Small but mighty, Corgis are pint-sized, lovable pups who are surprisingly agile and active. They can make great family members for first-time owners and families.

Personality and temperament

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are mighty…in their own heads and are often described as a ‘big dog trapped in a small dog’s body’. They’re alert, active and highly adaptable dogs, who are playful, friendly and love being the centre of attention – always. Corgis are up for just about any adventure, making them a great family pet, but they equally love having their own personal space at home. Be warned, this herding dog is generally great with children, but they might try herding smaller toddlers if given the chance. They also make loud guard dogs and will happily announce visitors (or just anyone walking past the house).

Size and appearance

A small-to-medium sized pooch, Corgis typically don’t grow taller than about 30cm. They have stubby legs and a long body, with a cute fox-like face and large pointed ears, and usually have docked tails. Their double coat has a rough top layer and a thick, waterproof under layer, which means they do shed quite a bit throughout the year. Corgis sport a fetching ‘saddle’ design on their fur and come in red, sable (dark brown), fawn, black and tan.

History

Dating back to the 10^th century, Corgis were the original all-round farm dog in Wales. They were used to herd animals, catch rats, guard livestock and protect farmers and their families. They were valued for their sharp intelligence and eagerness to listen and respond to their owners and by the 1850s, Corgis could be found on just about every Welsh farm. However, by the 1900s they had transitioned to loyal companion dogs and were no longer roaming the pastures. Queen Elizabeth II was famously a fan of the breed owning over 30 Corgis in her lifetime!

Food and exercise

As they are prone to obesity, it’s important that Corgis are fed a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Lots of lean protein like chicken and fish, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals to support their specific health concerns. Keep an eye on your pup’s weight as it can impact their back and joint health. Treats can be used for training purposes but should be limited – if you can resist their cute little faces.

Corgis love their exercise and are surprisingly agile despite their size. They thrive on at least 60 minutes of exercise every day, including long walks and hiking, though their short little legs can’t keep up with running or cycling. They also love having a ‘job’ to do, so things like agility, herding and obedience are right up their alley.

Training and space requirements

Being a herding dog, Corgis are alert, curious and highly intelligent. They’re easy to train and are keen to learn tricks but as with other breeds, early socialisation and positive reward-based puppy training works best.

A fenced backyard is ideal for these powder kegs of energy, but they can thrive in smaller houses and apartments if they have ample exercise and mental stimulation.

Best suited for…

Energetic playmates! Corgis are playful athletes and well suited for any family or owner that is looking for a ball of energy to dominate their home. Despite their working dog background, they can be a great pup for first-time owners who have the time and energy to devote to their training and health needs.

Small, feisty and lovable, Dachshunds are not built for speed (or stairs). But they do love cuddles and owners who keep them in check.

Personality and temperament

One of the most recognisable breeds, Dachshunds – or Sausage Dogs – are known for their bravery and protective nature, and they’ll often comically take on other dogs much bigger than themselves. Their personality varies a little between their different varieties but generally these little firecrackers make loyal family members, are good with children and tend to be good guard dogs (read: they bark at the wind). They can be destructive, due to their love of digging, so best to keep them well exercised.

Size and appearance

Dachshunds come in two sizes – standard (around 7-15 kilos) and miniature (under five kilos) – as well as three varieties: smooth, wire-coated and long-coated. They also have a long muzzle, floppy ears and an extra-long torso. Both sizes are bred with a form of dwarfism, which is why their legs are so stumpy. While cute in appearance, this often leads to back problems and difficulty with stairs and jumping.

History

These lovable, uniquely shaped pups date back to the German-speaking part of Europe, possibly as far back as the 15^th century. Prized for their courageous hunting instincts and never-back-down bravery, Dachshunds were bred to dig, enter tunnels and fight badgers! With a name that literally translates to ‘badger dog’, their body was crafted over generations to be able to fight underground – and win. Larger varieties of Dachshunds also hunted deer and foxes, while smaller ones would be sent after hares, rabbits and ferrets.

Food and exercise

Aim to feed your Dachshund a diet rich in protein like chicken and lamb, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals to support their specific health concerns. Keep an eye on your pup’s weight as it can impact their back and joint health. Be warned: their strong sense of smell can sniff out food in every corner of your home.

