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Scotsman
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
What are the happiest dog breeds 2025? Here are the 17 most naturally happy breeds of adorable dog - including the loving Labrador 🐶
It's estimated that there are a remarkable 13.5 million dogs in the UK - meaning that more that a third of homes contain at least one perfect pooch. It means that dogs are, by quite distance, the most popular pet in the country (followed by cats and fish), with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds . When it comes to choosing on your perfect pup there are many things to factor in, opting for a small dog if you don't have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies. There's also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust . It's also worth noting that some breeds of dog tend to be cheerier than others - you'd never accuse a Bloodhound of being brimming with joie de vivre. So, if you're looking for a dog that has a naturally sunny outlook and a mischievous smile, here are 17 worth popping on your shortlist. 1 . Labrador Retriever When it comes to big silly infectious smiles, it's hard to beat those plastered across the face of a typical Labrador Retriever. They have been the UK's (and the world's) most popular dog for decades and their sunny disposition is one of the reasons why. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 2 . Bedlington Terrier Several Bedlington Terriers have become 'Insta-famous' on social media due to their incredibly smiley faces. They may have been bred to hunt rats, but those Hollywood smiles are not more likely to catch the attention of cameras. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 3 . Golden Retriever What is true of the Labrador Retriever also tends to be the same for their close cousin the Golden Retriever. These boisterous buddies may manage to look sad when they are begging for food, but the silly grin will be back soon. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 4 . Cocker Spaniel We've known Cocker Spaniels who wag their tails so much that they continue even when they are asleep. This is a happy breed that embrace life to the full - always looking for the next adventure. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Pet Time Stories: My pets help me navigate the ups and downs of my career, says Sanchita Shetty
Leah and Zara help remind the actress of what's important — love, laughter, and connection. Amid her unpredictable schedule, having pets has been 'life-changing' for her. For Sanchita Shetty , her pets — Leah and Zara — are a constant support system. In a chat with us, she delves into the special bond she shares with her paw buddies and how much they mean to her. 'They have helped me navigate the ups and downs of my career with a sense of balance. I can't imagine my life without them,' the actress tells us. 'LEAH'S ALWAYS RADIATING POSITIVITY; ZARA'S PRESENCE IS LARGER THAN LIFE' Leah and Zara have brought positivity and laughter into Sanchita's life, and she says, 'Leah is a Labrador Retriever, a breed known for being friendly and loyal. She is always radiating positivity. Her calming nature balances out the more fast-paced aspects of my life. Zara, a French Bulldog, is a little firecracker. French Bulldogs are known for their playful and loving nature, and Zara is no exception. She may be small, but her presence is larger than life. She also has a quirky side, with her little snorts and dramatic expressions, which always make me laugh.' 'My pets know when I need a little extra love' Leah and Zara help remind the actress of what's important — love, laughter, and connection. Amid her unpredictable schedule, having pets has been 'life-changing' for her. Sanchita says, 'Sometimes, I'm away from home for days, so coming back to them is such a joy. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Leah, with her laid-back demeanour, is the perfect counterbalance to my hectic work life. I can count on her for a moment of peace and connection, even when I'm drained. Zara brings humour and energy into my life. She keeps me laughing even when I'm stressed or overwhelmed. Both know when I need a break from the demands of work and when I need a little extra love.' 'It's funny how pets have a way of filling the gaps in our life' The actress shares that she realised the need for the companionship of pets as her career started to take off. 'Growing up, we always had pets, be it dogs, cats, or birds. I had a Golden Retriever named Max, who was my childhood companion, and a mischievous cat named Milo. Leah has been with me through a lot of milestones in my career, and Zara came into my life during a time when I needed a little extra joy. It's funny how pets have a way of filling the gaps in our life that we don't always know we need filled,' Sanchita concludes.
