Socialisation is the process of introducing a puppy, or indeed any animal, whatever their age, to the world in a way that helps them to be confident with people, places and things that they will encounter in life. The best time to socialise a puppy is within the first 12...

When I was doing my research before bringing Betty home for the first time, I was lucky enough to know an experienced dog trainer. Melissa had cared for my cats in the past, but the focus of her All4Pets business now is to provide dog training. She will still happily...

Book time off work. Or change jobs – If you need to keep working, you’ve probably already asked for flexible arrangements. Try to spend the first 2-3 weeks at home to get your pup toilet trained, socialised and used to you nipping out. Cancel your social life – You will...

Okay, so you want a puppy. Yes, you have to consider all the sensible stuff, but it’s also worth bearing in mind that: They need the toilet all the time – You’re up and down like a yo-yo because they can’t open doors or congratulate themselves for going outside and not...

How do I stop my puppy from toileting indoors? It’s a frustrating and all-too-common problem. You’ve just taken your puppy out into the garden, he’s done his business and it seems like everything has gone well. Then, just after you, bring him back in, you find a damp patch on...

My name is Emma and I’m not as young as I look. I failed to meet Mr. Good Enough and make babies, so I came to the conclusion that a dog would be a good substitute. One rainy day in November, I drove from Cambridge to Bristol to pick up...