From Trainer to Parent: The Attachment Science of Transforming Reactivity

by Dr Findy Wills BVSc (Hons I) MSc Clinical Animal Behaviour

What if one of the most powerful tools for helping your dog wasn't another training technique, but the relationship you already share? Emerging research suggests that how we care for our dogs may influence behaviour just as much as what we teach them. Discover how attachment and pet parenting shape emotional wellbeing, resilience, and everyday behaviour.

Traditionally, behaviour concerns in dogs have been conceptualised through learning, cognition, and training-based frameworks, with more complex cases interpreted through a pathological lens^[1-3]. While these perspectives are essential, they tell only part of the story. We have long recognised that the human–dog connection provides the foundation for training and behaviour modification, yet the relationship itself has rarely been explored as an active therapeutic tool for behaviour change.

In developmental psychology, research has consistently showed that secure attachment is associated with better emotional regulation, greater resilience, and more adaptive behaviour, while insecure attachment is linked to an increased risk of psychopathology^[4-6]. 

Emerging research on human–dog relationships suggests that dogs form attachment bonds with their caregivers that are remarkably similar to parent–child attachments^[7-9] and the quality of the caregiver–dog relationship has been found to play an important role in shaping behavioural and emotional outcomes^[10-13].

The implication is significant: behaviour in dogs is not simply a product of training or learning. It develops within the context of the caregiver–dog relationship, making the bond both a foundation for behavioural development and a powerful influence on behaviour change.

If carer-dog relationships can influence behaviour, the question then becomes: How do we harness the power of the relationship to influence behaviour? The fields of attachment science and pet parenting are beginning to provide the answer.

 A dog's behaviour is not just a product of commands or mechanical training—it is actively shaped by the emotional security of the relationship they share with you.

History of attachment science in human-dog relationships

To appreciate why relationships matter for behaviour change in dogs, we must first understand it from the perspective of attachment science. At the heart of this field lies attachment theory—a ground-breaking theory by John Bowlby in 1969^[14] that transformed our understanding of child development and is now reshaping how we understand and support behaviour in dogs.

Attachment is defined as an affectional bond with the added experience of security and comfort obtained from the relationship^{[14, 15]}. A dependable primary caregiver creates a secure base for the child to explore the world and return to when feeling insecure and it is the caregiver’s response to an infant’s need allow the child to develop a sense of security^{[14, 16]}.

Just like human infants, puppies rely heavily on a primary caregiver to serve as their "secure base" while they learn to navigate and process the wider world.

Attachment styles were developed within attachment theory to describe the patterns of attachment between a child and his/her mother^{[14, 15]}. Four different attachment styles have been described among children: secure, insecure-avoidant, insecure-ambivalent and insecure-disorganised. These attachment styles were found to influence relational expectations, emotions, and behaviours of the child in adulthood^{[4-6, 14, 15, 17]}.

Given the depth of human-dog bonds^[18], human-dog scientists started to observe that dogs exhibit attachment behaviour towards humans^[7], and subsequent research concluded that the owner-dog relationship closely resembles that of the human caregiver-infant relationship^{[7, 10, 17, 19]}. As such, attachment style testing for dogs has recently been developed and validated to provide attachment style information for individual dogs^{[7, 8, 19]}. The same four attachment styles in children have been readily observed in dogs through this validated testing^{[8, 11-13]}.

This transforms how we think about behaviour in dogs. This finding implies that everything we have in development psychology on secure attachment and behaviour influence can potentially be applied to our relationships with our dogs with very similar outcomes. If attachment security influences emotional regulation, resilience, and behavioural outcomes in children, then strengthening the caregiver–dog relationship may represent one of the most powerful and underutilised tools for influencing behaviour in dogs.

Perhaps even more excitingly, this knowledge provides a practical and familiar roadmap for behaviour change, allowing us to draw upon decades of evidence-based parenting research while leveraging concepts that many caregivers already intuitively understand, such as caregiving, parental responsibility, developmental expectations and how to learn to bond with your dog on a deeper level.

The Influence of Pet Parenting Style on Dog Attachment

While attachment theory tells us why secure relationships matter, the science of pet parenting helps explain how those relationships are built. Research in humans suggests that caregiving behaviours—particularly responsiveness, sensitivity, consistency, and expectations—play a critical role in shaping attachment security^{[20, 21]}. Just as parenting style is one of the strongest predictors of secure attachment in children, pet parenting style appears to influence attachment security in dogs^[22].

