Coat & Care
Roan and ticking describe patterns that can emerge as a puppy grows
Roan coats mix coloured and white hairs, while ticking creates more distinct spots. Learn to describe the pattern without guessing a dog’s breed or health.
LIFE WITH DOGS
Good care starts with paying attention.
Everyday dog care, breed knowledge and thoughtful routines, with a special interest in the Chow Chow.
Read the care notes →Notes for life together
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Dog Life
The stop in a dog breed description names a change in the head’s profile
Learn where the stop lies in a dog’s head profile and how to read the term in a breed description without turning a visual feature into a health judgement.
Everyday Dog Health
Dewclaws are not the same arrangement on every dog
Front, rear and double dewclaws can differ in attachment and function. Learn why counting claws alone cannot explain an individual dog’s anatomy.
Dog Care
Why a dog has whiskers around more than its nose
A dog’s whiskers are specialised sensory hairs. Learn where to notice them and how gentle handling and a clear grooming conversation can protect them.
Behaviour Notes
Raised hackles tell you arousal, not the whole story about a dog
Raised hackles show arousal, but do not explain a dog’s whole emotional state. Read posture and context together and give the dog room to move away.
Everyday Dog Health
Look above the paw: recognising a dog’s carpal pad
The small pad higher on a dog’s front leg is the carpal pad. Learn how to recognise it and describe a change without confusing it with a claw or new growth.