Despite their shape and size, these little energy balls love nothing more than a good walk. Not only will a stroll keep their body and mind fit, but it’ll also help them build muscles to support their long back. To help protect that back further, avoid taking them up or down stairs, and stop them jumping up on furniture – if you can!

Training and space requirements

Independent in nature with intense focusing skills, Dachshunds can be a challenge to train and might not be suited to the first-time dog owner. They can be stubborn, intelligent and courageous beyond their stature. However, these little badger-hunters are also very affectionate and respond well to positive-based training.

Both the standard and mini size Dachshunds can adapt well to small living spaces, even apartments, if they’re being walked regularly and are mentally stimulated. They can be disruptive – think: digging, chewing and barking – if not walked enough or left alone for too long.

Best suited for…

A hardy little breed built for affection (and digging), Dachshunds can make great family pets or apartment companions for experienced owners who have the time (and energy) to spend on exercise and looking after their pup’s health.

Gentle, devoted and always happy to see you, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves to soak up cuddles at any time of day. They love children and make great family pets.

Personality and temperament

It’s hard not to fall in love with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Not only do they have a calm, low-key temperament and affectionate personality, but they also have large, inviting round eyes that are impossible to say ‘no’ to. On top of that, they are intelligent and playful pups that are always up for a play, a walk or simply to have the job of warming your lap. They won’t say no.

Size and appearance

A toy dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are the perfect size to demand a lap cuddle on a regular basis. They shouldn’t get above about 8 kilos, and they generally don’t reach higher than 33 cm to their shoulder. Their silky-soft fur comes in three colours with distinct markings ruby, black and tan and tricolour, and they are known for their floppy, feathery ears which hang down like pig tails. The cute little face is part of their distinct look, but the shorter snout can lead to breathing issues and overheating if not monitored.

History

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were developed from the English Toy Spaniel – a breed dating back to England in the 1600s developed to warm laps in draughty castles. They were given the title of King Charles Spaniel as the British monarch was always accompanied by at least two or three Cavaliers at any one time. While the breed changed over the years, in the 1900s a recreation of an earlier version of the Cavalier was born and named Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in honour of their previous owner.

Food and exercise

Although they may appear always hungry, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels should eat a balanced diet full of protein-rich and nutrient-dense ingredients. They can put on weight easily so it’s best to try and limit treats, though we know that can be challenging with those eyes staring at you.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small and designed for lap hugs, but they do enjoy regular exercise and mental situation. Aim for about 30 to 60 mins of exercise per day – this could be playtime, training or walks. Avoid exercise in hot or humid weather, as these little fur balls can overheat easily.

Cavaliers can struggle in the heat – especially during exercise – due to their flatter facial features. When temperatures climb above 25°C, it’s best to skip the walk and stay cool indoors. Regular outdoor time is still important, so plan walks during the coolest parts of the day in summer.

Training and space requirements

Intelligent and eager to please, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can be quite easy to train, especially if you start when they are a puppy. They respond well to positive reward-based training and encouragement.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can adjust to small homes and apartments if they aren’t left along for too long and they are regularly exercised. While they appreciate a fenced yard, they also love mental stimulation with their owners as well as frequent outings.

Best suited for…

Affectionate, great with kids and a big lover of ‘couch time’, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are well suited to households where there is lots of love and companionship. They need an owner who can spend the time, energy and money on their wellbeing, especially as they can experience various health issues.

English bulldogs are big, brave and beautiful (to their owners!), and despite their muscles and broad chest, these gentle powerhouses like to be the class clown.

Personality and temperament

Loving, friendly and a little drool-y, English Bulldogs are patient and even playful with children and their families. While some may be wary of unfamiliar dogs, most are deeply loyal to their human ‘pack’ and love being part of whatever’s going on (unless it involves a long run). They’re sometimes mistaken for being lazy (aren’t we all?), but really, their short snout and restricted airways simply limit how much exercise they can handle.