Research has identified three broad pet parenting styles in dog owners: authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive^[22-24]. Authoritative pet parents combine high levels of responsiveness with clear guidance and expectations^{[22, 24, 25]}. They are emotionally supportive while also providing structure and consistency. This approach aligns closely with nurturing your dog’s emotional needs as a core pillar of responsible guardianship.

Authoritarian pet parents place greater emphasis on obedience, control, and compliance, often prioritising rules over responsiveness to the dog's emotional needs^{[23, 24]}. Permissive pet parents are highly accepting and affectionate but tend to provide fewer boundaries and less behavioural guidance^{[24, 25]}.

 Authoritative pet parenting—combining high emotional warmth with clear, consistent boundaries—is the golden ticket to building a dog’s social adaptability and resilience.

Of these, authoritative pet parenting—characterised by high responsiveness alongside clear guidance and expectations—has been associated with secure attachment in dogs^[22], suggesting that a combination of responsiveness, emotional support, and appropriate boundaries tend to create a relationship in which dogs feel safe and understood. Notably, dogs that were observed to be secure attached in this study were associated with greater social adaptability and improved problem-solving abilities^[22].

Porthos (left) & Aramis enjoying a quiet decompression walk in Strickland State Forest. For a reactive, nervous dog like Porthos, nature trails where triggers can be avoided provided the emotional safety he needed to relax—a stark contrast to the stressful environment of suburban streets.

Fostering Secure Relationships for Behaviour Change

Not only are these findings changing the way we think about behaviour, but they also offer caregivers a practical way to influence their dog’s behaviour through their own actions. If relationships shape behaviour, then small changes in how we respond to and support our dogs can create profound shifts in how they experience and ultimately choose to navigate the world around them.

One case that comes to mind is Ziggy*, a dog who reacted intensely whenever she saw another dog. Whether on walks, in the car, or even hearing dogs bark from inside the home, Ziggy would lunge, bark, and struggle to cope. The behaviour escalated to the point that car travel became dangerous and outings that Margaret* and Ziggy once seemingly enjoyed together felt increasingly unmanageable.

Initially, the case sounded complex and challenging, but as Margaret, Ziggy's caregiver, and I explored Ziggy's history over several sessions, a different picture emerged. Ziggy could tolerate other dogs, but years of overwhelming experiences at dog parks had taught her that her more socially appropriate communication often went unheard. Margaret also struggled to recognise Ziggy's earlier signs of discomfort, missing opportunities to help before Ziggy felt the need to escalate.

Over the following months, Margaret shifted her focus away from changing Ziggy's behaviour and towards changing how she responded to Ziggy. She learned to recognise subtle signs of discomfort, acknowledge them, and act on them. 

This proactive shift is essential for managing stress in reactive dogs. For example, when chatting with a neighbour whose dog Ziggy generally tolerated, Margaret began noticing Ziggy gently nudging her or looking away from the interaction. Rather than continuing the conversation, she would respond, "Sorry Zig, we went on a bit too long, didn't we?" before calmly moving on with her day. 

Dog parks were replaced with quieter trail walks. When another dog approached, Margaret would calmly create distance, position herself between Ziggy and the other dog, and communicate through her actions, "We've got this. You don't need to handle it alone."

Training skills such as emergency U-turns and engage-disengage exercises remained useful. However, the greatest shift came from Ziggy learning that her communication mattered and that Margaret would respond when she expressed discomfort.

Over the next four to six months, Ziggy's behaviour changed dramatically. Rather than lunging and barking, she began looking to Margaret, choosing to move away, and creating distance from other dogs herself. The need for escalation reduced because the relationship had changed.

 Transforming reactivity doesn't always start with changing the dog; it starts with changing how we respond to them. When a dog learns their subtle worries are heard, the need to explode disappears.

This is not to suggest that every behaviour problem can be resolved through relationship-focused interventions alone. However, Ziggy's story illustrates the remarkable impact that a secure relationship can have.

Sometimes behaviour change does not have to begin with changing the dog, it can begin with changing how we show up as their caregivers.

As our understanding of attachment and pet parenting continue to grow, so too will the practical strategies caregivers can apply in everyday life. I look forward to sharing evidence-based approaches that can help foster secure relationships between you and your dog.

*The names of the dog and caregiver have been changed to maintain confidentiality.

About the author

Dr Findy Wills is a behaviour veterinarian, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, and PhD candidate who is passionate about changing the way we think about dog behaviour. Rather than focusing solely on training, her work explores the foundations beneath behaviour—the relationship between dogs and their caregivers.

She loves helping caregivers discover that they are often more powerful than they realise in influencing their dog's behaviour and wellbeing. Through attachment science, pet parenting, and behavioural medicine, she shows how the caregiver–dog relationship can become one of the most important therapeutic components in helping behaviourally challenged dogs. 

