Long in body and strong in will, the Dachshund remains one of Britain’s most distinctive breeds. Confident, intelligent, and purposeful, they bring real presence to rural households and settle naturally into homes that value routine, structure, and a calm outlook. For many countryside households, they offer companionship, loyalty, and a quiet joy that easily becomes woven into daily life.

There’s something rather wholesome about the thought of collecting your own warm eggs on a misty morning. For many rural homeowners, a small flock of hens adds gentle rhythm and purpose to the day. But before you start browsing coops or naming your future layers, it pays to prepare properly.

Keeping your cat hydrated isn’t just important, it’s essential for their health. Unlike dogs, cats often don’t drink enough water, which can lead to kidney issues and urinary tract problems. That’s why a cat water fountain is more than just a cute accessory, it’s a smart investment in your pet’s wellbeing.

The first frost might look beautiful on the paddock, but for your dog’s paws it can mean cracks, soreness, and a very expensive vet visit waiting to happen.

Show dogs and working breeds aren’t just family companions — they’re athletes. From sprinting across fields to dazzling under the spotlight, they put their joints and muscles under constant pressure. Without the right rest and recovery, even the fittest dogs can suffer from:

There’s a special charm to autumn in Oxfordshire. The fields glow gold, the air smells of woodsmoke, and the lanes around Witney crunch with fallen leaves. For dog owners, it’s a glorious time of year, cool enough for long walks, bright enough for photos, and peaceful enough to enjoy the countryside without the summer crowds. Whether you’ve got an energetic spaniel or a gentle retriever, the area around Witney offers some of the loveliest autumn dog walks in the Cotswolds.

When most people imagine housesitting, they picture free accommodation and the odd dog walk. For Glenn Bauer, founder of A-Breed-Apart, it became much more; a vocation grounded in professionalism, trust, and empathy. His new book, Housesitters Unleashed – How to Housesit Like a Pro, distils well over 2000 days of housesitting experience into a clear, confidence-building guide for anyone drawn to the lifestyle, from digital nomads and retirees to pet-centric adventurers.

As frosty mornings return and days grow shorter, even the liveliest puppy appreciates a warm and secure space indoors. Winter brings muddy paws, wet coats, and a fair dose of mischief for young dogs who can’t get outside as much as they’d like.

Crate training, when done thoughtfully, isn’t about control, it’s about confidence. A well-trained puppy learns that their crate is a secure, familiar space where they can rest, recharge, and feel calm whatever the situation.

Every dog lover's home has seen its share of muddy paws, chewed slippers, and, in the early weeks, the occasional indoor accident. Toilet training a puppy isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the most important lessons they’ll ever learn.

This feature is part of our ongoing “Most Loved Dogs in the UK” series, a celebration of the breeds that have truly captured British hearts (and sofas!). Periodically (between dog walks and tug-o-war), we spotlight one of the nation’s favourites, exploring what makes them so special, how to care for them, and why they fit so beautifully into our countryside homes and family lives. Today, we’re turning our attention to the Poodle crosses, those affectionate, intelligent “Doodles” who’ve taken the UK (and world?) by storm.

If you’ve ever felt uneasy about unexplained veterinary charges, or wondered whether you’re overpaying for medicines your vet prescribes, you won’t be alone. In October 2025, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) released its provisional findings and proposals for sweeping reforms to the veterinary services market. These aim to bring clarity, fairness and competition into a sector that, the CMA argues, has long lacked them.