Size and appearance

Jam-packed with muscles and framed by broad shoulders, English Bulldogs have comically large heads with folds of skin and expressive eyes that can make them look a little grumpy at times. Their large chops (jaw) take up half of their friendly face and their lower jaw (aka the drool maker) is very prominent. With a stout body, short legs and short snout that is prone to breathing issues, these medium-sized dogs can grow up to 43 cm tall. Their fur is short and easy to maintain, but cleaning is needed between the folds of their skin.

History

The history of these sturdy dogs is all in the name – as early as the 12^th century they were originally bred for use in the not-to-nice sport of bull (and sometimes bear) baiting in England. Then in the 1800s when bull baiting was phased out, English Bulldogs became the dog of choice for the lower classes (and their blood sports), until a little later when they were bred to be much friendlier and less aggressive, making them ideal family pets. The shorter facial appearance appeared in around 1860 when the breed was first shown at dog shows.

Food and exercise

Built like a tank, English Bulldogs tend to gain weight, so it’s essential to feed them a high-quality diet and limit their treats (easier said than done, we know). A slow feeder bowl can help with fast eaters and can cut down on indigestion.

Due to their breathing restrictions, most Bulldogs only need around 20 minutes a day of exercise, and generally no more than 40 minutes. This could be walks, but could also mean tug-o-war, playing fetch or gentle wrestling with their (adult) owners.

Bulldogs are particularly prone to heat stress because of their flat faces, which make it harder for them to stay cool. Exercise should be strictly avoided when the temperature rises above 25°C. Daily outings are still vital for their health and happiness, so in summer, aim for walks early in the morning or later in the evening.

Training and space requirements

Intelligent but stubborn, English Bulldogs aren’t the easiest dogs to train. They like clowning around and having fun, so game-based training works best. The key is being consistent and patient and starting training as early as you can.

Despite being a medium-sized dog, Bulldogs don’t need a lot of space and can be great apartment dogs if they get enough mental stimulation and exercise.

Best suited for…

Families! Playful yet gentle, English Bulldogs make great family dogs. Their loving nature will soon win family members over, but due to their specific health concerns, from being a brachycephalic dog breed, only consider this breed if you are able to dedicate time and energy into their wellbeing.

Cute as a button with an irresistible personality, French Bulldogs quickly become the centre of attention in any room, despite their pocket-sized body.

Personality and temperament

Packed full of charisma and charm, French Bulldogs are a cheeky but generally well behaved, friendly little pup who loves lounging on your comfiest chair. Their easy-going nature and playful attitude to life have made them one of the most popular family dogs, but don’t be fooled, they have their moments – and Frenchie ‘zoomies’ are one of the cutest things you’ll ever experience.

Size and appearance

With distinct black ‘bat ears’, a squashy face with wrinkles, large expressive eyes and a compact muscly body, Frenchies sport an instantly recognisable silhouette. However, their signature short muzzle can lead to breathing issues and overheating. Frenchies have short, smooth fur that’s surprisingly thick, making them very huggable. Extra care is needed to keep their skin folds clean, especially in winter as they can experience infections. Being a small dog breed, Frenchies rarely stand higher than 33 cm and are perfectly proportioned for lap time.

History

French Bulldogs – as we would recognise them – first appeared in Paris in the mid-19^th century (possibly by crossing Toy Bulldogs with local rat-catching dogs). Paris? How chic, you may think, however, they soon became the pup of choice for Montmartre’s brothels and dens of debauchery. You can even see the breed featured in risqué postcards of mistresses and impressionists’ paintings later in the century. Over time their appeal skipped the divide and began appearing on the laps of European royalty and English nobility – it’s even recorded that an unfortunate Frenchie went down with the Titanic. Today they’re one of the most loved breeds in the country.

Food and exercise

Due to their size, French Bulldogs don’t require a lot of food – but no one told them that. Try to avoid over feeding (it’ll put strain on their backs), and provide a well-balanced blend of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in their daily meals. A daily 30-60-minute bout of exercise will keep your Frenchie happy. Due to their potential for breathing issues and overheating, smaller walks and play sessions work best. In warmer weather, avoid spending too long outdoors with your pup.

Frenchies aren’t built for the heat. Their squashed snouts limit their ability to cool themselves down, so walks in temperatures over 25°C should be avoided. These pups still need daily exercise to stay happy, so schedule short strolls in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler outside.

