Introduction to this website
Welcome to this website all about dogs. There are estimated to be around a billion dogs in the world. That’s about 1 for every 8 people! They were the first animal to be domesticated and the first ‘man-made’ species. They’re now the most popular companion animal by a very long way and often referred…
What they are, what they mean, and which breeds are in each
Ever wondered what breed groups or standards are all about? Wonder no more!
Why “sit” is more than just a party trick
Teaching a dog to sit is one of the most valuable foundations in training. It's often the very first behaviour introduced because it is simple and practical, and is more than just a trick: i…
From wolf to best friend
Dogs were the first animal to be domesticated and the first ‘man-made’ species. Today, there are hundreds of recognised dog breeds, each with its own unique set of physical and behavioural c…
Making recall fun
A reliable recall is essential, but drilling it can become dull. That's where recall games come in. It keeps the training fun, fast‑paced and effective, and all the while you're doing it, th…
The first deliberate change from function to appearance
Throughout history, dogs had been bred for function rather than appearance, with interbreeding common, but the Industrial Revolution and rise of the middle class in Europe and North America …
What they are, what they mean, and which breeds are in each
Ever wondered what breed groups or standards are all about? Wonder no more!
Why “sit” is more than just a party trick
Teaching a dog to sit is one of the most valuable foundations in training. It's often the very first behaviour introduced because it is simple and practical, and is more than just a trick: i…
From wolf to best friend
Dogs were the first animal to be domesticated and the first ‘man-made’ species. Today, there are hundreds of recognised dog breeds, each with its own unique set of physical and behavioural c…
Making recall fun
A reliable recall is essential, but drilling it can become dull. That's where recall games come in. It keeps the training fun, fast‑paced and effective, and all the while you're doing it, th…
The first deliberate change from function to appearance
Throughout history, dogs had been bred for function rather than appearance, with interbreeding common, but the Industrial Revolution and rise of the middle class in Europe and North America …
All you need to know to get started
Many people believe that dogs instinctively know how to behave in a human household, but the truth is that every dog, regardless of breed or age, needs guidance. Training is not about forcing obedience but about building a shared language that allows both dog and owner to live together harmoniously.…
Walking in sync with your dog
Teaching your dog to walk at heel – close to your side, matching your pace – is not essential, so long as you and your dog have established the habit of loose lead walking, but it is a skill…
A history and overview of the Working group
Working dogs are the heavy lifters of the canine world, and were bred to cover a surprising range of tasks. They were bred to protect property, move loads, guard livestock and people, and su…
The history, purpose and development of pastoral dogs
The pastoral group is one of the most distinctive and historically important categories of dogs, shaped by centuries of work alongside humans in the management of livestock. These are the he…
Teaching your dog where not to go
Teaching boundaries is not about punishment or harsh rules but about giving your dog clear guidance. Every dog needs to know where it is welcome and where it is not. A dog that understands l…
Understanding these ancient dogs
The Hound group (or breed standard) is among the oldest categories of domestic dogs. They were bred primarily for hunting, and are divided into two main categories: Sighthounds, such as Grey…
Much more than just 'small dogs'!
The term 'toy dog' conjures an image of a pampered lapdog, perhaps in the arms of royalty or nestled in a handbag. While this picture is certainly part of the story, the reality of the Toy b…
The history (and surprising members) of the utility group
Ask a group of dog owners to describe the Utility group and you will often be met with puzzled looks. Unlike the Gundogs, Terriers or Hounds, the Utility dogs do not share a single, obvious …
The history, purpose and diversity of the terrier group
The terrier is one of the most distinctive and enduring groups or "breed standards" of dogs, shaped by centuries of work, sport and companionship. The very name comes from the Lati…
Understanding the history and purpose of the Gundogs
Gundogs, known in the US as Sporting dogs, are bred to work with hunters in the field – finding, indicating, flushing or retrieving game cleanly and with control. The term Gundog has a pract…
Understanding the history, purpose and controversies of UK and US dog breed groups
For as long as people have kept dogs, they have tried to make sense of the many shapes, sizes and temperaments by grouping them. In the modern world this has been formalised by kennel clubs,…
Introduction to this website
Welcome to this website all about dogs. There are estimated to be around a billion dogs in the world. That’s about 1 for every 8 people! They were the first animal to be domesticated and the first ‘man-made’ species. They’re now the most popular companion animal by a very long way and often referred…
Part 1: The evolution of wolves
From the vast steppes of prehistoric Eurasia to the bustling cities of the modern world, dogs have been our constant companions, protectors and friends. They have guarded our homes, herded our livestock, hunted by our side and warmed our hearts. Dogs are the species most closely associated with huma…
Turning tug‑of‑war into a pleasant stroll
Walking a dog that pulls can quickly turn a peaceful outing into a struggle. Loose lead walking is the skill of teaching your dog to walk beside you without tension on the lead, making walks…
Part 2: From enemies to companions: how wolves became dogs
It's widely accepted that domestication occurred in several places and at several times, but when it happened is unclear. Estimates range as from as recently as 8,000 years to as far back as 130,000 years, but the generally accepted time frame is between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago. This is part two…
How humans steered evolution
Following the initial domestication↗ process, the diversification of dog types began to accelerate around 5,000 or 6,000 years ago. As dogs encountered different environments and became an i…
Building a solid foundation with balanced meals
Bringing a puppy home is exciting and often a little overwhelming. Among the many decisions you face, what and how to feed your new companion is one of the most important. Nutrition during t…
Did you know dogs can 'smell time'?
