It’s getting seriously hot, record-breaking levels of heat, and if you’re struggling with the most recent heatwave, imagine how your pet feels. If you’re looking for ways to help keep your furry friends cool this month, Aldi’s best-selling pet cooling range has returned to the middle aisle, offering affordable cooling products that work.

The Aldi pet cooling range is becoming a middle aisle favourite, returning again for 2026. With prices starting at just £1.99, these handy cooling buys are back by popular demand after rapidly selling out last year.

Dogs, cats and all manner of pests are part of our families, which is why we invest in everything from the best vacuums for pet hair to the comfiest beds and squeakiest toys. Now, you can also ensure your pet stays cool during what is currently the hottest week of the year.

Returning to the middle aisle this year is Aldi’s pet paddling pool (£8.99), which was a sell-out last year. Based on the forecast alone, we think this is going to be another sell-out, which is why I’ve also found the Outpaws Cooler Paddling Dog Pool (£15.99, Argos) and the Crufts Pet Paddling Pool (£22, Dunelm) in stock and available to shop online.

You can choose between a playful watermelon and pink striped print or classic blue and green pool shades. The paddling pool itself is foldable, making storage easy when not in use, and small garden-friendly.

You can also expect it to be durable, too. In the past, I’ve used a normal paddling pool for my pooch, only for her nails to scratch the lining, causing leaks. Specially designed pet pools are made from tougher material to prevent popping and scratches.

As well as the collapsible, Aldi is also dropping a £12.99 pet cooling bed, which is available in four colourways and two different sizes. These beds are designed to provide a soothing, cool environment to help pets sleep. There isn’t much information on how Aldi’s cooling mats work, but FurDreams Pet Cooling Mat (£49.99, B&Q) works by absorbing your pet’s body heat, keeping them seven to nine degrees cooler than their surroundings. It re-cools automatically after 15 to 20 minutes of non-use.

Also, to catch my eye was Aldi’s Cooling Dog Toy (£2.49), which offers dogs something cool to chew on, helping to regulate their temperature while they play.

‘Pets are part of the family, and we are always looking for ways to help our customers keep their four-legged friends happy and comfortable, especially during the warmer months. Our Pet Shop range has been designed to offer fun, practical solutions at unbeatable value to help keep dogs cool all summer long,’ said Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK.

We expect Aldi’s pet cooling range to sell out fast. So, I’ve found a few alternatives you can shop online.

Heatwaves can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for our pets. Are you prepared to keep them cool?

Pet parents, stop what you are doing and listen up, heritage brand Le Creuset has a pet collection. It’s so extra, but I’m so here for it.

Since 1925, Le Creuset has been responsible for producing some of the best cast iron cookware, pots and pans available on the market. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t have a Le Creuset casserole on their kitchen wishlist (myself included).

And why shouldn’t this extend to our pets this Valentine’s Day? With prices starting at just £29, Le Creuset's pet range consists of two feeding bowls and a pet food storage container, so your furry friends can eat in style.

Honestly, when I first saw this new collection, I baulked at the idea of spending almost £40 on a dog bowl. But as a dog mum, I can definitely see the appeal. Not only are they super-stylish to look at, but I kind of love the idea of my collie cross eating out of her very own shell pink Stoneware Pet Bowl - is that kind of ridiculous?

I also think that Le Creuset has solved the problem of unsightly pet bowls. Whether you feed your animals in your kitchen or utility room, they can sometimes look a little unappealing sitting on the side. It’s a small detail, but I do think these pet bowls look miles more stylish than your average pet bowl.

The same could be said for the Stoneware Pet Food Storage Jar, which comes in Cerise, Meringue or Shell Pink, with its very own stoneware scoop. With this timeless-looking storage hero, you can say goodbye to feed bags, keeping your storage area or worktop nice and organised.

I’m not the only one who is a fan of this collection, as happy reviews have commented that even their pets are fans of the new collection.

‘Can't fault it. At meal times, when I sit next to it and look longingly, it gets filled. I haven't managed to pick it up and drag it around, unlike its plastic predecessor. It goes in the hot, wet cupboard thing and comes out clean. Lovely red colour, matches my pet humans' coffee mugs. Overall, satisfied. The only gripe is that it hasn't yet tempted my nemesis, evil squirrel, into my domain,’ said one.

‘I really like these. They look much nicer than other dog bowls. They can be easily cleaned, which is great too,’ said another.

The bowls are also scratch-resistant, are thermoresistant from -23°C to +260°C and even come with a 10-year guarantee. It may be extra, but it is what our pets deserve.

So many of us count our dogs as a core part of the family. Not only are they our much-loved companions, they also really bring a home to life with their unique personalities! Keeping our furry friends happy and healthy both when we’re hanging out at home and when we’re out and about is a top priority, which is where smart tech can step in to help.

NHS worker and interior stylist Ellie Lawrence shares her home with Barney, her energetic cavapoo, and these are the clever gadgets she uses to help care for him.

Smart home helpers

With her EE package, Ellie has broadband and my mobile data in one, which means she’s able to keep her smart tech connected both at home and on the go, which includes the smart pet water bowl Ellie for Barney. Not only does it look chic and modern (perfect for a style-savvy space), but it also connects to the wifi and gives her a notification on her phone when the water level runs low. ‘It’s really important to keep your dog hydrated, especially over the summer,’ says Ellie, and this smart device makes easy work of this essential task.

Peace of mind

We naturally want to avoid letting our pets feel stressed when we leave them home alone, and also swerve stressed pets causing damage to furniture or other belongings, or excessive barking or howling while we’re not with them.

Barney is used to having Ellie at home with him, so he doesn’t love being left on his own. ‘Barney can get a bit anxious when I'm not around,’ Ellie says. To make Barney (and Ellie!) feel more at ease, Ellie has a Furbo dog camera set up in her house, which means she can check up on him at any time via the app and see what he’s up to. ‘It's great because I can fire out a treat from the camera, which he loves,’ says Ellie.

