Lords & Labradors Information Hub

The home of handy tips and advice dedicated to pet owners

Dog Lead Guide
03.05.23 May 03, 2023 Owning a Dog Featured

Dog Lead Guide

As a first-time dog owner, one of the essential items you'll need is a dog lead. It's important to choose the right type of dog lead for your furry friend, as well as understanding the laws and regulations that govern the use of dog leads in public spaces. In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about dog leads, including the different types of dog leads, UK dog laws and regulations, how to choose a dog lead, and training tips for using a dog lead effectively.   What Are The Best Dog Leashes? There are several types of dog leads to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your lifestyle and type of dog. Here are the most common types of dog leads and what we recommend each one for:   Extendable Dog Leads These leads allow your dog to explore further while still remaining under your control. They have a retractable cord that can extend to several meters and are perfect for walks in open spaces. However, they’re not the best choice for training your dog to walk on the lead without pulling. Extendable leads usually have a metal clip on the bottom which you can attach on to either your dog’s harness or collar. We love the Flexi dog leads, they come in two lengths and have an ergonomically designed handle making them comfortable to hold. They come in 5 colours so there’s sure to be one that you and your pooch will love.   Short Dog Leads [product] These leads are typically 1-2 meters long and are suitable for walking in busy areas or when training your dog. They provide more control over your dog and can prevent them from pulling or running away. Short dog leads come in a range of materials from rope which is great for stronger dogs, leather which is a good durable option, as well as nylon which are often in stylish patterns and print. Short dog leads will usually have a looped handle to either hold or put round your wrist. Similarly to extendable leads, short dog leads will have either a metal clip or a carabiner on the end so they easily fasten on to your dog’s collar or harness. Our Essentials Walking Collection has a range of short leads in both our Twill and Herdwick fabrics.  They are handcrafted in Italy using the finest leather for the handles and either a durable canvas or woven fabric for the strap, finished off with silver hardware - perfect for stylish walkies.   Slip Dog Leads These leads are made of a loop of material that goes around your dog's neck and tightens when pulled. They’re great for if your dog walks off lead a lot because as the name suggests they’re easy to slip on and off as needed. Because slip leads tighten around the neck when the dog pulls, they may not be the most suitable option for training dogs, especially those that pull on the lead. The tightening of the lead round the dog’s neck can cause them to choke, leading to negative associations with being on the lead and increased anxiety. We recommend these for dogs who already walk well on the lead and if the dog will be off the lead for the majority of their walk. The slip lead we recommend is the Dogs & Horses Rolled Leather Slip Lead, the buttery soft leather is rolled which helps protect your dogs coat from knots. They’re made using cord which is designed for use by yachtsmen so they’re strong and won’t rot if they get wet, this is then wrapped in the softest Italian leather which is hand stitched in their cosy London workshop- these leads have been crafted to last. Available in almost every colour of the rainbow, there’s sure to be one of these gorgeous leads to suit every pup.   Training Line Leads Training line leads, also known as long lines, are another type of dog lead. These leads are typically longer than standard leads, often 10 meters or more, and can be useful for training purposes, such as recall training or teaching your dog to walk off lead. They provide your dog with more freedom to roam, while still giving you control over their movements. When using a training line lead, it's important to ensure that the line is not too long, as this can lead to your dog getting tangled or running away. Always supervise your dog when using a training line lead, and use a sturdy and durable lead that can withstand the wear and tear of training activities. We love the Ancol Outside Training Line, it comes in two lengths and is perfect for allowing your dog freedom whilst still being in control.   Hands-Free Dog Leads [product] Hands-free dog leads are designed to allow you to walk your dog while keeping your hands free. These leads are a great choice if you’re planning to run or hike with your dogs. Hands-free leads typically have a waistband or belt that you can fasten around your waist, leaving your hands free to use poles or run without having to hold onto a lead. They can also be useful for people with mobility issues or for those who need to carry bags or other items, whilst being out with their dog. When using a hands-free lead, it's important to ensure that your dog is well-trained and obedient, as they will have more freedom to move around. We love the Ruffwear roamer leash, it can be looped round your waist or can be handheld if needed. The lead has a bungee strap which cushions and stretches as you and your dog speed up or slow down, helping to reduce any impact on both yours and your dog’s joints.   What Are The UK Laws and Regulations For Dog Leads? In the UK, there are laws and regulations that govern the use of dog leads in public spaces. Section 27 of the Road Traffic Act requires that dogs must be on a lead on designated roads, and if not, the owner could face a fine. What is classed as a designated road is decided by your local authority, so it's always best to check with them. Similarly, the Countryside Code recommends that dogs should always be under control in public spaces to prevent them from disturbing wildlife or livestock. They recommend keeping your dog on a lead or in sight to ensure they stay away from wildlife, livestock, horses and other people. If you're unsure there are usually signs with that areas rules in, so it's always best to check. Some areas may also have Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) that require dogs to be on leads in certain places. It's important to be aware of these laws and regulations to avoid fines and keep your dog and others safe. We recommend checking with your local authority if you’re unsure of the rules in your area.   Choosing A Dog Lead When choosing a dog lead, there are several factors to consider, including the size and breed of your dog, your dog's behaviour, and your lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you choose the right dog lead: Consider the size and breed of your dog: Larger or stronger dogs may require a more robust lead, while smaller dogs may do well with a lighter lead. Think about your dog's behaviour: If your dog pulls or is difficult to control, a shorter lead may be more suitable. If your dog is well-behaved and obedient, an extendable lead may be a good option. Consider your lifestyle: If you're an active dog owner, a hands-free lead may be more convenient. If you mainly walk your dog in busy areas, a shorter lead may be more suitable.   How To Train A Dog On A Lead Using a dog lead effectively requires training and patience. Here are out pet experts top tips on training a dog to walk on a lead: Start with a short lead and a comfortable collar or harness for your dog, and slowly introduce them to the lead by letting them sniff it and rewarding them with treats. Once they’re comfortable with the lead, attach it the collar or harness. You’ll want to start by walking your dog in a quiet, low-distraction environment to help them get used to the lead and build their confidence. This could even be round your garden or in your house before their vaccinations, to help make that first outside walk less daunting. If your dog pulls on the lead, stop walking and wait for them to come back to you. Reward them with treats when they do. To teach your dog to heel, start by walking them on your left side, holding some treats in your left hand. Hold the lead in your right hand and keep it short but loose. Give your dog the "heel" command and start walking. If your dog starts to pull or veer off course, stop walking and bring them back to your left side. Reward your dog with treats and praise when they walk calmly by your side, they will begin to associate walking next to you with getting treats and being a positive action. Gradually increase the length of your walks and the level of distraction. As they start walking by your side more consistently you can reduce how frequently you are giving them treats and just reward them with a ‘good boy’ or ‘good girl’ and fuss. Eventually, once the habit has formed, they will consistently walk by your side with no reassurance needed. For dogs that have a strong tendency to pull, consider using a front-clip harness like the Ruffwear Front Range harness which allows you to clip the lead on to both the front and back of the harness. Teaching your dog to heel can be a challenge, but with patience and consistency, it's a skill that can be learned by any dog. Heel training can help prevent your dog from pulling on the lead and make walks more enjoyable for both you and your dog. If your dog has recently started pulling we recommend going back to basics and stopping walking every time they pull and giving them a treat every time they walk by your side, even if you don’t get very far for your first few walks your dog will quickly learn to stop pulling on the lead and walk time will become more enjoyable. If your dog pulls a lot try wearing your dog out in the garden with a game of fetch or tug of war, it may help them to relax on the walk as they have less excess energy.   How To Teach A Dog To Walk Off The Lead Once your dog is well-trained on the lead, you can start to teach them to walk off lead. You will likely have been practising recall with your puppy at home and this will come in handy when walking your dog off the lead. To teach your dog to walk off lead, start by practicing in a secure, enclosed area. There are now a lot of dedicated enclosed dog fields which you can book that are perfect for practising recall and off lead walking in a safe environment. Start by using a long line lead to give your dog some freedom, but still keep them under control. Use a consistent command, such as "free," to signal to your dog that they can walk off lead and using your ‘heel’ command and recall to get them to walk next to you. As your dog becomes more obedient, you can begin practicing off lead walks in open spaces. It's important to be aware of any potential hazards, such as roads or livestock, and always keep your dog under control. In conclusion, choosing the right dog lead is essential for both your dog's safety and your own peace of mind. Consider your dog's breed, behaviour, and your lifestyle when choosing a lead, and be aware of UK dog laws and regulations. Training your dog to walk on a lead requires patience and consistency, but with time, you and your furry friend can enjoy stress-free walks. Teach your dog to walk on a loose lead and use the heel command to prevent pulling. And remember to only walk your dog off lead in safe areas and when they are well-trained and obedient.

