Health

This week’s breed in focus is the Kelpie. Bred for herding, they are Australia’s most popular working dog and thrive when working on the land. They were initially developed in the late 1800's to work on Australia's sheep stations. Its name comes from Scotland and means 'the spirit of the waters'. Temperament Kelpies are extremely loyal and devoted to their family, affectionate and friendly. They’re...

This week’s breed in focus is the Shih Tzu, which means Little Lion.  Originating from Tibet, they were bred as companion dogs and warmed the laps of many a Chinese Emperor. Temperament Shih Tzus have happy, playful personalities with a friendly nature. They tend to get along with all people and children, as well as other pets, so they’re considered a very sweet dog. Like...

We all know that puppies and of course, many adult dogs, love to chew.  While for older dogs destructive chewing is often the result of boredom or anxiety, a teething puppy is likely to relish in finding any soft toy, slipper or pillow laying around to chew on so they can soothe their gums and relieve the pain caused by the growth of their adult...

If you have a senior dog that's acting a little unusual, you might just put it down to old age.  However, dog dementia, also known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, is more common than you might realise and becomes more prevalent as dogs age. Dog dementia can be hard to diagnose as it is slow to develop and often subtle in the early stages. Signs of...

The Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state where it was discovered in the mid-1800s. Some experts think the Aztecs or Incas developed the dog, while others say it can be traced to Spanish dogs as far back as the 1500s. Temperament They may be pint-sized, but the Chihuahua has a big personality so it’s no wonder they are one of the most popular breeds...

The Pomeranian is a spitz-type dog that were first bred in the 1800's and named after the Pomerania region of Poland and eastern Germany. Temperament The Pomeranian are generally very playful, active, friendly and intelligent, making them popular pets. They are very loyal to their families and quite alert, which means they are prone to barking and make good little watchdogs. These extroverted, lively little...

Many owners of dogs with behavioural issues can be hesitant to consider medication for anxious dogs, instead hoping training alone will help, or that their dog will grow out of it. Unfortunately, for most dogs with anxiety disorders (and I have two, so I know) it just gets worse. Often impacting on their ability to join in family outings or co-exist with their owners harmoniously....

The Golden Retriever breed was originally developed in Scotland as sporting dogs in the late 19th century to retrieve water fowl. Temperament They’re placid, friendly and brimming with joy. They are great with children and tend to get along with other pets. They are intelligent and eager to please and this, along with their love for work, is why we see them in so many...

Australia’s first nationwide study1 investigating the risks, prevalence and distribution of canine intestinal worms in dog parks across Australia – has revealed that almost half (42.6%) of parks sampled were contaminated with canine intestinal worms. Dog parks provide an ideal urban space where dogs and their owners can exercise, play and socialise. These parks can, however, increase the risk of exposure to parasites for both...

One of the oldest purebred hounds, Beagle ancestors can be traced as far back as 400 BC in Greece.  However, their history is a little sketchy, as the Beagle that we know and love today wasn’t developed until around the 19th century. The Beagle was originally bred as a scent hound and used for hunting small animals like hares and rabbits. Temperament A small to...