Out and about

Smart tech also comes in handy when Ellie and Barney are out and about together. A clever Tractive collar uses GPS to track your pet (you can view the location via mobile data in the app). ‘The activity collar is so useful,’ says Ellie. ‘Barney is really food driven, so there's always the chance that he might wander off to find some.’ Thanks to the GPS feature, Ellie always knows where Barney is.

The collar also has health monitoring features and can track resting heart rate and respiratory rate so it’s easy to see if your pet is stressed or under the weather.

There's so much clever smart tech for pets these days, and with an EE One package you can keep your devices connected both at home and on the go. ‘Honestly, it gives me real peace of mind,’ says Ellie. ‘When your dog's a diva, anything that makes life easier is a win.’

In these cold winter months, there is no better feeling than snuggling down under the covers and getting cosy in bed. And believe it or not, we’re not the only ones who relish that moment.

Our pets, like us, love nothing more than to settle down in the evening and slumber in a warm spot. So, if you’re still searching for a low-cost Christmas gift for your furry friend, it’s time to head to the middle of Lidl because this week they’re selling the most adorable Cath Kidston pet beds.

Landing in store tomorrow (11th December), Lidl’s Cath Kidston pet beds are the perfect way to put your pet first without compromising on style. And, with three different designs up for grabs, there is something for every pet to enjoy.

As sweet as the pet beds are, it was the price that stopped me in my tracks. Starting from £19.99, Lidl’s versions are incredibly affordable compared to listings of the exact same bed on Amazon. So, with a £30 saving up for grabs, you’ll have to be quick if you want to get your paws on one of the plush designs.

The honeybee design with a plush teddy bear lining is perfect for injecting some sunshine yellow into your home this winter. But the floral option is a personal favourite of mine. After all, it’s the pattern Cath Kidston is known best for, and it’s perfect if you’re looking to carry the modern country aesthetic throughout your home.

And it’s not just traditional dog beds on offer. Lidl are also selling three different igloos for your pet to cocoon in, as well as sofa covers. The correct answer to the ‘should you let your dog on the sofa’ debate will differ between households, but I think these decorative sofa covers are a genius idea if you still want your furry friend to keep you company on the sofa, without the hassle of shedding hair and muddy paw prints.

The pet beds launch this week and are available in stores only. And remember, once they’re gone, they’re gone. So, if you’re local to a Lidl and want to spoil your pooch this Christmas, I suggest you make a trip before it’s too late.

It's no secret I love to spend an evening on my sofa surrounded by cushions and throws to up the comfort levels. But my other non-negotiable sofa accessory might be more controversial – our family dog Lyra.

Despite investing in an expensive dog bed, Lyra’s preferred position is most definitely on our furniture, whether that's the best sofa in the living room or the comfy armchair we popped in the kitchen diner to sit on and look out at the garden. I'm (mostly) ok with this set-up, but I’ve got friends who are most definitely not.

I’ve tried to think back to how I felt about it before I got a dog. I very much had a ‘not upstairs and definitely never in the bedroom’ opinion on dogs, but I wasn’t so clear-cut when it came to the sofa issue. We had a family dog when I was very young, but I don't remember the rules around furniture.

Lyra's place on the sofa got established very quickly, when I fell head over heels for puppy cuddles (I mean, who wouldn't?!), and having her snuggled on my lap became the norm when we all flopped in the evening. It's one of my favourite moments in the day, and I find it incredibly comforting. It really is the best stress-buster.

Of course, Lyra didn't stay puppy-sized for long, but she still believes she's a lap dog, and she wants to be with us wherever we settle. I still relish those evening cuddles, and I now can't imagine having a dog who wouldn't join us on the sofa.

Even as a total 'pets on sofas' convert, I will admit that allowing her on the furniture comes with a couple of downsides, especially for someone as houseproud as me.

The most pressing concern is obviously trying to keep the furniture looking nice and not smelling of dog. I love my sofa, and a big piece of furniture like this is an investment. Although Lyra isn't a big shedder, she still brings muddy paw prints and dirt.

To protect the sofa from wear and tear, I invested in a faux sheepskin rug like this one from Amazon, which I use to cover the sofa seats and Lyra adores curling up on. It's machine-washable, so I just give it a good wash regularly, and I actually really like the cosy vibe it adds to the living room. We also have this dog sofa bed from Amazon, which does a similar job.

The other main problem with our furniture-friendly dog policy is when we're entertaining at home – not every guest loves sharing a seat with an over-affectionate Hungarian vizsla. Visiting friends can also be tricky when it comes to enforcing a 'not on the sofa' rule.

So is your sofa a dog-friendly zone or a paw-free palace? Let us know in the comments below.

The sun is shining, the weather is heating up, and right on time, Aldi is launching a pet cooling range to keep our four-legged friends cool as a cucumber this year.

Landing in the middle aisle on 18 May, these Specialbuys are back by popular demand and feature a variety of clever gadgets to keep your pets cool this summer.

Pets are undoubtedly part of the family, which is why we invest in the best vacuums for pet hair, stylish pet beds and plenty of treats, too. These are the Specialbuys you should consider adding to your shopping trolley this weekend, if you want to keep your furry family member happy this summer.

The first thing to catch my eye was the dog sprinkler mat (£6.99), which will allow your pooch to have fun in the sunshine without overheating. All you need to do is attach a hosepipe to the mat to provide hours of fun for your pets. It's also available in a fun, tropical print - so while not only providing hours of entertainment for your dog, it also looks great.

For older pets, or those that like to sunbathe, there is this pet cooling mat (£5.99) and the sunshade dog bed (£16.99), which looks very similar to 2022’s popular Aldi rattan dog lounger. The sunshade dog bed is designed to elevate your dog off the hot ground, with its stylish canopy providing protection up to UV 50. Complete with a handy carry bag, it’s great to use on the go, such as trips to the beach.

