Table of contents for May 2026 in Your Dog

Last March, 16-year-old Imogen Baker was lucky enough to compete at the British Sleddog Sports Federation National Championships alongside her two Siberian Huskies, Sylva and Izzy. The team delivered a fantastic performance, finishing second in the race. As this was the final round of the National Championships, the result also secured Imogen an overall silver medal. She is now eligible to represent Team GB at the Dryland Sleddog Racing European Championships, set to take place in Sweden this October. Imogen is currently in the process of fundraising for the event and is looking forward to competing on the international stage for the first time. To donate towards the team, visit: W gofundme.com/f/junior-sleddog-academy-our-road-to-sweden-2026…

Saint Roch and his faithful companion Dogs didn’t exercise their healing prowess only in ancient times… in more recent ages, Saint Roche had a dog to thank for saving his life. After nursing plague victims, Roch became ill himself, and was expelled to a forest on the outskirts of town. As he lay expecting to die, a dog appeared, bringing him bread stolen from his master’s table, and licked his plague sores. This happened each day, until the dog’s owner followed him: finding Roch, he took him home until he was fully recovered. The dog remained his faithful companion, even accompanying him to the prison where the saint spent the last five years of his life. Today Saint Roch is the patron saint of dogs, and in Bolivia his feast…

Just because your dog seems well doesn’t always mean he is. Dogs are stoic and may not outwardly exhibit signs of pain or a health condition. If your dog suddenly goes off his food, this is cause for concern and a veterinary check is essential to determine the reason. He may have dental pain, an infection, hormone changes, or even kidney, liver, heart, or lung disease. Another main cause is digestive issues. Even if stools are solid, it doesn’t mean he is thriving on the food you give him. Digesting ingredients he is intolerant to, may give him a stomach ache or create feelings of nausea, so don’t rule this out. There are vets and specialists that deal with pet nutrition so if this is an ongoing problem, it’s worth…

I often think that human doctors have it easy because their patients can talk and tell them what’s wrong. This also allows people to treat themselves at home, perhaps after consulting NHS 111, a pharmacist, or searching the internet. Dogs can’t talk, and their symptoms can be vague when they are unwell, so I am always happy to see a concerned owner and their pet, even if only to pass on reassurance. That said, there are plenty of minor ailments that don’t necessarily need a vet visit. Dogs vomit easily! Dogs evolved as scavengers and vomiting as soon as something doesn’t sit well in the stomach is a good way to avoid more severe food poisoning. If your dog vomits up food (or something else they have eaten) and seems…

1 German Shepherd The German Shepherd is one of the world’s most versatile and respected working dogs, sharing the Hovawart’s intelligence, courage, and devotion. Originally bred for herding and guarding livestock, it now excels in police, military, and search-and-rescue roles. German Shepherds are highly trainable and thrive on mental stimulation and purposeful tasks. Their strong protective instincts make them excellent family guardians, while their affectionate nature fosters deep bonds with their handlers. Like the Hovawart, they require consistent training, socialisation, and regular exercise to channel their energy positively. With the right guidance, the German Shepherd is a loyal, confident, and steadfast companion. 2 Leonberger The Leonberger is a gentle giant that shares the Hovawart’s loyalty, intelligence, and natural protective instincts, albeit in a larger package. Originally developed in Germany as…

Once the landscaped grounds of Cardiff Castle, it’s now a much-loved open space that welcomes both locals and visitors (and their dogs) every day of the year. Just a short walk from the city’s bustling centre, Bute Park offers a peaceful escape with miles of paths winding beneath ancient trees and alongside the River Taff. It’s one of the largest urban parks in Wales, and its wide lawns and shaded tracks make it ideal for relaxed, off-lead exploring. The park’s design blends historic elegance with natural charm, from its Victorian arboretum, home to champion trees, to its wildflower meadows and riverside banks buzzing with life. Dogs can enjoy plenty of open space, while owners will appreciate the mix of scenic routes and well-maintained facilities. Bute Park’s network of trails is…

Fleas As the days grow longer and gardens burst back into life, spring brings plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun with your dog. But alongside the sunshine come a few seasonal hazards worth keeping on your radar… Was that a casual scratch, or something more? Don’t wait for a full-blown infestation before taking action. A quick flea check should become part of your dog’s regular grooming routine, especially as temperatures rise and parasites become more active. Start by inspecting areas where the coat is thinner, such as the belly, groin and armpits, looking for small bite marks or signs of irritation. Then try the simple but effective ‘flea dirt’ test. Comb your dog thoroughly and tap any debris onto a piece of damp white tissue. If the specks dissolve into…

A former West Midlands police officer is rediscovering independence and confidence thanks to a remarkable four-legged companion. Debbie Harris, 64, served a decade in response, family protection, domestic violence, and youth offending teams before being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2007. Symptoms like numb legs and facial weakness had appeared as early as her twenties. “My sister patting me would feel like pokers on my legs, and my face dropped,” Debbie recalls. Debbie left the force to care for her husband, Steve, a CID officer who survived a near-fatal collision in 2005. Seeking a quieter life, they moved to rural Wales, where their love of animals would lead to a lifeline for Debbie. Enter Rogue, a clever Cocker Spaniel and offspring of Steve’s dog, Drizzle. Early signs suggested Rogue…

