We all know honeybees, and the majority of us are equally familiar with bumblebees, even if we struggle to name them individually, but solitary bees? They are a huge group…
David Tomlinson
Spaniel minority breeds
I recently had a long chat with a spaniel enthusiast who argued, quite convincingly, that the only spaniels we need are cockers and springers, and that all the others are…
The different colours of gundogs
It’s long been argued that a good horse can’t be a bad colour, and I reckon that’s generally true with gundogs, too. However, most of us have preferences, so when…
The sporting dogs helping to protect endangered species
Many sporting dogs are helping with conservation and helping to protect endangered species such as bats and water voles in the UK. Earlier this winter, I was walking my spaniel…
French beagles
The hounds had been speaking to the line for at least two minutes, and every second their baying became louder and more excited: there was no doubt about it, they…
The best working dog beds: how to make the right choice
Thoughts on dog beds My dogs are always keen to sample new dog beds. During the year we have a number of short-stay canine visitors who invariably bring their beds…
Essential gundog handling kit: No bells, just whistles
I was recently asked what is essential gundog handling kit. I thought about the question for 30 seconds before replying: a slip lead and a whistle. I’ve now given the…
Best guard dog breeds. Deter burglars with a fearsome friend
The best guards dogs for a country estate - and how to stay on the right side of law.
The Downton Abbey gundog
The Downton Abbey gundog - What would Lord Grantham have used as a gundog? A flatcoat or a labrador?
Prepare your gundog for a scurry
Dogs are great levellers. Picture the scene: you have gone to the local country fair and paused to watch the gundog scurry. The standard isn’t high, so you decide to…