Similarly, the cooling mat offers an immediate chilling effect due to pressure activation - a bit like how a thermal pet mat works in winter. Its rectangular size makes this cooling mat idea for placing in crates and pet beds, as well as out on your patio. It’s also large enough to comfortably sit large dogs.

And that’s not all, Aldi is also introducing pet cooling vests (£4.99) and pet cooling towels (£4.99) so you can cool your dogs on the go. These match perfectly with the pet travel bottle (£3.49), which is perfect for keeping your pet hydrated on long walks.

The pet cooling Specialbuys start at £2.99 and, like last time, are expected to be popular - so, you'll have to act fast if you want to get your hands on them.

The sprinkler mat and sunshade dog bed are my top picks from the Specialbuys, and I’m already thinking about how much my own dog will enjoy them. I have a feeling they’ll be a big hit with customers, too.

So, if you haven’t managed to get your hands on one of these Aldi pet cooling buys, here are a few more that will keep your pets cool this summer.

January - cold wet and a little miserable, the sort of weather where we all want to hunker down and keep warm. And we’re not the only ones…

If you're worried about your pets keeping warm in this weather you can give them the best seat in the house this winter by investing in a thermal pet mat. Specially designed to keep our furry friends extra toasty, this home accessory could be a total game-changer when it comes to keeping your home warm in winter in a pet-friendly way.

Using a reflective liner, thermal pet mats utilise your pet’s body heat to help them keep warm as the temperatures drop.

What is a thermal pet mat?

Our pets are parts of our families, so often I find myself getting as excited for new pet collections as I do classic homeware. From dog wardrobes to dog loungers, I’ll admit some trends err on the side of wacky.

But for the most part, we all want to do our best for our furry friends. That’s exactly what a thermal pet mat aims to do- but how exactly does it work?

‘Thermal pet mats help some pets stay warm on colder days, or if they need a bit of extra help to keep warm. The mats work by having a heat-reflective lining that warms up from the pet’s body heat when they lay on it,’ explains Fiona Cooke, Head of Specialist Services at Woodgreen Pets Charity.

‘There are various types of thermal pet mats - some are made so that pets can be left alone with it, whereas others should always be supervised.’

Thermal pet mats work differently from electric dog beds and are typically safer to use.

‘Thermal heating mats reflect your pet's own body via a layer within the bed. These heat mats don't get as warm as an electric bed, but there are no wires to worry about and they can't get hotter than your pet's body temperature, so you don't have to worry about them getting too hot or burning them. They can be useful in cold weather especially if pets are lying on cold flooring as it will be warmer than a conventional bed,’ says Aimee Warner, Veterinary Surgeon at Waggel.

Why you should invest in a thermal pet mat

You should consider a thermal pet mat if you have an older pet as they can feel more achy and stiff during cold weather - especially if they have arthritis.

‘They can have a soothing effect for pets that enjoy the warmth and can alleviate pain, especially joint pain in older animals with arthritis,’ says Aimee.

‘Some breeds of dog that enjoy the cold weather like Burmese Mountain dogs are unlikely to want to lie on them, but many pets will enjoy and benefit from them.’

If you have dogs that live outside, Aimee warns additional heating measures would be needed to keep them warm this winter.

'It’s really important to think about your pet’s access to warm and draught-free places, especially when it’s cold and/or damp outside,’ says Fiona.

‘It’s also important, however, to allow pets to regulate their own temperatures by supervising access and allowing them space to move freely to and away from the mat.

‘Dogs or cats who are very young, elderly, have a medical condition or recovering from surgery often benefit from the additional warmth from a thermal mat. Some pets naturally have thicker or thinner coats – those with thinner coats are likely to struggle more when it’s really cold, so offering them extra warmth will be much appreciated by your pet! These mats can be nice for cats and can be used for outdoor access to help them cosy.’

Shop thermal pet mats

Upgrading your pet's bed to keep them extra cosy is the least our furry firends deserve - you'd be barking mad not to treat them.

Knowing how to clean cat pee from carpet is essential for those with feline family members. And you'll be glad to hear that this can be dealt with, swiftly and effectively.

Knowing how to clean carpet is one thing, but dealing with cat urine requires a whole new method. Though it's not as simple as grabbing one of the best carpet cleaners and hoping for the best, with the right equipment and the know-how, you can get your carpet looking and smelling fresh once more.

We've asked the experts how to clean cat pee from carpet, and fortunately, there's just six simple steps to follow. You'll need to get your hands on a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner before you get started, but more on that below.

How to clean cat pee from carpet

'A spot of urine on the floor is a common thing for pet owners to find, especially with new and young cats who are yet to be trained,' says carpet expert James Higgins, from Online Carpets. 'However, it’s important to act quickly to clean up any accidents to prevent stains and odours from settling into the fibres of your carpet, which can cause bigger issues in the future.'

Follow the steps below for how to clean cat pee from carpet and rugs and you'll (thankfully) be able to rescue your home's flooring. First, you'll need to get your hands on a few essentials.

What you'll need

• Kitchen roll - stock up with this pack of 3 for just over £3 from Amazon
• Cleaning cloths - the Seep Bamboo Cloths will get the job done
• Pet-friendly enzymatic cleaning solution, such as the Envii Pet Fresh Stain and Odour Remover
• White vinegar (optional) - stock up with this refill from Miniml
• Baking soda - you can get a box for £3.79 from Amazon
• Vacuum cleaner

1. Blot away the excess

Firstly, use some kitchen towel or a clean cloth to blot the area. This will pick up the excess urine that hasn't yet settled into the fibres, making the next steps easier. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the urine and help it settle.

'When blotting, place some pressure on the area to absorb as much liquid as possible, and repeat this step with fresh towels until the area feels dry,' James advises.

2. Rinse with cold water

'After blotting, rinse the area with cold water,' Roisin Smith, professional cleaner at Wecasa says. 'Avoid using hot water, as it can set the stain. Blot up the water with a clean cloth or paper towels.'

