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Dogs are loved all around the world, but which breeds are the most popular right now? Let’s take a look at the top 10 dog breeds for 2025 worldwide. Did your furry friend make the list? 🐶🌍
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 As we now know, assistance dogs provide support beyond just helping those who are hearing or vision impaired. One remarkable area where assistance dogs make a difference is in Diabetic Alert. But how exactly does a dog assist someone with diabetes? We will let Owen and Airlie answer that for you! Meet Owen & his dog Airlie! Airlie is Owen's Diabetic Alert Dog who Owen received from Lions Assistance Dogs in 2024. Airlie marked a significant milestone for the Diabetic Alert Dog program, as she was the first dog delivered interstate and their sixth dog overall delivered to a type 1 diabetic. So let's find out what a difference Airlie makes to the life of Owen and his family! 'Airlie quickly blended in very nicely with Owen’s family and is the perfect fit as Owen’s Assistance Dog. Airlie also made friends with the family cats and loves to snuggle with them on cold winter nights. Now that Owen has Airlie, he is going on more walks which helps keep his blood glucose levels lower and also helps keep them both fit. Airlie provides an extra level of comfort, especially when Owen is home alone. Knowing that Airlie can perform the ‘Emergency Button’ task and alert his Mum is a huge sense of relief for Owen and makes him feel safe. Since receiving Airlie, there was one situation where Owen’s Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) was ‘out’ and he was hesitant to give himself extra insulin as he didn’t have his Blood Glucose Level Meter with him. Knowing that his Blood Glucose Levels were high from Airlie's alert, he was able to make necessary adjustments via his sugar sources. Airlie is very funny, entertaining as well as high energy which is great for Owen's lifestyle. Her intelligence has given Owen and his family a great sense of security as well as a perfect addition to their family.'
Want to find out more about the amazing work Lions Assistance Dogs do? Click here! To see how you can support the work that the Lions Assistance Dogs team does, click here! If you have your own Assistance Dog story that you want to share with us, be sure to reach out to us on our socials!  Darcy The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized, loving, and brave little dog who, despite the name, is in fact, not a terrier at all. 🏔️ Origin The Tibetan Terrier breed originated over 2,000 years ago in Tibet. This breed wasn't created through crossbreeding of modern dogs, but instead developed naturally over time by Tibetan monks in monasteries. They are believed to be descendants of ancient dog breeds that no longer exist today. Originally named the ‘Tsang Apso’, their Tibetan name translates to ‘Shaggy’ or ‘Bearded Dog.’ They were later known as Lhasa Terriers, and when the breed was introduced and recognized in America, the name Tibetan Terrier became their new title. The word “Terrier” was added to their name by European travellers in the 1920s because of the dog’s size and appearance, which resembled other terrier breeds. However, Tibetan Terriers are not terriers by function or temperament and Kennel Clubs today list them in the ‘Non Sporting’ group as they do not meet the criteria of a Terrier. 🎁 Purpose Tibetan Terriers were bred and raised by Tibetan monks and were highly treasured. They were believed to bring good luck and were only given as gifts, never sold. Even the Dalai Lama gave them as presents. One of these occasions was when a British doctor working in the Women’s Medical Service of India received one as a gift and later used that dog to establish the breed in England, where its popularity steadily grew. The Tibetan Terrier also played a role in the development of other well-known Tibetan breeds, including the Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Tibetan Spaniel. 🧼 Coat Care The Tibetan Terrier has a thick double coat that requires considerable grooming. Daily brushing is essential to prevent knots that can quickly become mats. The coat should always be lightly dampened before brushing to prevent breakage and discomfort. Regular baths, ideally every two weeks, are also recommended. Many owners opt to keep the coat clipped short, especially in summer or if the dog isn’t being shown. When well-maintained, the breed can be suitable for allergy sufferers, as they are low-shedding. However, they are not a low-maintenance breed and require consistent coat care and professional grooming appointments. 🎨 Appearance Tibetan Terriers come in a wide variety of colours, including both solid and mixed patterns:
