close to historic and picturesque
Portreath — one of the top surfing and paddleboarding
beaches in Cornwall, as well as the stunning Gwithian
Beach which is regarded as one of the best in the area.
There are also wonderful nearby woodlands to explore,
as well as golf courses and a fishing lake.
Rose Ross manages this lovingly restored miner’s
cottage for her mother and says it has been in the family
for over 50 years. Outside, there is an enclosed garden
and patio area with a firepit, and the interior is stylishly
decorated and equipped with modern facilities plus a
welcoming log burner, smart TV, and Amazon Alexa.
Off-street parking and an EV charging point make this
a great choice for guests seeking accommodation that
offers comfort, convenience, and character.
Wild Rose has three bedrooms and can sleep four
people, plus two extra guests in the bunk bedroom.
Up to three dogs are welcome (although this may be
negotiable by prior arrangement with the owner).
“Wild Rose is perfect for a winter break on the Cornish
coast,” says Rose. “Even if it’s cold outside, it’s always warm
inside the cottage and there’s nothing nicer than curling
up in front of the log burner with a hot chocolate (and
marshmallows of course!). The cottage is a perfect blend
of modern facilities and traditional creature comforts.
We look forward to welcoming guests and providing a
welcome pack of locally sourced goodies for people, plus
a little something for their four-legged companions on O For further information, visit:
arrival.” escapetowildrosecottage.co.uk
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17
www.yourdog.co.uk
 TRAVEL
Q

SHIRECLIFFE COTTAGE log burner for cosy nights in.

ANDERBY CREEK, LINCOLNSHIRE Anderby Creek is a traditional seaside resort, with no
There is something very special about visiting the amusement arcades or fast-food outlets, so guests can
seaside during the autumn and winter months. For simply relax and enjoy the peace and quiet during their
a start, there are less people, and the bracing sea stay.
breezes and late sunshine will help to blow away
the cobwebs and prepare you for the darker months O For more information, visit: shirecliffe.co.uk
to come.
Shirecliffe Cottage in Anderby Creek, Lincolnshire,
is a two-bedroom cottage that sleeps four people
and accepts two dogs at no extra cost. The former
coastguard cottage has recently been renovated by
Deborah Guthrie and her husband but has been in their
family for over 40 years.
“Shirecliffe Cottage is in a perfect location, as it’s less
than a minute’s walk to the beach,” says Deborah. “There
are wonderful walks, and you can go as far as you like,
but the walk to Moggs Eye beach and further along to
Huttoft Beach is very popular. There is a dog-friendly
café next to the beach, and the pubs in the village are
also dog-friendly. We have a secure garden, and on
the ground floor there is a wet room, which is ideal
for washing off a sandy dog after a walk exploring the
unspoiled Lincolnshire coastline.”
The cottage has private parking, an outdoor patio
area and garden with bbq, plus off-road parking on a
private driveway. Facilities include two shower rooms,
WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, and that all-important

Did you know?

Anderby Creek is home to the
world’s first dedicated cloud bar!
Installed in 2009 by the Cloud
Appreciation Society, the free
cloud bar mimics the hides used
by birdwatchers and is equipped
with five rotatable convex mirrors,
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18
Your Dog November 2024
 s s
YOUR DOG PROMOTION

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It’s important that your dog is suitably
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ME AND MY DOG

Heart to heart
One of two dozen poorly puppies found in a lorry at a Scottish port
earlier this year, Skye is finally enjoying life following heart surgery.
Joanne Bednall reports
20
Your Dog November 2024
 “At her first health check, the
J
ust six months after being
discovered, crying and
cowering, in a freezing cold
lorry at Cairnryan ferry port
charity’s vet team picked up
in Dumfries and Galloway in
January, the last of 24 seriously
a heart murmur...”
ill puppies has finally settled into survived their horrific ordeal because both her husband Ryan
her forever home. and are now thriving in their and eldest son Finlay are allergic to
Joanne Bednall has Described by the Scottish SPCA new homes. most dogs.
been a freelance as one of the country’s most However, it was Skye – initially “We have wanted a dog for a
journalist, writer and remarkable animal rescues, many called Piper by SSPCA rescuers – long time – I’ve always felt there
author, specialising in
of the young Cockerpoos and who was diagnosed with the most was something missing in our
dogs and horses, for
the past 30 years Cavapoos had life-threatening serious health condition, meaning family – but I never thought it
diseases when they were she was the last of the Cairnryan would be possible,” explained
uncovered in unsanitary conditions pups to be adopted. 42-year-old Jemma, who grew up
in cardboard boxes without any At her first health check, the with rescue dogs and a Cavalier
food or water. charity’s vet team picked up a heart King Charles Spaniel.
Immediately taken to one of murmur, which had previously lain Although 13-year-old Finlay and
the charity’s rescue and rehoming undetected because of neglect Ryan sneezed and suffered itchy,
centres for round-the-clock from the little Cavapoo’s low watery eyes with canine contact,
veterinary assessment and care, welfare breeders. Skye was quickly they hardly reacted when around
the puppies were infested with transferred to a local, independent Jemma’s mum’s Poochon (Poodle
ear mites and many were suffering family-run practice, CrumPets Vet X Bichon Frise), which prompted
from a range of gastrointestinal Clinical Support, in Glasgow, where Jemma to wonder if having a
illnesses. vets carried out life-saving cardiac hypoallergenic breed might be
But thanks to the generosity of surgery, free of charge. the answer.
animal lovers across the country, Following her recovery, the The family were keen to adopt,
a staggering £23,000 was raised in pup has finally found her perfect so researched and approached
just over two days from an SSPCA permanent home with a family local charities and rescue centres
Crowdfunder, which helped cover who has also overcome the odds. in the hope they would find their
the cost of the puppies’ rescue, Jemma Chessar, from Linlithgow, ideal dog, but initially suffered
continuing care, and veterinary West Lothian, thought she would disappointment when potential
treatment, ensuring they all never be able to have a family pet matches proved unsuitable. Finally,

Opposite page: Skye

after surgery
Image: CrumPets.

Right: The poorly

puppies

21
www.yourdog.co.uk
ME AND MY DOG

“At first, Jemma thought

long and hard about whether
adopting Skye would be the
right thing for her family.”
in early May, Jemma approached potential problem with one of her
the SSPCA and explained their paws.”
situation and her concerns At first, Jemma thought long and
regarding dogs triggering allergic hard about whether adopting Skye
reactions. would be the right thing for her
“I was surprised when they said family.
that they thought they may have a “It was a big decision, and we
suitable dog, but she hadn’t been had a long discussion about it,” she
well and was recovering from an said. “On the one hand, we were
operation in a foster home with wary of having a dog that might
children,” recalled Jemma, a school get very sick again once the kids
nursery practitioner. had become attached to her. But
“They sent across the puppy’s equally, we wanted a rescue and
details but also flagged up a knew that this was likely to involve

a dog with issues.”

While weighing up the pros
and cons, Jemma was unaware of
Skye’s backstory, but as soon as
she received photographs of the
puppy, her mind was made up.
“My first thought was, ‘how
can we not?’” she continued. “She
was smaller than we imagined, so
cute, and we all fell in love with
her.”
After reading the vet report and
speaking to one of the vets who
carried out Skye’s surgery and
fostered her for a short period
afterwards, Jemma’s remaining
concerns were allayed.
“The vet explained that the
operation to repair and close a
valve in Skye’s heart had been a
success and she was fine now,”
said Jemma, whose worries
about the pup’s poorly paw also
evaporated once scans revealed
no damage.
If the family had any remaining
doubts, these were soon kicked
into touch when Jemma, Ryan,
Finlay, Lochlan, 11, and nine-year-
old Brodie met Skye for the first
time at the SSPCA Animal Rescue
and Rehoming Centre in Glasgow.
“When we saw her in the flesh,
we loved her even more,” recalled
Right: Lochlan, Brodie, Jemma. “She came bounding
Finlay, and Skye
up and started licking me – she
Top right: Skye and was so friendly, and we were all
Jemma at home immediately blown over by her.”

22
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

“Not only has she slotted

comfortably into our lives,
Skye has brought a lot of joy
to everyone...”
But before they could become Lochlan’s interest in training dogs. and paddling in the water.”
too attached, Ryan and Finlay had Already, she can sit, shake a paw, While the family wasn’t aware
to undergo skin tests with Skye’s and has good recall. that Skye was one of the Cairnryan
saliva and hair, before waiting “Not only has she slotted puppies when they adopted her,
nervously for the results. Half an comfortably into our lives, her plight has really tugged at
hour later, neither had suffered Skye has brought a lot of joy their heartstrings.
any reaction and the family were to everyone and now we can’t “Once I heard her story and
elated when they were told they imagine our house without what she’d been through, it made
could take their new puppy home her. She has made our home me all the more determined
that day. complete and loves every minute to give her a better life,” added
“It felt like we were in a dream,” of her life. Jemma. “So many people have
added Jemma, who’d brought “We live by a beautiful loch and been involved in ensuring
along toys and treats for Skye and river, where she enjoys walking, her survival that I feel I have a
the centre’s other dogs. watching the swans and ducks, responsibility to them as well.”
“We went straight to the pet
shop and bought her everything
she would need, and as soon as
we got home, all our neighbours
wanted to meet her!”
Now nine months old, the
apricot-coloured Cavapoo has
turned out to be everything the
Chessars hoped she would be
– and more.
“Skye is so lovely-natured,”
explained Jemma. “She’s really
chilled, friendly and loves people
Top: Skye. and other dogs – she’s just the
Top (inset): Skye in July perfect family pet.
after her first groom
“She loves being with us, and
Right: Skye going on as well as teaching the three boys
her first family holiday some responsibility, has sparked
23
www.yourdog.co.uk
 TOURIST GUIDE

The
legend of
the faithful
hound
If you want to incorporate your love of
dogs into your travel plans, look no further