By Megan Willis

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How To Stop My Dog Barking When Out Walking
18.04.23 April 18, 2023 Owning a Dog Featured

How To Stop My Dog Barking When Out Walking

Dogs bark for a number of reasons, and getting to the bottom of their constant barking might take some time to understand. Once you know why your dog reacts to certain triggers when out and about on walks, then you can train your dog to behave quietly. Your pup's persistent barking may create a commotion, and even trigger barking in other dogs (who may otherwise have been quiet). We know this is less than ideal, on a walk where your dog can’t help but draw attention to you both, in this blog we discuss the potential triggers and how to avoid the unnecessary barking.   Why Does My Dog Bark On A Walk? Barking on walks is often due to a mix of emotions, it could be due to, fear, defence, excitement, frustration, the need for interaction, or play. The type of barking may take some time to understand, however you’ll know your dog best and you’ll often be able to understand what their barking is trigged by. This may be due to your dog being uncomfortable with people or dogs on walks, and your pup may want increase distance due to stress or anxiety. Alternatively, an excited or frustrated bark may be due to your pup not understanding impulse control. The excited barking in this case, is usually a distance-decreasing signal, meaning your dog would like to go and meet the person or dog and wants to reduce distance between them and the more exciting object/person/dog.   Why Is My Dog Anxious On Walks? When dealing with an anxious dog, who may default to fear barking, try to desensitise your dog to walks, making them less anxious. Create positive associations with your dogs triggers, you may start with sitting outside and watching dog walkers walk past back and forth from a distance, feed treats to create positive encouragement. A big reason why your dog may bark when they are outside is due to a lack of proper socialisation, and they’re unsure what that squirrel is or who that other dog is. Thus, they develop irrational fears or view those triggers as intruders.   How To Walk An Anxious Dog It’s good to know your dog may be fearful on a walk and will likely be in a fight or flight state, so it’s best to start your training at home to begin with. Use positive reinforcements such as treats and encouragement. Start by walking with calm, confident dogs your pup knows well and won’t react to as dogs are influenced easily by other dogs and being with them may calm your dog down. Stay close to home and follow the same routes daily before venturing further out, avoid traffic or busy roads as this excess noise may terrify your pup more.   How To Stop Your Dog Barking On Walks With proper training and positive encouragement, it is possible for you to avoid the embarrassment of your dog barking throughout your walk. Start by teaching your pooch heel, so they walk in a controlled manner from the beginning, it also helps them understand you’re leading the walk, which in turn should help to enforce your training and command them to stop when barking. Make sure you have lots of treats and your dogs walk wear is comfortable and isn’t too restrictive, yet keeps them comfortably secure. You may try different training methods, depending on your lifestyle and relationship with your pooch, you may want to try distraction or start with desensitising your pooch to their triggers.