3. Apply a cleaning solution

When it comes to the best upholstery cleaner to get cat pee out of carpet, there are a few options. The experts recommend using an enzymatic cleaner, which are specifically designed to neutralise uric acid and therefore provide the best chance of eliminating the smell.

'Use a pet-safe cleaner, such as an enzymatic one, to thoroughly clean and disinfect the surface,' James says. 'Leave this to work its magic for around 15-20 minutes.'

To increase the chances of removing stains, you can also use white vinegar for cleaning first.

'Mix white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) and pour this over the stain,' Roisin suggests. 'Vinegar helps neutralise the odour but I would also recommend using an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for pet urine to avoid lingering odour. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and let the cleaner sit for the recommended time.'

4. Rinse the solution away

After applying your cleaning solution as per the manufacturer's instructions, rinse the area with some water to remove any leftover residue. Use a clean cloth for this, and then go back in to blot away the excess liquid.

For deeper stains, you may need to repeat steps 3 and 4 again.

5. Sprinkle baking soda

Baking soda is a store cupboard essential, and it even comes in handy when learning how to clean cat pee from carpet (just be wary of the things you should never clean with baking soda).

'Once the area is mostly dry, sprinkle baking soda over the affected spot to absorb the remaining moisture,' Roisin advises. 'Let it sit for several hours or even overnight.'

6. Vacuum the area

Finally, run one of the best vacuum cleaners over the area to get rid of the baking soda and restore the carpet's texture. The stain (and smell) of the cat pee should now have vanished.

FAQs

Will cat pee smell ever go away?

Yes, the smell of cat pee can go away, but it's important to act fast. The longer the urine sits on the carpet for, the more settled it becomes, and the odour is more likely to linger.

'Enzyme cleaners are especially effective for getting rid of the smell because they break down the uric acid in the urine, which is what causes the smell,' professional cleaner Roisin explains.

'However, untreated or poorly cleaned urine can seep deep into the carpet padding and subflooring, making it much harder to remove. Early intervention is key to eliminating the odour fully.'

If it is a persistent issue, you might consider replacing your carpet or opting for hard floors instead.

What neutralises the smell of cat pee?

Enzyme cleaners are specially formulated to break down the smell of cat pee, so these really are your best chance of banishing the odour. They're a worthy investment, but there are some natural cleaning hacks you can try first if you want to.

'White vinegar is a good natural alternative as it helps to neutralise the smell,' Roisin says. 'Baking soda is also effective as it absorbs odours from the air and carpets.'

It's recommended to sprinkle baking soda on the carpet after you've applied an enzyme cleaner anyway, because of its powerful deodorising properties.

Roisin adds: 'In extreme cases, professional carpet cleaning may be required, especially if the urine has soaked into the padding underneath the carpet.'

If this is a recurring problem for you, it might be worth investing in one of the best carpet cleaners so you have it on hand.

Anyone with a pet knows the frustration of constantly picking hair out of the carpet - but if you're in need of a quick solution of lifting pesky hairs look no further, your Scrub Daddy is ideal for lifting shed hair out of your carpet.

If you don’t have one of the best vacuums for pet hair, then you probably spend a lot of time with a dustpan and brush, sweeping up after your four legged friend.

Keeping a house clean with pets is harder than cleaning up just for yourself – as much as we love our furry friends, they do know how to make a mess, with pet hair being the main cause for concern. But if you happen to have a Scrub Daddy or Mommy – one of cleaning guru Mrs Hinch’s favourite sponges – then you can easily lift pet hair out of your carpet, making this chore that bit quicker and simpler.

In the TikTok, the creator uses the coarse side of a Scrub Mommy, which is alo found on the original Scrub Daddy, to scrap pet hair off her upholstery.

‘Using a Scrub Daddy to help remove hairs from your carpet works as it is made from a strong high-tech polymer,' explains Nicola Rodriguez, cleaning expert aka @essexhousedolly. 'It changes textures depending on whether you are using hot or cold water. It is therefore fantastic to use with no water so it keeps its hard surface which then traps hairs onto it.'

She believes that the Scrub Daddy hack is a good method because: ‘you are not putting any chemicals onto the area, just using elbow grease!'

‘Using it in circular motion helps to get rid of stubborn hairs and up and down just for light. Another fantastic area to use this is in your car. Where car carpet is a different texture to in your home, this method always works well.’

Forrest Webber, Founder of Bear Brothers Cleaning cites friction as the reason Scrub Mommy’s work well. ‘The rough-but-not-too-rough surface generates enough friction to pull the hair out of the carpet fibres. It's like giving your carpet a good exfoliation,’ he says.

However Forrest points out that this method is best for tackling small areas of pet hair, rather than a whole room. ‘If you've got a small patch of carpet that looks like it's growing a fur coat, then Scrub Daddy/Mommy can handle it,’ he says.

‘Plus, you get the bonus of an arm workout—you'll be buff in no time! Think of it as the latest trend in multitasking: you get rid of pet hair while turning your arms into those of a Greek god.'

‘But if you're trying to tackle an entire room with just a sponge, you might want to cancel your plans for the rest of the week. This is less of a cleaning task and more of a quest, and your arms might end up looking like Popeye's after a can of spinach.’

What else can can help with pet hair?

The Scrub Daddy hack is a good option if you have a small job that needs to be tackled quickly. If you have a lot of hair to lift - perhaps the entire living room - you may need something a little bigger.

‘I am personally using at the moment the Swan Cordless Anti-tangle vacuum which is unbelievable. It has replaced the traditional bristle roller which hair gets trapped around with an anti-tangle technology that automatically removes any collected hair from the floorhead,’ says Nicola.

Forrest recommends using common household items, too.