W
e’re pleased to bring you our again as he can always hear his dog’s
brand-new Your Dog Tourist dying yelp.
Guide, where we go around Today, in the Welsh village of
the UK and across the world to find Beddgelert – which literally means
our favourite dog-themed tourism Gelert’s grave – you can visit the grave
hotspots. From well-known tourist of the faithful hound and see a statue of
attractions to hidden gems, such as Gelert. Now, it is widely accepted that the
mysterious dog statues hidden away grave was likely created in the eighteenth
in far flung places, we’re giving you century by the landlord of a local hotel to
great places to visit that have a canine connect the legendary tale to the village
connection… to drive tourism. So, while the grave may
Let’s kick things off by heading not be the actual resting place of our
to north Wales in pursuit of a legendary canine hero, it shows that the story was
dog… already popular and has endured to this
day because we can all identify with the
LEGENDARY GELERT incredible loyalty dogs show to us.
Folklore tells that medieval Welsh ruler
Llywelyn the Great returned home VISITING BEDDGELERT
from hunting one day to find his baby Set in Gwynedd, in the Snowdonia
missing. With the cradle overturned, the National Park, the village of Beddgelert
King sees his dog, Gelert, with blood is picture-postcard charming, making
smeared around his mouth. Believing it a lovely place to visit. You can park in
that the wolfhound had eaten his child, the village and then head down by the
Llywelyn takes out his sword and kills the river and through the gate towards the
dog in return. Moments after the dog’s memorial to the legendary canine.
dying yelp, Llywelyn hears the sound of Gelert’s grave is a beautiful setting in the
his crying baby. The child is under the middle of a field, with a footpath leading to
overturned cradle and in the room is the the spot beneath the trees. There are two
body of a dead wolf. Gelert has protected slate gravestones, telling the story of the
the baby from the attack of a wolf, killing “faithful hound.” If you continue to follow
it as he saved the child’s life. Llywelyn is the path away from the village, there is the
overcome with remorse. He buries the remnant of an old farm building and inside
faithful canine in a great ceremony but you will find the delightful statue of Gelert,
can never get over his guilt, never smiling which stands at a metre high.
24
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

Set by the River Glaslyn, it is an ideal spot to take your

own loyal hound for a dog walk. The National Trust has
a designated trail named Gelert’s grave walk which is
particularly nice as not only does it take in the grave and
the statue, you can walk along both sides of the river before
returning to the village. You can find a printable step-by- step
guide and map on the National Trust site, visit nationaltrust.
org.uk/visit/wales/craflwyn-and-beddgelert/gelerts-
grave-walk
Once you’ve enjoyed the lasting tribute to the loyalty of
canine companions (and you could say a reminder to be more
like our dogs and see more good in the world), you can head
into the quaint village and find a wonderful selection of dog-
friendly places to eat and drink.

Where: Beddgelert, Gwynedd, Wales

When: Open all year round. There is a footpath which
Inset (top): Gelert’s can get muddy during wet weather.
grave Can I take my dog? Yes, this is an ideal place for
Inset (bottom): The
a beautiful dog walk. Just be sure to keep them under
statue of Gelert is well control. There may be livestock about.
worth a visit

25
www.yourdog.co.uk
NEW PRODUCTS

Looking to treat yourself or your dog? Here’s a selection of

new dog products that might take your fancy…

TUGENUFF FAUX FUR POCKET BUNGEE SQUEAKER

The new toy is pocket-sized for taking out and about, and
using for on-the-spot interactive play. The Faux Fur Pocket O To buy: www.tug-e-nuff.co.uk
Bungee Squeaker is available in three colourways, and
features a shock-absorbing bungee handle to eliminate
jarring, a puncture-proof squeaker and an ultra-durable
soft faux bite area.
The squeaky dog toy is good for all dogs, whether it’s
used for hiding, retrieving, training or playing.

DOODLES DRYING ROBES

Doodles, with their curly, part-wool coats,
are known for retaining water and tangling
easily, making post-walk or bath drying a
challenge. The new Mikki Doodles Drying
Robes are crafted using highly absorbent
microfibre that speeds up the drying
process while minimising tangles and
keeping the coat frizz free.
Available in five sizes from small to XXL,
the Drying Robe has a full-body design,
ensuring the dog stays cosy and dries off
effectively without the fuss of a traditional
towel. It is simple to fit over the head
with step-in trousers, minimising mess
throughout the car or home.
Each robe is supplied in a matching
drawstring storage bag made of the same
O To buy: mikkipet.com microfibre; the bag doubles up as a paw
and face drying mitt and can be washed
alongside the robe at 30 degrees.
26
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

DOG INSPIRED CANDLES FROM TALES & TREATS

O To buy: www.nutravet.co.uk Tales & Treats is excited to announce the launch of its
brand-new line of dog-inspired candles, designed to
celebrate the UK’s most loved dog breeds.
Handmade in the UK, each unique design is fun and
vibrant, and the candles’ scents smell delightful, too! The
fragrances and waxes of the candles consist of plant-based
ingredients that are sustainably sourced, as well as being
vegan, cruelty-free and PETA approved. They make a great
gift and are very collectible.

NUTRAOTIC EAR CLEANING RANGE

Nutraotic is a new line of high-strength ear cleaning products designed to
address common ear health issues.
The range includes ear wipes and a high-strength ear cleaner, both
crafted to provide antifungal and antibacterial support while also
moisturising, soothing, and hydrating the skin. The products are free from
harsh ingredients, ensuring a gentle and non-irritating experience for pets.
With a veterinary-strength formula, Nutraotic uses a blend of key
ingredients, including aloe vera, to cleanse and moisturise the ear,
soften ear wax, and promote healthy ear hygiene with its antibacterial
and antifungal properties. The products also feature a fresh cucumber and
melon scent.

O To buy: karnlea.com

KARNLEA GOAT MILK PLUS

Karnlea has introduced a new goat milk product that combines prebiotics,
probiotics, and postbiotics.
Goat Milk Plus is whole goat milk powder with added ‘good bacteria’ for
dogs and cats which can be used to support their gut health and immune
systems. Goat milk is naturally rich in oligosaccharides which act as a
prebiotic. But necessary pasteurisation to make it safe to consume, and
legal to sell commercially, means that it doesn’t contain any live cultures,
or probiotics. These have been added to Karnlea’s Goat Milk Plus – four
beneficial strains – to provide enhanced health benefits. These work
alongside probiotics to support the immune system, reduce the symptoms O To buy: talesandtreats.co.uk
of IBD and some allergies, and prevent or treat diarrhoea.
27
www.yourdog.co.uk
 We’ve lost
Maude!
Can you help find our
dog? She’s somewhere
in this magazine!

28 YOUR DOG JUNIOR NOVEMBER 2024

Mustard in the maze Wordsearch
Help guide Mustard through the maze… Can you find all eight words?

I K Y H W V W E R O I L
K I C E S J N Q O M J L
V H H L X U T D D C B P
G C W E U H D H A S Q L
F M C A U O G N R I U Q
F F Q D C E I S B T N Z
Y L I Y U N D A A H K E
X G Y N E U L W L C K U
E M Q B S S M E L L J M
H L U D A Y P P U P D G
V N P G H L I N D H X D
Q O L E W Y L D O N O K

Q CHEW Q FLYBALL Q SMELL

Q LEAD Q LABRADOR Q PUPPY
Spot the difference! Q SNIFF Q CANINE
There are five differences between these two
pictures, can you spot them? Guess the breed!

Can you guess which breed this is?

Here’s a few clues:

Q This is one of the biggest dog breeds in the

world, standing 61 — 71cm tall and weighing
45 — 68kg.
Q They love water and are exceptional
swimmers, making them excellent water
rescue dogs.
Q Known for their gentle and patient nature,
this breed shares its name with an island
which is part of Canada.

YOURDOG.CO.UK 29
DOG ROLLING

Why do dogs roll

in smelly things?
N
o-one knows exactly why dogs roll in smelly stuff — but it’s
clear our dogs love it! It can be quite tricky to prevent our
Instinctive behaviour
pets lying in poo so it seems a natural behaviour. Here
from their ancestors
are a few theories as to why they do it… It is thought that rolling in stinky stuff
is a natural behaviour passed on
from dogs’ wild ancestors. The wild
dogs and wolves, from which our
To communicate pets descended, would roll in strong
Another theory is that dogs roll in smells to disguise their own scent.
smelly things to pass on messages This would help them sneak up on
to other dogs. Dogs use smell to prey when they were hunting for their
communicate. They will leave their food. Our pets don’t need to hunt as
scent and, thanks to their incredible we feed them healthy food at home,
noses, other dogs will sniff the scent but they still roll in poo!
and find out information about the
dog that left it. Wolves, from which
dogs descended, are thought to roll
in smelly things to tell other wolves
about what they’ve found.

For fun!
While humans rely predominantly
on their eyes to understand the
world, dogs’ strongest sense is
smell. They learn so much from
Marking their using their nose to sniff scents.
territory To get a reaction So, rolling in poo might just be
Your dog might be trying to Often when dogs roll in good fun because it is so stinky! It
leave their scent behind to something smelly, owners react stimulates their main sense which
mark their territory. This tells very animatedly. While owners brings them joy.
other dogs that your dog is aren’t usually very happy
in the area. about it, sometimes dogs do
things because they enjoy the
attention they get, even if it is
not always a positive reaction.
Our pets may even think it is a
fun game!

What to do if your dog rolls in something smelly

Your dog is likely going to need a bath! There are specialised dog shampoos on the market that will clean your
dog. Then, it is best to try to stop your dog rolling in anything while on walks. You can keep him on a lead if you
think there is poo about or distract him with super fun games or treats.

30 YOUR DOG JUNIOR NOVEMBER 2024

Easy t o m ak e TOYS

dog to ys You can give your dog hours of

fun with these three home-made toys.

Toilet roll treat holder You will need:

O A toilet roll holder
O Kibble or treats

How to make:
1. Put the food inside the tube
2. Fold or squash each end up so the tube
doesn’t open up and allow the treats to escape
3. Give it to your dog and watch as he enjoys
ripping into it to get the food!

Dog destruction box

You will need: How to make:
O An empty cardboard box 1. Empty the cardboard box (a shoe box size works
O Newspaper or scrap paper well) and half-fill with shredded newspaper

O An empty egg container 2. Scrunch up some of the paper into rolls and add to
the b
box to fill to the top
O Kibble or small treats
3. Pl
Place some treats in the empty egg box, close it up
and then bury it inside the box
4. Sc
Scatter treats loose in the box too
5. If the box has a lid, close the box
6. Give n dig out the treats
Gi the dog the box so he can

How to make:
1. Remove bottle lid and
d label
Water bottle toy 2. Wash the bottle
3. Pulll the sock over the
e bottle
You will need:
4. Tie tthe ssock at the bottle
ttle
O A clean, long sock neck eend
O An empty water bottle
ottle 5. Give
e it to your dog

YOURDOG.CO.UK 31
whistle recall and flyball

Teach your dog a whistle recall

Time to go home? Call your dog in from the garden? Or pop your dog on the lead in
a busy park? How do we get our dog to return to us? The whistle is a very successful way!
Three pips and your dog sprints back to you!
Our resident expert dog trainer Tony Cruse recommends that you use an Acme Gundog
Whistle and a 10-metre longline for this training method:

Steps:
Week one: The preparation
is important. In the early stages,
we need to condition the dog to
the sound of the whistle! So, for
the first week, it’s pip and find
the dog’s mouth with a tasty
treat. Repeat 20 times in various
locations.

Week two: Pip the whistle

and this time allow the dog to
approach you. You can step back
from your dog to add a little
distance. Again, do this 20 times
in various locations.