Discover more about her work at Let's Talk Paws or follow her on Instagram @letstalkpaws.

References

1. Shnookal, J., et al., Counterconditioning-based interventions for companion dog behavioural modification: A systematic review. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2024. 276: p. 106305.

2. Craven, A.J., et al., Veterinary drug therapies used for undesirable behaviours in UK dogs under primary veterinary care. PLoS One, 2022. 17(1): p. e0261139.

3. Masson, S., et al., Veterinary psychiatry of the dog: diagnosis and treatment of behavioral disorders. 2024: Springer.

4. Mikulincer, M., P.R. Shaver, and D. Pereg, Attachment theory and affect regulation: The dynamics, development, and cognitive consequences of attachment-related strategies. Motivation and emotion, 2003. 27(2): p. 77-102.

5. Mikulincer, M. and P.R. Shaver, Attachment orientations and emotion regulation. Current opinion in psychology, 2019. 25: p. 6-10.

6. Mikulincer, M. and P.R. Shaver, An attachment perspective on psychopathology. World Psychiatry, 2012. 11(1): p. 11-15.

7. Topál, J., et al., Attachment behavior in dogs (Canis familiaris): a new application of Ainsworth's (1969) Strange Situation Test. J Comp Psychol, 1998. 112(3): p. 219-29.

10. Udell, M.A., et al., Dog–human attachment as an aspect of social cognition: evaluating the secure base test. Comparative cognition: Commonalities and diversity, 2021: p. 305-320.

11. Thielke, L.E. and M.A. Udell, Evaluating cognitive and behavioral outcomes in conjunction with the secure base effect for dogs in shelter and foster environments. Animals, 2019. 9(11): p. 932.

12. Stahl, A., et al., Attachment style and social behavior in dogs from commercial breeding kennels. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2024. 273: p. 106238.

13. Wanser, S.H. and M.A. Udell, Does attachment security to a human handler influence the behavior of dogs who engage in animal assisted activities? Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2019. 210: p. 88-94.

14. Bowlby, J., Attachment and loss. 1969: Random House.

15. Ainsworth, M.S., Attachments beyond infancy. American psychologist, 1989. 44(4): p. 709.

16. Bowlby, E., Loss-sadness and depression: Attachment and loss volume 3. Vol. 3. 2008: Random House.

17. Rehn, T. and L.J. Keeling, Measuring dog-owner relationships: Crossing boundaries between animal behaviour and human psychology. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2016. 183: p. 1-9.

18. Maharaj, N., A. Kazanjian, and C. Haney, The human–canine bond: A sacred relationship. Journal of spirituality in mental health, 2016. 18(1): p. 76-89.

19. Rehn, T., R.T.S. McGowan, and L.J. Keeling, Evaluating the Strange Situation Procedure (SSP) to Assess the Bond between Dogs and Humans. PLOS ONE, 2013. 8(2): p. e56938.

20. Crockenberg, S.B., Infant irritability, mother responsiveness, and social support influences on the security of infant-mother attachment. Child Dev, 1981. 52(3): p. 857-65.

21. Ziv, Y. and J. Cassidy, Maternal responsiveness and infant irritability: The contribution of Crockenberg and Smith's "Antecedents of mother-infant interaction and infant irritability in the first 3 months of life". 2002.

22. Brubaker, L. and M.A.R. Udell, Does Pet Parenting Style predict the social and problem-solving behavior of pet dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)? Animal Cognition, 2023. 26(1): p. 345-356.

23. van Herwijnen, I.R., et al., Dog-directed parenting styles predict verbal and leash guidance in dog owners and owner-directed attention in dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2020. 232: p. 105131.

24. Herwijnen, I.R.v., et al., The existence of parenting styles in the owner-dog relationship. PLOS ONE, 2018. 13(2): p. e0193471.

25. van Herwijnen, I.R., et al., Dog-Directed Parenting Styles Mirror Dog Owners’ Orientations Toward Animals. Anthrozoös, 2020. 33(6): p. 759-773.

Left Alone in the Cold: Help Claudia & Atreyu Keep Their Best Friends Fed This Winter

"They Are My Life" – Claudia, Bella & Jessie

In an instant, Claudia’s stable world was shattered.

Thirty-two years ago, Claudia moved to Australia from Mexico for love. She and her husband built a beautiful life together. They married, had two wonderful sons, and Claudia was embraced by her husband’s family. Then, everything changed. Left to carry the weight of a sudden betrayal alone, she found herself fighting to keep her head above water while caring for her two sons and her two beloved dogs.