Pet owners in Scotland see their furry friends as family members (80%) who make them laugh (59%) and bring the household together (43%), with over a third (35%) treating their pets “as a child”. The independent survey, commissioned by the National Pet Awards Scotland, highlights a growing trend in which pets continue to dominate the household pecking order. Nearly a quarter of Scottish pet owners (24%) spend between £120 and £200 a month on their pets, more than a standard monthly child allowance. Meanwhile, 5% of pet owners claim to spend more than £350 a month. “We’ve been hosting these awards in Scotland for the past three years and see the tremendous value that Scots place on their pets,” said Gail Murphy, Director of the National Pet Awards. “That’s why…

Lovell Homes, a housing development company, has commissioned a three-part video series documenting the essential role pets play in making a house a home. Local dog owners have submitted videos of their canine companions and shared their thoughts on the vital role they play. The social media series explores everyday experiences within the local community. Named Tails from Hamilton Wharf, the series celebrates Hamilton Wharf, a 115-home development located next to Port Sunlight River Park in Birkenhead.…

Trinkety Paws launched three brand new collections at Crufts, and added more designs to three existing collections. Statement Wrap Collection – featuring an eye-catching wraparound collar design, with designs that stand out from the rest, and offer the functionality you need in any weather. Designed to create beautiful colour contrast while maintaining the durability you expect from their products, this collection blends style, practicality and craftsmanship in one striking design. Each collar features a wider plain backing strap, overlaid with a contrasting narrower wrap strap which showcases either their signature splatter finish or premium UV printed designs. This layered construction not only creates a distinctive aesthetic but also offers a broader, comfortable fit that is great for all size dogs, and works particularly well for larger breeds or sighthound breeds.…

Ensuring that our canine companions are loved and cared for in the event of an emergency can weigh heavily on the minds of dog lovers. None of us can predict the future but planning for the provision of our dogs if we are taken into hospital, go into a care home, or die unexpectedly, can help to ease the situation. Actively considering our mortality is often a topic we prefer to avoid. But that doesn’t mean the problem disappears, and subconsciously we will continue to worry until either our circumstances change, and we take action, or someone else makes decisions on our behalf. Being clear about our wishes and writing them down can help to reduce anxiety, leaving us free to relax and enjoy time with our dogs. Care package…

SPONSORED BY Your dog’s eyes say a lot about their health. Bright, clear eyes are often one of the first signs of a happy, healthy dog… while subtle changes can signal irritation, infection or something more serious. Knowing what’s normal (and what isn’t) helps you act quickly if something looks wrong. A healthy dog’s eyes should be: • Bright and clear • Fully open, with both eyelids symmetrical • Salmon-pink mucous membranes lining the inner eyelids • Pupils equal in size • Free from excessive discharge A small amount of clear moisture or a tiny crust of ‘sleep’ in the corner can be perfectly normal (particularly after a nap). Warning signs Contact your vet if you notice: • Cloudiness or a blue haze • Squinting, blinking rapidly, or keeping one…

Sweeping sand, dramatic ruins and skies that seem to stretch forever… Embleton Bay is one of Northumberland’s most breathtaking coastal walks. Located on the North Sea just east of the village of Embleton, this crescent-shaped beach offers space, tranquillity and a rare sense of true escape. At low tide, the bay opens out into a huge expanse of firm, golden sand, ideal for energetic games of fetch or long, steady wanders along the shoreline. Rock pools appear as the tide retreats, while seals can occasionally be spotted bobbing in the water offshore. Migratory birds wheel overhead, making the bay as appealing to wildlife lovers as it is to dog walkers. Despite its beauty, Embleton rarely feels crowded. Even in warmer months there is ample room for dogs to run and…

Safer Inside is a dog safety campaign that was launched at Crufts 2026, by Tavo Pets, Vet Surgeon, Dr Scott Miller, and Dog Behaviourist, Adem Fehmi. It revealed that 26% of UK motorists who own a dog admit to travelling with their dog in this critically unsafe way. The campaign aims to raise awareness and change behaviour. Dr Scott Miller explains, “It’s a familiar sight on the UK’s roads, but a dog with its head sticking out of the car window is at risk of eye abrasions, debris or worse, jumping or falling from the moving car. Tavo’s research revealed why owners are putting their dog at risk and the most shocking to me was a combined 48% weren’t even thinking about the welfare of their dog at all. 28%…

ITV Studios has announced that, to celebrate National Pet Day, it will be opening up the Coronation Street Experience to canine companions. The event, on Sunday 12 April, will allow your dog to pose outside the pub, wander past Roy’s Rolls, bark outside the bistro and canter down the cobbles. Special ‘Weatherfield Woof’ limited edition merchandise will be on sale on site, including dog bowls, branded treats, dog bandanas, as well as locally sourced coffees and puppuccinos. Tickets are £40 per person and £10 per dog. All proceeds from the tickets will be donated directly to Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity. The Coronation Street Experience, originally opened in 2014, has been open to the public on weekends since then, attracting up to 1,000 people a day. However,…