Week three: You can now

start pipping the whistle three
times to get him back. Add more
distance. If you are worried your
dog will run off, make use of a
long line which will instantly stop
that bad habit from developing.
You can then practice the whistle
within the safety of a long line.
Over time, you can phase out the
treats and instead give your dog
fuss, or reward with a treat from
time to time. When at the park,
do this many times and make it
a game. Don’t just use it when
you’re ready to leave! Finally, the
last time you pip the whistle, you
will pop his lead on and go home.

Remember!
Although this method is very successful and usually better than your voice alone,
no recall is 100 per cent. So, if it goes wrong, don’t beat yourself up. Build the best recall
you possibly can!

32 YOUR DOG JUNIOR NOVEMBER 2024

 We’ve lost
Maude!
She might be on page 22.

Dog Mustard in the maze

ze

sports!
There are loads of different sports and activities
you can do with your dog. This month, we take a
look at the fast and furious world of flyball…

What is flyball?
It is a sport where dogs race over a line of hurdles to a box
that holds a tennis ball. As the dog presses the box, the ball is Wordsearch
released and the dog returns over the hurdles, back to their I K Y H W V W E R O I L
K I C E S J N Q O M J L
handler. Owners and dogs usually compete in teams as the
V H H L X U T D D C B P
dogs race against each other to see who can finish first.
G C W E U H D H A S Q L
It is a fun, social activity for both dogs and owners. Many F M C A U O G N R I U Q

people find the speed and excitement of the dogs jumping F F Q D C E I S B T N Z

Y L I Y U N D A A H K E
over the hurdles thrilling.
X G Y N E U L W L C K U
E M Q B S S M E L L J M

Which dogs can do flyball? H L U D A Y P P U P D G

V N P G H L I N D H X D
Flyball is a sport any dog can enjoy, regardless of breed,
Q O L E W Y L D O N O K
shape, or size. Dogs with lots of energy excel at flyball, rather
than just a particular breed or size. Some breeds have higher Spot the difference!
energy levels than others and Collies are well-known for being
good at the sport. However, small breeds, such as Chihuahuas
or Miniature Schnauzers, can be just as fast and consistent as
their larger counterparts, particularly as the jump height can
be lowered for the smallest dogs, while the equipment can be
adapted for giant breeds too.

What competitions are there? Guess the breed

The name of the breed is
There are open tournaments where any breeds are allowed, The Newfoundland.
as well as multibreed tournaments where teams must contain Did you guess correctly?
four different breeds and also starter tournaments.

How can I get started?

The British Flyball Association provides governance for
all flyball activities in the UK. Its website has lots of handy
information about the sport and has a page where you can
search for local clubs.
BILL BAILEY BOOK

ROCKY
THE BOAT DOG
We have an extract from beloved comedian and national treasure
Bill Bailey’s new memoir ‘My Animals, and Other Animals’
34
Your Dog November 2024
B
ill Bailey is a comedian,
musician, actor, presenter, “We discouraged him from
and Strictly Come Dancing
champion. Having delighted getting in the water, the tidal
live and TV audiences over the
decades, Bill has written his first Thames being a less than
memoir in which he recounts
stories of his life — and the ideal place for swimming...”
animals he’s met along the way.
Here we share an extract from
the book about his early life and in a boat. Rocky was a Patterdale chase small objects.’ I’d say Rocky
a special Patterdale Terrier… Terrier, rust coloured and wire- was textbook Patterdale.
When I lived on a houseboat in haired, with a black stripe down As the name suggests, they
the late 1980s, my then-girlfriend, his back. Patterdales are described originate from the village of
Kris, came to stay – and brought as ‘busy, clever, all-terrain, all- Patterdale in the Lake District.
her dog, Rocky. So I went from a weather dogs, who are adept at They were crossbred in the late
bloke living on his own to three digging and climbing and love to nineteenth century from blue-
black Border Terriers and black
and tan fell terriers as a useful
all-purpose working dog. They
were intended to be tough, brave
and quick to train.
Rocky exemplified these
qualities and long outlived the
Patterdale’s average lifespan
of twelve years. He was a feisty
and fiercely loyal dog, who had
a character like no other I’ve
encountered, and he became our
ship’s mascot.
He loved his grub and slept with
us in the bow in a little space
where the bed fitted, and
he would often sit up on
deck in the fine weather, the
canine captain of his ship.
We discouraged him from
getting in the water, the tidal
Thames being a less than ideal
place for swimming, either for
dogs or humans, but what we did
have was a public park opposite
the mooring and this park became
his playground. We would exercise
him there and take him for walks
along the riverside, which opened
out to larger parks and playing
fields. He had plenty of attention,
and other dogs to meet and run
around with; he was, as they say,
living his best life.
As for me, I had been living on
the boat for two years already and
it suited me fine at the time. It
was an old US coastal patrol boat
that had been refurbished with
a small shower and khazi in the
wheelhouse, a galley kitchen, a
little living quarters comprising
a small foam sofa and a 14in TV
perched on two beer crates, and a
tapered sleeping area in the bows.

35
www.yourdog.co.uk
BILL BAILEY BOOK

It was a little cramped, but it was

an inexpensive way to live in
“And when he realised he
London. Mooring fees were about
£15 a week, and my only other
could take his ball, well, that
outgoings were for a phoneline
and Calor gas for the cooker.
might just be the best thing
There was a pot-bellied stove in
the living area, which in winter
that has ever happened to
I would stack with smokeless
fuel like Coalite or compressed
a dog”
briquettes. When it was ablaze, it
was toasty. and fetch it until you got bored he’d come with me in my Sherpa
But if you didn’t keep an eye on or it got dark, or there was a solar van to gigs, curl up at the side of
the stove, ie you nodded off and eclipse, or western civilisation the stage and snooze through the
let it go out, in the morning the broke down irreparably. show. On occasion he’d amble
metal-hulled boat was as cold as on and stretch out at my feet, to
a tomb. So as a backup, I’d got in NOTHING WOULD the crowd’s great amusement. He
one of those Calorgas heaters on STOP HIM came away on camping trips, he
castors – which I soon realised As the days lengthened and the climbed fells, scampered through
was a terrible idea on a tidal river. warmer evenings started to set parks and forests, and ran along
Whenever a boat’s wash flowed in, we would have no need to beaches chasing ball after ball. He
into the mooring, or there was a fasten every hatch on the boat lived a long and happy life to the
current, or the smallest of waves, it and huddle round the gas fire. We rare old age of 20, a great innings
would trundle around like a drunk would leave the rear hatch open for any dog.
robot as the boat pitched about. to let the cool air in. Rocky quickly But I don’t think anything quite
We didn’t know it, but this realised that this meant he could matched that summer by the
would be the last year on take himself off to the park on river. Those were his halcyon days.
Houseboat Cormorant. We were his own. Rocky’s Brideshead.
about to change our lives and He figured out how to scramble
buy a flat, move to dry land, and up the wooden steps from the
not be at the mercy of weather wheelhouse, sidle along the boat’s
and tides. But that year, the whole narrow gangway, hop onto the
summer stretched out before us... mooring, skitter up the wooden
and Rocky was in his element. steps, squeeze under the gate
Rock was obsessed with tennis and, hey presto, the park was his.
balls. He was relentless in his He would find dogs to play with,
pursuit of them and would grub then trot back for his lunch and a
them out of the most implausible bowl of water, then off he would
of places. We could be round at go again. That summer, he was a
someone’s house and he’d be latchkey dog.
scratching and whining at the And when he realised he could
cupboard under the sink. On take his ball, well, that might
first inspection there would be just be the best thing that has
nothing, but he wouldn’t give ever happened to a dog. I would
up, scratching, yelping, whining... watch as he went up to someone
‘There’s something there!’ stretched out sunning themselves
Eventually, you would have to and dropped his tennis ball at
crawl in with a torch and, sure their feet, then hopped about
enough, wedged into the U-bend manically, wagging his tail.
of the sink waste would be an old
mangy tennis ball, often from the THEY WOULD
tenure of the previous owners. THROW THE BALL
‘I never knew there was a tennis AND HE’D BRING
ball there,’ was a common parting IT BACK ABOUT THE BOOK
comment from many places On and on it went until they got oMy Animals, and Other
we visited. bored, or left, then he would just Animals’ by Bill Bailey is
Rocky’s love of a ball went take the ball to someone else... published by Quercus in
beyond obsession, but in truth And so on, until he wanted his tea. hardback, paperback, ebook
it made our lives easier in a way. It was the best summer of his life. and audio on 10th October,
Exercising him was a breeze: just We had many adventures with priced £25. Available at book
throw the ball and he would run Rocky over the years. Sometimes stores and online retailers.

36
Your Dog November 2024
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BREED PROFILES

Alaskan
Malamute
A
ffectionately known as the ‘snow train’ due to its
incredible strength and stamina, the Malamute was
bred by an Inuit – indigenous people who inhabit Arctic
and subarctic regions of North America – tribe called the
Mahlemuts to pull sleds and hunt.
Although not as fast as the Husky, it is a much stronger
breed (the strongest of all the sled dogs) and used for pulling
heavy loads over long distances. It is a built survivalist,
with the ability to endure sleeping outside in all weathers,
with their double coats giving protection against the harsh,
cold weather. Their tails are a hallmark of the breed, which
Malamutes carry like a waving plume.
Malamutes are happy being part of the family too. They are
friendly dogs but will assume a dominant role amongst other
dogs. Fairly obstinate and independent in character, they
require firm training from an early age but will remain playful
and affectionate.

O A sturdy, large breed,

according to the breed
standard, the Malamute should
weigh around 38kg and dogs
should stand around 64cm and
bitches around 58cm at the
shoulder. (These figures are
a rough guide and individual
dogs may be
smaller or larger).

O With all large breeds,

the risk of hip dysplasia is
present, although it is said to be
rare in the Malamute. Just be sure to O Their temperature is
take care while exercising Malamute an area to keep a watch
puppies. Kennel Club Assured over as with their thick
Breeders must use the BVA/KC hip coats and Alaskan heritage,
dysplasia screening scheme. A panel Malamutes do not handle
of experts will look at X-rays of dogs’ heat well.
hips and give a graded score for each
X-ray to assess if there are any
abnormalities in the joints.

38
Your Dog November 2024
 O Malamutes do not
deal with inactivity and
enclosure well and have O Unsurprisingly for
been known to cause a a dog bred for pulling
great deal of damage sleds, Malamutes need
to interiors when left to a lot of exercise. More
their own devices for a than two hours per day
length of time. is ideal and they can
make good jogging
partners!

O Get ready to groom

if you have an Alaskan
Malamute! They’ll
need a daily groom to
manage their double
coat — and yes, they
do shed! O They are dignified
canines but do tend
to show dominance
to other dogs.

