Dogs

In this episode we focus on the loyal working dog, and give some practical advice on how we can best care for our vital farm workers throughout their life. Hear from Professor Matt Littlejohn about a new project at Massey University that looks at the DNA and behaviour of working dogs in New Zealand, and Hunterville vet, Jaime Watters, who shares advice for providing the best care for your dogs, from a pup through to an older dog.

A Massey University project looking at the DNA and behaviour of working dogs in New Zealand hopes to shed light on the origins of the heading dog and Huntaway breeds, and identify predisposition to genetic conditions, helping inform breeding decisions for farmers. Words Rebecca Greaves, Photos Pam Stephen Photography.

In this episode, we celebrate our working dogs, those loyal companions who play a vital role on our farms.

The votes have been tallied and we have two winners!

New Zealand's Trans Tasman test team went head-to-head with the Australians to take the Purina Pro Plan Trans Tasman Dog Trial Test Series at the Ashburton A&P Show at the end of October. Annabelle Latz reports.

All dog owners can play a part in reducing sheep measles.

A Rangitikei couple have formulated their own dog food roll to suit busy working dogs. Sarah Horrocks reports.

Your valuable working dog can suffer a range of health issues, vet Rachael Fouhy writes.

When working dogs get too old to work the hills, or just don’t want to, they need a new home. Rebecca Greaves reports.

Sometimes dogs do bite the hand that feeds them. One of our ag journalists was bitten by an injured heading dog.