By Megan Willis

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How To Train A Dog To Sleep In Their Bed
12.04.23 April 12, 2023 Owning a Dog Featured

How To Train A Dog To Sleep In Their Bed

​We know there is nothing better than a snuggle with your pooch in bed, but it’s not so ideal when they’re up, pacing and circling, at 3am trying to get a comfortable spot right in the middle of your bed. Like most dogs, your pooch will have a family member they’d like to sleep with, however this shouldn’t mean you’ve got to give up your bed for them to get comfy too. You can even train your dog to sleep outside of your room if required, but most importantly, they settle on their nice and comfy bed, and that’s where they stay until morning. In this blog, we discuss how to get your dog to fall asleep in their bed, and not share yours each night.   How To Teach A Dog To Go To Bed Training your dog to go to sleep in their own bed is made easy when they’ve got a comfy, supportive bed and they have a repetitive routine. Make sure you’ve done some research into the correct bed, you can find more information on choosing your dog bed in our How To Choose A Dog Bed. It’ll take some time to train your dog to sleep in their bed, unfortunately, it won’t happen overnight, but doing so will be a big reward for you and your pup. If your dog is used to sleeping in your bed with you, consider the placement of their bed before you start training them out of your bed and into sleeping in their own. Your pooch will feel similarity and safety when hearing your breathing whilst you sleep. Once you’ve bought the correct size and shape bed for your dog, you’ll need treats and patience to train them into sleeping in their own bed.   How To Get A Dog To Sleep In A Dog Bed Your first step is to get a dog bed that your dog is happy to sleep in and is comfortable for them. If they’re a stretched-out sleeper, a mattress style bed will more comfortable. If they sleep in a ball, then opt for a high wall bed instead. Secondly, choose the spot your dog will feel comfortable sleeping in - make sure it’s where the bed will stay permanently and it will always be accessible when it is bedtime. Set a command you say to your dog each evening when it’s bedtime. When you use the command, make sure you’re giving your dog a treat when they get onto their bed. It’s good to practice this command, some may use ‘go to bed’ or ‘on your bed’, when you want your dog to lie in their bed. Practicing throughout the day will help install the command at night too. When it’s time to go to bed, give your pooch their command, encourage them to get into their bed and then give them a treat. It may take a couple of nights to get this right, but they should pick it up fairly quickly. If your dog leaves their bed during the night, ask them to get back onto their bed and offer a treat. If they wake again, do not give them a treat, simply use the command and ask them to get onto their bed. If your dog prefers toys to treats, you could offer them a special bedtime toy they’ll love instead of a treat as a reward.   What Dog Bed Should I Buy? Our dog beds are split into the following categories, Donut Beds, Box Beds, High Wall Beds, Mattress Beds & Puppy Beds. Although there is a lot to choose from, finding the correct bed for your dog is invaluable to both you and your pooch.   Donut Beds Donut beds are especially good for dogs with anxiety, often the soft, pillow-like cushioning will relax and soothe your dog, which makes a great ‘bedtime’ bed. Choosing a well-stuffed donut bed with durable fabric will ensure your pooch gets just the right amount of head and neck support whilst they sleep or relax. They’re best for dogs who love to curl up when sleeping.   Box Beds Box beds are great for dogs who like to sleep in lots of different positions. The sides offer a comfortable head pillow when required, they can get cosy inside the bed curled up should they want to and they can also easily stretch out without pushing against the side of the bed. Our box beds are made with durable, washable materials, with supportive stuffing to ensure the utmost comfort for your furry friend.   High Wall Beds High walled beds are particularly good for dogs who love to cuddle up to something. The high sided walls gives them security and warmth whilst they sleep. If your dog loves to hang their head over the side of the bed too, this could be a great option for them.   Mattress Beds Dogs who love to stretch out may love sleeping on the floor, but with a mattress bed, you can provide the support they need as well as letting them stretch out and enjoy their sleep. Mattress beds are great for dogs struggling with arthritis or stiff joints as they’re easy to get onto and provide the right amount of firmness and support, there are even orthopaedic options for extra support.    Puppy Beds Our puppy beds are designed for all breeds in mind, ranging a variety of different sizes and two different shapes. Our Grow With Me beds are a great 2 in 1 bed for your pup to help them settle in, they're round with high sides so are great for snuggling in up in and they also have a removable inner ring so the bed can grow with them. Our other style of puppy beds are our cosy and calming puppy crate beds, these have been designed with puppy training in mind. Our cosy & calming beds fill just over half of a dog crate so are perfect to help crate train and toilet train your puppy. The beds also work great as stand alone beds and have plush cosy sides perfect for puppies to rest their heads on. Puppy’s need support and warmth which our Lords & Labradors puppy beds all provide.

By Laura Rudd

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Things To Do With Your Dog At Home
06.03.23 March 06, 2023 Owning a Dog Featured

