With so many dogs in need of new homes, adopting a rescue dog can feel like the right and compassionate choice. However, evidence suggests that one in five dogs are returned to rescue centres after adoption, most commonly due to challenging behaviour.  In many cases, very little is known about the dog’s background, but one thing is certain: every rescue dog arrives with a history and some degree of emotional baggage.  Street dogs that are adopted from overseas often face addi

Dogs are often stereotyped according to their breed. While it’s true that certain breeds tend to display particular traits, such as Collies and their instinct to herd, many other behaviours, including excessive barking, aggression, stealing, or pulling on the lead, are far more often the result of a communication gap between humans and dogs. As a behaviourist, I repeatedly hear the same quote; “It’s the breed, they all do that,” and with social media constantly reinforcing th

When we hear the word ‘Alpha’, we tend to think of a bully, leading by fear and dominance.  This association stems from many years ago...

We all know the rules - if you own a dog, you have to walk the dog!  But do you?  Is it absolutely necessary?   How many of us feel...