As frosty mornings return and days grow shorter, even the liveliest puppy appreciates a warm and secure space indoors. Winter brings muddy paws, wet coats, and a fair dose of mischief for young dogs who can’t get outside as much as they’d like.

Crate training, when done thoughtfully, isn’t about control, it’s about confidence. A well-trained puppy learns that their crate is a secure, familiar space where they can rest, recharge, and feel calm whatever the situation.

Every dog lover's home has seen its share of muddy paws, chewed slippers, and, in the early weeks, the occasional indoor accident. Toilet training a puppy isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the most important lessons they’ll ever learn.

This feature is part of our ongoing “Most Loved Dogs in the UK” series, a celebration of the breeds that have truly captured British hearts (and sofas!). Periodically (between dog walks and tug-o-war), we spotlight one of the nation’s favourites, exploring what makes them so special, how to care for them, and why they fit so beautifully into our countryside homes and family lives. Today, we’re turning our attention to the Poodle crosses, those affectionate, intelligent “Doodles” who’ve taken the UK (and world?) by storm.

If you’ve ever felt uneasy about unexplained veterinary charges, or wondered whether you’re overpaying for medicines your vet prescribes, you won’t be alone. In October 2025, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) released its provisional findings and proposals for sweeping reforms to the veterinary services market. These aim to bring clarity, fairness and competition into a sector that, the CMA argues, has long lacked them.

For all the charm of country life, the long walks, the muddy boots, the dogs bounding through fields, there remains one universal truth: where there’s a dog, there’s dog poo. Yet few topics inspire such a mix of embarrassment and avoidance.

If you’ve ever muttered, “There must be a better way to deal with all this,” while brandishing a poo bag in one hand and a shovel in the other, well, there is.

Although I did not know her personally, I have long admired her from afar as both a writer and an animal lover. Her warmth, humour, and compassion defined not only her work but the way she lived her life. Through her writing and her actions, she championed the belief that animals are sentient beings, deserving of understanding, dignity, and affection.

Most dog owners wouldn’t dream of neglecting their own dental hygiene, yet the thought of brushing a dog’s teeth still brings a mixture of amusement and dread. But canine dental care isn’t a luxury, it’s a cornerstone of long-term health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, pain, and even heart and kidney problems. The good news is that most dental issues can be prevented with simple, consistent care.

Cats are masters of disguise when it comes to hiding pain or discomfort. Out here in the countryside, our feline companions may still look spritely as they patrol barns or bask in the sun, but once they reach their senior years, subtle changes often begin to show.

If you own a Labrador Retriever, you’ll know they’re the eternal optimists of the dog world, full of energy, loyalty, and a endless appetite. Unfortunately, their love of food, coupled with a unique genetic makeup and a slower metabolism, make Labradors especially prone to gaining extra weight and even becoming obese. Managing canine obesity isn’t just about appearance; it’s about protecting your dog from serious health risks like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.

Raw feeding for cats has become a buzzword in recent years, with more pet owners turning away from processed kibble and tinned foods in search of something more "natural." You may have heard of the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) for dogs, but is raw food right for your cat? Cats, after all, are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found only in animal flesh to survive and thrive. Advocates claim raw food can improve coat condition, digestion, and energy, while critics warn of bacteria, unbalanced nutrition, and even serious illness if not done correctly.