Things To Do With Your Dog At Home

We know keeping your dog's minds busy in summer on hot days or on the occasional rainy day when walks aren't possible can be a struggle. On those more rainy days you probably aren't wanting to go on the longest walk with your dogs and walking your dog's in temperatures over 20 can be fatal. We thought we’d compile a list of fun things to do with your dog at home, to help keep you and your four-legged friends occupied and exercised when the weather isn't allowing you and your dog to get out. We have fun activities for play as well as some others for downtime. Take a read and make the most of an afternoon at home with your pet:   Play Indoor Games With Your Dog One of the things we worry about most is getting bored of being indoors. But there are so many things we can do to keep our brains active and our minds occupied, including things we can do with our beloved canines. We’ve come up with a number of indoor games to play with your dog that we think you and they will enjoy!   Play a Game of Find-the-Treats One of the easiest games you could play is Find-the-Treats. You could hide them in a number of places to make the games super exciting. You could start by hiding them in your dog’s favourite KONG and watch them try to lick and tease them out. Then you could get more creative with your hiding places - perhaps pop one under a cushion, or even in another room. Try to use treats that have a strong scent to give your dog a helping hand. It’ll be fun for both you and them and they’ll get a tasty reward for their efforts.   Play a Game of Tug-of-War One of the drawbacks of extended time indoors is that your dog can end up with lots of unused energy. A game of Tug-of-War could be the ideal game to play to help them expel some of that pent-up excitement. Find a suitable tug toy for your dog’s size (we have many options in our shop!) and enjoy a game of tug with them. It can be a really useful training method too and can help redirect any inappropriate use of their teeth. This game is especially good for larger dogs in small spaces who may be used to running off energy outside.    Play Indoor Fetch You may think that games of Fetch are only suitable outside, but that isn’t necessarily the case. If you have a long hallway or a staircase, you could use a soft throwing toy to play a game of fetch indoors. The Chuckit Indoor Play Ball is just one toy that would be ideal, but there are a few plush toys that would be suitable too. If you have a small dog, you may find you can play this in the living room, but larger dogs may well need that staircase or hallway!   Set up an Indoor Obstacle Course If your dog rather likes an adventure, then why not try setting up an indoor dog assault course for them?  All kinds of things that you may find around your home could be used to set up a mini obstacle course for your dog. You could use pillows, boxes, a laundry basket, the stairs etc. Anything that your dog could jump over, or crawl through like a tunnel (a box with both ends open perhaps?) will make a great obstacle. It may take a little training to get them to do some of the tasks, but it will be rewarding for both your dog and you. Make sure to have some good quality training treats for their good behaviour!   Play the Shell Game  You have probably heard of the Shell Game or Cup Game. The game with three cups and a ball or other token where the cups are swapped around, and you have to follow the one with the token inside? It can be surprisingly difficult! Well how about swapping the regular token for a dog treat and play the game with your dog? It may take a little bit of training for them to get the ropes, but with a bit of time they’ll soon be having loads of fun trying to work out which cup has the treat!   Brush Up On Your Dog Training Whether you have a little puppy or an older dog, there is always something you can be teaching your dog. The saying may go, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, but actually it’s never too late to teach your dog something new. A spot of training will give you both something to focus on and may be lots of fun. Plus, we always relish any chance we get to spend a bit of bonding time with our pups!   Teach Your Dog a New Trick One of the simplest things you could do is think of a trick that your dog doesn’t already know. It could be learning to roll over, to kiss, to shake paws or to spin. There are loads of great videos online that will give you a helping hand.    Teach Your Dog to Tidy Their Toys You could take you dog’s training one step further and train them to do something practical, like tidy their toys. All that time spent in the house probably means your dog’s toy box contents is more often than not all over your floor! Well this could be the perfect way to get your dog involved with the chores. They’ll probably enjoy the time spent learning and it’ll mean one less chore for you to do. Again, there are a number of video tutorials and ‘How-To’s online. Take a look and start your dog on their cleaning journey!   Chill Out With Your Dog After all of these games and activities, you might find you’re both tired! We think you deserve a rest and to put your feet up whilst your canine family members snuggle up to you on the sofa. You’ve earned it!   Watch a Movie or Catch up on Netflix There’s nothing better than reclining on the sofa with a cup of tea, to watch a film or tv series. Whether it’s Netflix or Disney Plus, there are loads of new things coming to our TV’s all the time. Whilst your dog may not want to watch the latest movie, they’ll love snuggling up to you on the sofa, especially after a challenging day learning new things or defeating an obstacle course. You might even find something animal or pet related that will get your dog’s ears pricked.

By Megan Willis

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Help! My Cat and Dog Don’t Get Along - How to Introduce your Cat and Dog
21.02.23 February 21, 2023 Owning a Cat Featured