🧠 Temperament The Tibetan Terrier is a smart, affectionate, and energetic breed that makes a great addition to most households. They are known for being gentle yet brave, full of life, and playful. Despite their size, they make excellent watchdogs, offering a bark that’s much louder than you would expect for their size. However, excessive barking can be an issue without proper training. They require daily walks and plenty of exercise, and a large space to run and play in is ideal. Without sufficient activity, they can become bored and destructive. With proper socialisation and leadership, they are generally good with children, strangers, and other pets. A well-balanced Tibetan Terrier enjoys being a part of the family, playful during the day and cuddly at night. They also excel in agility, obedience, and other dog sports. 🩺 Health With an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, Tibetan Terriers are a generally healthy breed. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions, including:
Are you lucky enough to have a Tibetan Terrier in your life? Or maybe one of the other Tibetan breeds that were created using the Tibetan Terrier? We love dogs and we love seeing your dogs! Be sure to share them with us at our socials!  Sadie The Manchester Terrier is a sleek and athletic little dog, with the bravery of a lion and an endless drive for their human’s love! Although they may resemble a miniature Doberman, this energetic "pocket rocket" is an ancient and distinct breed of its own. 🏙️ Origin The Manchester Terrier is one of the oldest known terrier breeds, with roots tracing back to the early 19th century. Developed in Manchester, England, by John Hulme, they were originally bred for rat hunting. The breed was created by crossing the Whippet with the now-extinct Black and Tan Terrier. Interestingly, the Manchester Terrier has contributed to the development of other breeds, including the Doberman Pinscher and Airedale Terrier. 🎯 Purpose There are two types of Manchester Terrier: the Toy and the Standard. The Toy variety became popular as a lapdog, while the Standard version is considered one of the most effective vermin hunters among all dog breeds. Today, the Standard Manchester Terrier still maintains its strong hunting instincts, but both types are now primarily kept as loyal companion dogs. 🧼 Coat Care Manchester Terriers are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, sleek coat requires minimal care, just an occasional brush or wipe-down and baths only when necessary. Routine care should also include checking and cleaning their ears and trimming their nails regularly to keep them short and healthy. 🐕 Appearance Manchester Terriers are black with distinctive tan markings.
💬 Temperament True to their terrier roots, Manchester Terriers are intelligent, agile, confident, and full of character. They are highly loyal and eager to please, making them responsive to training, especially with a calm and consistent owner. These dogs thrive on mental and physical stimulation and require at least one structured walk daily. They also enjoy more vigorous activities like running or keeping up beside you on a bike ride. Early and consistent socialisation is key, as a poorly socialised Manchester can become snappy or display aggression toward other dogs, animals, or even small children. Supervised interaction from a young age is essential. When properly exercised and socialised, Manchester Terriers adapt well to indoor living, including apartment or unit life. They love being close to their humans and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Owners should maintain a calm and assertive presence to avoid "small dog syndrome." Due to their strong prey drive, Manchester Terriers should not be trusted around small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, cats, or birds. ❤️ Health The Manchester Terrier is generally a healthy and hardy breed, with an average lifespan of 15 years or more. However, some bloodlines may be prone to glaucoma, a condition that can be screened for through responsible breeders. Always ask for health clearances when considering a puppy.
Do you have a Manchester Terrier? Be sure to show off your adorable pooches with us!
We love to see your pooches! Share them with us at our Facebook or Instagram pages! 📸📱 Guide Dogs Australia feels like a household name now and we all know and love the incredible work and support that comes from this group. But did you know they offer support and assistance dogs to more than just the blind community?!
Meet Zena Zena belongs to Oisin and he shares their story; 'Life for eight-year-old Oisin has changed dramatically since he was matched with Autism Assistance Dog, Zena! At just three years old, Oisin was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). He is sensitive to noise and has a low sense of danger which can be challenging for his family as he often tries to run away. Early intervention is important for the wellbeing and development of children like Oisin. An Autism Assistance Dog can promote positive social interaction and help children develop the skills they need to engage with their peers and participate in the community. A world of possibility is now open to Oisin thanks to his new companion!'  What is an Autism Assistance Dog? Autism Assistance Dogs are specially trained dogs who are brought into the lives of a child with autism to create a sense of assurance and calmness. They help assist their little person to feel independent, safe and comfortable when they are going about their daily tasks.