O A Malamute is
described as an
“affectionate, friendly,
loyal, devoted
companion but not a
‘one man’ dog, playful
on invitation.”

O Malamutes are
O Colours of Alaskan reported as usually being
Malamutes range from light fine with other dogs —
grey through intermediate shadings particularly if socialised
O As big, strong dogs, to black, or from gold through from a young age — but
potential owners need shades of red to liver, always with their high prey drive can
to think carefully about white on the underbody, parts make them unsuitable to
whether they have the room of legs, feet, and part of mask be around small animals.
to house a Malamute. As markings. The only solid colour
with all dogs, you should permissible in the official breed
always supervise canine standard is all white.
companions around
children.

39
www.yourdog.co.uk
BREED PROFILES Q

WHAT IS IT LIKE
TO LIVE WITH AN ALASKAN MALAMUTE?
Mals are majestic! We've had of routine (she loves and needs a
Malamutes for the past 45 years and routine). There’s endless fur with
are on our fifth one, now. They are a huge appetite for fun, food, and
quick learners, yet can still think for frolics. Ours loves kids and even
themselves. They are typical pack dogs strangers – the most adorable dog I’ve
and are loyal to family members. They ever known.
love the outdoors, and water, or snow. Dawn Reader
Some can be talkative, and they do get
their point across (usually for food!). The most beautiful breed I have ever
They have a beautiful coat – however, seen and the most intelligent! Apollo
they routinely need brushing and is keeping us on our toes as we are
there is a lot of fur everywhere! Overall, they are great, smart, and learning how to manage his energy levels and constant need for
loving dogs. This is our Bella. attention. They’re the smartest dogs ever!
Joyce Kramer Colleen Brady Culver

Be prepared for boundless energy and My almost four-year-old is the most stubborn and possessive Mal
never-ending fur. It is everywhere, I have ever owned. He's super protective, loves his walks, playing
no matter how much you clean! My in water, and playing football. He absolutely loves car rides but is
girl, Kira, is 16 months old. I find she super picky about which car he likes to ride in. He loves belly rubs
is a girl of few barks but still has a lot and also opening doors and taking laundry to run around the
of attitude. She is friendly, stubborn, house as a game. He’ll also take food off the counter.
playful, and downright lovable. Most dogs are scared of him and he has a super-high prey drive.
Janice Leverick Clarke However, I absolutely love my baby! My advice to new owners is
you may deal with a lot of shedding but the love is worth every
They have loads of energy, boundless sass, strength, and moment. In summertime, get a de-shedder.
stubbornness. Mine is really quite bossy if I go one minute out Laura Christian

40
Your Dog November 2024
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NUTRITION

All About Antioxidants

Antioxidants are now well-known for their health benefits.

But how do they help dogs and how should we provide them?
Jacqueline Boyd explains

Y
ou might have heard about so antioxidants are critical to around us and our dogs includes
antioxidants as being counteract their impact on exposure to stress, pollution,
important for your own the body. ultraviolet light, and toxins. These
and your dog’s health, but do you High levels of free radicals can can all increase and accelerate
know what they are and what cause widespread negative effects the production of free radicals,
they do? on the cells of the body, including causing problems for normal,
Antioxidant awareness can damage to membranes and even healthy cell function.
help you understand key aspects DNA. When this damage occurs, When your dog is fighting off an
of your dog’s health and nutrition cells become less efficient and illness or recovering after injury,
Jacqueline Boyd is an and might be extremely helpful effective. The effects of exposure free radical formation is also
animal scientist, canine if your dog is particularly active to free radicals include ageing, increased. Highly active working
coach, nutritionist,
writer, lecturer
or getting on a little. Even on a poor recovery from illness/injury/ or sporting dogs will also have
and Cocker Spaniel day-to-day basis, antioxidants activity, the development of certain elevated levels of free radicals
aficionado. are essential, so let’s explore why forms of cancer, and degenerative being made in the body as a result
they are important and where we conditions of the body tissues. of normal metabolism.
might find them. Antioxidants are a group of When the levels of free radicals
substances that help to protect exceed levels at which the body’s
WHAT ARE cells from the effects of free natural mechanisms can cope
ANTIOXIDANTS? radicals. Because the body is with, oxidative stress occurs. This is
Antioxidants are substances that producing free radicals all the time, when cell and tissue function will
combat the results of free radicals. having antioxidants freely available be disrupted. Normal biology can
Free radicals are also known as is important for heath. be seriously affected, resulting in
reactive oxygen species (ROS) poor performance, susceptibility
and are formed as a result of WHY ARE to illness and injury and even
normal biological processes in ANTIOXIDANTS accelerated ageing.
Above: Carrots can
the body but are also found in IMPORTANT? Antioxidants are critical at
provide dogs with an the environment. Free radicals The effects of free radicals on the balancing the negative impacts of
antioxidant boost are unstable and highly reactive, body can be problematic. The world oxidative stress. The body produces
42
Your Dog November 2024
 Q
antioxidant substances naturally C like we do, but in certain cases,
to help protect cells and tissues, supplementing your dog’s diet
but sometimes the levels of these with Vitamin C can be beneficial.
is insufficient. This is when In particular, older dogs, dogs
additional antioxidants provided with liver issues, and highly active excess, can ironically become pro-
in the diet can be so important, dogs may benefit from Vitamin C oxidative, meaning that they cause
especially for dogs who might supplementation under guidance. problems. For this reason, consider
be exposed to many challenges any supplementation carefully and
and have increased potential for WHEN MIGHT seek professional advice.
oxidative stress. YOU WANT TO
FEED MORE NATURAL OR
WHERE DO WE FIND ANTIOXIDANTS? SYNTHETIC
ANTIOXIDANTS? Because free radicals are ANTIOXIDANTS?
Antioxidants are naturally produced everywhere, our dogs are There are a number of synthetic
in the body but are also found in constantly being exposed to them. antioxidants that are widely used
many foods. Brightly coloured fruit Their food is also exposed to free in the food industry. Some of these
and vegetables, such as carrots, radicals, and they can accelerate are now thought to be potentially
bell peppers, and tomatoes, are food spoilage and rancidity problematic and their use has
rich in pigments called carotenoids too. This means that sources of either been stopped or significantly
that function as antioxidants. antioxidants are often added to reduced. Synthetic antioxidants
Beta-carotene is an example of a our dog’s food to help protect both can be highly effective, meaning
carotenoid commonly found in our dogs and their food from the that only small amounts are
nutrition. Beta-carotene helps to negative effects of free radicals. needed to have the same effect as
enhance the antioxidant capacity If food is high in fats and oils, antioxidants from natural sources
of Vitamin E by supporting its or you are feeding your dog extra and can be important in preserving
regeneration after it has negated sources of oil in their diet, adding the stability of ingredients such as
free radicals. Notably, carotenoids extra antioxidants to their diet is a fish meal.
are most effective when working good idea. Formulated foods will However, many caregivers
together, so mixed dietary sources have this factored in when being prefer to limit the inclusion of
of these pigments are beneficial. produced to ensure a good balance synthetic antioxidants, looking
Taurine is an amino acid with of antioxidants to protect the food to natural sources instead. This
powerful antioxidant capabilities and your dog’s health. might mean supplementing your
and is found in meat. It is really Dogs that are older or recovering dog’s diet with different brightly
useful for highly active dogs. from illness and injury will coloured fruits and vegetables
Vitamins E and C are well benefit from additional dietary and other ingredients, such as
recognised to have antioxidant antioxidants, and our working green tea extract. Many dog food
capabilities — Vitamin E is typically and sporting dogs will have manufacturers also use these as
found in grains and vegetable recovery after activity supported valuable sources of antioxidants.
oils, whereas Vitamin C is typically if extra antioxidants are provided. Antioxidants are essential
found in fruit and vegetables. Anytime your dog’s body is being for our dogs’ health. Chop up
Interestingly, unlike us, dogs can challenged, antioxidants will be some fresh bell pepper or carrot
make their own Vitamin C. This important. today and see if your dog enjoys
means that dogs do not necessarily However, there is an important some antioxidant-rich treats and
need a dietary source of Vitamin point — some antioxidants, if fed to meal toppers.

DID YOU KNOW?

O Antioxidants are often added
to foods to help preserve the
foodstuff, not just to benefit the
animal eating the food.
O Increased levels of antioxidants
can be useful for older, highly
active, and recovering dogs.
O If you add extra oils into your
dog’s food, you should also
add extra antioxidants — seek
professional advice if you are
unsure how much.
O Antioxidants can be natural or
synthetic — both are effective, but
many canine caregivers prefer to
Above right: Active
supplement their dog’s diet with
dogs can really benefit
from antioxidants in natural sources of antioxidants.
their diet

43
www.yourdog.co.uk
IT’S A VET’S LIFE!

To neuter or not
to neuter…
It’s a big decision! Vet Vicky Payne explains comprehensively what
you need to consider before choosing the right option for your pet

W
hen I started out in and behavioural effects of ‘longer life’, but the evidence for
practice, it was usual neutering, and new research these claims is mixed. Neutered
to neuter female dogs means vets are constantly dogs may live longer as they are
three months after their first reviewing their advice. more likely to be cross-breeds (who
season, and to neuter males at tend to live longer than pedigree
about a year old. Early neutering THE SCIENCE dogs), or because their owners are
at about six months then Neutering before puberty has been more proactive about healthcare,
started to come into favour. The linked to differences in the ratios of or because the longer a dog lives,
advantages for vets included bone lengths compared to entire the more likely it is to be neutered,
ABOUT VICKY puppies being smaller which or later neutered dogs, as well as rather than this being a direct effect
Holistic vet Vicky Payne
BVetMed MRCVS is
makes for easier handling and increased risk of hip dysplasia, of neutering.
based in East Sussex, surgery, and being able to book cruciate ligament disease, and Neutering obviously prevents
and qualified from the neutering appointment at obesity. Dogs that are neutered accidental breeding and diseases
the Royal Veterinary
the last vaccination. Dog owners young can also display puppy-like of the reproductive organs, but
College in 2001. She
uses a range of liked the cheaper surgery for behaviour into adulthood, and the effect on other diseases and
complementary larger breeds and avoiding while this sounds cute, it can leave cancers is mixed. Luckily for general
therapies alongside adolescent behaviour challenges. them more nervous and with more practice vets like me, researchers
conventional medicine
and surgery. However, in the last 10 years, problem behaviours. have looked at a huge amount of
questions have been asked Neutering has traditionally been data and produced tables which
about the long-term health advised for ‘health benefits’ and suggest minimum safe neutering

