Latest Articles & News
Breed Profile – Shar Pei
An intriguing Chinese breed is the focus of this breed profile. Bred to guard, fight and hunt, the Shar Pei actually has an affectionate nature. Their interesting coat is their unique characteristic. History of the Breed: Also known as the Chinese Shar Pei, this interesting breed originated in China as a guard, fighting and hunting…
Canine Careers: Search and Rescue Dogs
Over the next few months, Gilbertson & Page will highlight some of the careers that our canine friends undertake, from guide dogs to police dogs. This month, we’re looking at the vital role search and rescue dogs play and the work involved in training them. We spoke to Karen Fisher, who trains search and rescue…
Breed Profile – Golden Retriever
One of the most easily recognisable breeds in the UK, the Golden Retriever is a gundog with boundless enthusiasm. Friendly, loyal and full of fun, the breed makes a great family dog. History of Breed: The first Lord Tweedmouth developed the Golden Retriever at his Guisachan estate. With the improvements in firearms, there was a requirement…
Breed Profile – Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a spitz-type breed of dog with a reputation as the lightest and fastest sled dog. Given plenty of exercise to burn off all that energy, they also make calm, loyal companions too. History of Breed: Originating in northeastern Siberia, the Siberian Husky is also known as the Chukchi sled dog. This name…
Is Dog Ownership a Cure for Loneliness?
It is perhaps ironic that in this age of social media and constant contact, loneliness is on the rise. Whilst some individuals may appear to be more connected than ever, communities are becoming ever more disconnected. The elderly in particular often find themselves isolated from society. However, research also shows that this ‘epidemic of loneliness’…
Breed Profile – Irish Wolfhound
The tallest dog breed in the world, the Irish Wolfhound is a sight hound with an interesting history. Whilst it might be the biggest, it’s also one of the gentlest and certain to increase your food bill! History of Breed: As its name suggests, the Irish Wolfhound was developed in Ireland to hunt wolves. It’s Irish…
Common Canine Joint Problems
Regular readers might remember our recent article covering common eye conditions. Following on from that, and with joint issues ranking high in lists of common dog ailments, we thought it was time we focused on the most common canine joint problems. A dog’s joints take a lot of strain during its lifetime. Dogs bear over…
Breed Profile – Whippet
This breed from the hound group is the classic Northern sporting dog. Loyal and affectionate with an amazing turn of speed, the Whippet is a dog you can put your money on. History of Breed: Small Greyhounds, similar to the Whippet, have been around since the 17th century and can be seen depicted in 18th century…
Story of a Rescue Dog – Bonnie The Golden Retriever
Giving a rescue dog a home reduces the pressure on overburdened rehoming centres as well as having its own rewards. However, a rescue dog with an unknown history can pose a real challenge to dog owners. We spoke to Vicki Trigg about the potential problems, hard work and rewards that can accompany a rescue dog.…
Breed Profile – Basset Hound
The Basset Hound makes a great family pet and doesn’t require as much exercise as other hounds. This friendly French breed has an intelligence that belies its unfair depiction as being a bit ‘slow’. History of Breed: The Basset Hound originated in France, where monks developed the breed for hunting hare. The term ‘basset’ translates as ‘rather…
Breed Profile – Rhodesian Ridgeback
We’ve talked about this handsome breed before, but never done a proper breed guide, so it’s time to put that right. Despite an image as a fierce lion hunter, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good-natured breed. This interesting breed with its distinctive ‘ridgeback’ needs an experienced handler. History of Breed: The Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in southern…
Alabama Rot – How Worried Should We Be?
Alabama rot is making headlines once again. Understandably, dog owners are very concerned about what seems to be an unexplained disease without a cure. In this article, we look into Alabama rot, most importantly examining the risk it poses to dogs here in the UK. Alabama rot has affected Greyhounds in the US since the…