Want to know more about Autism Assistance Dogs, Guide Dogs Australia or how you can support the amazing work they dog, visit their website here!  🐾 What Does It Really Mean to Be a Pack Leader? Being the pack leader doesn’t mean yelling the loudest or running the fastest. It means providing calm, stable leadership that a dog naturally seeks out. Although dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, many of their natural instincts remain hardwired into their DNA. Dogs are naturally pack animals, and in a pack, they look for a calm, confident leader who sets boundaries and guides them through life. Without a clear pack leader at home, your dog may naturally assume that role. However, since they haven't been raised in the wild—or by a calm leader—they often don’t know how to handle that responsibility correctly. This can lead to unwanted behaviours like destruction, disobedience, and even aggression. So, how do you become the calm, confident pack leader your dog needs? 🧠 Think Like a Dog, Not a Human It’s easier than you think! The first step is shifting your mindset. One of the biggest mistakes dog owners make is treating their dogs like people. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t love your dog or treat them as part of the family - but it does mean you need to understand that dogs don’t process thoughts and emotions like humans do. For example, if you allow your dog to freely roam the house, jump on and off furniture at will, or ignore your commands, here’s how the situation might look from different perspectives:
Small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference. Meal times are highly significant to pack animals. In the wild, the pack leader always eats first, and the rest of the pack eats in order of status. 👉 In your home, you should feed your dog after the humans have eaten. This reinforces your role as the leader and helps your dog understand their place in the "pack." 🚶♂️ Walking: Who’s Leading Who? Walks are another major indicator of leadership. How your dog behaves before and during a walk can quickly reveal how they perceive their position in the pack. If your dog bolts out the door ahead of you, pulls on the leash, or walks far in front of you, they see themselves as the leader. To change that:
🏡 Give Your Dog Their Own Space Inside your home, your dog should have a designated area that’s theirs alone, a space away from kids, other pets, or distractions. This acts as a calm, safe zone where your dog can relax and decompress. This space should also be the place where they stay until invited onto the couch, bed, etc. Why?
😌 Calm Energy = Strong Leadership Your dog will not follow your direction if you’re anxious, angry, or frustrated. Dogs are extremely sensitive to human emotions. They pick up on your facial expressions, body language, tone of voice and even subtle changes in your scent caused by stress hormones. If you want your dog to listen, you must lead with calm, confident energy. That’s when they’ll trust and follow your guidance. 💖 Leadership Is Love Being a pack leader isn’t about being stern or harsh—it’s about creating a safe, calm environment where your dog feels secure. When your dog knows you’re in charge, they can relax and stop trying to take control of situations they don’t understand. A calm, confident dog is less likely to develop behavioural problems, anxiety, or stress—and that contributes to a more peaceful, happy home for everyone. ✅ Fact Check Summary:
 We are so lucky to be able to offer Post-Operative Rehabilitation Care for our guests who require it – but what exactly does that mean? Let’s dig into the details of our post-operative accommodation and care! 💛 What is Post-Operative Rehabilitation Care at We Love Dogs? Once your dog has completed their surgery at the vet and is ready to be discharged into your care, this is where We Love Dogs can step in to help. Regardless of the type of surgery your dog has had, we can accommodate them. Most dogs recovering from surgery need to be isolated from other dogs, have restricted movement, attend follow-up specialist appointments, receive medication, and be closely monitored. All of these needs can be challenging to manage at home, especially if you have other dogs or work outside the house. We can take care of all of this (and more!) for your dog. Our loving team of Doggy Doaters will manage all required home-style care right here at the Resort, including transportation to and from any necessary vet or specialist appointments. We work in close communication with your vet, surgeon, or specialist to follow your dog’s ongoing treatment plan. This may include:
🛏️ What is the accommodation like for a dog in Post-Operative Care at We Love Dogs? Our post-operative guests enjoy the comforts of our luxurious 7-star suites, each fitted with heating and cooling for year-round comfort. Every room is customised to suit the individual needs of your dog and their stage of recovery. This ranges from crate confinement (for guests immediately post-ACL or spinal surgery, for example), to limited-movement spaces for dogs nearing the end of their recovery. Guests are taken for short leash walks for toilet breaks throughout the day and night. These walks are gradually increased with vet approval based on recovery progress. Each suite also features a TV for comfort, and mental stimulation is offered through puzzle toys, slow feeder bowls, and interactive food toys. Bedding is low to the ground for easy access, and slip-proof mats are placed on the floor. We also have specially designed rooms with small undercover outdoor courtyards for dogs at the later stages of recovery. These allow for some free movement while still keeping safety a priority. 🚐 Transport and Vet Visits Our K9 Limousine Service is available for all post-operative guests. Your dog can be safely collected from your home at the start of their stay and returned at the end. They’ll travel in their own secure crate and be lifted in and out by our Doggy Doaters—no jumping required! If your dog has follow-up vet visits, specialist appointments, or needs therapies like hydrotherapy, Bowen therapy, or acupuncture, one of our team members can accompany them. We’ll transport your dog, attend the appointment with them, and bring them safely back to the Resort. You're also always welcome to attend any appointments and meet us there so you can be involved in your dog’s recovery process. 🐶 Can I visit my dog during their stay? We understand that being away from your dog is hard—especially when they’ve just had surgery and you’re at home without them. While we absolutely welcome dog owners to visit their pets during recovery, we do assess this on a case-by-case basis. Here’s why: If your dog has stayed with us before, they may associate seeing you with going home. When you visit and then leave without them, it can cause confusion or stress. Stress is the last thing we want to add to a post-operative guest’s day, as it can slow their recovery. Some dogs, however, handle visits just fine and settle back in easily. That’s why we assess each situation individually and always keep an open line of communication with you. If a visit seems beneficial, we’ll gladly welcome you. 💌 Reach Out Anytime If you ever find yourself in a situation where your dog requires surgery and you’re unsure or unable to manage post-operative care at home, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to answer all your questions and would love to welcome you down for a tour of our Resort to see what we offer for our post-operative guests.
 Ozzie The Kelpie is a sturdy, fast, and determined breed of dog. From the farm paddocks to the couch, they are guaranteed to entertain and love unconditionally. 🐶 Origin The exact origin of the Kelpie’s creation is still unknown. Some theories suggest they are a cross between the Australian Dingo and the Border Collie. However, further investigations indicate the breed may have developed from Collies brought from northern England to Australia, which were then bred together. The Kelpie has been recognised as its own breed since the late 1800s. Their name comes from the novel Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson, which mentions the mythical 'water kelpie.' 🐕🦺 Purpose The Kelpie was bred as a working herding dog and has always excelled in this field. Even today, they still work as sheepdogs and are capable of controlling cattle, goats, poultry, and even reindeer. 🧼 Coat Care The Kelpie has a smooth, short double coat that is easy to maintain. They only require brushing as needed and should be bathed only when absolutely necessary. Being a breed developed to work outdoors in all kinds of weather, the Kelpie’s skin produces natural oils that repel water and dirt. Overbathing can break down these oils and cause that dreaded ‘dirty dog smell.’ They are average shedders. 🐕 Appearance The Kelpie is a small, compact dog with a broad chest and solid hindquarters. They are only slightly longer than they are tall, which contributes to their agility and speed. They can grow up to 51 cm tall and weigh up to 20 kg. Their coat comes in a variety of colours including black and red, black and tan, red, tan, fawn, chocolate and blue. 🧠 Temperament The Kelpie is a driven working dog through and through. They are exceptional herders and can run and work all day long. They are not suitable for non-active families, as they require hours of physical and mental stimulation each day. Kelpies thrive when given a job and are perfect for working farm environments or very active families. Without enough stimulation, boredom sets in quickly—and a bored Kelpie can become destructive or mischievous. Because they are still bred for work, their herding instinct can kick in at any time. When excited or in "working mode", they may nip—just as they would when moving livestock. They are highly agile and excellent jumpers, which can make them escape artists in suburban backyards. While not naturally aggressive, they are capable of protecting and defending when needed. This is a highly intelligent breed that learns quickly. Kelpies excel in obedience and respond well to confident leadership. ❤️ Health The Kelpie is generally a very healthy dog. The most common hereditary condition found in the breed is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), so it's important to check this when buying a puppy. Their average lifespan is 10–14 years, but the oldest recorded Kelpie, living in Victoria - Australia, reached an incredible 30 years of age! A true testament to the hardiness and resilience of the breed.