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
‘The signs can be subtle': Vet explains how to tell if your dog has hypothyroidism
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. As a vet with nearly 14 years of experience treating dogs of all shapes and sizes, I've diagnosed and managed many cases of hypothyroidism in dogs. This hormonal condition is surprisingly common in our canine companions and, if left untreated, can significantly impact their quality of life. Thankfully, with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most dogs go on to live happy, healthy lives. Hypothyroidism in dogs can be tricky to spot at first. The signs are often subtle and can mimic other issues, making it a bit of a diagnostic puzzle. Owners often come to me saying their dog seems "just not quite right" – maybe they've slowed down, put on weight, or their coat has lost its usual shine. In this article, I'll explain exactly what hypothyroidism in dogs is, what causes it, how to spot the signs, and what treatment options are available. Whether you're worried about your own dog or simply keen to learn more, read on to find out more. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland, located in the neck, doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones – primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating your dog's metabolism, which is essentially how their body uses energy. When the thyroid doesn't produce enough of these hormones, the body's metabolic processes slow down. This affects almost every system in the body, from how your dog digests food and maintains body temperature, to how their skin and coat renew. In dogs, hypothyroidism is almost always caused by a problem within the thyroid gland itself (known as primary hypothyroidism). It's most commonly seen in middle-aged, medium-sized to large breed dogs, with breeds like the golden retriever, Labrador Retriever, Doberman Pinscher and cocker spaniel being more predisposed. The clinical signs of hypothyroidism in dogs can be varied and subtle at first. They tend to develop gradually, which can make it tricky for owners to spot what's going on. You might notice one or two of the following signs initially, and more may appear over time: Lethargy or reduced activity levels: Dogs may seem more tired, sleep more, or be reluctant to go for walks. Weight gain without increased appetite: Despite eating the same (or less), your dog may gain weight. Hair loss: Typically symmetrical and affecting the sides of the body, tail, and back of the thighs. Dry, dull coat and flaky skin: You may notice dandruff or coarse, brittle fur. Cold intolerance: Your dog may seek out warm spots or shiver more easily. Slow heart rate (bradycardia): This is something a vet may pick up during a physical exam. Recurring skin or ear infections: Often due to poor skin health or secondary infections. Neurological signs: In rare cases, dogs may develop weakness, head tilt, or facial nerve paralysis. It's worth remembering that these signs can also be seen with other health issues, especially skin conditions, so your vet will likely recommend blood tests to confirm a diagnosis. Some owners report behavioral changes too, such as increased anxiety. As mentioned earlier, primary hypothyroidism is the most common form in dogs – this means the problem originates in the thyroid gland itself. The two main causes of primary hypothyroidism are: 1. Lymphocytic thyroiditis This is an autoimmune condition where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Over time, this leads to inflammation and destruction of thyroid tissue, reducing hormone production. It's believed to be inherited in some breeds. 2. Idiopathic thyroid atrophy In this form, the normal thyroid tissue is gradually replaced with fatty tissue, for reasons we don't fully understand. Like lymphocytic thyroiditis, this results in a reduction of hormone production over time. Less commonly, dogs can have secondary hypothyroidism, where the pituitary gland (which controls the thyroid) fails to produce enough thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This is rare and usually associated with brain trauma, tumors, or congenital defects. It's important to note that hypothyroidism in dogs is not the same as in people – in dogs, dietary iodine deficiency and congenital hypothyroidism are extremely rare. The good news is that hypothyroidism in dogs is very manageable with the right treatment. Once diagnosed, your dog will usually need lifelong hormone replacement therapy. Here's how we treat it: Levothyroxine supplementation: This is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It's given by mouth, usually twice daily to begin with, although some dogs can eventually switch to once daily dosing. The exact dose is calculated based on your dog's weight and individual response. Regular monitoring and blood tests: Your vet will need to check your dog's thyroid hormone levels periodically, especially in the early stages, to ensure the medication is working effectively and to adjust the dose if necessary. It usually takes a few weeks to start seeing visible improvement in your dog's energy levels and coat quality. Supportive care: Dogs with skin issues, infections, or weight problems may need additional supportive treatments like medicated shampoos, antibiotics, or dietary management until their hormone levels are back to normal. With proper treatment, most dogs return to their normal selves – more energetic, healthier-looking and happier. However, it's vital to stick to the treatment plan and not stop medication without veterinary advice. With a correct diagnosis and consistent treatment, dogs with hypothyroidism can live a completely normal lifespan. Once stabilized on the right dose of thyroid hormone, they can enjoy all the things they did before – whether that's long countryside walks, playing fetch, or curling up on the sofa with you. The key to long-term success is ongoing monitoring. Regular vet check-ups and blood tests (every six to 12 months in most cases) are essential to ensure hormone levels stay within the optimal range. If symptoms return or worsen, the dosage may need adjusting. It's also worth being mindful of other age-related conditions that may develop alongside hypothyroidism. Because many of the symptoms (such as lethargy or weight gain) can overlap with other diseases, it's always a good idea to speak to your vet if you notice any changes in your dog's health. Hypothyroidism in dogs is a common and very treatable condition. Although the symptoms can be vague at first, with early detection and the right care, your dog can live a full and happy life. If you're ever concerned that your dog might be slowing down or not quite themselves, don't hesitate to book a check-up – it's always better to investigate sooner rather than later. Read next: Arthritis in dogs or signs of dementia in dogs Edited by Megan Milstead. This page was last updated in July 2025 by Emma Chandley.