44
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

ages for over 30 popular breeds 12- month strengths are available. be infertile choose spaying, but
and I use these to help my clients Testosterone initially rises so this term now covers a range of
make their neutering decisions. extreme care must be taken if operations.
I don’t assume that my clients using the implant in a dog to see Ovariohysterectomy (OHE)
will want to neuter their dogs, so if castration will reduce aggressive has long been the method of
my question is always, “Are you behaviour. Most dogs are infertile, choice in the UK and involves
planning to neuter?” This allows have smaller testicles, and show the removal of the ovaries and
my clients to tell me a little about less ‘male’ behaviours after 8 — 12 uterus (womb) through an incision
their plans and I can then tailor weeks. Implants should be used on the belly. Where there is no
my advice. with caution in dogs intended for pathology of the uterus it is
later breeding as fertility is not safe to do an ovariectomy (just
MAKING guaranteed to return. remove the ovaries). The uterus
THE DECISION will shrink to a pre-pubertal size
When Bonny, a black Labrador OPERATION with no hormones and the risk of
puppy, came for her final puppy OPTIONS uterine and mammary tumours
vaccination, I already knew the Castration remains the most and pyometra is as low as in a
answer was going to be “no” common option and involves the full OHE. Both ovariectomy and
as Bonny is destined to be a complete removal of the testicles. ovariohysterectomy can now also
competition and working gundog, The scrotum is normally left intact be done via a 'keyhole’ approach at
and her owners hope she will one unless there is testicular or scrotal many clinics. Patients are reported
day have a litter. I made sure her disease and this shrinks over to be up and about even faster
owners were up to date with the time. Occasionally, a vasectomy than with a traditional spay, but
current health testing advice for is requested, but this is not an I do recommend a period of rest
Labradors as it has been a few operation I have done on a dog, for all neutered animals to heal no
years since they last bred. They yet (I’ve done ferrets and pigs!). matter how good they feel!
asked about neutering their older Vasectomy makes a dog infertile A small number of vets offer
dog who is now approaching but doesn’t affect his hormone tubal ligation, where the oviduct
eight years old. I do recommend levels so may offer a solution is tied to prevent eggs reaching
neutering female dogs once they where we don’t want to neuter the womb and some offer a
are past breeding age as the risk of for behavioural reasons but need hysterectomy where the ovaries are
pyometra, a life-threatening womb to remove the risk of accidental left. Both prevent pregnancy but
infection, may be as high as 24% in mating. It isn’t a popular operation do not reduce the risk of hormone
bitches over 10 years old. at present and it is important to related behaviours, cancers, or
With Harry the Vizsla puppy, the remember the dog will still be pyometra.
conversation was the other way interested in entire females and Whether and when it is best to
round, with his owners asking potentially mate them. neuter dogs is likely to continue
how soon we could neuter him There are currently no licensed to be debated over the next few
to calm him down. Harry is a very medical treatments for controlling years as more research is done.
nervous dog who is worried by fertility in female dogs. The implant There is unlikely to be a one size fits
other dogs, people he doesn’t does work, and is licensed for use all solution, especially for multi-
know, and fast-moving traffic. He in female dogs in some countries dog households and dogs from
also finds it hard to settle at home. but it can trigger a season before rehoming centres, but most vets
Neutering is not a good option for the hormone levels decline. Most will love talking to you about your
Harry at this point as neutering owners who want their bitches to options.
will take away his testosterone
which may make him even more
fearful. I always prefer to neuter
dogs when they are emotionally
stable so Harry and his owners
have a behaviour modification
plan to follow. Neutering male
dogs rarely calms them down
and only helps with testosterone-
driven problem behaviours such as
excess marking, roaming/howling
over females, and non-fear related
Opposite page: The
aggression.
right option will vary If neutering is appropriate,
from pet to pet we now have more options than
ever, including reversible implants
Right: A period
for male dogs. The implant is
of rest is always
recommended post inserted in the same way as a
neutering microchip and both six-month and

45
www.yourdog.co.uk
TONY CRUSE

SPONSORED BY

Tony reveals
the top 5
naughty
behaviours in
dogs!

NAUGHTY DOGS
We chat with trainer Tony Cruse about what it means for
a dog to be naughty and how you can prevent or reverse
unwanted behaviours
Interview by Michael Hallam (MH)

MH: What is your definition of then we know A) that it’s not which is painful and tends to get
naughty when we’re talking naughty and B) how to address attention. So, there it works for the
about dogs? them. So my phrase throughout puppy because it gets attention,
TC: That’s the core question. A lot this chat is: naughty is actually but it’s just a puppy expressing
of my customers come to me and normal. themselves. They don’t have hands
say my dog’s been naughty, they’ve If we start thinking of a function, to grab with, so they use their
been doing A, B, C or D. Now, what why the dogs are doing it, we can mouth. It’s pretty normal behaviour
we consider naughty is not naughty then address the solution. There is for the puppies, although it’s not
to a dog. It might be a survival a reason behind every single one of sociable for us. It’s certainly not
behaviour, and to dogs, it’s what these behaviours. acceptable for us.
Tony Cruse, Your Dog’s works for them. So, I often put air But behaviours can be anything
expert trainer.
quotes [does the action] around the MH: What kind of naughty from nipping and stealing a sock,
word naughty. behaviour can a new puppy to defecating and urinating in
Once we understand why the owner expect? the house, which, again, can be
dogs are doing these behaviours, TC: Everything from nipping, perceived as naughty. It is a puppy

Dog insurance call 03300 243 990

46
Your Dog November 2024
 learning, and a puppy trying to fit anything from putting your socks drives off. So, the dog is thinking
into our human way of working into the laundry bin to making sure ‘Hey, this is good. I want to protect
really. you don’t put your sandwich down my house. Every time someone
They’re all preventable and we on the coffee table, or blocking off comes to the door and I bark, they
can train what we consider is normal parts of the garden. leave pretty quick.’ It is reinforcing
for puppies. What we don’t do is Then you can start rewarding that behaviour. A simple solution
shout at the puppies, scold the the behaviours that you do like. For to that would be when the delivery
puppies, or correct the puppies in example, if the puppy goes to lay on arrives, get your dog into the
any physical way. his bed, then you can go up to the kitchen, so when the doorbell goes,
It’s a bit like us growing up as puppy and give the puppy a bit of a treat is given in the kitchen. So,
children. We didn’t know the right a fuss for doing that. So what you doorbell equals treat, rather than
way or the wrong way. So, we tried want to do is prevent and manage doorbell equals chaos at the front
different things to see what works the behaviours that you don’t want, door. It’s about kind of rewiring their
and what’s acceptable. It’s up to us and reward the behaviours that you thinking a little bit to what pays off
as owners to educate the puppy as do want. It really is that simple. for them.
to what is acceptable. It’s not an overnight thing.
MH: How much more difficult is it Especially if it’s been a learned
MH: What is the key to preventing to reverse a behaviour if it’s been behaviour for a number of years.
this behaviour and teaching your learned as an adult dog? But it doesn’t mean to say that dogs
puppy what is acceptable? TC: It’s still reversible. The adage can’t relearn. That’s why when we
TC: Well, 90% of it is preventable, of you can’t teach an old dog new get a puppy, it’s quite important to
certainly. For example, if the puppy’s tricks – well, take it from me, you start early and avoid these learned
running off with your sock, the first can! Learning never stops. You can behaviours that we don’t want.
thing a puppy does when he grabs reverse those habits by simple
your sock, generally, is run up to training, by making the behaviours MH: If we scold a dog, what sort
you with it, almost to parade it. And that you do want really pay off for of reaction can we expect from
what do you do when you see this? that dog. them?
You then start chasing the puppy, so Why is the dog doing this? What is TC: If we’re scolding or shouting at
it becomes a game. the motivation? What is reinforcing our dog, the dog doesn’t actually
Puppy thinks ‘Hey, when I’m that behaviour? For example, if understand at that moment why
bored, I’m going to grab a sock and the dog’s barking at the door as we’re shouting at them. What the
we’re going to have a great game.’ a delivery comes, what tends to dog can then learn is that whenever
So again, this naughty behaviour happen is the delivery driver then this situation occurs, I get shouted
is paying off. Prevention could be walks away, gets in their van, and at or scolded. So, the dog then starts

Opposite page:
“Naughty is normal” is
Tony’s mantra

Right: Fear can be a

driver of unwanted
behaviour

theinsuranceemporium.co.uk/YD99
47
www.yourdog.co.uk
TONY CRUSE

to think a little bit negatively and can probably one of the worst! Not in a telling you that he’s frightened,
go into kind of a fight or flight mode. bad way, but all the dogs I’ve owned, anxious, or he can’t deal with the
In those situations, the dog’s either they’ve not been perfect. However, situation. If the dog is on the lead
going to do the ‘naughty’ behaviour we don’t want our dogs to be robots. and he can’t back off from a situation
because it can’t deal with the I like a little bit of mischief, providing he can’t handle, he’s going to growl
situation, or it’s going to try to run it’s social and it’s not going to cause and then bite, probably.
away. It’s very important then, when anybody harm. I’d rather have a dog We’ve got to get these dogs
you know the dog isn’t naughty, to that thinks for themselves rather feeling good around people and
not scold the dog. than a dog that’s almost controlled around certain situations.
In an emergency, then you by its owner.
just want to get the dog out of MH: It strikes me that dogs are just
the situation as best you can, but MH: Would you class aggression as pretty much like us, they want to
generally for naughty behaviour, it’s a naughty behaviour? be understood. And that is why we
often our slight errors, really. TC: That’s a good question. I mean, encourage reward-based training,
Actually, 90% good behaviour aggression could be anything from not just because it’s kinder, but
is pretty good. If you get a 70% a dog barking, lunging on the lead, because it is more effective?
well-trained dog, that’s pretty good to a dog fighting. I always say this, TC: Yeah, exactly, that’s the point.
going. You’re never going to get aggression tends to be a dog that’s On occasion, it used to appear that
a 100% well-trained dog because not socialised properly or a dog horrible old methods used to work,
they’re animals, and that’s the beauty that’s in fear. but sometimes you fix one problem
of having a dog. You know, they’re If a dog’s scared, he’s going to and you’re actually creating another
certainly not predictable. And if they lunge or bark and try to push the 10 other issues.
were predictable, would you have a scary thing away. The dog is in a state
dog? of anxiety. So, the best thing you can MH: Now we’re going to go into
do if your dog is in that state is to the top five naughty behaviours
MH: As a dog trainer with years of create the distance yourself. Calmly, and we’re going to work in reverse
experience, do you have moments walk your dog away from order. So, if we start with number
where your dog does behaviours the situation. five…
Above: Aggression is
often an effort to get
that you don’t want? Aggression is almost TC: We’re going full Top of the Pops –
out of a situation a dog TC: I have to tell you that dog communication. We might consider Top of the Pups! Number five on the
can’t handle trainers – and I speak for myself – are it naughty, but actually the dog’s list is humping.