Ozzie, our beautiful Dog of the Month for September 2025 during his post operative care stay. Do you have a beautiful Kelpie you want to share with us? We love to see your pooches! Share them with us at our Facebook or Instagram pages! 📸📱 What Is Pancreatitis? The pancreas is an organ located in the abdominal cavity of a dog. Its role is to produce digestive enzymes, which help break down food as it passes through the digestive system. When something disrupts this process and overstimulates the pancreas, it can cause inflammation, leading to the painful condition known as pancreatitis. What Causes Pancreatitis? There are three main causes of pancreatitis:
Signs of Pancreatitis Pancreatitis can present in two forms: acute (sudden onset) and chronic (long-term illness). Signs and Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis:
How Is Pancreatitis Diagnosed? A vet can often diagnose pancreatitis through a clinical examination. If necessary, further testing, such as an ultrasound of the pancreas, may be conducted to rule out other health conditions. Treatment of Pancreatitis Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the flare-up. In most cases, care involves supportive treatment at home. Your vet will assess your dog’s diet, and if they are on a high-fat food, it will be adjusted. A bland diet is usually recommended during recovery to ease the strain on the pancreas. Medication may also be prescribed, including:
When to See a Vet If you're ever concerned that your dog may be showing signs of pancreatitis, don’t wait. Seek veterinary advice and a full examination promptly to prevent the condition from becoming more serious.  Meet beautiful Phoebe, an Education Support Dog from Assistance Dogs Australia. ❤️  Berry Street School in Ballarat, Victoria is a very special place. It’s where children who have experienced severe trauma in their young lives can go to heal. At the school, they are shown what they can achieve. They are made to feel loved and valued. Phoebe is now a vital member of this little school community. She brings so much fun, laughter and happiness to the kids. She’s also teaching them responsibility and empathy. They adore her, and the feeling is mutual. Students who are normally aggressive or introverted open up to Phoebe. She can often be seen rolling around on the floor with them as they allow themselves to just be silly. They talk to her like a person – the person they wish they had to talk to at home. Phoebe curls up in a corner and listens intently while they tell her all their problems. She also has a knack of wandering to the student who is the most troubled and offering her paw, or ‘visiting’ them. She gives a lot of hugs every day. The students adore Phoebe. They have bought her gifts; which considering how little most of them have for themselves is quite remarkable. Phoebe is always there when students have to talk to DHS or the police, and patting her has certainly helped to soothe them during these difficult times. Phoebe has a lot of personality and can be quite cheeky, but this is something the students adore. A ‘teacher’s pet’ would never fit in at Berry Street School. They love to watch her zoom around the yard during breaks, and they laugh over her attempts to get them to feed her by using the world’s saddest dog face. Staff and students at Berry Street School tell us Phoebe is a gift to every single day.
It's no secret - Assistance Dogs are amazing and bring positive support to so many lives.
If you want to keep up to date on Phoebe's amazing adventures - be sure to follow her HERE! 👈📸 To learn more about Assistance Dogs Australia, the amazing work they do or to see how you can support them, visit here! ❤️🦮 |
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