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Caring for your dog

Owning a dog can be great fun and immensely rewarding. But given that dogs have complex needs, our expert advice will help you ensure your dog is healthy and happy. Take a look around and learn more about caring for a dog!

Portrait of an RSPCA Animal Care Assistant with a pet spaniel dog sitting in one of the fields in the grounds of Birmingham Newbrook Animal Centre.

Dogs have highly developed senses

This includes an incredibly well-developed sense of smell, far superior to that of humans. They can also see better than us in dark and dim light, as well as hear in ultrasound and detect sounds up to four times quieter than humans can hear!

Dogs use a range of methods to communicate

Including scent information, sounds such as whines, whimpers, growls, barks and howls, and also body language using their body, face, tail, ears and limbs.

Dogs can be athletic – but every one is different

Most dogs love going for walks. But while all dogs need exercise, the levels of physical activity should go in line with their heath, age, athleticism and individual needs.

Dogs are highly social

Many dogs enjoy the company of other dogs, but they'll also form strong social bonds with humans, becoming very attached to particular people in their lives.

Dogs can learn the names of their toys

For example, Rico, a border collie, learned the names of 200 toys and can reliably fetch the correct toy when asked to.

Adopt a rescued dog from the RSPCA

We rescue and rehome thousands of dogs each year and each one has their own unique personality. If you're looking to introduce a dog into your family, why not offer a forever home to a dog in our care?

Find out more