Training and space requirements

Frenchies are active, intelligent dogs who can enjoy training if it’s done in a playful and positive manner. Consistency is the key as is finding out your Frenchie’s particular motivator – are they a treat lover, a ball obsessive or a squeaky toy buddy?

Perfect for apartments and smaller houses, French Bulldogs don’t need much space as long as they have a spot on the couch and they get enough exercise. Indoor games suit them well too, especially if it’s hot or humid outside.

Best suited for…

Cheeky and lovable, French Bulldogs are the perfect housemate for apartment dwellers, first-time owners and families who can prioritise their pup’s health.

The ultimate lap warmer, Pugs are a lively but even-tempered breed whose sole purpose in life is to hang around its owners and make them pat them.

Personality and temperament

It’s hard to find fault with this people-pleasing pooch; Pugs are playful without being comedic, loving without being clingy, and happy without being hyperactive. They love nothing more than being wherever their human ‘pack’ is, and dislike being left alone, especially as they can be a little mischievous. They can be a good choice for first-time dog owners as they are relatively low-maintenance pups.

Size and appearance

Pugs are a small dog breed with a height of around 36cm and a weight of around 6-9kg – just perfect to fit on your lap. Their stocky little bodies are very huggable with short fur, floppy ears and a curled-up tail. Their squashy faces, complete with ‘worry’ wrinkles and big eyes are a much-loved aspect of the breed, though the short nose can lead to breathing issues and they are prone to overheating. The two most common fur colours are fawn and black, with a black face, though silver and apricot can also be found.

History

Talk about a dog with a back story! These clever pups have been bred to warm the laps of royalty since the Han Dynasty in China (around 200AD) and they are even thought to be related to the Tibetan Mastiff earlier than that. Little Pugs were traded with Europeans in the 1500s and they were also adopted by the royalty of the time, including Marie Antoinette. They arrived on our shores in the 1870s and have been a popular choice ever since.

Food and exercise

Most Pugs love their food and can stack on the kilos if fed too much, so it’s best to offer smaller low-calorie, nutrient-dense meals two or three times a day. This can help with digestion and can help cut down on the treats you offer their cute puppy dog faces.

Exercise is important to these lively pooches, but they will also sit happy next to you on the couch for hours. A little encouragement though will see them bounding for the lead. Keep walks and play sessions short and sweet as their squashed face can contribute to breathing issues, and they can’t tolerate hot days or humidity well.

Pugs and hot weather don’t mix well. Their flat faces make it harder to pant efficiently, which is how dogs cool down. Avoid exercise when it’s over 25°C and instead opt for early morning or evening walks. Despite their limits in hot weather, daily outings remain important for a pug’s wellbeing.

Training and space requirements

These little lap buddies have been bred to please their owners, and so training can be easier than other breeds.

Apartment living and small homes suit them well, as long as their exercise needs are taken care of and they get enough mental stimulation. They don’t like being left alone for long periods of time, though, so they’ll suit homes where there are constant companions. Early puppy training and socialisation can help with this.

Best suited for…

Friendly, loving and pretty low-maintenance, Pugs are the even-tempered dogs of most people dreams. They suit families, seniors and first-time dog owners who have the time (and energy and patience) to spend looking after the potential health concerns of the breed.

Chow Chows are sturdy little fluff balls who are independent and fiercely loyal, yet not overly cuddly. While they make great companion pets, they are prone to certain health concerns.

Personality and temperament

Independent, aloof and dignified are all words that can be used to describe the personality of the regal Chow Chow. These proud but serious pups can be wary of new people and animals, but they are loyal and protective with the ones they love. Often compared to being ‘cat-like’ in nature, their stubbornness and extreme intelligence may not be suited to first-time dog owners or anyone that wants a cuddly pooch.

Size and appearance

With over-the-top fur coverage, a blue/black tongue and cute triangle ears, Chow Chows are half bear and half dog in appearance. Their dense double coat, which comes in two types (rough-coated and smooth-coated) gives teddy-bear vibes, as does their beautiful almond-shaped eyes and constantly furrowed brow. Chow Chows have a flat face and short snout which can make it harder for them to breathe, especially while exercising. A medium-sized dog, Chow Chows can reach to 51cm tall and can weight up to 32 kilos.