Help! My Cat and Dog Don’t Get Along - How to Introduce your Cat and Dog

People have stereotyped the relationship between cat and dog for an age; pitting them against one another as mortal foes. However the reality is somewhat different and many families enjoy both canine and feline company in the same home.    Do Cats And Dogs Get Along? They defintely can get along, it's all down to their personalities and the way you as an owner both train them and manage their environment. The way you introduce them and manage that introduction period will help form the foundation for their relationship.  The important thing to take into consideration is the personality of the pets in question. Finding two animals whose personalities gel, rather than conflict, is key. If you have an older, more relaxed pet for example, they will probably find it difficult to adjust if introduced to a new kitten; if you have a boisterous dog who loves to play, then a nervous cat may not be the right choice for you. If you are thinking about introducing a cat and dog into your home, or you already have them and need tips on how to help them get along, read our list of things we think you should consider. Dog Breeds That Can Live With Cats  All dog breeds have the potential to get along with cats, that being said there are some breeds who typically have a personality which is more suited to living with a cat. These include breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Pugs and Basset Hounds. The experts at Purina have put together their list of top cat friendly dog breeds, which is definitely worth checking out if you're thinking about adding a dog to your cat household.    How To Introduce Your Dog and Cat to a New Puppy Or Kitten 1. Let Them Smell Each Other First [product] We use scent to settle our pets in many situations. Many people bring home a blanket with Mum’s scent on when they first bring kitten or puppy home to help settle the new arrival. Similarly, if you want to get two animals used to each other it’s a good idea to share each of their scents with the other before they actually meet. This could mean giving them each a blanket from the others bed for example. This way they will be somewhat familiar with one another already.   2. Ensure Your Cat Has Their Own Territory [product] Cats enjoy their own space regardless of whether they share the home with other pets or not. If you are thinking of introducing another pet, then make sure your cat has places to retreat to when they want some peace and alone time. Cats naturally love climbing, so providing them with a cat tree or platforms attached to the wall is ideal and will give them somewhere they can watch the others in the house from a distance.  Also, try to keep their food in a different location to the dogs and place their litter tray somewhere that they won’t be distracted by the dog. A quiet spot of their own is ideal so they can do their business in peace. You can try sectioning areas off with dog gates. Just be wary of agile pups and those too large for a gate. This is ideal for young puppies though, whilst they are getting used to their feline friends.     3. Raise Them Together If you have the chance, raise your cat and dog together from a young age. Puppies and kittens will learn to accept things much more quickly than older pets who are set in their ways. Dogs are not only less confident in their younger years, but also smaller and therefore less physically intimidating to a smaller cat. Introduced in this way, cats will more quickly assume their place at the top of the cat/dog social hierarchy!   4. Plan The First Time They Meet Carefully It’s best to keep them in separate parts of the house for at least the first few days before you let them meet face-to-face. This will allow them both time to get to know the smell of the other and get to know their new homes. As with humans, first impressions are important. Finding a common interest can help the process; mealtimes are enjoyed by all creatures great and small, so why not start with food? One way to introduce them initially is to keep your cat and dog on either side of a door whilst you give them their food; they won’t see each other, but they will smell each other. This is a good way for them to associate the smell with something positive. If you can do this for a number of days whilst being able to keep them separate in the home, it will help in the long-run. Keep your dog on a lead for extra control, just-in case he gets excitable. You could start with a door and then slowly introduce them to each other visually with a dog gate between. If you can stretch this process over time, it will help keep it gradual and give them both time to adjust. During this process, alternate the rooms that each is allowed in thus giving them both more opportunity to get to know the smell of the other.   5. Make Sure Your Cat Is Relaxed When you do introduce them face-to face for the first time ensure your cat is totally relaxed. Keep your cat in your arms (long sleeves are a good idea!) whilst someone else brings your dog into the room on a leash. Take it really slowly, keeping an eye on both their reactions.  Gradually bring the dog closer one or two steps at a time and allow both to settle at each step. You could pop your cat in their carrier if that seems easier and more controlled. The last thing you want is for your cat to claw your arm in panic.   6. Show Equal Amounts Of Fuss To Both Pets It’s important to show equal amounts of affection to both pets during the introduction phase. Pets are just as prone to jealousy as children, so show them both that they’re loved and all should be fine.   7. Separate Them After Their First Meeting After they’ve first met, even if all went swimmingly, make sure to separate them again. Introducing them should be a gradual process with a number of these meetings taking place. Gradually lengthen the interactions over time and they will soon grow familiar with one another.   8. Let the Cat Loose First Once they seem comfortable in each others company, try giving the cat freedom to roam whilst keeping your dog on a lead. You want your cat to feel as comfortable as possible - in most cases they will be the smallest of the two animals. After a few interactions like this, if your dog seems content, try letting them off the lead at the same time. Hopefully the time taken to socialise them will have paid off and they will be fine in each others company.   9. Train Your Dog Well It’s imperative your dog knows what the boundaries are. A well mannered dog will be much more easy to settle in the same space as a cat. Knowing when to sit and having general manners is a must.   10. Exercise Your Dog  Dogs are much more naturally social creatures than their independent feline friends. We don’t mean to say that some cats don’t love a fuss, and I’m sure we all know someone with a loving lap cat, but, generally speaking, dogs enjoy more socialisation and cats appreciate some alone time. Try to exercise your dog as much as possible so that his energy levels in the house are kept to a level that suits the felines of the family. Making sure there are some brain stimulating toys around will also help, so when your dog does have excess energy to burn, he can play with those rather than chase the cat around the house!   11. Keep Their Things Separate If you can keep their bowls in different locations it will help prevent them from fighting over each others food. Dogs can be territorial when it comes to food so best let them eat in different areas. You could allow your cat to eat up high out of the way, on a table or other surface for instance, whilst your dog eats on the floor. Separate rooms is also a good idea if that’s an option - one in the utility and the other in the kitchen for example.   12. Separate Your Pets When You Leave the House If you will be leaving both pets at home together, keep them in separate rooms, at least until they have lived with one another for a long period and are fully comfortable with each other.   13. Don’t Scold Your Dog For Negative Behaviour Dogs can get playful and energetic; if yours starts to get a bit rough or loud with the cat try to redirect his energy on to something else. Obedience training will come in handy here. You don’t want to tell him off, but show him it’s ok to release his energy in the right place and the right time. This is the perfect time for playtime. Give him a toy to play with, take him out for a walk or something else positive. He’ll be less likely to associate negative things with the cat if you choose to distract him with a positive activity instead.   14. Reward For Good Behaviour The more positivity shown around the cat the better. Speak in a happy friendly way when the cat appears, pat the dog and give him a treat. The dog will soon learn to associate positive feelings and situations with the cat.   15. Remember That Every Pet Is Different And Be Realistic In Your Expectations Of Them All animals, just like humans, have their own ways and personality traits. Some are more sociable and laid back than others. Some just want their own space on their own terms. It’s important not to force anything and also not to give up. Take it steadily and react to how things are going on any given day. Perseverance and making transitional changes is key to a long lasting happy relationship between cat and dog. And remember, some pets just won’t enjoy being around others. It doesn’t mean they can’t live in the same house, just value their differences and try to give them the space they prefer. Keep them away from other pets as much possible and don’t force their interactions. Things will work out in the end and all family members will find their rightful place in the family household. If you have any questions about our article do get in touch. We're always happy to help in any way we can. Don't forget to follow our social media channels! You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

By Megan Willis

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How to Stop Your Cat Scratching Your Furniture
21.02.23 February 21, 2023 Health Featured

