Out & About
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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The 10 most romantic declarations of love in film and literature
Kate Green takes a look at the ten most romantic movie moments and literary declarations of love.
By Kate Green Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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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.
By Bronwen Riley Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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Curious Questions: Who created the Oxford English Dictionary?
Martin Fone, who has long been fascinated by words, digs in to the story of how Sir James Murray created the first Oxford English Dictionary — despite having a full-time job and 11 children — and ended up having his own special post box.
By Martin Fone Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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Why does BBC Radio 4 broadcast 'the pips' at the top of the hour?
The Greenwich Time Signal has been an ubiquitous part of BBC Radio for a century, but few know what it really is and where it came from
By Rob Crossan Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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How to tie the only knots you'll ever need
The 'Surrey Six' is a collection of ways to tie rope that, for most people, are the only six knots you'll ever need. Agnes Stamp tries her hand at tying them, and looks in to the lore of knot tying.
By Agnes Stamp Published
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Twelfth Night: What it is, when it falls and why it's the biggest celebration we no longer enjoy
Once a time of merriment when rules were subverted, Twelfth Night has long since lost its sparkle, says Vicky Liddell, as she digs into the colourful past of the Feast of Fools and finds that some traditions live on.
By Vicky Liddell Published
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The real Ebeneezer Scrooge who inspired Charles Dickens was actually 'noted for his generosity, jovial disposition and appetite'
Ian Morton explores the runaway success of the Dickens Christmas classic and reveals the 'real' Ebenezer Scrooge, who was far from a mean man.
By Ian Morton Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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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.
By Ben Randall Published
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The Country Life columnist who ended up at an illegal rave in the Brecon Beacons
Patrick Galbraith has a night to remember.
By Patrick Galbraith Published