Retractable dog leads are everywhere. You’ll see them in parks, on pavements, and on everyday walks around Finchley. Some owners swear by them. Others avoid them completely. The reality is a bit more balanced. They can work in certain situations.But for many dogs, they make walks harder, not easier. This guide may contain affiliate links….
Helping your dog deal with thunderstorms Not all dogs will react to thunderstorms. Some dogs will sleep through it, but others will respond differently. Dogs can sense thunder long before it comes and starts pacing up and down, panting, trying to get under the bed etc., to hide. This can be hard for owners to…
Do You Have a Regular Vet? Check Ups Dogs are an important part of the family, just like children. I am sure, like many people, if you feel under the weather, you go to the doctor, or if you have children, you make sure they have regular checkups, vaccinations, etc. So why should your dog…
Updated July 2026 Harvest mites are tiny outdoor parasites that can cause intense itching and sore skin in dogs. They are most commonly encountered from late summer into autumn, particularly during dry, sunny weather. Dogs pick up the larval mites from vegetation and the ground rather than directly from another dog. Some dogs develop only…
Warning Signs Dog Owners Should Not Ignore Updated July 2026 Dogs cannot tell us: My stomach really hurts. Or: I feel dizzy. Or: I’m struggling to breathe. They show us through changes in their body and behaviour. The difficult bit for dog owners is deciding whether something can be calmly monitored or whether you need…
Updated Aug 2026 Cross-breed dogs are everywhere. You see them in rescue centres, family homes, and parks across Finchley and beyond. Some people actively look for them. Others bring one home without knowing much about their background. If you are thinking about getting a cross-breed dog, or already live with one, it helps to be…
How to help children stay safe around dogs at home and out on walks Derek Chambers is an affiliate member of Kids Around Dogs If you have children and dogs in the same home, or your child regularly meets dogs when you are out, safety matters. That does not mean children and dogs cannot have…
Updated August 2026 Going on holiday should be enjoyable, but deciding who will care for your dog can feel more difficult than choosing where to go. Your main options include: There is no single arrangement that is right for every dog. A confident, sociable dog who enjoys new places may settle happily with a licensed…