‘Window Squeegee: Yep, you read that right—a window squeegee. Just drag it across your carpet, and it'll pull out enough hair to knit a sweater (which I don't recommend). It's surprisingly satisfying and works better than you'd think—sometimes even better than a vacuum,’ he says.

He also recommends using a rubber broom. ‘A rubber broom is the unsung hero of pet hair removal. The rubber bristles create static electricity, which makes pet hair jump onto the broom like a long-lost friend. The broom works wonders on larger areas and is way more efficient than crawling around with a sponge,’ says Forrest.

Overall, Forrest states your Scrub Daddy is: best for quick, small jobs. If you're trying to tame a whole-room hair situation, though, save your arms and grab a rubber broom or a vacuum. Trust me—your body will thank you, and your carpet will look much less like it needs a shave.

So, next time you notice bits of your carpet is in need of de-hairing, grab your trusted Scrub Daddy or Mommy and lift the hairs quickly.

Knowing how to clean dog pee from carpet is an essential skills every dog parent will need to master. And as someone who has been there, done that, and still has recurring nightmares about it, I’m here to tell you that it does get better.

When I adopted my dog, he was five months old. And while he was partially toilet trained, the stress of moving from a rescue centre to my house meant that he regressed - and boy, did my carpets and rugs know it! And while I furiously found myself Googling how to clean carpet and how to remove stains from a carpet, anyone who has a dog will know that the problems don’t end there. You also need to deal with the odour AND the marking that sees your dogs repeat the piddling process time and time again.

Thankfully, my dog is now fully toilet trained and hasn’t had any accidents in years, but I know that puppy parents and senior dog owners still struggle on a daily basis. That’s why I’ve decided to share my knowledge - with the help of industry experts - to put together the ultimate guide on how to clean dog pee from carpet.

1. Start cleaning as soon as possible

If your puppy hasn’t quite mastered their puppy pad aim, or your senior dog has had a little accident, the best piece of advice I can give you is to start cleaning up as soon as you spot the dog pee on your carpet.

Laura Harnett, founder of eco-cleaning brand Seep, agrees, saying, ‘You need to act quickly to clean up dog wee as the smell can linger for a long time, and it will stain the carpet if not treated as soon as possible.’

Of course, I get that it’s not always possible to clean up immediately. During the puppy stage, there were many times when I randomly spotted a damp spot on the carpet and had no idea how long it had been there. So, just do it when you first see it - ideally before it dries completely.

2. Blot first

Before you go in gung-ho to clean dog pee from the carpet, it's important to consider how you can preserve the integrity of your carpet fibres as your clean. Given its thick woven fabric, carpet doesn’t have the wipe-clean nature of wooden flooring or tiles.

Gervaise Ovin, a professional cleaner from Wecasa advises, ‘Use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot as much of the urine as possible. Press down firmly to absorb as much as you can.’

Personally, I always found a clean cloth to be gentler on my carpet as I have thick, loop-cable carpet in my home. But if you have a smoother, low-cut pile, you may find that a paper towel works for you.

3. Apply a white vinegar solution

One thing I learned before becoming a puppy parent is that cleaning with vinegar can solve (just about) everything, so I was happy to discover that it can also help to clean dog pee from the carpet. In fact, it's one of the best upholstery cleaners, full stop.

As Laura says, you should ‘mix equal parts of white vinegar with water and rub it into the stained area. Use a gentle brush to work it into the carpet to make sure it penetrates the pile and gets to all of the urine.’

Ideally, you should let it sit for 5-10 minutes to work its magic before blotting the area once again with your paper towel or cloth. At this point, you want to remove as much of the solution as possible.

4. Add some baking soda into the mix

Baking soda is another natural cleaning hack that has saved my bacon over the years. In fact, I currently have four bottles of the stuff sitting in the cupboard under my sink as I buy in bulk.

It’s essential for this next step, too, as you need to add baking soda to the mix. Gervaise says, ‘Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area. It will help to absorb moisture and neutralise any lingering odour. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.’

And if your dog has peed on the sofa, you can use the baking soda sofa cleaning hack to clean that mess up as well. I tried it and it works a treat.

5. Vacuum the area

Although baking soda can really help to clean dog pee from the carpet, you don’t want to leave it on there. You don’t want your pooch eating it, after all.

So, Gervaise says, ‘Once the baking soda is dry, vacuum the area thoroughly to remove all of the residue. For particularly tough stains, you may need to repeat the process to fully eliminate the odour and stain.’

Of course, you can use any of the best vacuum cleaners for this task. But as I crowned the Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog vacuum as the best vacuum for suction, I’d always recommend that one.

6. If in doubt, use a carpet cleaner

Although all of the above steps allow you to clean a carpet without a machine, I get that life can be busy (especially with a puppy in tow), and sometimes you just don’t want the faff that comes with cleaning dog pee off the carpet. In that case, you might want to consider using one of the best carpet cleaners or spot washers.

This is particularly handy if you’re new to the puppy game and haven’t gotten used to dealing with all of their bodily fluids just yet.

As VAX UK’s Senior Product Manager, Faye Doolittle, says, ‘A spot washer will also reduce the risk of your hands coming into contact with any unpleasant pet messes, since instead of reaching for absorbent towels or paper, you can use a spot washer to hygienically clean up urine. Some models also self-clean, which further reduces the need to bring your hands into contact with germs.’

Plus, they can be used elsewhere around the house.

FAQs

What scent will keep dogs from peeing on carpet?

As they have a keen sense of smell, there are many ways that you can stop dogs from peeing on the carpet. It’s worth noting that these may not work if you don’t clean any residual urine from the carpet, though:

• Vinegar.
• Citrus.
• Bitter apple.
• Pepper (especially cayenne pepper).
• Rosemary.

Does dog urine smell ever go away?

Yes, but only if you take proper measures to get rid of the smell. You need to ensure that you’re properly cleaning and deodorising the area that has been peed on, and you can use both vinegar and baking soda to do that.