How to Stop Your Cat Scratching Your Furniture

Do you have a kitten with a habit for scratching your furniture? Perhaps they’ve taken a liking to scratching your door frames or wallpaper? First of all, it’s important to understand that your cat’s love of scratching is a natural instinct and actually good for their health and wellbeing. Rather than stopping them from scratching entirely you should try to encourage them to scratch in the correct places, like a scratch post for example; and deter them from scratching the wrong things, like your furniture!   Why Do Cats Scratch? Whilst it may seem like bad behaviour, your cat’s desire to scratch is actually something to encourage. It has a number of health and wellbeing benefits: Scratching keeps your cat’s claws in tip top condition - Helping to keep them sharp and shedding the outside layer as they grow. We all know cats love to climb, whether it’s a tree outside or their indoor scratch tree, and they need their claws to be healthy in order to do so. Scratching provides a workout - When your cat scratches, you may notice how they stretch out their body. Scratching is your cat’s version of a full body workout, allowing them to stretch out their muscles and keep their body in top condition for climbing and chasing their prey! Scratching is also a way for your cat to mark their territory - Your cat’s paws contain scent glands which leave behind an odour around their home. Scratching, especially when they are settling in, will make them feel at home and more secure in their surroundings. It can also relieve stress if they’re feeling anxious. Scratching can be a sign of boredom -. It’s essential to provide your cat with plenty of mental stimulation, especially if you have a house cat. Even older cats who may never have scratched your furniture can develop a bad habit out of stress or boredom.   How To Stop Your Cat Scratching Your Furniture The best way to prevent your cat from scratching in the wrong places is to encourage them in the right places! Providing your cat with plenty of scratching opportunities around the home will allow them to sate their desire without ruining your furniture. Good quality, strong scratch posts in a size suitable for your breed are a must. Make sure you provide enough height for your cat to be able to stretch out as they scratch. If you have an indoor cat, we’d highly recommend a series of posts and platforms in the form of a large cat tree so they can exercise in the way an outdoor cat would when outside. If your cat has already begun scratching your furniture, place a scratch post in that area; near doorways or sofas for example. It is also a good idea to place near sleeping spots as many cats enjoy a good scratch and stretch after waking. If your cat seems to enjoy horizontal scratching (your carpet for example), then a scratching mat is a good option. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in the post at first, don’t give in, persevere and make the post enticing. You could spray catnip on it or try playing near it. Some posts come with a dangly toy attachment - the perfect addition to encourage your cat to investigate! If your cat has already scratched somewhere they shouldn’t, make sure you wash down the area to remove any scent your cat may have released. You could even try spraying the area with pet safe Get Off spray to repel your cat from the area. If you think the scratching is down to boredom or anxiety, provide your cat with lots of toys and plenty of opportunity for interaction. Indoor cats especially, will need a variety of activities to keep them mentally stimulated. Catit makes the brilliant Senses range of cat toys that appeal to all of your cat's senses and there are a plethora of playground-like cat trees out there to ensure they get plenty of indoor exercise.    Don’t Consider Your Cat Naughty For Scratching Just remember that scratching is natural and has great benefits for your kitten and cats. Do discourage them from scratching in the wrong areas, but don’t chastise them too much, but rather encourage them in the right spots. It’s a good idea to plan ahead before you bring your kitten home and have areas for them to scratch in preparation. We hope this article is helpful, to both new kitten owners and those with an older cat who has started to scratch later in life. If you have any more questions, please do get in touch as we're always happy to help as much as we can.  

By Megan Willis

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How To Clicker Train A Puppy
09.01.23 January 09, 2023 Top Tips Featured

How To Clicker Train A Puppy

For those of you aware of Pavlov’s dog, you can understand why classical conditioning is an effective training mechanism. Replace Pavlov’s bell with a clicker and use dog treats as a reward for good behaviour and you’re left with the premise of clicker training. Clicker training is a reward-based training method in which a clicker notifies your dog that they have done the right thing. A clicker is a small device that makes a distinct clicking sound. This device is used to form an association with a reward, such as a dog treat or a toy - Police scent dogs will often work for a tennis ball. Whereas at first a reward is always given after a click, over time your dog will eventually begin to interpret the click as a reward in itself for showing positive behaviour. While many people question why they should use a clicker at all instead of a reward, a clicker lets your dog know exactly when they’ve shown the right behaviour, helping them to learn at a faster rate than more traditional training methods. For instance, when you reward your dog with a treat for responding to a sitting command, they have done other things such as stand up by the time they receive their treat. As a result, they can get confused, as they may have misinterpreted the reward for standing instead of sitting. The sound of a click should be implemented while your dog is showing good behaviour, not afterwards. Unlike the traditional method mentioned above, a clicker can mark the exact moment your pet has responded correctly to a command.   When To Start Clicker Training A Puppy You can start to train your puppy as early as eight weeks, however, you should note that the time it takes to train your puppy could depend on their age, temperament, gender and breed. It’s important to not get frustrated if your puppy isn’t learning the commands as quickly as you hoped, for it’s all about repetition and patience. Rely on the positive reinforcement of the clicker and treat and eventually, your puppy will begin to pick things up.   How To Start Clicker Training A Puppy Remember that when it comes to clicker training, timing is everything - click at the exact moment your dog responds correctly to your demand. Also, if the treat you are offering is food, you should cut down the amount of food they consume daily so that they don’t put on weight, you can even use some of their dry food to help them with their training. With that in mind, implement the following steps to clicker-train your puppy: Before starting the training process, you need to teach your dog that the click means a reward. Simply take your dog somewhere quiet (without any distractions), press down the clicker just once and give them a reward immediately after. Do not click if your dog is showing discouraging behaviour. Repeat this process for a few days, in bouts of around two minutes a few times throughout the day. Continue this step until they look at you as if to expect a reward immediately after you click, now you can start to teach them new tricks! Once your dog has associated a click with a reward, you can move on to some basic training. Start with a simple command like sitting down. Hold the thing that motivates your four-legged friend, whether that’s a treat or dog toy, and move it back over your dog’s head slowly. This method is called lying and should make your dog sit back instinctively. Press your clicker as soon as their bottom touches the floor so they become aware of the command they are being rewarded for. Give them their reward immediately after the click.  Once you have succeeded in luring your dog to sit down, add the word ‘sit’ and continue the training with a reward. Each time you lure your dog, say ‘sit’ in a loud but affirmative tone and as you did in Step Two, click and give your dog their treat as soon as their bottom touches the floor. After you have practised this a few times throughout the day, try and command them by saying ‘sit’ without the lure and see if they have learnt the association. Continue doing these exercises in short bursts of up to 10 minutes, although younger puppies may need shorter training sessions. Eventually, your dog will learn to automatically sit when they hear the ‘sit’ command. Once you are confident your dog has learnt to sit properly, start to reduce the number of times you reward your dog with a treat after the click. By now, the click will have become a reward in itself and you won’t need to acknowledge their good behaviour with a treat every time. There you have it - the simple process of click training.    Top Clicker Training Tips Timing is key! - Make sure to click as soon as your dog performs the command so they associate the click with what they've just done Reward every time - when they first start training rewarding every time is key, as they get more advanced you can begin to gamble with treats but to start with consistency is key. Studies have shown the key difference between professional dog trainers and your average pet owners is the number of treats and rewards, professional dog trainers tend to give their dogs many more treats when practising commands with them. Word Association - Saying 'sit' or 'down' won't mean anything to your dog to start with, it will take them time to begin associating the words with the action Keep the treats small - treats are great but you don't want your dog to put on loads of weight either, reducing their food intake or using their dry food as a treat is a great way to reward them and keep their calorie intake down End on a positive note - to keep training fun for both you and your pet make sure to end every session on a positive so even if they haven't quite gotten the hang of everything you've done that day they still go away feeling happy  Phase the treats out - once your pup has mastered a trick start slowly phasing the treats out, they will begin to associate the sound of the click as a reward and won't need the treat every time   How Does Clicker Training Help? Teaching your dog to sit using a clicker is just one example of a command they can learn. There are other behaviours that can be taught with this method and many other training accessories available for your puppy. However, teach your dog only one or two commands at a time and don’t move on until they are fully confident with them. Other examples include: Look - training your dog to look at you. Stay - asking your dog to stay in the same place without moving. Paw - opening your hand and ask your dog to place his paw in it. Lie down - luring your pet into a lying position. Roll over - encouraging your dog to roll over from a lying position Drop - getting your dog to drop something from its mouth. Leave it - getting your dog to move away from something they're about to pick up  Bed - getting your dog on their bed Heel - getting your dog to walk in line with your heel Clicker training provides an easy and efficient way to reward positive behaviours in your dog. Keep in mind that it will take time and keep the sessions short so that it’s an enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.