Scotsman
07-07-2025
- General
- Scotsman
Barking Dogs 2025: Here are the 20 noisiest and quietest breeds of adorable dog - from silent Basenji to vocal Labrador 🐶
We're a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend . By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that's a scientific fact. The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds . Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don't have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies. There's also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust . There's even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren's book 'The Intelligence of Dogs' ranking breeds by instincts the ability to adapt. One thing to take into consideration is whether a dog that barks or howls could lead to complaints from neighbours, particularly if you live in a flat or apartment. Or you may want a more vocal breed to act as a guard dog - a bit of barking is likely to deter most intruders. Whichever is the case, some breeds are far more likley to make a noise than others. Here are the 20 naturally noisiest - and quietest - breeds of dog. 1 . French Bulldog We're starting with the pups that are least likely to bark, or make any other kind of noise. The French Bulldog is the second most popular dog in the UK (behind the significantly noisier Labrador Retriever). It is a particularly good choice for those living in flats, since they rarely bark and don't need a huge amount of room. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 2 . Shiba Inu The highly intelligent Shiba Inu, originally from Japan, is another dog that usually only barks when there is a very good reason for it to do so. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 3 . Cavalier King Charles Spaniel As quiet as they are cute, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They may bark to let you know there's somebody at the door, but other than that they are very different from the more yappy-type small dog breeds. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales 4 . Dobermann Trustworthy and protective of their families, Dobermanns - also known as Doberman Pinschers - make good guard dogs but are remarkably quiet in normal circumstances. | Canva/Getty Images Photo Sales
Chicago Tribune
30-06-2025
- General
- Chicago Tribune
Lake Forest Police Department hopeful new comfort dog will aid officers and residents
'Who doesn't love a dog?' That is the hope and belief of Lauren Perez, the Lake Forest Police Department social worker, who now has a four-legged partner named Winston. The St. Bernard is in training to be the department's first comfort dog. While the department has had dogs to assist with criminal investigations, Perez lobbied the administration for the acquisition of a dog to serve in a new role. Specifically, he could offer some assistance for both residents and officers. The department supervisors approved the idea as they saw a need for Winston noting there were 538 mental health calls in the area last year. The hope is Winston will provide emotional comfort, assist officer wellness and support community engagement. 'There's no question that police work takes a toll on emotional wellbeing,' Police Chief John Burke said in a statement. 'This comfort dog program is an important step forward – not just in how we support our team, but in how we connect with and care for the Lake Forest community.' Perez envisions Winston will respond to crisis calls if she has to respond to death notifications. He will also be a resource for a scared or injured child in any high stress situation. 'He's a calming presence sometimes,' Perez said of the brown-and-white mongrel with a nose peppered by freckles. 'He is the gateway if someone is having a hard time to talk to me about it.' The road to getting Winston started when Perez researched what breed would be appropriate in the 'comfort' dog role. She eventually selected a St. Bernard due to their calm temperament and good interaction with humans. The next task was finding a dog to adopt and Perez located a breeder in downstate Metcalf. In May, she drove down and picked up the puppy, who was born March 19. He now stays with her both at the police department and with the Perez family that already had a black Labrador Retriever. 'When he comes here, he is like my partner,' she said. Upon the adoption, the city held a naming contest open to all residents, including children, with 'Winston' emerging as the top vote-getter of several options. Winston has yet to make his full debut to the Lake Forest community as he is currently in training. Perez said that it would take several months as he gets used to tasks such as riding in the police cars. 'We are just getting him comfortable with the day-to-day of what it will look like when he is fully trained,' Perez said. She concedes it is a slow process with obedience being a crucial step. 'Once he gets through obedience training everything else will come naturally because he will respond to commands and he will stay near me and he won't run off. He will be very docile and follow instructions once we get out,' Perez said. Eventually, Winston will have to be certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs to serve in the everyday role. Perez believes that will come next year after he reaches his first birthday. Besides training, he has a lot of growing to do. In late June he weighed 33 pounds, with Perez anticipating he will be anywhere from 150 to 180 pounds when fully grown. For now, Perez is enjoying working with Winston, anticipating he will be an effective community resource, noting some neighboring communities use comfort dogs. 'I just believe that animal-assisted therapy is really beneficial,' she said. 'It breaks barriers.'