If the urine smell is particularly bad, you may have to repeat the cleaning process a few times and it may take a while for the lingering smell to go away properly. But, if you do all of the above, it should definitely go away.

Now you know how to clean dog pee from the carpet, you can be prepared for your pooch’s next little accident!

Let’s begin with a disclaimer of sorts. While this is a feature about smart home pet tech, there's no denying that dogs and cats are by far the UK’s favourite pets to own, so this article will focus on tech that's has been specifically developed for these top two animals.
However, some of the gadgets mentioned below can be interchangeable with other pets, so owners of rabbits, guinea pigs and even budgies can still avail.

So now that’s out of the way, let’s dive into the world of pet tech to see what clever gadgets are available to make life with your (furry) friend all the better…

At home cameras

As smart home security cameras have grown in use over the years, so too have pet cameras. Yes, you can still use a standard smart home indoor camera to keep an eye on, and even talk to your pet when you’re not home, but there are also pet-specific cameras, that will move around to track your pet as they move about.

Furbo makes two different pet cameras one for cats and the other for dogs, both with a rotating, tracking 360° view and two-way speaker. Both cameras will release treats on cue, while the cat cam also has a spinning feather wand toy at the top.

Bear in mind that - just like smart home secutity cameras - many pet cameras and trackers require you to pay a monthly subscription. This will allow you to avail of all of the camera's functionality, so be sure to factor this into the final cost before you buy.

For pets on the go

While compulsory microchipping in dogs has been law in the UK since 2016, the same has only been a legal requirement in England since June this year, and Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have yet to follow suit.

If your pet has a habit of going for walkies too far from home, you could attach a GPS tracker to their collar. PitPat sells a subscription-free, waterproof dog tracker, while the Tracktive dog and cat trackers are a lot cheaper but you will need a subscription (prices start from £4.50 per month), but they will all allow you to see where your pet is in real-time on a map on your smartphone.

Meanwhile, if you want a pet’s eye view, wearable cameras that you can attach to your pet’s collar are available but the best on the market is the excellent Hero12 camera from GoPro. Together with the brand’s Fetch dog harness (which costs extra), you’ll get a crystal clear picture of your dog’s point of view, whether they’re sitting, running or swimming.

Cat corner

While a Wi-Fi-enabled litter tray that cleans itself (and costs upwards of £700) might make you figuratively spit your tea out, the reviews of this cat poo processing device are positively glowing, so much so that high street favourite John Lewis even stocks it. Suitable for use for up to four cats, the Litter Robot 4 automatically sifts out waste after every use, eliminates smells, and reduces the chances of your cat tracking little bits of litter around the house.

Meanwhile, studies have shown that cats are very fussy with how they drink water. Not only do they prefer to drink water from a source away from their food bowls. They also prefer running water wherever possible. While there are plenty of plug-in cat water fountains available, the Pet Libro fountain is wireless and rechargeable meaning you're free to put it wherever is most convenient, even in a bathroom.

There’s not much you can’t buy at IKEA - from a free-standing flatpack wardrobe to a colourful lamp. But one thing cat and dog owners will have noticed is missing is a range of pet accessories. But that is no longer as a range of animal beds, bowls and other homeware is launching in a dedicated pet collection at IKEA.

The UTSÅDD range has been meticulously designed based on the four things cats and dogs love – sleeping, eating, playing and hiding away in peace. It includes practically all and any of the essential items a pet owner might need, whether they're new to having an animal sidekick or looking to upgrade some items with a little IKEA hack.

IKEA’s new UTSÅDD pet range

Two years in the making, the UTSÅDD range includes 29 different products, which IKEA say have all been created with our pets' natural behaviours and preferences in mind. 

Safety seems to have been a top priority, too. IKEA explain that the new collection was put together with advice from both veterinarians and pet product experts, meaning that the items have been designed to function in a way that’s beneficial for both pets and their owners. 

'We formulated protocols and risk assessments based on our research, evaluations of previous pet collections, and input from our partner veterinarians and pet product experts. Our protocols include periodic chemical, mechanical and physical safety tests on all UTSÅDD products,' Julia Rosenberg, Product Design Developer at IKEA of Sweden AB explains.  

One of the most important things for our furry friends is a comfortable and safe place to sleep, and IKEA have created a cosy looking pet bed for just £12, which comes in four different sizes, and is both water-repellent and machine washable, in case of any accidents, or snoozes at the end of wet muddy walks!

They’ve also designed a few different cat houses, which allow our cats to retreat to somewhere private in peace – choose from a £13 tipi, tent style house, a £55 wicker house on legs, or a material, box-shaped house that should fit neatly into a Kallax unit for just £5.

There are lots of goodies for dogs too, including a few simple toys made from natural rubber and fabric, which IKEA explain 'were carefully designed to be durable and robust, yet gentle on teeth and gums.'

For those in need of items for dinner time, the UTSÅDD collection also includes a pet bowl and a mat for use under the bowl, which look super slick and monchrome.

The mat, which will set you back just £1.50,  is made with anti-slip fabric, and the ceramic bowl, available from £3, is heavy enough not to move around as your pet eats, as well as being dishwasher safe for easy clean-up – all of which will allow you to keep a clean house with pets!

The collection is all generally muted in colour tones too, with most items made up in light blue, green and beige colours, in order to create a calm environment for your cat or dog.

Unfortunately, all of this good stuff isn’t available in stores or online until April, so there’s still a little bit of time to wait. 

But if you’re on the hunt for affordable items for your furry friend, it's worth bearing in mind that you can now pick it up at your local IKEA – alongside your Pax wardrobes, your BILLY bookcase, and of course, a plate of your favourite Swedish meatballs.

With the most wonderful time of the year getting ever closer, it’s never been more important to get clued up on the festive plants that are poisonous to pets. In doing so, you’ll protect your pets and avoid a hefty vet bill over the Christmas period. 

