A Breed-By-Breed Dog Guide for Countryside Living
Because here in the Cotswolds, Wiltshire, and Dorset… dogs aren’t just pets, they’re part of the family
Welcome to Our Best Loved Breeds Library
Whether you live in a stone cottage near Chipping Norton or a farmhouse just outside Wimborne, choosing the right dog for rural life makes all the difference. At A-Breed-Apart, we care for dogs across the Cotswolds, Wiltshire, and Dorset and know first-hand which breeds thrive in the countryside.
This library shares breed-specific advice written with the needs of rural homeowners and pet lovers in mind. Explore trusted care tips, training guidance, health notes, and some warm-hearted tales along the way.
What Makes a Dog Perfect for Country Living?
Not every dog is suited to rural homes. Our breed guides consider:
- Temperament: Calm enough for the house, sociable enough for the village.
- Exercise Needs: Enough stamina for long walks across farmland or fells.
- Sociability: Dogs that mix well with other pets, guests, or curious posties.
- Recall & Training: Crucial for off-lead walks near livestock.
- Cold & Wet Weather Tolerance: Cotswold winters and all that.
Dog Age → Human Age Calculator
Search by Lifestyle
Looking for a dog that fits your routine? Start here:
Local Life with Dogs
Your dog deserves the best local care. Here's what we know works:
- Unlock the Joy of Walks – Making every stroll special
- How to Keep Pets Happy While You’re Away: For travel peace of mind
Coming Soon: Vets We Trust – From Banbury to Sherborne
Seasonal Advice: The Autumn Tick Boom: Protect Your Pets Before It’s Too Late
Local Tales & Dog Snapshots
We’re opening a corner of this page to your stories. Submit a photo of your dog in the countryside, or share a funny or heart-warming anecdote. We'll feature favourites here every month.
Got a Lab who chases pheasants? A Spaniel who swam across a stream in January? Send it in!
glenn@a-breed-apart.co.uk
Stay In The Loop
New breed profiles added regularly:
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Planning a trip? Book your house sit in advance:
Related Reads
How the French Bulldog Won The Hearts of UK Dog Lovers
Black Labradors: Lovable Habits & How to Manage Them
Top Tips for Dog Safety on Rural Walks
Is there a breed you'd love us to feature next? Or perhaps you’ve got a tip, a tale, or a terrific picture of your own four-legged friend? Drop us a message — we'd love to hear from you.
About Us
Built by Glenn Bauer, founder of A-Breed-Apart, and author of Housesitters Unleashed - How To Housesit Like a Pro
Trusted professional pet and house sitters serving Cirencester, Witney, Chipping Norton, and across the Cotswolds, Wiltshire, and West Berkshire. Read Glenn & Mandy’s story to discover why your pets are in expert hands.