Claudia had built a career as a photographer, but as technology advanced, work became limited. Despite retraining in bookkeeping, a steady job has remained out of reach, compounded by hearing challenges that add another barrier to employment.

The divorce meant losing not only her partner, but the entire community she had built in Australia. Now, with her sons grown and chasing their dreams, Claudia is alone for the first time in her life.

“My only companions are my two dogs,” she says through tears. “I adore them. They give me great company. Yeah, I’d be crazy without them. Oh God, I couldn’t imagine a life without them actually.” 

A Lifeline in the Dark

Bella (13) and Jessie (12) are more than just pets—they are Claudia’s family, her comfort, and her world. But caring for two senior dogs on a disability pension became overwhelming. Claudia was forced to withdraw from her superannuation and borrow money just to cover essentials. Surrendering them was never an option, but the cost of feeding them was a breaking point.

That is when Pets Of The Homeless stepped in.

For the past year, Claudia has received high-quality pet food support, vet care, and vaccinations. It saves her around $200 each month—crucial money she can now put towards keeping a roof over their heads.

“I came to you, and I just couldn’t believe it," Claudia says. "It was the best quality food, I’ve been incredibly grateful for the support. Without it, I don’t think the dogs would be as healthy. I would like to give you a big thank you from my heart."

The Winter Crisis: 3 Million Meals and Counting

With the cost of living skyrocketing, food insecurity is biting hard across Victoria. It is an emergency impacting not only people, but their beloved pets.

As the freeze sets in, Pets Of The Homeless has officially launched their Virtual Pet Food Drive, calling on Australians to help vulnerable people feed their companion animals during these brutal winter months.

The appeal comes as the charity celebrates a major milestone: 3 million meals distributed from their dedicated Pet Food Bank, with around 60,000 meals going out across the state every single month.

• The Reality: Demand is soaring as families and individuals face unprecedented financial stress.
• The Mission: To ensure no one has to choose between feeding themselves or feeding their best friend.
• How to Help: Australians can visit the virtual drive here to purchase a bag, basket, or trolley of pet food online to immediately fill a hungry belly.

“Three million meals is a huge achievement, but behind every meal is a person doing everything they can to keep the pet they love safe and fed," says Yvonne Hong, Founder and CEO. "Our goal is to ensure there is enough food so that no one goes hungry this winter and beyond.” 

Case Study: Surviving the Streets – Atreyu & Tim

Claudia is not alone in her struggle. For 60-year-old Atreyu, winter is a battle for survival.

Atreyu has been sleeping rough, wandering from place to place to find shelter from the elements. Everything he owns is packed into a single trolley. His constant companion through the freezing nights and endless uncertainty is Tim, his 15-year-old senior dog.

Tim is slower on his feet these days, and his cloudy eyes struggle with the darkness, but Atreyu’s devotion has never wavered.

To keep his best mate safe, Atreyu built a custom crate contraption inside his trolley, lined with blankets and covered by a plastic sheet to keep Tim dry.

Too scared of the unpredictability and violence of rooming houses, Atreyu chooses the streets. But even there, safety is hard to find. He spoke quietly about the nights his belongings had been stolen right from under him, and the exhausting reality of having to move constantly just to avoid getting into trouble with local councils.

When he inquired about public housing as a more permanent way off the streets, he was told the wait could be up to 17 years!

“We’ll be dead before then,” he joked, but the joke didn’t quite reach his eyes. 

"This Food is for People Only"

Before finding Pets Of The Homeless, Atreyu was surviving on lentils and rice because that was all he could afford. 

“One day, while accessing human food relief, he asked a volunteer, “Can I please have an extra sausage for my dog?” “I'm sorry, this food is for people only,” they replied. “But my dog needs to eat too.”

Defeated, Atreyu gave Tim his own only sausage, going hungry himself.

When Atreyu finally discovered Pets Of The Homeless, he walked all the way to the warehouse with his trolley full of things. Our team packed him a massive supply of dry food, wet food, treats, and an extra warm blanket for Tim’s crate. We also sent Atreyu off with a fresh lunch of falafel wraps and sweets left over from a corporate event.

Loading the supplies into his trolley, Atreyu looked at the team with raw emotion:

“Knowing you guys are here to help me with Tim is such a relief. No, really. This means everything. Thank you.”

Your Support is Needed Now More Than Ever!

Right now, we are facing an urgent challenge. With just one week remaining in the campaign before it closes on June 30, we are only at 47% of our 200,000-meal target. We desperately need your help to bridge the gap so pets like Tim and Jessie don't go hungry this winter.