Dog insurance call 03300 243 990

48
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

If the dog jumps up, then you cut what you can do in these situations
“If a dog’s scared, he’s your attention and don’t give any is grab a puppy toy – a tug toy is
attention until the four paws go quite good – and start encouraging
going to lunge or bark back on the floor. your puppy to play with the toy.
The dog then starts thinking ‘Hey, If your puppy continually does it,
and try to push the scary I get it now. Whenever I’m on the what you need to do is just disattach
floor, that’s when the good stuff yourself in a calm manner and step
thing away. ” happens. When I jump up, the party outside the door. Very calmly just
is over.’ step outside the door for about two
minutes to let your puppy calm
It’s a natural behaviour and it’s MH: Number three on our list is down, then go back into the room.
not necessarily a sexual behaviour, toileting in the house… If your puppy repeats the behaviour,
either. Often when a dog is doing TC: A nightmare for owners, you step out the room.
it, it’s because the dog is uncertain. this one, and it’s very common, What it’s telling your puppy is any
So, what the dog does in those especially with a puppy who teeth on skin or trousers or legs, it
situations, he kind of defaults into can’t control their bowels or ends the party.
a natural behaviour that feels their bladder.
slightly good. It’s a way of coping The best thing is to let your MH: Number one in the top five
for the dog. It’s a bit like us biting puppy have every opportunity naughty behaviours is…barking.
our fingernails. to go in the garden. It does mean TC: Is it normal? Yes, it is! Barking
Neutering used to be considered getting out into the garden pretty is communication. I always say
a way of fixing it and actually what much every hour. A good rule of that a little bit of barking is OK. If
we found is it doesn’t necessarily thumb is to get out every hour, on it’s prolonged barking, that’s what
stop it. The best way to stop it is the hour. When they toilet outside, we could consider naughty or
very calmly get your dog away give them a little treat. So, they unwanted.
from the situation and let your start learning that when I go in the Generally, barking can be
dog cool down in another room. garden, it’s rewarding anyway to for attention or sometimes to
Don’t laugh about it. What tends to relieve themselves, but they get a see off the scary thing. There’s
happen when a puppy’s humping treat as well. probably about 20 different barks
is everybody crowds around and If you catch a puppy going in that your dog has got and you can
starts laughing but that can be the house, calmly just take your start to recognise the different
reinforcing for the dog. puppy’s collar and guide them into barks, actually. Is it a fear bark? Is
Then you’ve got to consider why the garden for 30 seconds. Perhaps it an attention bark? Is It an
the dog’s doing it. And it might be they’ll finish off in the garden, but uncertain bark?
that the dog is slightly anxious in they must learn that when they The puppy that’s just seen a
certain situations, which you can feel that need to go, the garden is a hedgehog and he’s not sure, has
address, or the dog is just bored, place to go. a very different bark to when the
and maybe there could have been If they’re defecating in the house, postman comes, so you can start to
a little bit of play in the garden often it can be in a certain area of learn these different barks.
beforehand. the house. What you can do is just A simple fix for the dog that’s
block that area off, because often it’s barking at the outside world is to
MH: OK, number four on our Top scent driven. Also, if the dog goes at shut the curtains and start teaching
of the Pups is jumping up. a certain time of day, let your dog go your dog that the outside world
TC: What this tends to be is a dog into the garden before that time. is a good place and not a scary
saying ‘hello.’ You notice when dogs There will be accidents, but it’s place. It could be that every time
greet that they tend to be face to important to reward dogs when you leave the room your dog
face – the dog’s just trying to say they get it right. barks for attention. So, you start
hello to your face area. What we teaching your dog that actually it’s
tend to do is then start fussing the MH: Number two on the Top of OK to be on his own by giving him
dog, so you really start reinforcing the Pups naughty behaviours something to do when you leave
that behaviour. is… nipping. the room, like a stuffed Kong.
The thing to do is to teach TC: We mentioned it earlier, but With prolonged barking, you’ve
incompatible behaviour. Every time nipping is very normal for puppies. got to work out why the dog is
the dog goes up to somebody else, It could be a puppy teething, the doing it, and how you can solve it.
you get your dog into a sit and whole teeth are aching, and they You can always call out a trainer
you start rewarding the dog with need to chew on something. It also who can help you out in these
a treat or two. Then, the dog starts gets a reaction. So, it might just be situations.
learning that he only gets a fuss that the puppy wants to play. The key phrase here is: naughty
when he is in that sit position, or The important thing is if the is normal. These behaviours are
when he has four paws on the floor. puppy has locked onto your arm, normal, but they are preventable.

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ADVICE

Does my dog have

Canine Compulsive
Disorder?

Dogs exhibiting repetitive behaviours can be helped.

Toni Shelbourne explains how

T
he term Obsessive
Compulsive Disorder &&'EHKDYLRXUVRIWHQVHHQ
(OCD) is one we hear of
in humans, but did you know
LQGRJVLQFOXGH
animals can be affected too? /LJKWFKDVLQJ 7R\RUREMHFWÞ[DWLRQ
Sufferers can act out certain )O\VQDSSLQJ 3RO\SKDJLDRUSRO\GLSVLD
actions repeatedly, affecting 7DLOVSLQQLQJ (eating or drinking obsessively)
their everyday life and welfare. /LFNLQJRUVXFNLQJ +DOOXFLQDWLRQV (seeming to
Above: Tail chasing is Scientists refer to repetitive 3HUVLVWHQWEDUNLQJ stare into space or having bouts
a common CCD – dogs
can cause horrific
behaviours in dogs as Canine 3DFLQJDQGVSLQQLQJ of sudden fearfulness with no
damage to themselves Compulsive Disorder (or CCD 3LFD known cause)
if not resolved for short).
50
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

Whatever compulsive behaviour

your dog is showing, it is distressing
for all concerned and best dealt
with as soon as you realise a
neurotic disposition is developing.
There could be any number of
reasons, but once understood,
there are techniques you can use
to help manage, and sometimes
overcome, the condition.
Toni Shelbourne has
Your first task in helping
over three decades of
experience working your dog is to talk to your vet.
with dogs and wild Many health conditions cause
canids. She is an Animal CCD-like symptoms. Focal seizures,
Behaviourist (Full pain issues, hypothyroidism, gut
member of INTODogs
& ICAN), Tellington
imbalances, and food intolerances
TTouch Instructor, Real are just some of the reasons why
Dog Yoga Instructor, dogs might display unusual or
and author. She lives in repetitive behaviours. Often once
Oxfordshire, England.
treated, these behaviours reduce or
For more information
about Toni, her work disappear completely.
and books, visit
tonishelbourne.co.uk PSYCHOLOGICAL
TRIGGERS
If your dog is given a clean bill
of health, then next let’s turn to
psychological triggers – ie is your
dog’s emotional state the source of
the compulsive behaviour?
Many dogs suffer from anxiety,
others endure boredom – spending
hours alone without appropriate
levels of physical or mental
stimulation. Some live with conflict
in their lives, maybe forced to share
their space with animals or even
people who scare them. You need
to check every aspect of your dog’s
life and meet his or her physical,
mental, and emotional needs
in order to start changing the
behaviour. that it also showed similarities to management tools and mental
If no emotional or physical cause human autism. This was based enrichment you can utilise while
can be found and your dog lives a on the dogs often being asocial, you work through a programme
full and content life, neurological withdrawn, preoccupied with with a qualified behaviourist.
problems within the brain could objects, and having a tendency You can also talk to your vet
be the source. This is what I’d towards explosive aggressive about calming supplements and
Right (top): Flank call true CCD. Research has been incidents and trance-like states. behaviour medication.
sucking or excessive conducted to determine the cause Although we can’t yet confirm dogs Whichever compulsive
licking of an area on of CCDs and there are several suffer from autism, we can say they behaviour your dog is displaying,
the body could be a theories. There is some evidence display autistic-like symptoms. he or she can be helped. You just
sign of CCD or pain
to suggest that abnormalities Once you pinpoint the root cause need to find the right support, so
Right (centre): Light seen within the brain, which is of your dog’s behaviour, you can do seek professional help as early
or shadow chasing is similar to humans who exhibit start to formulate a plan. There are as you can.
common – some dogs OCDs, could be the cause of flank
will hit the surface of
sucking in Dobermanns. Another
water to create ripples
that sparkle so they can study conducted on tail chasing
snap or chase them in Bull Terriers also produced an
interesting hypothesis. Right at the
Right (bottom): end of the study, in the discussion Toni’s book called +(/30\'RJKDVD
Mental stimulation is
incredibly important to
section, although they concluded &DQLQH&RPSXOVLYH'LVRUGHU is packed full
a dog’s well-being that the probable cause was CCD of tips and tools for change. You can Þnd it on
Photo by Toni Shelbourne. or partial seizures, they suggested Amazon in paperback or Kindle format.
51
www.yourdog.co.uk
ADVICE

Avoiding trouble!
Jackie Drakeford shares how avoiding incidents on dog walks
comes with tweaking our everyday walking routine

A
re you starting to dread our everyday practices can save tempted to activate this trait as long
your dog walks in case us from ever having to deal as we understand and pre-empt
something goes wrong? with the fallout of unexpected, any likelihood of them feeling that
Instead of coming home happy unpleasant happenings. they have to sort something out
and relaxed, are you both only for us. Your dog’s nature is not your
relieved that there has been no KNOWING fault or his. Dogs cannot help their
mishap this time? OUR DOGS personalities any more than we
It is much easier to avoid Knowing our own dog is a good can change ours: we all have to
Jackie Drakeford is difficult situations than to deal start: some dogs are nervous, some work within the art of the possible.
a behaviour trainer with them once they have arisen, are everybody’s friend, others I know I keep on about this, but
who has worked
with all types of dog
and we don’t have to wait until prefer to stay aloof, many are works the first tenet of happy, safe dog
but specialises in we feel under threat to practice in progress where an unwanted walking is to be totally aware of our
sighthounds, lurchers defensive dog walking, any more situation can set back many hours surroundings at all times – so that
and terriers. than we need to wait until the of work. A few dogs have breed phone must be switched off and
car breaks down before we have bias that makes them naturally safely put away for the duration of
it maintained. Small tweaks to combative, but need never to be each walk.