By Megan Willis

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How To Desensitise A Dog To Grooming
21.01.22 January 21, 2022 Owning a Dog Featured

How To Desensitise A Dog To Grooming

If your dog is young, or perhaps they’ve never been groomed before, they may be nervous over their first groom, and they may even hide when their brush comes out. In this article, we explore the ways in which you can desensitise your dog to grooming.   How To Groom A Nervous Dog At Home When beginning your grooming session, remember your dog won’t know why grooming them is so important. Your main goal throughout is to keep your dog comfortable and safe so they are not afraid of the tools you’re using throughout the groom. Try the below when desensitising your dog to smaller grooming processes Time it right - Try to time your groom when your dog is a little hungry and tired. This way, they’ll stand still for you and take treats off of you as rewards. Find somewhere quiet - Choose somewhere quiet where neither you or your dog will be distracted. Pet your dog gently - touch your dogs legs, body, ears, tails and head; observe their reaction. Give generously in treats - Give small treats throughout the desensitisation, they’ll provide a welcome distraction for your dog. Keep sessions short - whilst you’re still desensitising your dog, keep the sessions short and frequent. Use a brush/comb - start with a soft brush, substituting it for your hand and repeating the above routine. Get them used to their groom table/room - A groom table is ideal for grooming, however they can be hard to store and expensive. You can create your own space for grooming, but remember if it doesn’t feel safe or secure for your dog, they can get frightened. Ensure your pooch has good footing and is not likely to injure himself by jumping/falling off - Bath mats or rubber mats are great for non slip!   How Can I Calm My Dog For Grooming? You might find with being at home your dog is calmer than visiting a professional groomers studio, however the stimulation provided in the groom may make it difficult to keep them calm. Don’t forget to reward them throughout, every time they stand/sit still and when they allow you to manoeuvre them, give verbal praise and small treats. You may also want to use scent in the room which will calm your dog, such as the Animology Paws & Relax Aromatherapy Dog Spray. Paws & Relax is a soothing aromatherapy dog spray infused with lavender and chamomile to help calm and relax your dog. It contains built in conditioners and pro-vitamin B5 to help maintain a smooth and healthy coat. The perfect way to keep your dogs coat looking great whilst keeping them calm at the same time. It's a brilliant product for dog's who don't really like being groomed, to help them get used to it.   HowTo Restrain A Dog Whilst Grooming It’s good to remember your dog won’t understand being restrained and may think it’s a form of punishment. It’s important your dog knows you’re in control and you’re putting their safety first. If you don’t have a proper grooming restraint, you could enlist the help of an assistant (someone your dog knows and trusts) to hold/stand with your dog whilst you’re busy grooming them. Don’t forget to reassure them throughout and give treats for good behaviour.

By Megan Willis

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Why Do Dogs Play With Their Food Bowls?
17.12.21 December 17, 2021 Owning a Dog Featured

Why Do Dogs Play With Their Food Bowls?

