Help with your dog

Training your dog is an important part of being a responsible owner, because it can prevent unwanted behaviour problems developing. Check out these great videos from Dogs Trust.

Our dogs tend to tell us how they are feeling through their body language, but sometimes it can be easy to miss the signs. We’re looking at how Kendal Shepherd’s ladder of communication can help owners. Link to PDSA website.

There are many reasons why your dog may be aggressive, and it may require veterinary advice. Read about the causes of aggressive behaviour and what to do.

Learn how to understand your dog’s body language with this guide from Dogs Trust.

Dogs are part of the family and while your dog will be well used to the family unit they live in, they will be less familiar with people who visit your home. Link to Blue Cross website.

Children quickly understand and learn to treat the dog as part of the family but it is important that parents teach children how to stay safe around dogs, to protect both child and dog.  Link to RSPCA website.

On this page we collate links to a number of different educational sources which specifically cover the subject of dog safety.

A great short animation for children and parents about being safe around dogs, published by the pet education partnership.

the Yellow Dog project is often used to indicate dogs which need space from other dogs, but can also include:
In training / Anxious / Female in season / Elderly /Blind / Deaf

Dogs that are in pain are a higher risk of biting. Many older dogs suffer from arthritis and this pain can decrease their tolerance and cause aggression. Find out more here

There are several legal documents which outline dog owners’ rights and responsibilities in relation to their dog.

The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme is the largest dog training programme in the UK.

It may be tempting to join the families getting a “Pandemic Puppy” but there are many concerns around getting a new pet during this time.

Some helpful advice on living with your pets through these unprecedented times.

Anyone who breeds from their dog and sells puppies must be licenced by the local authority, even if they are not a registered business and only rarely having a litter from their pet.

If you are grieving for a pet, or facing loss, our free and confidential Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) is here for you by phone, email or webchat.

Taking The Lead is a campaign which aims to reduce the number of dog bite incidents in Merseyside. It promotes responsible dog ownership and safe behaviour from people around dogs by highlighting the practical steps we can all take to keep everyone (including dogs) safe and looked after.