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Most common reasons for calling dog behaviour helpline revealed
The data is taken from 8,485 calls made to the support line between 1 April 2023 and 31 April 2024.
Charity urges owners to seek expert advice.

Dogs Trust has revealed the most common behavioural issues faced by dog owners calling the charity’s Behaviour Support Line.

According to the newly released data, reactivity to dogs and people are the most common problems, mentioned in 30 per cent and 27 per cent of calls respectively. They are followed by behaviour related to separation anxiety, which was mentioned in 23 per cent of calls.

The Behaviour Support Line was launched by Dogs Trust in 2022, following feedback gathered in the charity’s annual National Dog Survey.

In recent years, the survey has revealed that some owners are attempting to improve their dogs behaviour with techniques that could be making it worse. Many of these are based on misguided ideas about showing the dog who is the ‘pack leader’, says the charity.

Among the methods owners said they were using were: pinning dogs to the floor on their back and growling or shouting; smacking them on the nose; and squeezing dogs’ ears to imitate bites.

Katy Errock, behaviour support line manager at Dogs Trust, said: “Problem behaviours such as reactivity and separation anxiety can affect the wellbeing of both dogs and their owners alike, and the results of our National Dog Survey show that some owners could be making the situation worse by using negative training techniques in their bid to resolve the issues.  

“It’s vital that owners seek expert advice as early as possible if they are struggling with any element of their dog’s behaviour.”

This year’s National Dog Survey is open until 14 June 2024 and the charity is keen to hear from dog owners. Last year, nearly a quarter of a million people completed the survey.

Ms Errock added: “We want to hear from dog owners from across the UK so we can continue to provide the services that they need. The insights gained from this year’s National Dog Survey will ensure Dogs Trust can continue to adapt the way we support dogs and their owners, helping them to live the best lives possible together.” 

Dog owners wishing to take part in the National Dog Survey can access it here.

Image © Shutterstock

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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.