No matter whether you keep to a strict feeding schedule for your canine companion or you free-feed your pup and allow them to graze over the course of the day, you may have seen your pet playing with their food bowl. From nudging it around the kitchen with their nose to picking it up with their mouth and flipping it, different types of ‘bowl behaviour’, as it is known, are common among all breeds of dogs. While these behaviours can be endearing on the surface, did you know that your dog could be trying to tell you something when they play with their food bowl? In this blog, we look into some of the reasons your faithful four-legged friend might be tipping their bowl, discuss if you should be concerned, and look at ways you can try to prevent them from doing this.    Why Do Dogs Push Food Bowls?  There are three main reasons your dog may be pushing or flipping over their food bowl. These range from simply disliking the bowl or the food inside it to physical illness. Read on to find out more.    Why Does My Dog Flip Their Food Bowl?  1. Your Dog Doesn’t Like The Bowl Or Finds It Difficult To Use Different breeds of dog require different types of food bowls. For example, dogs with large snouts, such as greyhounds, whippets and Afghan hounds, find eating out of a deeper bowl much easier than traditional, more shallow doggy dishes. Similarly, extra tall bowls which have walls that narrow towards the top are ideal for dogs with long ears, helping to ensure their ears stay out of their food. With this in mind, if a dog is struggling to use their bowl comfortably because it does not meet their needs, they may push or flip it out of frustration. To avoid this, always research which type of bowl is best for your breed of dog and ensure it is the correct size and placed at a comfortable height for your furry friend to eat at.  If your dog has only recently taken to pushing or flipping their bowl, it could be that they are being put off by the smell or texture of the item. For this reason, making sure the bowl is regularly cleaned is a good idea. Ceramic or steel bowls tend to be the easiest to clean.    2. Your Dog Doesn’t Like The Food In The Bowl Dogs can be picky eaters and can often turn their noses up at food that they have happily eaten for years for no apparent reason. When this happens, pushing or flipping their bowl - typically while it is still full - may be their way of letting you know they want something else. If you believe this to be the case, consider switching the flavour or brand of food you are giving your pooch. However, we do not recommend doing this too often. If you do, your smart canine may view the new food as a reward for tipping their bowl, causing them to repeat the habit.    3. Your Dog May Be Unwell Although this is the most unlikely reason of the three, your dog may be pushing or  flipping their bowl because they are not feeling well. This could be because an illness is impacting your pooch’s appetite, or because a certain type of food is giving them a sensitive stomach, and they simply cannot face a full bowl of food.  With this in mind, if this bowl behaviour is a fairly new habit and is accompanied by other concerning health-related symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhoea and/or a prolonged loss of appetite, you should take your dog to the vet for a check-up.    How To Stop Your Dog From Flipping Their Bowl Perhaps the easiest way to stop this behaviour is to simply replace their existing food dish with a smart non-spill bowl. These cleverly designed items feature a heavier base with a low centre of gravity that prevents dogs from being able to push them or flip them over.  Additionally, in order to nip this habit in the bud early, you should attempt to condition your dog out of it. This is to say, each time you see your pet about to tip their bowl, use the command ‘no’. If they respond by stopping, reward them with a treat. If they continue to tip their bowl over, do not punish them, simply don’t give them a treat. Over time, this conditioning should help to your furry friend to learn that tipping their bowl is not acceptable.    Why Do Dogs Take Food From Their Bowl And Eat It Elsewhere? Aside from bowl pushing and flipping, another common dinner time habit for many dogs involves taking their food from their bowl and eating it elsewhere. This is a common habit that is usually caused by one of two reasons.  The first reason is simply instinct. Dogs are pack animals and pack mentality can manifest itself in the form of food guarding. More common in certain breeds - such as huskies and beagles - as well as in homes with more than one dog, this habit is simply a way for your dog to feel as though they can eat in peace, without the threat of someone stealing their precious food.  The second reason is loneliness. This is to say, if your dog’s bowl is in one room and their entire human family is in another during meal times, they may feel lonely and want to eat their meal in the company of their family. This may sound silly, but dog’s naturally long for companionship, and if this means carrying their food into another room mouthful by mouthful, they will do it!  To prevent this habit, simply sit in the same room as your pooch as they eat. If you have multiple pets, having different feeding times and allowing each pet to eat their meal in peace is also a good idea. 

By Laura Rudd

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How To Stop Dogs Eating Plants
11.11.21 November 11, 2021 Health Featured

How To Stop Dogs Eating Plants

Dogs love to explore and usually you’ll find them in and out of hedges and grass, but dogs and especially puppies also love to eat, bite, play, lick and chew on plants, especially those with leaves! It can be dangerous for your pet to digest some plants, so it’s best to keep an eye on them whilst they’re exploring and out and about on walks. It’s also good to avoid dangerous and toxic plants in your home, so your pup isn’t tempted to chew on your indoor plants.  In this article we explore why dogs eat plants and how to avoid your pet chewing on plants that may be toxic to them.    Do dogs eat plants when they are sick?  It’s hard to know why dogs eat plants, as it may be one of a multiple of reasons, or for a multiple of reasons. For example, if your dog feels he is lacking in nutrients, he may look for another way to get these important nutrients - which is why they seek out a plant to eat.  Another reason may be due to stomach pains; if your dog isn’t feeling so well, it’s natural for them to eat grass as a natural remedy to purge themselves as the grass is known to soothe their stomach pain. Don’t let them eat any plants you’re unsure are safe for them however as this can cause a bigger upset to them.  Your dog may also eat plants due to anxiety or boredom - it may be a reason to grab your attention, or a way to deal with their emotions, so keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t have access to anything you don’t want them to chew whilst you are away from them.    Why is my dog eating soil from my plant pots?  Your dog may eat soil much for the same reasons they munch on plants and leaves. It’s worth checking if your dog is in pain through an internal or intestinal health problem. Keep them away from soil and dirt as all kind of things end up in the dirt, including lots of toxins that can harm your dog. It’s best to keep away from plants and soil all together, and keep a watchful eye on them when out on a walk.    How to keep a dog from eating plants To keep your dog away from your plants it’s best to train your dog as soon as possible. Establish household rules and ensure your dog knows that plants are not a toy or food - this way you can avoid more serious problems and unnecessary vet trips. If you’re not convinced your dog will avoid the plants 100% of the time, it's best to keep them off the ground, away from their reach. You may also try to spray the plants with lemon or vinegar as your dog will probably stay well clear, because the plant smells bad to them and a lot less appetising.

By Laura Rudd

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