Our Virtual Pet Food Drive will continue to run until June 30, and we have set a critical stretch goal: to expand our reach and provide essential pet food to the many community food relief organisations currently sitting on our waiting list. We cannot let them down.

• Donate to the Winter Pet Food Drive Here

About Pets Of The Homeless

Pets Of The Homeless is a not-for-profit working to keep vulnerable people and their pets together by alleviating the burden of providing essential pet care during times of hardship. By providing pet food and supplies, veterinary care and safe shelter, Pets Of The Homeless works to ensure that the important bond between a person and their companion animal is never broken.

• Website: www.petsofthehomeless.org.au
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/pothaustralia
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/pothaustralia

Lace Up and Walk for Sick Kids: RMHC Sydney’s PAWS Campaign Returns

The annual PAWS for Sick Kids campaign is officially returning for its sixth year! High-profile ambassadors like Krissy Marsh (The Real Housewives of Sydney) and social media’s favourite local Lab, Romeo, are leading the charge to get Australians out walking their pups this July to support Ronald McDonald House Sydney (RMHC).

The peer-to-peer fundraiser challenges dog owners nationwide to choose their distance—31km, 100km, or 200km— and clock up the kilometres with their four-legged friends by their side. Every dollar raised directly impacts the 31-room Randwick House, which costs $190 per night per family to operate, ensuring families of sick and injured children have a free, supportive place to stay alongside hot meals and educational programs.

Meet the Champions Inspiring the Walk

"I know animals bring enormous amounts of joy, and it is so heart-warming to see the children's faces light up when they see the dogs. RMHC Sydney is a great, unique charity that you can really get hands-on with." — Krissy Marsh, RMHC Ambassador (who also donates 100% of the profits from The Real Krissy Marsh Cookbook directly to the Randwick House).

"Paws for Sick Kids is a fundraiser very close to my heart. Romeo and I have been participating since he was a small pup. I’ve seen first-hand the incredible work Ronald McDonald House Charities does in supporting families during some of the hardest times in their lives." 

Campaign champions Melissa Underwood and Romeo the Fab Lab

"The care, comfort and sense of community they provide is truly remarkable. 

Being part of Paws for Sick Kids each year is my way of giving back to an organisation that makes such a meaningful difference, while helping bring a little happiness and comfort to children and their families when they need it most." — Melissa Underwood, paw-rent to Romeo the Fab Lab. 

Melissa, her husband, and Romeo are long-time champions of the house, having also completed the RMHC CEO Walk in My Shoes and cooked for families via the Home for Dinner program.

How It Works & The Perks

✔  The Timeline: Sign-ups open June 1, and the walking challenge officially runs throughout July. Participants can sign up individually or as teams, set fundraising goals, and share personalised fundraising links across social media.

✔  The Rewards: Once you raise your first $20, you’ll receive a FREE PAWS Welcome Pack, an exclusive PAWS bandana, plus a 1 in 4 chance to WIN a $100 Ampol Petrol Voucher*.

✔  More Than a Roof: While accommodation is vital, the House also focuses on providing at least one quality meal per day for families, regularly welcoming chefs, food partners, and corporate groups to come in and cook for guests through their Home for Dinners initiative.

✔ A Network of Care: Beyond the Randwick House, support extends through two Ronald McDonald Family Room Programs located within Sydney Children's Hospital and Wollongong Hospital, as well as the Ronald McDonald Learning Program, which supports children from kindergarten to Year 12 with a range of educational services.

Walk with purpose, fundraise with heart, and make every step count! Every step you take helps keep families close when it matters most.

Ready to make your steps count this July?

Join the challenge, create your profile, and grab your welcome rewards by registering today at the official PAWS for Sick Kids 2026 Hub.

The Sydney Dog Lovers Festival Returns: Fetch Your Tickets for 2026’s Ultimate Canine Celebration!

Dog lovers, fetch your calendars! The ultimate celebration of everything canine is making its highly anticipated return. The Sydney Dog Lovers Festival lands at the Sydney Showground on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August 2026, delivering two action-packed days entirely dedicated to our four-legged best friends.

This year's event promises more dogs, more entertainment, and more shopping than ever before. It stands as an unrivalled celebration featuring hundreds of animals, expert advice, live entertainment, and educational interactive experiences. Plus, there is a major bonus for animal lovers: a single ticket grants you full access to both the Dog Lovers Festival and the adjacent Sydney Cat Lovers Festival.