History

One of the oldest dog breeds in the world, Chow Chows are believed to date back to China’s Han Dynasty (that’s over 2200 years ago!). Originally bred as hunting and guard dogs for the Emperor, they were also later used to herd livestock (yes, really). They were brought to England in the late 19^th century and even Queen Victoria was said to be a fan of their calm and loyal nature.

Food and exercise

Like all dogs, Chow Chows need a balanced diet full of protein, fibre and nutrients. Due to their tendency for allergies, checking for skin irritations when changing food can be helpful, and avoid overfeeding – even if they use their adorable eyes to beg.

Chow Chows are active dogs needing at least 60 minutes of exercise a day, however due to their ridiculously fluffy fur, they are best kept inside on very hot days as they can overheat easily, as well as very wet days. They particularly like being off the lead due to their independent nature, so a fenced park can be their favourite place to go on a ‘sniffari’.

The Chow Chow’s compact facial structure makes it difficult for them to regulate their temperature in hot weather. They’re at increased risk of overheating when temperatures exceed 25°C. To keep them safe while still meeting their daily exercise needs, stick to cooler parts of the day during summer – think sunrise or after dark.

Training and space requirements

Being an intelligent and stubborn dog – with a streak for independence – it’s not surprising that Chow Chows can be a bit of a handful to train. Consistent training, starting from puppyhood, if possible, will get the best results, but they can be a challenge for first-time dog owners.

Chow Chows don’t need a lot of space if they have enough mental stimulation and exercise, but they will be happiest with at least a small outside (fenced) area to roam in. Apartment and small-space owners should consider the amount of shedding that these bear-dogs do throughout the year!

Best suited for…

Calm, decerning and protective, Chow Chows can make loving pets for experienced dog owners, even in small spaces. However, since Chow Chows are a brachycephalic dog breed, they come with a greater risk of health problems, so make sure you factor in time and money you may need to support them.

When your pet is unwell or hurt, it can feel overwhelming. Some situations can safely wait for your regular vet, while others call for immediate care. To help you make quick, confident decisions, we asked Dr Erin McKinney and Dr Gillian Gates, Emergency Veterinarians at Southpaws Specialty & Referral Hospital, to share their advice.

Common pet emergencies

Dr McKinney says vomiting and diarrhoea are the most common issues, “because they can come out of nowhere and really worry owners.” Other common pet emergencies include:

• Ingesting toxin or foreign objects
• Breathing difficulties
• Seizures
• Heatstroke
• Trauma from car accidents or animal fights
• Sudden lameness, weakness, or collapse

When to go straight to an emergency vet hospital

Dr Gates says that if your pet shows any of the following signs, don’t wait, head to your emergency vet hospital:

• Difficulty breathing (laboured, noisy or rapid breaths, blue gums or tongue)
• Any episodes of collapse, fainting, sudden weakness, or inability to stand or walk
• Sudden paralysis or loss of use of one or more limbs
• Uncontrolled bleeding or open wounds
• Seizures or repeated twitching episodes
• Ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea, especially with blood
• Suspected toxin or foreign body ingestion (eg chocolate, rat bait, lilies, socks, bones, toys)
• Swollen, painful abdomen or persistent gagging or vomiting without bringing anything up
• Extreme lethargy or being too weak to rise or respond normally

Vet Tip: If you think your pet has eaten something toxic or dangerous, call your emergency vet clinic first. Dr Gates says “owners can always call us to check if ingested material is concerning. Our team is always happy to advice whether they should be worried over the phone.”

What to do in specific situations

• Toxins or foreign bodies: Call your emergency vet hospital immediately. What you do next depends on what was eaten, how much and when. Sometimes your vet will induce vomiting at the clinic, other times that is not advised. Do not try home remedies.

• Seizures: Call your emergency vet hospital as soon as you can. Management depends on your pet’s history and the type of seizure. Clear space around your pet, keep them cool and quiet, and follow the clinic’s guidance about coming straight in.

• Breathing difficulties: Treat any breathing concern as urgent. An emergency team would rather be safe than sorry, so take your pet to your nearest emergency vet hospital straight away for oxygen and assessment.