52
Your Dog November 2024
 “Dogs are very
quick, like playground
bullies, to assess
another as being a
potential victim...”
We cannot expect every dog
walker to be on the same page
here. We have all experienced the
nuisance of other dogs charging
towards us while the owner flutes:
“He’s friendly.” Then there are those
who say “let the dogs sort it out”
when there is a stand-off following
on directly after a distinctly
un-friendly approach. Some folks
think they have a right to stroke
or even hug every dog they meet,
and I have even seen one take a towards us as it approaches, that is friend – if there is any doubt over
strange dog’s face between their a clear warning of trouble ahead. Is being able to control him, put him
hands and kiss it! There are children your dog vulnerable? Dogs are very back on the lead and to the side
who genuinely love dogs and quick, like playground bullies, to furthest from the other dog. Keep
have never been taught that they assess another as being a potential the lead at a length that stops him
should ask first before touching a victim, for instance if it is old, very leaving your leg and stretching
strange one, and I have also met young, weak, poorly, or nervous, ahead or across.
children who most respectfully and many will capitalise on this. If you are being approached by
asked if they could stroke a dog a dog like this, take evasive action
and whose parents then thought COMBATIVE DOGS as quickly as possible – don’t wait
that they could swarm in and try If you have a combative kind of for anything to happen in the hope
to pat the dog on the head after I dog, it is not the dog’s fault because that it won’t. You can turn back, go
had explained to the child that he all social species try to cast out or off the path, step behind a barrier
could stroke the dog on the sides eliminate the old, sick, weak, or that breaks the other dog’s line of
but not to touch their head. One flaky, but it is your responsibility to sight, but what you must not do
of the many laws of defensive dog make sure he can’t follow through is leave your dog in the line of fire.
walking is to be unafraid of setting on this natural but unwanted aspect Never immobilise him by putting
boundaries and it doesn’t matter of his character. The lead is your him in a ‘Sit’ or ‘Down’ and don’t try
what other people think.
Height, even if you are a shortie
like me, is to our advantage,
because we can see further and so
identify a dog/owner combo — or
a dog that seems to be totally on
its own — that may become a
problem once it or they get closer.
Clues are the owner ignoring
what their dog is doing or how
it is looking at our dog, but the
approaching dog’s body language
Opposite page: Avoid is the real deal because dogs don’t
incidents before they fake it, and always make clear what
happen if you can is on their minds.
Is the approach relaxed or does
Right (top): Think
carefully about where the dog hold its body rigid? Are
you go for dog walks its paces fluid or stiff? Is the dog
appearing to try to make itself
Right (bottom): Look taller? How is it holding its ears? If
at the body language
of approaching dogs
its coat allows it to hackle up, has
which reveal their it? Dogs don’t naturally stare, so if
intentions the other dog is holding its gaze
53
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ADVICE Q

“Sometimes, the places

we walk offer risk about
which we may not
be aware.”
to distract him with treats. When
you are at a suitable distance, which
is never far but varies from dog to
dog on the day, then he can have
his reward of treats once the other
dog has passed safely by.

RISK ASSESSMENT
Other animals can be hazardous
too, and even if there is a footpath
across a field, there may be times
where we would be wise to walk
another way if there is livestock
present. Cattle are sometimes blasé
about respectful dog walkers and
ignore them, but young cattle can
be very lively and curious, and may
charge up to you. Cows with calves
should always be avoided as they be avoided as well. Turning back if danger if concealing broken glass
will be extremely defensive. Though necessary is good sense, not failure. or metal rubbish. Never let your
those can move quickly, horses are Sometimes, the places we walk dog venture on to ice, because
even faster and more athletic, and offer risk about which we may not if it gives way, he can become
so paddocks with horses in should be aware. Dogs running loose along trapped underneath. Ignore those
cliff edges might not understand hearty people who assure you that
that the ground can suddenly something can’t possibly happen,
disappear, dogs jump off bridges because if it can, sooner or later it
because their eyesight doesn’t tell will. Nobody ever regretted taking a
them that the water is way below little extra care.
the level of the footway, and I We need to protect our own
remember once a dog on the beach safety as well. Sometimes there
swimming out to a rock, refusing are circumstances that we just
to recall, and being trapped by the cannot foresee. I remember my two
incoming tide before being rescued Lurchers, gentle, introverted dogs,
by an intrepid swimmer. Inland, once surrounding a small patch of
even small streams can present shrubbery, hackles up, growling,
and barking savagely in a way I
had never heard them do before.
After a short time, when they had
graduated to diving at the bushes,
a partially-clad man broke out and
ran for it. Luckily for all of us, they
didn’t pursue, but came back to me,
tails in the air, job done.

Right (top): Don’t

be afraid to set
boundaries

Right: Give your

dog your full attention
on walks

54
Your Dog November 2024
YOUR PROBLEMS SOLVED

SPONSORED BY

Dog Answers
When it comes to raising a puppy there are many things to
consider. Our advice will help you bring up the perfect pup.

Yelping puppy their littermates. Since their distress is so apparent,

Q I have just got a new puppy. She is fine until

bedtime, when she will whine continually.
I’ve tried leaving her but the whining then turns
owners often respond in the way you describe. It then
becomes a hard habit to change as the puppy knows
that crying and whining eventually brings you to
into yelps. them. Now that your puppy is used to sleeping near
She sounds so distressed that I give in and she you I would recommend that you set her crate up near
often ends up in my bed. I know I shouldn’t have let to your bed. If she is near you then she should settle
this happen, but hearing her sound so distressed and learn to sleep in her crate without becoming
really upsets me. How should I tackle this? She has a overly distressed.
puppy crate. Over time you will be able to gradually move her
crate out of your room and into the most appropriate

A This is a common concern for new puppy

owners. They often become distressed at night
when they are left alone for the first time, away from
place. Doing it this way should allow you to avoid
further trauma to your puppy and hopefully get some
unbroken sleep.

Make your pup’s crate

safe and comfy so he
settles in it quietly.

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YOUR PROBLEMS SOLVED

Feeding my new puppy reach maturity. will be able to show you how to

Q What are the most

important considerations
when feeding a puppy? How
Your puppy shouldn’t be skinny,
but neither should he be allowed
to become overweight. Research
assess this.
Your vet should weigh your
puppy at vaccination and most
much and how often should I has shown that fat puppies now offer a junior check. They
feed him? become fat adults, who are at risk should also give you feedback
I’ve just acquired a 12-week- of a whole range of associated at these times as to whether
old Cocker Spaniel and I’m keen health problems. your puppy is underweight
to feed him the best diet to keep Each dog is an individual and or overweight.
him healthy and in optimum the amount they need to eat
condition. depends on their level of activity,,
their lifestage, and their individual
al

A While your puppy is young

he will need more frequent
meals, but as he grows older these
metabolic rate.
The first six months is a period of
very rapid growth and you would d
can gradually decrease in number. expect a puppy to be consuming
Up until around 12 weeks old, more calories during this phase
he’ll need four meals a day of a than an adult dog of the same size.ze.
good-quality, complete puppy The feeding amounts you see on
food; after 12 weeks, this can be the back of a pet food bag are only
nly
reduced to three meals a day, and guides. This is because of our dogs’
gs’
changed again, at about 16 weeks fantastic capabilities for individual
al
of age, to two meals. Switch over variation.
to an adult formula diet when your The key is to look at your
Discuss your pup’s
pup is a year old (if he’s a smaller puppy’s body condition. Ask at
dietary needs with breed), or 18 months if he’s a larger your local veterinary practice to
your vet. breed and therefore slower to speak to a veterinary nurse who

Training classes a list of qualified tutors running offer classes or you might find

Q I’m getting a puppy soon,

and I want to start training
her as soon as possible. There
classes suitable for puppies
under 20 weeks and for lots of
information about raising your
a reputable trainer through the
Association of Pet Dog Trainers
(apdt.co.uk).
are so many types of training pup. All the basics are covered These trainers use positive
and behaviour classes that and no older dogs are allowed in methods and are up to date with
I’m getting a bit confused. class. If you then fancy continuing current techniques. Most of all,
When should we start puppy with your training there are make sure you have fun learning
training? How soon can she many options. Your tutor may with your puppy.
do obedience? I don’t want to
overwhelm her (or me) with
too much too soon, but I also
don’t want to miss out on any
opportunities.

A It is fantastic that you’re

doing your research and
trying to find a class for your new
puppy. It has been shown that
very young puppies can learn fast
and so it would be ideal for you to
enrol in a puppy class as soon as
you can.
Reward-based methods are
essential so your puppy learns
to trust you implicitly. Small
classes are also important so your
puppy isn’t overwhelmed and so
Do plenty of research
to find the right
you get enough attention from
training class for you your trainer.
and your puppy. Visit puppyschool.co.uk for

Dog insurance call 03300 243 990

56
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

with the door open. difficult for puppies to hold on

At night, she goes to bed at much longer than a few hours
10pm but she starts howling, and they often cry to be let out as
barking, and crying at 1.30am they don’t like toileting where
and again at 4.30am, when we they sleep.
eventually get up to her. We are This is all part of owning a
morning people and are usually puppy, I’m afraid. As your dog
up at 6am. At these times she grows up and her digestive system
usually soils her crate, but once matures, your puppy will be able
we have cleaned up and given to hold on for longer. Set your
her a cuddle, she goes back to alarm and get up to let her out
sleep. We have tried leaving her before she has soiled. Put her out
to howl and bark for about half to toilet calmly and quietly and
an hour, but eventually we have then put her back to bed. If she
to get up. wakes you and you get up, it’s
Puppy wakes at night She has slept all through the important that you don’t make a

Q Three weeks ago we got an

11-week-old Cocker Spaniel
puppy, called Holly. She has
night on two occasions. Do you
think we’re expecting too much
from her?
fuss of her.
Wait a little longer before you let
her out each night and she should
Getting up in a crate that she goes in during gradually improve. Make sure she
the middle of the
night to toilet is all
part and parcel of
puppy ownership.
the day and night to sleep. She
knows it is her den already and
will settle in the day happily
A At 11 weeks of age it is normal
for your puppy to wake up
during the night to toilet. It is
is out of any draughts and you
should find that she soon sleeps
through the night.

He only responds to treats! Watch your dog carefully and only click and reward

Q I have been clicker training my puppy for a

few weeks now and he will do anything for a
treat, but when I try to ask for a sit when I haven’t
for the best examples of the behaviour such as the
fastest, the straightest or whatever element you are
working on, or simply decide that you are going to ask
got a treat he doesn’t always respond. Sometimes for two or three repetitions before clicking. You might
he throws himself into a down rather than a sit, and end up only clicking for six out of 10 repetitions, and
when I withhold the click he gets frustrated and your dog begins to get used to the fact that not all
starts barking. I then go and get a treat and start attempts are good enough for a reward. He also learns
again and he sits immediately. How can I wean him that the rewards are still there if he works harder for
off treats to get him to do what I want? them. However, if you are happy with a behaviour but
decide not to click, use your voice to praise briefly. That

A You are not alone in finding the transition from

food in the hand to no food difficult, and this is not
just a clicker training problem. Restart your training with
way he will learn that praise can also be part of the
reward system.

your puppy, bearing in mind the following suggestions.

