Question: I have a six-month-old labrador who is really naughty. He pulls the washing off the line consistently. I have tried every punishment, and praise when he doesn’t do it, yet he still does it. The dog has lots of toys and is well exercised. I am running out of ideas. Krystal Answer: Labradors are […]

Question: My boyfriend and I live in an average-sized two bedroom flat. We have recently adopted a kitten (she’s roughly three months old) and are worried that she gets bored when we’re not around. She has heaps of toys and things to play with but seems to mainly sleep when we’re not around and goes […]

Question: My miniature shelty has a really bad flea allergy. Other vets said he might be allergic to a number of things. It’s got to the stage were he’s ripping his hair out near his backside. I bath him every two days but there are still lumps and he’s constantly scratching and also has anxiety […]

Question: Our golden retriever pup kept chewing everything well past her first birthday. She even destroyed the carpet in the lounge room. We sought the advice of a dog behaviourist and his first response was to check her mouth. Sure enough, she was having a lot of trouble cutting wisdom teeth. Answer: Just like some […]

Question I have cropped, boy-short hair. I love the military style that is in this winter, as well as the vests and hats. How do I wear these and look feminine at the same time? Jess, via e-mail. Answer To keep your look feminine with these winter trends make sure you add a feminine element […]

Question: I live in a small apartment and I travel with work — up to four days a week. Is there a pet suitable for me? Kate Heyman Answer: This is a difficult one because most pets want love and attention which means a commitment to being around. However, they are adaptable and will get […]

Question: Please advise how we can control our cat fighting with the neighbour’s cat. He has been neutered about two months ago but still goes over to the neighbour’s house from time to time to “pick a fight”. We keep him indoors at night and do not want to keep him indoors all the time. […]

Question: My eight-year-old Maltese terrier barely eats a thing when either my Mum or I aren’t at home. He is a very slow eater anyway and won’t eat outdoors, so when Mum is out for the night — especially if she’s away for longer — it worries me that he won’t eat enough. Nicole Answer: […]

Question: Our little Bassett hound is four months old and tends to wake up every morning around 5.30am barking. The only way to stop him barking is to get up and “entertain” him. The neighbours get upset with us when we just let him bark. Is there any quick way we can teach him to […]

If you have a hound like mine, who loves to chew everything and likes chillies and the bitter sprays, try Dencorub or similar — they hate the smell and won’t go near it! It has saved me from replacing the dog door for the third time —and this is a dog who gets every toy/bone/ball […]