• Heatstroke: Move your pet out of heat right away, begin active cooling with room temperature water and a fan, place damp towels on your pet’s body and travel in a cool, air-conditioned car. Head to your nearest emergency vet hospital for monitoring.

• Trauma (from car incidents, falls or animal fights): If your pet has been in a fight or accident, or you are worried about any falls, call your emergency vet hospital or come straight in for an assessment. Even if your pet looks fine, hidden injuries are common, especially in cat and small dog breeds.

Quick thinking can save your pet’s life

Acting fast is critical for some patients particularly when a decision needs to be made between heading straight to an emergency vet hospital or your regular vet.

Dr McKinney cites a recent example. “I remember a dog that ate a puffer fish at the beach. The owner got to us within 15 minutes. He went into respiratory arrest within 10 minutes of arriving. We put him on a ventilator, and he went home four days later,” she says. “If traffic or any delay had slowed their decision to come straight to the emergency clinic, he would have died.”

Be prepared for pet emergencies

• Save key numbers on your phone and fridge: your regular vet, nearest 24/7 emergency vet hospital, Animal Poisons Helpline 1300 TOX PET (1300 869 738)

• Know your pet’s history: bring current medications and recent medical records if you have them to the emergency vet hospital and know what and when your pet ate if there is an ingestion risk.

• Transport safely: put your dogs on a lead and your cats in a secure, well-ventilated carrier that opens easily, when transporting them to your emergency vet hospital.

First aid basics you need to know

• Stop bleeding by applying gentle pressure
• If your pet is overheated, cool them with damp towels and ensure the car is air-conditioned while travelling to the emergency vet hospital.
• Do not induce vomiting at home and avoid replying on “Dr Google” for advice
• Know the quickest route and travel time to your nearest emergency vet hospital

Learn more first aid tips for common pet injuries in this guide.

If your dog seems to panic every time you leave the house, they could be dealing with separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs is common, and with a kind, step-by-step plan most dogs can learn to feel safe when home alone.

This guide will help you spot the signs of separation anxiety, understand the causes and share tips on how to calm your anxious dog. That way, you can both enjoy some much-needed space without the stress.

What is separation anxiety in dogs?

Separation anxiety is a panic response when a dog is apart from their person. It’s not naughtiness or attention-seeking behaviour, it’s fear, says certified trainer Angela Fletcher, who works with veterinary behaviourist Dr Jess Beer at Kiwi Vet Behaviour.

“It isn’t just about being left out of the fun, it is a full-on panic attack,” she says.

Whining or barking as you leave is not “normal goodbye noise”, it sits under separation anxiety and needs support, not scolding.

Signs of separation anxiety in dogs

Watch out for changes in your dog’s behaviour before you leave, while you’re gone, or just after you walk back in the door. Common signs include:

• Barking, whining or howling that continues
• Chewing or scratching, especially near doors and windows
• Pacing, restlessness, panting or drooling
• House soiling even though toilet training is solid
• Damage near exits or attempts to escape
• Clinginess before you go, shadowing you from room to room

Here’s a tip: film your dog for the first ten minutes after you leave. That short clip makes it easier for your vet or trainer to tailor a plan.

What causes separation anxiety in dogs?

Separation anxiety usually doesn’t have just one cause. Some dogs are naturally more anxious, and big changes like moving house, rehoming, or sudden changes in routine can also lead to separation anxiety. Dogs that never learned how to relax on their own may also struggle. Health problems or pain can add to their stress, which is why it’s a good idea to visit your vet for a health check.

How to help a dog with separation anxiety

“Ignoring bad behaviour won’t help separation anxiety, says Fletcher, “Positive reinforcement training and keeping them under threshold will.”

Here is a step-by-step plan that follows that guidance.

Step 1: Desensitisation and counterconditioning

Teach your dog that being alone is safe. Start with very short absences your dog can handle without a hint of distress, even if that is a two second door close. Return while they are calm, repeat, then gradually add more time. If you see early signs of worry, like pacing or lip licking, you have gone too far. Step back and progress in smaller steps. Do not punish fear.

