Curious Questions: Who do we say that cats have nine lives?
Martin Fone set off to investigate the origins of the saying that cats have nine lives. In the process he discovered something less supernatural, but no less incredible.
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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'Were it not for Country Life, Sealyhams would be extinct by now’
Sealyham terrier breeder Harry Parsons has welcomed a new litter of puppies — great news for a breed which teetered on the edge of extinction not long ago.
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How do I stop my dog barking at people coming up to my house? Expert advice from top trainer Ben Randall
Disconcerting for visitors, distressing for owners and terrifying for delivery people, having a dog that constantly barks at strangers is a common problem — but one that can be dealt with surprisingly quickly. Ben Randall explains more.
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How to deal with a dog who won't jump in the back of the car, by top trainer Ben Randall
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How to stop your dog or puppy from biting when it's playing: Expert advice from Ben Randall
Playful behaviour is a great way for dogs to explore the world around them and make new friends — but sometimes an overexcited puppy can take it too far and nipping can be painful and dangerous. Expert dog trainer Ben Randall explains how to stop your dog from biting during play
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'Grumpy, stubborn, maddening, a one-off... but sweet, unusual, loyal and full of love. Above all else, he was our odd dog'
Lucy Baring says goodbye to a much-loved and missed four-legged family member.
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How to stop your dog digging up the garden
A dog’s enthusiasm for digging in the garden is not just hazardous for those prized petunias, but can be dangerous for our canine companions, too. Expert dog trainer Ben Randall explains how to stop your dog digging up the garden and destroying your lawn or flower beds.
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How to get your dog to walk to heel
Teaching your dog to stop pulling on the lead takes work, but it’s an important step in training that will transform daily walks from laborious battles of will to enjoyable strolls — and your shoulder socket will thank you. Expert dog trainer Ben Randall explains how to teach your dog to walk to heel.
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Fell ponies: Resilient, surefooted, sensible — and absolutely adorable
A royal favourite, the hardy and hairy little Fell pony can pull a sledge, emerge alive after weeks in a snowdrift and win hearts with a glance. Julie Harding celebrates the breed society’s 100th anniversary.
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The ten worst things your dog can do in the office
As the nation starts to head back to desktop computers and ten minute tea breaks, Alexandra Fraser lives in fear of Wilfred disgracing himself at her new job.
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How to stop your dog jumping up, by expert trainer Ben Randall
It’s easy to dismiss our dogs’ love of jumping up on us — and other people — as friendly boisterousness, but it's a sign that all is not well. Ben Randall explains how to ensure your dog keeps all paws firmly on the ground.
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Bloodhounds, the brilliant, unique dogs as strong as horses: 'It’s like having a toddler — but one that can eat iPads'
Far from snoozing on a porch all day, bloodhounds are highly active pack-hunting dogs that require ‘slobber cloths’ when in company, discovers Katy Birchall.
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Dog photography: How to capture perfect pictures of your pooch
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Poodles: Bright, questioning and surprisingly hardy — and 'once you're an owner, you won't switch'
Originally known as ‘pudels’ or ‘puddles’, curly-coated standard poodles raise both smiles and eyebrows, not least with their distinctive pom-pom trim. Matthew Dennison discovers more, with photographs by Sarah Farnsworth.
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How to stop resource guarding in dogs, by Ben Randall
Resource guarding is common in dogs — but it can be solved. Award-winning dog trainer Ben Randall explains how as he tackles this unusual canine dilemma.
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Clicker training – The fastest way to teach a new spaniel new tricks
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Top tips for grooming a mucky puppy - from easy bath times to tidy pub trips
‘Mucky pup’ is the operative word for an absolute mess – with very good reason. Alexandra Fraser explains how she manages to keep Wilf well-groomed, while still allowing him to having his fun outside.
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Walking a new puppy - How long to walk for, where to go and how to recover from inevitable setbacks
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Basset hounds: Incorrigible and exasperating, vocal and entertaining... and seemingly almost human
The basset hound is a force of nature, says devotee Flora Watkins.
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Five things that your puppy shouldn't eat - and what to do when they eat them