Of course, that doesn’t mean that you have to ditch all of your Christmas decorating ideas. While plants are becoming more and more common in festive wreaths, hanging garlands, tablescape centrepieces, and even as popular Christmas gifts, there are still so many pet-friendly Christmas plants out there. 

But to understand which ones you can use, you need to understand which ones you can’t use. And we’ve asked the experts to help us explain why you should steer clear of these festive favourites if you have furry friends in your house.  

Festive plants that are poisonous to pets

‘Christmas plants can add an extra level of seasonal decoration to your home, bringing joy and colour during the winter months,’ says Lucy Rhead at Gtech. ‘However, Christmas can also be a tempting time for curious pets who want to explore the new decorations and scents that you have added to their home.’ So, these are the festive plants you need to be wary of. 

1. Amaryllis

If you’re planning on planting amaryllis in time for Christmas, it’s important to factor in your pets when doing so. These stunning winter flowers may brighten up the winter months, but unfortunately, the whole plant - including the bulbs, flowers, and stalks - is very poisonous for animals. 

'Amaryllis bulbs are particularly toxic to pets, especially cats,' says Steve Chilton, garden expert at LeisureBench. 'Ingesting any part of the plant can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and even tremors or seizures.'

Of course, this will only pose a threat if your animal eats the amaryllis, but you don’t want to give them that chance in the first place. 

2. Mistletoe

While it’s perfectly acceptable to smooch a human under the mistletoe, you might want to reconsider kissing your pet under this plant. Although it’s considered to be fairly low on the toxicity scale, there’s still the chance to poison your pets if you’re not careful. 

‘In the rare cases that pets do react to this plant, they are most likely to have a wobbly stance, tremors or even fits,' says Lucy.

Thankfully, most people hang this plant on doorways, so it’s easy to keep mistletoe away from your furry friends. 

3. Christmas trees

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a Christmas tree, but one thing you might not know is that these trees are technically poisonous to pets. And this is the case no matter whether you opt for pine, fir, or spruce.

'The needles, with their sharp ends, can cause injuries to the animal’s face, mouth, and digestive tract if ingested,' explains Dr. Marta Vidal-Abarca, in-house veterinarian at PetKeen. 'The sticky sap could also get on their fur and be licked off during grooming or consumed directly. It can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and irritation of the skin.'

So, always keep your best vacuum cleaner handy to keep these needles out of harm's way, opt for a ‘no needle drop’ tree, or go for one of the best artificial Christmas trees instead. 

4. Lily

Although many of the festive plants on this list are toxic to both dogs and cats, the lily is a slight exception. While it’s generally a good idea to keep lilies away from dogs, this plant won’t pose as much of a threat to your pooches as it will to your cat. 

The peace lily, in particular, is extremely toxic to cats - and you need to keep your cat away from it at all costs. In fact, if your cat drinks the tiniest bit of water from the vase or nibbles on the smallest bit of leaf, it could be fatal. 

It’s also important to know this fact if you plan on gifting lilies to a family member or friend during this festive period. 

5. Holly

Often used in festive wreaths and Christmas displays, the dark green leaves and red berries of the holly bush are a must-have during the festive period. It’s important to be wary of this plant around your pets, though. 

'Holly plants contain toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort in dogs and cats,' says Steve. 'Unfortunately, pets aren't really phased by the spikes on their leaves, so do be extra careful if you have any holly outside or in the home at all. The berries are especially toxic and are even toxic to humans!'

So, make sure you keep any inquisitive pets (or tiny humans) pets away from the holly bushes in your garden, too.

6. Poinsettia

Known for its festive red leaves, poinsettias have long been associated with Christmas. But while many people are wondering why their poinsettia leaves are dropping, more should be worrying about the fact that the leaves are red in the first place.

In fact, the red colour is a warning sign that this plant is mildly toxic to animals. 'The toxic trait of this delightful shrub is in its milky sap, but the good news is that serious toxicity is quite rare,' says Dr. Karyn Kanowski, veterinarian editor at Hepper. 'The most common complaints are skin irritation, drooling, and mouth pain, but some dogs can end up with vomiting and diarrhoea if they overindulge.'

The irritant sap would be extremely uncomfortable for an animal to eat, so it’s unlikely they’ll eat a large amount. However, it's still in your animal's best interests to keep it out of their reach.

7. Ivy

Ivy’s vining qualities lend itself well to festive displays, but it’s no secret that ivy can be a danger to those who come into contact with it, both human and animal. The whole plant contains poisonous saponins and polyacetylene compounds, but the largest concentration of these toxins is found in the leaves. 

If you touch it, you’ll probably come out in a rash or feel your skin become irritated. If your pet ingests this plant, however, they may suffer from severe vomiting and stomach pain. 

Because of this, it’s a good idea to keep ivy away from your animals or to just avoid using it entirely. 

FAQs

With this in mind, you can have a happy and healthy Christmas with your animals by your side. 

No one likes finding yours or the neighbour's cats have been using the garden as a litter tray. But sadly, it's an issue many of us might have to deal with at some point. The good news is that you can learn how to stop cats pooping in the garden with just a few simple measures.

If any felines have been using your patio as a toilet, you'll need some extra help that goes beyond the best patio cleaner. And if it's your lawn that's become their new favourite litter tray, lawn care tips won't cut it; you need to learn how to stop cats pooping in the garden, with the help of animal behaviour experts.

'Cats are typically very clean animals, and can be quite fussy over where they go to the toilet,' says Claire Roberts, Vet, PDSA. 'However, if you’ve noticed any furry friends favouring your garden, there are some simple things you can do to encourage them to go elsewhere.'

Whether it's your own pet, your neighbour's, or a friendly stray, there are steps you can take to encourage them to do their business elsewhere. We've asked the experts and shared all their tips for how to stop cats pooping in the garden in this essential guide.

How to stop cats pooping in garden

Cat excrement isn't the sort of thing we want near the best garden furniture we've just invested in, and we definitely don't want it ruining the look of our precious plants. Our guide has five steps you can take for how to stop cats pooping in garden, so you can go back to enjoying your outdoor space poop-free.