Step 2: Management while you train

Set your dog up for success by avoiding absences they can’t handle. Use a pet sitter and take your dog with you when you can. Doggy daycare can be a short-term alternative to being alone for some dogs, but busy group settings can overwhelm anxious dogs, so decide case by case with professional advice. Crates only help if your dog already relaxes in one.

Step 3: Do not “cry it out”

Leaving your dog to bark it out does not help when a dog is in a panic. Fletcher’s advice is to return immediately; lower the difficulty and try again at a level your dog can handle. “Many people leave their dogs barking to wait for a quiet patch, but this isn’t ‘naughty behaviour’ it is emotion,” she says. Your dog is experiencing “feelings like a panic attack.”

Step 4: Call in the pros

If progress stalls, speak with your vet. They can rule out medical issues, discuss medication to lower overall anxiety and refer you to a veterinary behaviourist or a positive reinforcement trainer with separation credentials such as SA Pro or SACP.

How long does it take

Timelines can vary. Many dogs show early wins within a few weeks once you stop triggering full panic and stack up easy, calm absences. Tougher cases can take months. Keep a simple log, change one thing at a time and look for steady gains.

What does success look like

Your dog can rest, settle or chew quietly while you run everyday errands. No frantic vocalising, no pacing, no door damage, no indoor toileting. They may still prefer you nearby, but they can cope when you leave the house.

You may have fallen in love with that button nose and wide-eyed stare, especially as a puppy, but brachycephalic – or flat-faced – pets come with health quirks that every owner needs to know about.

What does brachycephalic mean?

Brachycephalic literally means short-headed. These breeds have shortened skulls that give them their flat faces, snub noses, wrinkled skin and wide-set eyes. You’ll see these features in breed like pugs, bulldogs (French and English), Boston terriers, boxers, as well as cats such as Persians and Himalayans.

Health challenges: when cuteness comes at a cost

Flat-faced pets may look irresistibly cute, but their unique features can come with extra health issues. Breathing difficulties are the most common, with the most concerning being Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a condition where narrow airways make it hard to breathe. In some cases, surgery may be needed. Breathing difficulties can also increase the risk of heart-related illnesses such as heatstroke.

Other common health issues include:

• Large, protruding eyes that are more prone to injury
• Crowded teeth, which increase the risk of gum disease and infection
• Deep skin folds that trap moisture and easily become irritated or infected

Even routine vet visits can be more complex. Flat-faced pets face greater risks under sedation and anaesthesia, so procedures like dentals, desexing or imaging may take longer and require more intensive monitoring. Your vet may refer you to a clinic with specialised equipment or an extended recovery stay to keep your pet safe.

Everyday care tips

With a bit of extra attention, flat-faced pets can live comfortable, happy lives. Some of the best ways to help include:

• Watch their weight – carrying extra kilos makes breathing harder and puts extra pressure on the heart.
• Keep them cool – avoid hot or humid weather, provide shade at home and carry water on walks.
• Exercise gently – stick to short strolls rather than long runs or rough play sessions.
• Daily hygiene – clean skin folds to prevent infection and gently wipe around the eyes to reduce irritation.
• Plan vet visits – schedule regular check-ups to catch issues early, especially with breathing, eyes, teeth and skin.
• Choose the right gear – use a harness instead of a collar to avoid extra pressure on the airway.
• Routine grooming – keep nails trimmed so your pet walks comfortably and avoids extra strain.

Breeding responsibly

Dr House says responsible breeding makes a real difference. “I work with breeders in a way that’s not confrontational and is educational,” he says. “The welfare of the dogs is paramount, as is making their lives comfortable.”

Many breeders now use respiratory function grading (RFG) to score dogs from 0 (clear) to 3 (severe), and it’s worth asking to see certificates of the parents before bringing a puppy home.

Why love outweighs the challenges

Despite the challenges, Dr House has a very soft spot for these soft and squishy furbabies – and he’s not alone.

“There’s statistics around pet ownership, and one of them is that 90% of French bulldog owners will go and buy a subsequent French bulldog after the death of their first one, irrespective of whether or not they’ve had a lifetime of veterinary visits,” he says.

“They are highly valued by their owners. Even though their health is not fantastic, they’re massively loved and desired.”