Action-Packed Arena Shows and Interactive Zones

Headlining the entertainment program for 2026 is the ever-popular VitaPet Arena. Hosted by television personality and certified dog trainer Lara Shannon, the arena will showcase some of Australia's most talented canine athletes. Visitors can expect an exciting program of dog sports demonstrations that highlight the intelligence, athleticism, and remarkable bond between dogs and their handlers.

Returning by popular demand is the spectacular Kurgo® DockDogs competition. This high-flying crowd-pleaser features fearless canine competitors launching themselves into a giant pool in thrilling long jump, high jump, and speed retrieval competitions.

For those looking to get up close and personal with the dogs, the festival features two massive interactive zones. 

The extensive Breed Showcase provides a unique opportunity to meet dozens of different breeds and speak directly with breeders and breed experts about their personalities, care requirements, and characteristics.

Nearby, the much-loved Pat-A-Pooch attraction will once again give visitors the chance to enjoy a hands-on interaction with a wide variety of friendly dogs.

Expert Advice and a Brand New Stage

The festival remains a premier destination for pet education. The popular SASH Ask-A-Vet zone returns in 2026, offering visitors direct, free access to veterinary experts who can answer pressing questions on pet health, nutrition, behaviour, and overall wellbeing.

Excitingly, 2026 introduces a brand-new feature to the festival line-up: a dedicated Grooming Stage.

Here, visitors can watch live demonstrations, discover the latest grooming trends and techniques, receive practical DIY styling advice from industry professionals, and explore specialised products from some of Australia's leading pet grooming brands.

Australia's Ultimate Pet Shopping Experience

Beyond the world-class entertainment, the festival has grown into one of Australia's largest and most exciting dog shopping events. The Expo and Marketplace will feature hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest pet products, services, and innovations under one roof.

This massive shopping experience bridges the gap between internet brands and pet owners, featuring many popular online pet businesses. It gives visitors a rare opportunity to meet the people behind their favourite brands, ask questions in person, and experience products first-hand before purchasing. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover new brands, speak directly with product creators, and compare items side-by-side.

The marketplace spans premium nutrition and treats, accessories, enrichment toys, training solutions, travel gear, fashion, health products, and essential pet services. To make the weekend even better, shoppers can access exclusive, festival-only specials and discounts that are completely unavailable elsewhere. Whether you are searching for the latest pet technology, unique boutique products, or practical everyday essentials, the retail side of the festival promises to be every bit as exciting as the entertainment itself.

Bonus Entry to the Sydney Cat Lovers Festival

Because one festival isn't enough, your entry ticket pulls double duty by granting you free admission to the Sydney Cat Lovers Festival taking place right next door.

Feline enthusiasts can head over to enjoy the brand-new Cat Chat stage hosted by Dr Katrina Warren, explore the feline Breed Showcase, and spend time in the ever-popular Pat-A-Cat experience. 

The cat festival also features its own extensive expo and marketplace area showcasing the latest products, services, and innovations for feline enthusiasts, making it the perfect complement to a weekend celebrating our beloved pets.

Plan Your Weekend

The Sydney Dog Lovers Festival and Sydney Cat Lovers Festival will be held at the Sydney Showground on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August 2026.

The doors are open from 9.30am to 5.00pm daily, and remember that a single ticket provides access to both festivals.

To find out more information and to secure your entry tickets before the weekend, visit the official website at dogloversfestival.com.au/sydney.

Beyond the Chill: A Holistic Winter Mobility & Nutrition Guide for Senior Dogs

By Narelle Cooke | Naturopath, Nutritionist, Herbalist and Animal Nutritionist; Founder of CanineCeuticals

Winter can be a beautiful time to slow down and enjoy quieter days with our dogs, but the cooler months may also make age-related changes more noticeable. An older dog who was once first at the door may take longer to get up, lose confidence on slippery floors, or seem less enthusiastic about activities they once loved.

Cold weather does not create arthritis, but reduced activity, longer periods of rest, and changes in routine can make existing discomfort easier to see.

Stiffness after rest, difficulty with stairs or jumping, limping, reduced activity, and hindquarter muscle loss can all indicate pain or declining mobility. Senior dogs may also show discomfort through irritability, disturbed sleep, panting, withdrawal, or reluctance to be touched.¹

Rather than dismissing these changes as “just old age,” winter is an ideal time to take a proactive approach to your dog’s mobility, nutrition, and overall resilience.

Keep Them Moving

Movement is one of the most important tools we have for protecting joint function and preserving muscle mass.² When it comes to our golden oldies, the key is little and often.

• Short and Frequent: Several shorter walks are often better tolerated than one long outing, particularly for dogs with osteoarthritis.

