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 tru

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 Hackl

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 intera

Did you know that dogs have a startle reflex ? A startle reflex is an automatic reaction — meaning a dog can bite as a reflex if suddenly startled. This often happens when dogs are woken abruptly from sleep. Many bites, especially involving children, occur when a dog is startled awake. Children may run up to hug a sleeping dog or accidentally step on their tail, triggering the reflex. When a dog bites through the startle reflex, it’s not a deliberate action — it’s a quick, in

Being a dog owner is a special privilege — and it comes with a huge responsibility. Our dogs rely on us to meet their physical,...

" Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen. " – Orhan Pamuk Understanding canine body language is key to building a strong...