The problem can often arise due to the use of poor
techniques. There are certain important points to
remember when clicker training a new dog.
It can help to hold both the food and the clicker in
the same hand. Load a few treats in your palm behind
the clicker and leave the delivery hand empty.
You can use either hand for the clicker and food but
make sure you regularly change hands to keep your
dog guessing. Make sure that you keep your hands in a
neutral position, such as at waist level, and still. Click for
the behaviour you wish to reward then take a piece of
food in your free hand and deliver it to your dog. Do not
move your hands until you have clicked.
Be very disciplined about this. Once you think that
your dog understands the behaviour you are working
on, place your treat box close at hand on a table, keep
your hands in the same neutral position, click for the
Be very disciplined
behaviour, and reach for the food from your box. When
with your clicker you are satisfied that your dog can cope with this, start
training. to use random reinforcement.

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57
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RESCUE DOGS

Rescue dogs
looking for homes
Could one of these lovely rescues be perfect for you?
O Name: Timmy (Male)
O Age: 4
Timmy
O Lurcher
Timmy is a lovely young boy who needs a place where he can
express himself and then enjoy relaxing. Timmy’s animal carer,
James, says: “Timmy is a lap dog who loves his cuddles; he always
gets really excited to see me and does a full body wiggle. He’s nice
to walk as he’s not strong on the lead or reactive. He’s lived in a
home before so we know he is house-trained and doesn’t have any
separation issues. He does need some management to adjust to
new people calmly.”
O To find out more, visit bathcatsanddogshome.org.uk/adopt/
timmy-lurcher

O Name: Simba (Male)

O Age: 4
O Breed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross
Known for his playful and larger-than-life personality, Simba loves
being active and engaging in outdoor activities with his human
Simba
companions. However, due to his struggles with other dogs, Simba
needs a quiet home with a secure garden and access to peaceful
walks.
Simba’s ideal home must be free of other pets and should have
someone available most of the time. Although he is house-trained,
relaxed around traffic, and comfortable travelling in a car, Simba
needs to be muzzled and on a lead when out and about.
His favourite game is chasing after a tennis ball, and he also
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playful nature, Simba cherishes quiet moments and often seeks
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O To find out more, visit dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/dogs/
terrier-staffordshire-bull/1248549

O Name: Gibson (Male)

O Age: 3
Gibson O Breed: German Shepherd cross
Having spent just over a year in kennels, ‘underdog’ Gibson is still
hopeful to find a patient family who can offer him plenty of love.
Gibson is an enthusiastic, fun-loving, smart, and active boy. He
still considers himself to be a puppy, especially when he’s presented
with a new toy to play with.
Despite his spirited character, Gibson also has a sensitive side and
a few medical needs. He is likely to thrive in a quieter environment
where he can be kept occupied with calming enrichment activities
and reward-based training. He can be strong on his lead and can
be extra lively when seeing other dogs, so needs people who can
confidently manage his strength, and who could take him for walks
in less-frequented locations. Gibson is best suited to being the only
pet in an adult-only household.
O To find out more, visit dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming
58
Your Dog November 2024
 Q

Sally Trevor

O Sally (Female)
O Age: 2
O Breed: Greyhound
Sally is an affectionate and gentle soul with a calm demeanour that whole world would be to live with other dogs — he loves nothing
makes her a joy to be around, especially during quiet moments more than walking and running with lots of dogs that he can follow,
at home. She also has a wonderful, playful side and enjoys bursts play with and learn from. Indoors, Arthur is a perfect gentleman,
of happiness, particularly when she’s exploring or playing. Sally is he’s quiet and calm, and although not a lap dog, he loves to curl up
particularly good with children aged over six. She would thrive in a next to you. If you want a super fun, small dog (6kg), then Arthur is
home where she can get a good balance of calm and play. Given her your boy!
good relationship with children, a family with kids would be ideal, O To find out more, visit hampshirepaws.co.uk
but she would also do well in a quieter household as long as she
gets plenty of attention.
O To find out more, visit hectorsgreyhoundrescue.org
Arthur
O Trevor (Male)
O Age: 2
O Breed: English Bulldog
Trevor is a sensitive soul who can be worried and upset by noises
around him so would like to find a confident, well-adjusted and
socialised dog to call his new best friend. A nice rural/semi-rural
environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life would be
ideal due to his nervousness.
He may not warm to people straight away but it doesn’t take him
long to befriend them and to then cheekily test the boundaries. He
enjoys playing with soft toys and basically destroying them! Trevor
is also on long-term medication due to mild hip dysplasia and if he
doesn’t take his pain relief, he struggles. This beautiful boy is looking
for a home with another dog to live with.
O To find out more, visit bristolarc.org.uk/pets/trevor

O Arthur (Male)
O Age: 8
O Breed: Bichon Frise
Arthur has bags of energy and would walk and run for hours if
he was allowed. His recall training outside is going really well but
would need to be ongoing because he’s discovered that the world is
an exciting place! He is super friendly to all but his best thing in the
59
www.yourdog.co.uk
TO ADVERTISE HERE PLEASE CONTACT ANDREA ON 01778 395064 OR EMAIL A.WALTERSWARNERSGROUP.CO.UK

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WWW.NYRVANA.CO.UK Why not support and become a Friend
01462 730464 (Hertfordshire) of Lord Whisky for £20 per annum,
License No: ANI/8154
to receive our Newsletters and help
the animals in our care.
Park House Stelling Minnis Nr Canterbury.CT4 6AN
www.lordwhisky.co.uk/donate
Registered Charity 238483

LAST CHANCE
ANIMAL RESCUE
Kent, Surrey & Sussex Area
Permanently looking for loving
homes for dogs.
We operate a non destruct policy.
Open to the public every day 10am-3pm except Tuesdays
www.lastchanceanimalrescue.co.uk
Tel: 01732 865530 / 01797 366620

Rescuing and rehoming

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Tel: 01889 577058
Why not subscribe to
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We have 100’s of dogs needing forever homes!

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YOUR PROBLEMS SOLVED Q

Q &A s p ecial Brain games

Q : I’ve got a young Border
Collie that is a busy bee and
needs mental stimulation, can
snuffle mat. Fill these toys with
food or treats and dogs either lick
the contents or roll the toys with
with tennis balls – your dog has to
work out how to remove the balls
to get to the treats.
you suggest some games I can their nose or paws so the treats
try to keep her occupied? fall out. Home-made versions are TOP TIP: Introduce new toys and
just as good, so use a cardboard games gradually so that your

A : You are doing the right thing

to seek out active games for
your Border Collie. As you know,
box and fill it with treats and layers
of scrunched up newspaper and
blankets. They will have a lot of
dog understands what to do and
doesn’t get frustrated.

they are highly intelligent dogs fun digging and pulling out the A dog’s sense of smell is one of
and need exercise and mental stuffing to get to the treats. their strongest senses and using
stimulation to avoid boredom. Sprinkle a few treats on the floor their nose can be quite tiring
Here are some games ideas you and cover them with an old towel as well as a lot of fun – so scent
can try… or tea towel – your dog has to tracking games are very good to
Problem solving to find food is a work out how to get to them. Or prevent boredom. Get a clean, old
very natural thing for dogs to do, for a more difficult version, wrap sock and fill the toe with some
so we can use this in many ways to some treats up in an old tea towel particularly smelly food that
encourage them to use their brains to make a roll. your dog will love. Put your dog
and keep them happy. It’s also Put some treats in an empty out of sight so that they cannot
why using food as a reward during Pringles tube or another cardboard watch you. Drag the sock along
training is so effective. tube and let your dog work out the ground to a hiding place,
how to get them. such as behind a tree or a piece
TOP TIP: To avoid frustration, Hide treats or toys and of furniture – but don’t make the
always give a ‘work-free’ meal encourage your dog to find trail too long to start with. Take a
about an hour before games and them. Only give as much help as few pieces of the food and place
training sessions and save some is needed. If your dog is happy at the beginning of the trail and
biscuits for training later. sniffing around on their own, leave partway along, to help them on
them to it. their first few tries. Bring them to
Interactive toys you can buy Put some treats in a muffin the start of the trail and encourage
include a Kong, activity ball, or baking tray and cover each hole them to follow it and they should
find the hidden sock. When they
find it, praise and give them the
treats hidden inside. For more of a
challenge, try it out on a walk.
If your dog likes to dig in your
garden and you’re fed up with the
holes in your lawn, then build your
dog their own sandpit or earth
pit. Bury toys and treats inside,
but remember to always supervise
your dog.
Good luck keeping your dog
entertained, it can be very
rewarding and great fun too!

Above: Julie Stone,

Head of Animal
You can visitbcdh.org.uk/pet-
Operations at Bath Cats care-advice to view or download
and Dogs Home their guidance sheets.

theinsuranceemporium.co.uk/YD99
61
www.yourdog.co.uk
 GIVEAWAYS

Your chance to win goodies!

BELDRAY CLEANING SET

We love our furry friends, but removing pet hair from
2 clothes, carpets, and upholstery can be a challenge.
Enjoy the cuddles and fur-get the mess thanks to
TO WIN cleaning experts, Beldray. We have two of their pet
cleaning bundles to give away.
The Airgility Pet Plus Vacuum removes pet hair and
dirt with ease, and is cordless so you can reach anywhere
in the home. The bundle also features products from the
new Antibac Pet Plus+ collection, including the Cleaning
Blade, Rubber Head Broom, Dustpan and Brush,
Handheld Gel Lint Roller, and Upholstery Brush. Each
tool features an antimicrobial treatment to help prevent
bacteria build-up, keeping the tools cleaner and fresher
for longer.
O For more information, visit www.beldray.com

SNUGGLESAFE BONZO
2
COMPANION CUSHION TO WIN
AND HEATPAD
The SnuggleSafe Bonzo dog companion cushion
is a soft and cuddly companion with a zipped
pocket designed to hold an ORIGINAL SnuggleSafe®®
heatpad (included in the prize). It’s totally irresistiblee
and the perfect companion for your pet! It’s super
soft, giving warm comfort for up to 10 hours. It can
help save energy too, as you won’t need to leave
the central heating on as much. The SnuggleSafe
heatpad is bite resistant, has no wires for a pet to
chew through, and is completely non toxic.
O For more information, visit
www.snugglesafe.co.uk or call 01903 730811

HOW TO ENTER
Enter here!

For your chance to win these fabulous prizes, enter online by visiting www.yourdog.co.uk/freebies,
urdog.co.uk/freebies,
quote the code BAS24NOV, and follow the instructions on screen. The closing date for entries is
November 15, 2024 (UK only). Please note, you can enter online from October 3, 2024.
For full competition terms and conditions, visit www.warnersgroup.co.uk/competition-terms
 We promise we’ll never
put down a healthy dog.

Please promise to help us with a gift in your Will.

$:8/;/:58';!9,6;&8467;.58:6;)98;589420;"'###;09,6;32;948;";8:-9*32,;.:278:6';
19.57:0;511;5.8966;7-:;(;We never put down a healthy dog(;
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For more information E: infopack@dogstrust.org.uk or T: 020 7837 0006

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