• Stick to Level Ground: Choose level, non-slip surfaces where possible and avoid the “weekend warrior” pattern of very little activity during the week followed by a long, strenuous adventure.

• Indoor Brain Games: On wet or very cold days, indoor movement still counts. Slow treat searches, gentle sit-to-stand exercises, and controlled games can help maintain strength, balance, and confidence.

Muscle is also vital for joint protection. When movement hurts, dogs use the affected limb less, leading to muscle loss. Weaker muscles then provide less joint support, creating a difficult cycle. Appropriate resistance or rehabilitation exercises can help preserve lean muscle.² A canine physiotherapist can be especially valuable for dogs with established arthritis, previous injuries, or significant hindlimb weakness.

Support the Joints from Several Angles

There is rarely one “magic” ingredient for an older dog’s joints. The most effective approach combines veterinary pain relief when needed, weight management, regular movement, environmental changes, and carefully selected nutritional support.

• Weight Management: Maintaining a lean body condition is fundamental. Even a small amount of excess weight increases the load carried by painful joints, making proactive pet obesity management essential, as obesity can also contribute to a more inflammatory internal environment.³ At the same time, we do not want senior dogs becoming thin or losing muscle. Adequate high-quality protein remains important for preserving lean tissue, adjusted to the individual dog’s health status.⁴

• Marine Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA): These have some of the strongest evidence for supporting dogs with osteoarthritis.^{5, 6} They help modify inflammatory pathways and may improve comfort and mobility over time. Quality, purity, and oxidation testing are important when choosing a product.

• Palmitoylethanolamide (P.E.A): This is another naturally occurring compound involved in the body’s response to inflammation and discomfort. Canine research is still developing, but recent clinical findings suggest it may be a useful adjunct for dogs with joint pain.⁷

• Hydrolysed Collagen Peptides: These work differently, providing peptides that may support cartilage metabolism, connective tissue, and muscle. Studies have reported reduced lameness and improved mobility over several months.⁸

Nutritional supplements are not rapid-acting substitutes for veterinary medication when a dog is in pain—they require an appropriate period to take effect. 

This is why starting joint, gut, and immune support early, before obvious symptoms arise, can be so valuable for maintaining comfort, resilience, and long-term quality of life.

Nourish the Gut to Support Whole-Body Health

Ageing changes nutritional priorities. Many senior dogs require fewer calories because they are less active, yet still need ample, high-quality protein to preserve muscle, support tissue repair, and maintain normal immune function.⁴ Simply feeding less of the same food can reduce essential nutrients along with calories.

Lean animal proteins such as fish, egg, turkey, kangaroo, or other tolerated meats can help provide protein without excessive energy.

The gut also plays a central role in whole-body health.⁹ Its microbial community and intestinal barrier interact constantly with the immune system.¹⁰ A varied, well-formulated diet with suitable prebiotic fibres and colourful plant foods can support microbial diversity and provide beneficial polyphenols, antioxidants, and other phytonutrients.^{11, 12}

Depending on the dog, useful additions may include small amounts of pumpkin, leafy greens, broccoli, zucchini, green beans, berries, or psyllium. Introduce changes gradually, as older digestive systems can be less adaptable.

 Hydration is equally important. Senior dogs do not always drink enough,¹³ particularly when spending more time indoors during the colder months.

Adding warm water to meals or including an appropriate moist food can increase fluid intake and may improve palatability.

The Value of a Warm, Cooked Whole-Food Diet

A balanced cooked whole-food diet can be especially appealing for a senior dog in winter. Warming food gently increases aroma, which may encourage dogs whose senses of smell and taste have diminished. The softer texture can suit dogs with dental discomfort, while the naturally higher moisture content supports hydration. Cooking may also improve the digestibility of some proteins and vegetables for dogs with reduced digestive efficiency.

A thoughtfully formulated cooked diet can combine high-quality animal protein and organ meats with low-glycaemic vegetables, essential fats, and the vitamins and minerals needed for healthy ageing. However, “whole-food” does not automatically mean nutritionally complete. 

 Meat, vegetables, and rice alone will fall short in important nutrients such as calcium, iodine, zinc, copper, vitamin D, and essential fatty acids.¹⁴

• For Commercial Diets: For dogs already eating a complete commercial diet, a small amount of cooked food can be used as a topper, provided extras remain modest so they do not unbalance the main diet or contribute unwanted calories. Suitable options may include lean cooked meat, egg, oily fish, or dog-safe vegetables.

• For Home-Prepared Diets: A fully home-prepared diet should be formulated for the individual dog by a suitably qualified nutrition professional, especially for seniors with kidney, liver, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, or cardiac disease.

