Table of Contents Should dogs watch TV?Is there a limit on how long you should…
Table of Contents
GK Hart/Vikki HartGetty Images
Pet parents might be tempted to turn on the television to keep their dogs company when they are alone, but should we really be letting our dogs watch TV? And how much should they watch?
As a new TV channel for dogs launched in the UK this week, Country Living have asked a TV vet to weigh in on the debate — and answer the question every dog owner is wanting to know.
Should dogs watch TV?
“It’s not like children — they won’t go cross-eyed or get addicted,” Dr Rory Cowlam, aka Rory the Vet, tells Country Living. “We shouldn’t be limiting TV time, but in reality only some dogs will sit and watch tv. My dog Nala does watch it, but she often gets bored and goes to do her own thing. There’s no detrimental effect, but they’ll often get bored very quickly.
“Sometimes it helps, but for some dogs it doesn’t — you will know your own dog. I think a TV channel dedicated to dogs is a lovely thing. Whether or not it’s any different to leaving on the news, time will tell, but the idea is great.”
Is there a limit on how long you should leave a dog alone for anyway?
TV is good company, not a dog sitter. If you’re out of the house for long periods of time, then you’ll need another alternative (such as doggy daycare or a family member who can take care of them).
If you’re not sure on how long to leave your dog alone for, Rory tells us: “RSCPA guidelines suggest you should not leave your dog for any more than four hours. I try to limit that to two to three hours at most. However, each dog is really different and a lot of people are struggling with things like separation anxiety so four hours may seem like a long time.”
What other ways can you keep dogs entertained when you’re out?
“I always leave my dog Nala with a chew because I know that will keep her entertained for a bit. She’ll often have a sleep for a while after that, and then by the time I’m back she’s ok and settled. I do leave music on as well, usually classical, just to keep her chilled and always leave her water. If you’re going to be more than an hour leave water in case they get thirsty.”
Keep your pup warm on your next winter’s walk with this adorable mini Barbour dog coat. Constructed in medium weight waxed cotton for robust water resistance and protection from rough terrain, this stylish dog coat features lightweight wadding for extra warmth.
KONG Dog Toys in Classic Red
KONG viovet.co.uk
£16.99
In bright red, this toy is ideal for dogs who like to chew while also playing. Perfect for keeping aggressive chewers occupied.
PAIKKA Recovery Burrow Bed 60cm x 60cm
PAIKKA selfridges.com
£140.00
Waboba Tailwind Dog Toy
Waboba johnlewis.com
£5.99
Give your dog something to chew on with this fun orange ball. It’s the perfect stocking filler for your pup.
Joules Bee Print Dog Bed, Small
Joules johnlewis.com
£35.00
Buzzing with bees, this khaki-hued small dog bed is the perfect place for pooches to recline on. Will you get it for your pup this Christmas?
Aesop Animal, 500ml
Aesop johnlewis.com
£27.00
Want to treat your pup to something luxurious this Christmas? Aesop’s animal range includes this gentle fur cleanser for pampered pets.
Paw Print Pet Bowl
gardentrading.co.uk
£12.00
In a smart grey, this ceramic pet bowl is available in two sizes for furry friends big and small. The minimalistic design will complement every interior scheme.
Standard leather dog lead
KINTAILS selfridges.com
£50.00
We love this smart plain black dog lead, which has been crafted from real leather and brass. It’s a must-have for every pooch.
Christmas Tartan Dog Bandana
PuppedUp etsy.com
US$5.99
Treat your pup to this stylish personalised dog bandana. Made from 100% cotton, it has a sweet all-over tartan print.
Joules Diamond Quilted Navy Dog Coat
Joules johnlewis.com
£22.00
We love this navy quilted jacket, perfect for keeping your four-legged friends warm.
Trial Pack for Puppies
lilyskitchen.co.uk
£12.60
Treat your puppy to this treat selection from Lily’s Kitchen. Featuring an array of delicious snacks, it has everything to help them stay healthy and strong.
Barbour Tartan Quilted Dog Bed
Barbour johnlewis.com
£79.95
Kinloch Pet Treat Tin
gardentrading.co.uk
£12.00
Keep dog treats tucked neatly away with this beautiful thistle green tin. It has a natural bamboo lid with a silicone seal to ensure biscuits stay fresher for longer.
Personalised Pet Stocking
amylucydesigns etsy.com
US$14.97
This gorgeous personalised dog stocking is such a lovely way to include your pet in the all-important Christmas traditions. Fill with their favourites treats.
Beco Pets Tommy the Turtle Rough & Tough Recycled Plastic Dog Toy
Beco johnlewis.com
£8.99
This smiley green turtle might look cute, but he is double stitched with an extra thick black lining, making him very tough and durable. Perfect to keep active pups entertained for hours.
Barbour Dog Cologne, 100ml
Barbour johnlewis.com
£12.95
Who says perfume is just for humans? Well, Barbour’s dog cologne helps to refresh and soothe your pet’s skin while also helping them to smell fresh.
This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io
