Tony Buckwell

spaniel in long grass

When the weather is warm, slugs and snails become much more active, which increases the risk of lungworm in dogs. Dogs that eat slugs, snails or frogs, even tiny ones…

blue-green algae

Shooting Times recently received this letter from a concerned owner of a working dog who was wondering about the dangers posed by blue-green algae. It’s certainly worth a read. (You…

eye contact with dogs

It’s a good idea to get into the habit of routinely checking your dog’s health. Try following the schedule that I describe here, at least initially. Then, once you are…

black labrador

Helping a constipated dog Q: My labrador seems to get constipated; she gets into position to relieve herself but 
with no success, despite straining for several minutes. It’s distressing to…

Black Labrador

Q:  What’s the best of dealing with tapeworms in working dogs? I have recently had to treat my dog for tapeworms. How do dogs get tapeworms and how can I…

dogs in snow

Can dogs suffer from the cold in winter? What are the signs to look out for and how best can we help them cope? (Read about hypothermia in dogs here.)…

bleeding dog paw

A reader recently asked me: “Should I bathe a dog’s wound myself? If so, what should I use? (If your dog has swallowed something harmful, here’s how to make a…

Dogs on shoot day

On a shoot day you obviously want your gundog to perform at his best and remain fit and healthy. So what should your feeding programme for the day be? What’s…

working dog diet

Feeding dogs – before or after exercise? So should you feed your dog before or after a walk? There is no scientifically established “safe” time for feeding dogs, but in…

old Labrador

Q: What is your advice on spaying an older dog? I am unsure of what to do. I have an eight-year-old bitch I was a bit concerned about because she…