Off The Lead Dog Advice by Charlie & Cookie | Expert Dog Care Tips UK

Owner guiding a Labrador and small cockapoo-type dog from hot pavement onto shaded grass in a UK park

Hot Pavement and Dogs: How to Protect Paws in Summer

Hot pavements can hurt dogs’ paws quickly in summer. Learn when to skip pavement walks, how to check surfaces, safer route swaps and what to do if paws look sore.

Owner keeping a Labrador and cockapoo on leads away from a UK lake with possible blue-green algae

Blue-Green Algae and Dogs: UK Safety Guide

HydrationOutdoor SafetySummer Care

Blue-green algae can be dangerous for dogs. Learn UK signs to avoid, what to do after contact, symptoms to watch for and when to call a vet.

Owner checking a Labrador for ticks after a summer countryside walk with another small dog nearby

Ticks on Dogs in the UK: How to Check After Walks

Health ChecksOutdoor SafetySummer Care

Ticks can attach after woodland, grassland and heathland walks. Learn where to check your dog, how to remove ticks safely, and when to speak to your vet.

Dog walking through long grass during a summer walk, a common place for grass seeds to catch in coats and paws

Grass Seeds and Dogs: What to Check After Summer Walks

Outdoor SafetySkin & CoatSummer Care

Grass seeds can catch in paws, ears and coats after summer walks. Learn where to check, signs to watch for, and when to speak to your vet.

Two dogs walking across a garden lawn, representing safe outdoor summer gatherings for dogs

Can Dogs Join a BBQ? Safe Garden Party Tips

EnrichmentOutdoor SafetySummer Care

BBQs and garden gatherings can be exciting for dogs, but heat, scraps and busy guests need planning. Use these simple tips to keep things calmer and safer.

Miniature Dachshund watching an owner spread soft food on an unbranded lick mat in a kitchen

Frozen Lick Mats for Dogs: Safe Summer Enrichment

EnrichmentLick MatsSummer Care

Frozen lick mats can be a useful warm-weather enrichment idea when used safely. Here's what to spread, what to avoid, and how to keep portions sensible.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy chewing a suitable puppy toy while supervised at home

Puppy Teething: What Can They Chew Safely?

ChewsDental CarePuppy Advice

Puppy teething can be sore, busy and messy. Here's how to choose safer chews, supervise properly and avoid common mistakes.

English Springer Spaniel running back to owner on a park path during recall training

Why Your Dog Ignores You Outside

Recall TrainingTraining & BehaviourTreats & Rewards

Recall is harder outside because the world is rewarding too. Learn how to choose better rewards, build value, and practise without nagging your dog.

Black Labrador standing beside a fresh water bowl in a shaded garden patio on a warm day

Dog Not Drinking Enough? Simple Hydration Tips

HydrationSummer Care

If your dog seems to ignore their water bowl, small routine changes can help. Learn safe hydration tips, warning signs, and simple topper ideas.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in a kitchen looking at a dental chew and dog toothbrush during a calm care routine

Are Dental Chews Enough for Your Dog's Teeth?

ChewsDental Care

Dental chews can be useful, but they are only one part of looking after your dog's teeth. Learn what helps, what to avoid, and when to speak to your vet.

Brindle Staffordshire Bull Terrier sitting beside a food bowl with a small pumpkin topper and supplement powder.

Dog Gut Health Is Trending. What Actually Helps?

Gut HealthSupplements & Toppers

Gut health, pumpkin and probiotics are being discussed everywhere. Here is what can genuinely help your dog’s digestion routine, and when to ask your vet.