Edinburgh Dog Behaviour

01/09/2025

Going wild at the window?
Frantic when the mail arrives?
"My dog loves it though !"
It may look like fun and yup for some it is.... but it is one stressful game they are "playing".
Is it a healthy game?
Do they rest and sleep or sit there and scan for hours?
Obsession is obsession....whether it is fun or not.

Stress hormones are still released whether this is from fun or fear....they don't just disappear either. They can compound and cause issues in other ways.
They change a dogs behaviour.

If you are struggling with reactivity outside of the home.
Stop the "game'.
It fuels reactivity.

Running from window to window to follow that person or dog seems ok to some people....but how is it truly affecting this dog?

01/09/2025

30/08/2025

'Dogs have a remarkable ability that goes beyond our understanding of time.

They can actually “smell” the passage of hours by sensing how different scents in their environment change and fade. As the day moves from morning to night, each moment carries a unique smell that a dog can detect. This allows them to understand routines, anticipate events, and even know when their owners are about to return home.

For dogs, time isn’t measured by clocks, but through the invisible language of scent.'

26/08/2025

One for the good weather 🍦

24/08/2025

I wonder why ✨

22/08/2025

💘

20/08/2025

"If you are talking to someone and you stop talking suddenly. The gap between the conversation can feel awkward to some people. Someone may fill the gap with another story or finish whatever you previously discussed. Some people don't mind waiting for you to return to the conversation after you have a moment.

Dogs are the same way. If they are training with you (having a conversation) and you are teaching them a new behavior, meaning the dog is learning something new - then there can be some minor stress that is a natural part of problem-solving.

When the dog feels that awkward gap in the conversation where they are unsure what you will say (or cue), they might try filling in the gap with a known behavior that feels good (and has been reinforced). Or they might hang around patiently and wait for the cue (my dogs don't do that unless I teach that to them). Or, they might wander off looking for a different conversation (examples might be sniffing, running, investigating, looking away). They won't wander if they feel comfortable, confident, or can predict what's next.

Excerpted from AG140: Building and Maintaining A Start Line with Nancy Little running now!"

We love this post from Fenzi Dog Sports Academy ❤

15/08/2025

Could your dog be a life saver?

The Pet Blood Bank UK is in need more donors and there is a session in Dundee on the 31st of August ❤️

"Make a difference this August by helping to save lives!

We currently need more dogs booked in to attend the following sessions in August to make sure we have blood for every dog who needs it 🙏

📍 North Downs Specialist Referrals, Bletchingley - Sunday 10 August
📍 Willow Vet Centre, Hartford - Sunday 10 August
📍 Bracken Veterinary Centre, Bracknell - Saturday 16 August
📍 Wear Referrals, Bradbury - Saturday 16 August
📍 Lumbry Park Veterinary Specialists, Alton - Sunday 17 August
📍 Daleside Vets, Penyffordd - Sunday 17 August
📍 Fitzpatrick Referrals, Godalming - Saturday 23 August
📍 Blue House Veterinary Centre, Biddulph - Tuesday 26 August
📍 Davies Vet Specialists, Hitchin - Saturday 30 August
📍 Hamilton Specialist Referrals, High Wycombe - Sunday 31 August
📍 Parkside Veterinary Group, Dundee - Sunday 31 August

If you can make it, please book now via our mobile app or by calling 01509 232 222.

Thank you for helping to save lives"

13/08/2025

"Recognising signs of pain in dogs is crucial, as they often mask discomfort.

⚠️ Common indicators include changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability, withdrawal, or reduced activity.

Physical signs include limping, stiffness, trembling, or difficulty standing up or lying down.

Dogs in pain may vocalise through whining, yelping, or growling. They might also exhibit changes in appetite or drinking habits, excessive licking or biting at a specific area, and altered breathing patterns, like panting.

Subtle signs include pinned-back ears, squinting eyes, or a lowered tail.

Observing these signs and seeking veterinary attention promptly ensures your dog’s comfort and well-being."
Canine Principles

11/08/2025

🤷‍♀️😂