Monty’s XI is a new dog accessory brand founded by former Royal Navy serviceman, Ed Woolcott, created in memory of his Cocker Spaniel, Monty, who tragically passed away in 2024. Blending a love of dogs and football, the brand offers a range of collars, harnesses and leads inspired by iconic 1990s football kits, pairing retro colourways with durable, high-performance materials. Launched with the help of a £20,000 Start Up Loan, Monty’s XI celebrates the loyalty and passion dog owners feel for their pets. The collection features five nostalgic designs influenced by classic football colours, bringing a unique, stylish twist to everyday dog walking essentials. W montyseleven.co.uk…

For Grace Fox, life without her dog would be unimaginable. That’s because yellow Labrador, Lucy, is providing the 64-year-old with a lifeline she thought she would never have. Since graduating as a fully trained assistance dog, courtesy of national charity, Support Dogs, three-year-old Lucy undertakes a variety of vital daily tasks, as well as offering companionship and assuring Grace’s two daughters, Adele and Hannah, that their mum is being well looked-after while they are at work. While growing up, Brighton-based Grace had a succession of rescue dogs, but it was Labrador X Collie Toby, described as “emotionally intelligent and an unofficial support dog”, who first showed how a canine carer could benefit the family. By the time she was 22, Grace was leading an active life working as a beauty…

Understanding how we can reduce the risks of heatrelated-harm is essential. There are a number of practical, evidence-based approaches that you can take to help keep your dog cool as the temperature warms up. What does the science say and how can we keep our dogs cool? Why is heat such an issue for our dogs? Dogs are amazing creatures and, across different breeds and types, there are dogs able to tolerate very low temperatures, and others better able to cope with high temperatures. Many northern breeds such as Huskies and Malamutes actively enjoy being outside in snow and ice, often being happy to sleep curled up with snow piled on their back. Other dogs with fine coats and sleek bodies such as Salukis or the almost hairless Mexican Xoloitzcuintle,…

What is an OA nurse clinic? An OA nurse clinic is a dedicated appointment with a qualified veterinary nurse who has specific training in osteoarthritis care. These clinics are calmer and less rushed than standard vet visits, giving you time to talk through concerns and learn practical ways to support your pet at home. The benefits for you and your pet A clearer understanding of OA OA is a progressive condition, and symptoms can change over time. Nurse clinics help you understand: ■ What OA means for your pet specifically ■ Why symptoms may fluctuate ■ How early action can slow progression and maintain quality of life Tailored lifestyle advice Small changes can make a big difference. Your nurse can advise on: ■ Weight management (crucial for reducing joint strain)…

The Hovawart is one of Germany’s traditional working and farm dogs, its name deriving from ‘Hofewart,’ meaning ‘guardian of the farm.’ For centuries, these dogs were bred to protect homes, livestock, and families, prized for their loyalty, courage, and intelligence. The modern Hovawart was revived in the early 20th century by German breeders who selected for the same versatility and guarding instincts that made the original dogs so valuable. They bred for strength, stamina, and an unshakeable devotion to family – traits that define the breed today. Now recognised as a capable working dog and devoted companion, the Hovawart’s balanced temperament and protective nature make it popular with those who appreciate both power and sensitivity in a breed. And their character? The Hovawart is calm, steady, and affectionate… a gentle…

Hurley Riverside Park, located just off the River Thames between Henley and Windsor, offers a mix of dog-friendly walks and family fun. The park features hardstanding and multiservice pitches, as well as caravan hire for those new to, or returning to, the touring lifestyle. One of the park’s biggest strengths is its versatility. It welcomes tents, roof tents, caravans, motorhomes and campervans, with pitches to suit every type of stay. For those looking to entertain kids, it is worth noting that the park is just 11 miles from Legoland. This isn’t a dog-friendly attraction, so one of you could be enjoying a peaceful trail with the dog, whilst the other gets to look after the kids for the day! On site, there are outdoor table tennis tables and football goals.…

Which county boasts vast beaches, ancient forests, winding waterways, and some of the most genuinely dogwelcoming communities in Britain? It can only be Norfolk. Whether you’re planning a week-long holiday or a spontaneous weekend break, here’s why dog-friendly Norfolk remains one of the UK’s finest places to explore with your four-legged friend. 1 The coastline! Norfolk’s coastline is famously expansive (90-plus miles of it) and much of it is wonderfully accessible for dogs. The Norfolk Coast Path stretches for 84 miles from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea, weaving together beaches, dunes, saltmarsh and clifftop paths. A popular stretch is the walk between Winterton-on-Sea and Hemsby. This route offers options galore: stride along the wideopen beach, take the softer challenge of the dunes, or follow the grassy valley path sheltered from coastal winds. For…