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Over the last twenty years the pet dog has finally been recognised as a worthy subject for scientific scrutiny and thus has followed an explosion in studies relating to dog behaviour and the way in which dogs and their owners interact. In the name of scientific progress it can be assumed that our knowledge and understanding of the world as it relates to our dogs has therefore also increased dramatically.

'In Defence of Dogs'
John Bradshaw
Published by Allen Lane £20

John Bradshaw has written a thought provoking book, but why in “defence” of dogs? He must have agonised over a few titles* In Praise of Dogs? In Explanation of Dogs? For the Love of Dogs? For he does praise, explain and obviously love dogs throughout.

He makes it clear that dogs are in dire need of defending from the very humans they sought to befriend over ten thousand years ago; from the misguided, inconsiderate and ill-informed owners, trainers, “behaviourists”, breeders and legislators, however well intentioned.

Cats are suffering in silence while their canine friends grab all the media spotlight, but why?

Is it acceptable to use electric shocks to contain your pets?

Containment or invisible fences are currently being advertised in the UK and further afield, as an effective way of ensuring pets remain within a certain area e.g. a garden. Invisible fences are reputed to be more effective than conventional fencing for containing your pets, and give your pet freedom while keeping them safe too.

Sounds ideal! But let’s look at what invisible fences actually are.

The arrival of a new baby is a most joyous occasion, but may not be viewed as such by the four legged members of the family!

APBC members have been called upon as leading advisors to help provide training for Scottish councils in preparation for new dog laws.

The APBC has now made it even easier to access helpful and FREE information for pet owners.

Please visit the Information section from the menu bar above and choose 'Behaviour handouts' to download a series of handouts from this qualified and highly respected source. Or simply click the link below!

APBC Free Behaviour Advice Downloads

As the nights grow longer and colder it’s nice to stay wrapped up indoors in the warm with a nice cup of tea, but what about your dog?  They still need their exercise and plenty of mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy this winter. Here are some ideas to help you keep your dog happy, they are also useful for any dogs that are on cage rest or are reaching their golden years.  

Have you ever wondered if other animals are left or right “handed” like humans? Scientists at Queen’s University Belfast have published a paper in the journal, Animal Behaviour, posing just this question about domestic cats.

Has your cat become “lazy”? Has she lost interest in going outside or stopped playing with her toys? Is she living upstairs under the bed? Or is she having accidents with the litter tray? Does she just not seem “like her old self?”