Create a Winter-Friendly Home

Simple changes at home can reduce strain and help senior dogs remain independent:

• Place supportive bedding away from draughts.

• Add rugs or runners to slippery floors.

• Use steps or orthopaedic ramps for cars and frequently accessed furniture.

• Keep nails and excess hair between the paw pads trimmed for better grip.

• Thin-coated, frail, or very small dogs may also benefit from a functional warm dog coat outdoors.

Finally, monitor rather than assume. Note your dog’s appetite, body weight, muscle condition, mobility, and enthusiasm for favourite activities. A short video of them walking or rising every few weeks can reveal changes that are difficult to notice day to day.

Winter wellness is not about one supplement or one perfect diet. It’s the combination of good nutrition, targeted supplementation, sensible movement, appropriate veterinary care, and a supportive home environment that helps our golden oldies keep enjoying life throughout the cooler months.

This article provides general information only and does not replace veterinary assessment or treatment.

About the Author

Narelle Cooke is a qualified naturopath, nutritionist, herbalist, and the founder of CanineCeuticals. With a background in research science, she specialises in evidence-informed, integrative approaches to canine health, with a focus on nutrition, gut health, mobility, and healthy ageing.

Through her clinical work, education, and product development, Narelle helps pet owners and practitioners better understand how targeted nutrition and supplementation can support long-term health, comfort, and quality of life in dogs. 

You can follow her latest updates and canine wellness tips on Facebook and Instagram.

References

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2. Mille, M.A., McClement, J., et al. (2022). Physiotherapeutic Strategies and Their Current Evidence for Canine Osteoarthritis. Vet Sci. 10(1). DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010002.

3. Marcellin-Little, D.J., Hulse, D.A., et al. (2025). A proposed framework for practical multimodal management of osteoarthritis in growing dogs. Front Vet Sci. 12: p. 1565922. DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2025.1565922.

4. Scarpim, L.B. and Pacheco, L.G. (2026). Challenges and Methodologies to Assess Protein Requirement and Quality Across Different Life Stages in Dogs: A Review. Animals (Basel). 16(2). DOI: 10.3390/ani16020228.

5. Mehler, S.J., May, L.R., et al. (2016). A prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on the clinical signs and erythrocyte membrane polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations in dogs with osteoarthritis. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 109: p. 1-7. DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2016.03.015.

6. Roush, J., Dodd, C., Fritsch, D., et al. (2010). Multicenter veterinary practice assessment of the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on osteoarthritis in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 236(1): p. 59-66. DOI: 10.2460/javma.236.1.59.

7. Della Rocca, G. and Gamba, D. (2021). Chronic Pain in Dogs and Cats: Is There Place for Dietary Intervention with Micro-Palmitoylethanolamide? Animals (Basel). 11(4). DOI: 10.3390/ani11040952.

8. Eckert, T., Jahrling-Butkus, M., et al. (2021). Efficacy of Chondroprotective Food Supplements Based on Collagen Hydrolysate and Compounds Isolated from Marine Organisms. Mar Drugs. 19(10). DOI: 10.3390/md19100542.

9. Pilla, R. and Suchodolski, J.S. (2019). The Role of the Canine Gut Microbiome and Metabolome in Health and Gastrointestinal Disease. Front Vet Sci. 6: p. 498. DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00498.

10. Kim, H., Chae, Y., et al. (2025). Understanding the diversity and roles of the canine gut microbiome. J Anim Sci Biotechnol. 16(1): p. 95. DOI: 10.1186/s40104-025-01235-4.

11. Baritugo, K.A., Bakhsh, A., et al. (2023). Perspectives on functional foods for improvement of canine health and treatment of diseases. Journal of Functional Foods. 109. DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2023.105744.

12. Tanprasertsuk, J., Tate, D.E., et al. (2021). Roles of plant-based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr. DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13626.

13. Guelfi, G., Capaccia, C., et al. (2025). The Emerging Role of Water Loss in Dog Aging. Cells. 14(7). DOI: 10.3390/cells14070545.

14. Ionică, C.-N., Daina, S., et al. (2025). Home-prepared dog food: benefits and downsides. Frontiers in Animal Science. 6. DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2025.1506003.

WINTER WELLNESS HUB: FURTHER READING

• Winter Product Showcase: Essential Food, Treats & Supplements for Aussie Dogs

• Buyer's Guide: The Best Aussie Dog Coats & Orthopaedic Beds Detailed

• Preventing Dog Limping: Spotting the Early Signs of Joint Pain

• Rethinking Pet Obesity: A Vet's Guide to Weight Management