Blog

  • Dogs as family: navigating the parent-child and adult-adult dynamic

    Dogs as family: navigating the parent-child and adult-adult dynamic

    When I’m with my dogs, I’m never alone – I’m with my friends. However, it’s not a fully equal friendship: they live in my human world, and I control the vast majority of it. In this way, whether I like it or not, there is always a parental relationship with dogs due to that power… Read more

  • The power of movement: why varied exercise matters for dog joint health

    The power of movement: why varied exercise matters for dog joint health

    Maintaining your dog’s joint health involves more than regular exercise. Varied, dynamic movement is crucial for lubricating, strengthening, and keeping their joints flexible. This prevents localized wear, boosts synovial fluid circulation, and improves flexibility. To achieve this, mix up walking surfaces, do low-impact exercises, provide off-leash time, and incorporate stretching and massage. Read more

  • The role of conformation in spaniel health and strength

    The role of conformation in spaniel health and strength

    Many assume that if a dog can perform its job well, it must be fit and healthy but working ability alone is not enough. The key to a long, injury-free life lies in a dog’s structural conformation. Proper structure supports the body, prevents injury, and ensures that the dog can perform at its best over… Read more

  • Reframing ADHD in dogs from a compassionate perspective

    Reframing ADHD in dogs from a compassionate perspective

    The discussion of ADHD-like behaviors in dogs has sparked debate, with Behavior Vets’ approach drawing criticism for overlooking the social and emotional dimensions of ADHD. Liza Rader’s open letter emphasized avoiding pathologizing and suppressing natural traits in dogs, paralleling the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. A more empathetic understanding is needed, recognizing the context… Read more

  • Embracing your imperfectly perfect dog

    Embracing your imperfectly perfect dog

    Dogs have taught me to accept imperfection and recognize that everything is a work in progress. I was talking with a friend recently who is training her first dog, now a teenager, and I told her that no dog is ever perfect. With my third dog, I now worry less about certain things—not because they’re… Read more

  • The ultimate test of unconditional love is when you have to say goodbye

    The ultimate test of unconditional love is when you have to say goodbye

    It was my birthday earlier this week, but hardly anyone knows it – and I prefer it that way. I don’t want any well wishes of a happy day, because 2 years ago I said goodbye to my best friend the night before my birthday and forever resetting the baseline for a good day, let… Read more