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Three-quarters of UK dogs show signs of poor mental health
The survey found that 74 per cent of dogs in the UK display signs of behavioural issues.
Guide Dogs survey finds 18 per cent exhibit symptoms weekly.

More than three-quarters of the nation's dogs show signs of poor mental health, according to new research.

Findings published by Guide Dogs reveal that 74 per cent of dogs in the UK display signs of behavioural issues, such as anxiety and frustration, with around 18 per cent exhibiting symptoms as often as every week.

Loss of appetite, destructiveness and low activity levels are cited as the most common signs of poor canine mental health. Barking or hyperactivity could also be signs that a dog is bored or frustrated, the charity says.

Guide Dogs’ findings also show that many dog owners cannot identify the signs of poor mental health, with just 36 per cent saying they know what to look for. A further 24 per cent of owners surveyed were not aware that dogs could suffer from poor mental health.

In light of its findings, Guide Dogs is calling on owners to carry out enrichment activities with their dog ‘little and often' and to consider 'quality, not quantity’. 

Puzzle feeders, games or sensory activities can all help boost a dog's mood, but they should be mixed up throughout the week to keep it interesting, the charity said. 

Dr Helen Whiteside, chief scientific office at Guide Dogs, commented: “It’s an outdated viewpoint to think that dogs just need a walk or two a day to be content. Without different forms of mental stimulation, dogs can begin to show signs of behavioural issues, such as anxiety and frustration, which can have a huge impact on their mental wellbeing.
 
 “Dogs can thrive when given new tasks and opportunities to engage. Integrating a mix of canine enrichment activities into your dog’s day-to-day life is the best way to help stimulate their senses, encourage them to practice natural behaviours, and improve their wellbeing. As well as being a lot of fun for you and your dog.”
 
 She added: “Not all dogs are able to take on the exciting challenges of being a guide dog, but they can all benefit from other forms of canine enrichment.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.