Leanne McWade

My rescue dogs: Hazel, a red/brown bull breed cross on the left and Evie, a tan bull breed cross on the right. Standing on top of some logs at Rendelsham Forest, Suffolk. When a rescue dog comes into a new home, it’s natural for them to go through a settling-in period. Many professionals use the 3-3-3 rule as a guideline to help owners understand what to expect: 3 days to begin decompressing 3 weeks to start learning the routine 3 months to feel at home and show their true personality But...

Have you ever noticed a dog’s fur standing up along their back and thought, “Uh-oh, they’re aggressive”? That raised fur is called piloerection , commonly referred to as “hackles up.” It’s essentially a dog’s version of goosebumps — the fur standing on end. Piloerection is an involuntary reflex , just like when your own hair stands up on your arms in response to cold or a sudden surprise. Like you, when that happens, it’s not something your dog can control. Why Dogs Get Hackles Up Contrary to...

Many challenges between children and dogs can be prevented with the right understanding and support. Often, issues don’t come from “bad dogs” or “naughty children,” but from misunderstandings and a lack of clear boundaries. Many challenges between children and dogs can be prevented with the right understanding and support. Often, issues don’t come from “bad dogs” or “naughty children,” but from misunderstandings and a lack of clear boundaries. Teaching children how to interact safely with dogs