Help for our four-legged heroes: the charity that looks after retired service animals
In 2016, the Countess of Bathurst set up the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals, which continues to look after blue-light families and their animals.
Dogs & Animals
From perfect pedigrees to loveable canine scamps of unknown origin, we celebrate man’s best friend.
Looking for a new dog? Head straight for our article on how to choose the perfect dog to fit your lifestyle, family and home.
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Who was the original Jack Russell who gave his name to one of Britain's favourite dog breeds?
Kate Green takes a look at the the legacy of Revd John Russell, the man who gave his name to the Jack Russell and Parson Russell terriers.
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How to stop your dog marking his territory and cocking his leg in other people's houses
Ben Randall on how to handle one of the most embarrassing moments for a dog owner.
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How to give your dog his confidence back when he's been upset or disturbed by another dog, by expert trainer Ben Randall
A visiting dog upsetting your own pet can create problems which are hard to break. Ben Randall explains what to do.
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The changing face of Britain's favourite dogs, decade by decade
Partial to a poodle? Loopy about labradors? Cuckoo for cocker spaniels? You are not alone, says Victoria Marston, as she discovers the nation’s favourite dog breeds, decade by decade, using figures from the Kennel Club.
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The three dog breeds that make the ultimate family pet, according to expert trainer Ben Randall
In decades of working with dogs, Ben Randall has seen every possible breed of dog — these are the three he'd recommend for family life.
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Puppy aggression: How to nip it in the bud before it becomes a problem, by award-winning trainer Ben Randall
A reader whose lovely puppy is starting to show worrying behaviour writes — and Ben Randall has some expert advice.
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How to deal with a dog who is scared of men, by expert trainer Ben Randall
This week, our A-list dog trainer Ben Randall deals with a tricky topic: an adopted dog who seems to be dealing with past trauma involving men.
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The worst-behaved pets in Britain: 'They would grab a cigarette briskly from your lips and fly around the room with it'
From leopards in the dining room and jackdaws in the kitchen to demonic dogs, crazed cats and the ferret who broke into a nursery, Bronwen Riley presents a whodunnit of the worst-behaved pets in the history of British country houses.
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How to teach a dog to sit: Five tips from leading dog trainer Ben Randall
Teaching your dog to sit is one of the most important things you can do — and it will help with all sorts of other commands. Ben Randall explains how to get your dog to do it, every time.
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How to keep your dog healthy and having fun in the coldest depths of winter, by award-winning trainer Ben Randall
Snow, ice and freezing conditions throw up both challenges and opportunities for fun if you're a dog owner. Ben Randall explains how to make the most of this beautiful time of year while keeping your pet safe and healthy.
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'My dog keeps barking at my sister — what can I do?' Canine agony uncle Ben Randall has the answer
The A-list dog trainer Ben Randall shares his advice on how to deal with a dog who's taken against someone important in your life.
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How to exercise with your dog, by expert trainer Ben Randall
The new year often brings with it a new focus on health and keeping active. Ben Randall explains how you can help make your dog a part of your fitness regime.
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E-Types, Scotland's best beaches and the 'backwards-looking fantasy' of rewilding: Country Life's best features of 2023
From travel and motoring to dog training and pithy comment, these proved out most popular feature articles of the last 12 months.
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How to ensure your dog has the best Christmas ever, by top trainer Ben Randall
Dogs can enjoy Christmas just as much as their owners — and perhaps even more so. But there are a few things to be mindful of as we enter the festive season, as Ben Randall explains.
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Nine things you ought to know if you're having goose for Christmas
If you're looking for a change from turkey for Christmas dinner, goose is the obvious choice – but there are a few things to think about, as Kate Green explains.
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How to stop a dog peeing in the house, by A-list trainer Ben Randall
It's one of the nightmare scenarios for a dog owner: a pooch who suddenly forgets that they're toilet trained. Ben Randall explains what to do.
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How to keep your dog calm throughout the Christmas period, by expert trainer Ben Randall
Christmas is a wonderful time of year, with houses festooned in merry decorations, loved ones coming to visit, piles of presents under the tree and festive food for all to enjoy. But how do you make sure it doesn't all get too much for your four-legged friend? Ben Randall explains how to enjoy the Christmas season with your dog.
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How to stop a dog destroying your lawn
Ben Randall fields a question about how to stop a pooch with a penchant for digging holes in its owner's prized garden.
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King Charles Spaniels: 'They’re like little people in fur coats'
Once a favourite of the nobility, the distinguished King Charles spaniel is a loving and loyal little lap dog that can also hold its own outdoors, says Katy Birchall.