Dogs have lived alongside humans for thousands of years, and most people believe they know them well. They are part of our homes, our routines and our memories, yet there are countless details about them that often go unnoticed. Away from the common knowledge of their loyalty and wagging tails lies …
What they are, how they work, and how they might even be influencing you
Dogs live in a world that is far richer in scent than we can ever imagine. While we rely heavily on sight and sound, dogs use their noses to gather information about their surroundings, othe…
Dogs can tell when you're lying!
Dogs are part of our daily lives, yet there is always something new to discover about them. Many people know about their loyalty and keen senses, but research continues to uncover unusual de…
A complete guide to one of the world’s most popular and family-friendly dog breeds
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most recognisable and well-loved dog breeds in the world... and for good reason! Known for its friendly nature, intelligence and versatility, it has earn…
An elegant and rare sighthound with a rich history and distinctive appearance
The Afghan Hound is one of the most distinctive and elegant dog breeds in the world. Known for its long, flowing coat, refined features and aloof yet affectionate nature, it has been admired…
The stray who became a World War I hero
Sergeant Stubby was a stray Boston Terrier (probably; Boston Terrier was a new breed then, so he might have been something similar) who was found wandering the grounds of the Yale University…
Dogs in arson and fire scene investigation
In the aftermath of a fire, the scene can be chaotic and difficult to read. Charred remains, collapsed structures and the smell of smoke can mask the clues that point to how the blaze began.…
A complete guide to the charming and compact French Bulldog, from history to health
The French Bulldog is one of the most recognisable small breeds in the world, known for its compact build, bat-like ears, expressive face and HUGE personality! The story of the French Bulldo…
Charming and pocket-sized, Miniature Dachshunds are full of personality despite their small stature
The Miniature Dachshund is a small dog with a long body, short legs and a big personality that often surprises those who meet it for the first time. Known affectionately as the sausage dog, …
Identifying triggers and formulating elimination diets for dogs
Food allergies and intolerances in dogs can be frustrating for owners and uncomfortable for the animals themselves. The signs are often subtle at first, such as occasional scratching or mild…
Saving the day since 1859!
The original depiction of a Collie called Lassie is found in an 1859 short story, The Half-brothers, by English author Elizabeth Gaskell. This story established the Lassie saves the day stor…
When and how to integrate dietary boosters for dogs
Supplements for dogs is a subject that often divides opinion. Some owners see them as an essential part of a healthy routine while others believe a balanced diet is enough. The truth lies so…
Dorothy's famous companion in Oz
Toto is one of the most recognisable dogs in popular culture, thanks to his role as Dorothy Gale’s loyal companion in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its many adaptations. Created by L. Frank…
All you need to know to teach a dog to come back when called
Many owners are surprised to learn that recall is not instinctive, even though dogs are naturally social animals. A reliable recall must be taught, and without it a dog may ignore its owner …
The only dog ever registered as a prisoner of war
Judy is the only animal to be registered as a prisoner of war during World War II. In June 1939 she was aboard HMS Grasshopper when it was sunk during the Battle of Singapore. The surviving …
A complete guide to the Cocker Spaniel, from origins and temperament to care needs and popularity
The Cocker Spaniel is one of the most recognisable and well-loved breeds in Britain and America. Known for its gentle nature, expressive eyes and long silky ears, it has been a favourite bot…
Loyal, distinctive and steeped in history, the Bulldog is a true British icon
The Bulldog is one of the most recognisable dog breeds in the world, with its stocky build, wrinkled face and distinctive pushed-in nose. Often known as the British Bulldog, it has become a …
What to look for (and avoid) in ingredient lists
Do you REALLY know what you're feeding your dog? Most dog owners glance at the label, but knowing how to read it can mean the difference between a healthy diet and hidden problems... read on…
The simple, powerful training method that builds clarity, trust and lightning-fast learning
In the world of dog training, few techniques are as simple and universally effective as “mark and reward”. At its heart, it’s about communication, giving your dog a clear signal the instant …
The debate over where domestication began
The story of dog domestication is one of the most intriguing chapters in the shared history of humans and animals. For decades, researchers have tried to pinpoint where the first wolves bega…
Who we are and what this site's about!
Hello! My name's Jude, and I'm an author, editor and educator. (The handsome boy photo-bombing my picture is Roo, an 11-year-old Australian Kelpie.) I've spent the last few years writing non…
All about how we use cookies, and what your rights are
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The legal bits we're obliged to say!
Privacy Policy This Privacy Policy explains how InfoPie Ltd ("we," "us," or "our"), operating the website factsonline.club (the "Website"), collects, …