What you'll need

• Patio cleaner (if the cat is going to the toilet on your patio) - try these pet safe patio cleaners from Amazon
• White vinegar - you can stock up on this household staple and buy white vinegar from Amazon 
• Litter tray - if yours isn't currently doing the job, try one of these litter trays from Amazon
• Essential oils - like these lavender essential oils from Amazon
• Spray bottles - there's plenty of spray bottles available at Amazon if you don't already have one
• Motion activated devices - like these motion sprinklers from Amazon

Step-by-step

1. Clean the area where cats are doing their business

The first step to learning how to stop cats pooping in garden is to clean the area where you're finding their excrement. 'Doing so will remove their scent, which may be enough to discourage them from toileting there again – just be sure to use pet-safe cleaning products when doing this,' says Claire. 

Try the Cleenly Patio Fencing & Decking Cleaner, £29.95 at B&Q, if cats are ruining your patio ideas. For grassy areas, you can hose down the area then apply a diluted white vinegar solution to fully rid your lawn of any messy remains. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then cover the affected area - just keep it away from any plants and wildlife.

2. For your own cats, spruce up their litter tray

'Cats are well known as clean and tidy creatures, so one of the main reasons they may start going to the toilet outside is because their litter tray is too messy,' says Axel Lagercrantz, CEO, Pets4Home. 'The best way to ensure that your cat continues to use their litter tray is to empty it regularly, as well as placing litter trays at multiple spots around the house.'

It's best to have two litter trays for your cats, so they aren't encouraged to do their business in the garden if their tray feels a long way away. Try placing one of these next to the door leading in to your garden, so if they are heading outside to take a poop, they can easily spot their litter tray on the way. 

'It may also be worth looking into the type of litter you are using, as certain options may be uncomfortable on your cat’s paws,' Claire from PDSA says. 'Others may not absorb urine very well and your puss could just be avoiding getting their paws wet!' 

3. Use scents as detterents

Similar to knowing how to get rid of rats, learning how to stop cats pooping in garden is a lot easier when you know what scents felines don't like. 'Cats have sensitive noses and can be deterred from your garden with strong smells like lavender or cinnamon, mixed with water and sprayed on your plants,' says Gemma Vincent, Product Manager, Hayter. 

You can also use chopped-up citrus peels to discourage cats from using your garden as a toilet. 'The citrus oils in the peel will keep cats away from flower beds,' says Axel from Pets4Home. 'Using organic matter also means that the peel will turn into compost, so there is no clean up required.'

4. Use motion detectors

If after trying the above steps you're still finding cat droppings in your garden, it might be time to step it up a notch and install some motion-activated devices. A sprinkler or an ultrasonic sound device that goes off when it detects motion nearby will encourage cats to move on before doing their business. 

The Pestbye® Ultrasonic Cat Repellent, £34.99 at Amazon, is inconspicuous enough not to spoil the look of your garden landscaping ideas. It emits a high-frequency sound that you won't be able to hear, but felines will - it's a humane way of encouraging them to leave your garden alone. Alternatively, look for motion activated sprinklers, and dot these around your garden and in your plant beds.

5. Create an outdoor litter tray

The above methods should have successfully stopped cats going to the toilet in your garden, but if nothing else seems to be putting them off, it's probably worth creating an outdoor litter tray. Designating an area of your garden to contain the cats' waste will at least stop them leaving their droppings elsewhere, and you can keep it away from your garden seating ideas. 

Make the litter tray shallow and accessible, then fill it with feline-friendly litter. 'It might sound odd, but you can encourage your cat to use this area by initially placing some of its own waste in there,' says Richard Mann, Founder, Premier Porcelain. 'While a little arduous to do, encouraging your cat to use a designated area is a long-term fix if you can do it successfully!'

Now you know how to stop cats pooping in the garden, you can go back to enjoying your lovely garden as it should be - free of pet waste!

FAQs

If any furry pawed friends are currently treating your garden like a digging site, you need to know how to stop dogs digging in garden so you can go back to enjoying your outdoor area without unwanted mess.

Dogs have a mind of their own when it comes to digging, and you might find that no matter how much you command your pup to stop, he or she carries on scurrying at the earth relentlessly. Dog friendly garden ideas can only go so far; you need to know how to stop dogs from digging in garden to be able to solve the matter once and for all. 

'Digging is a natural behaviour in dogs, going back to a time before domestication,' says Axel Lagercrantz, CEO, Pets4Homes. 'Canines would dig holes to bury their prey, meaning it could then be hidden and saved for later. This is why some dog owners today may notice their dogs burying their treats, which is an example of their instincts prompting them to save food.'

So, digging is a natural behaviour in dogs, but that still doesn't mean you want your dog to dig away and ruin your garden landscaping ideas. We've asked pet behaviour experts how to stop dogs digging in the garden, so you can change your dog's behaviour and save yourself a lot of hassle. 

How to stop dogs digging in garden

'After spending hours perfecting your garden for summer, the last thing you want is your dog digging holes and ruining your flower beds,' says Victoria Kerr, Pet Nutritionist, Naturo. 'Mischievous digging can be frustrating but there are several things you can do to discourage this behaviour.' 

The methods in our guide are all expert-approved, and they will help significantly reduce - and eventually eliminate - the digging problem. Here's everything you need to know about how to stop dogs digging in the garden.

1. Train the 'leave it' command

'When you see your dog start to dig, redirect their attention to something else, such as a really tasty treat,' says Dr. Emma Scales-Theobald, Pooch & Mutt. 'As your dog turns and takes a few steps away, give them the treat and say ‘leave it’, so they pair getting a treat with stopping what they’re doing and walking away.'

Your dog may already be well trained - or you might have recently bought a pup and you're still in the early stages of teaching them the ropes. Either way, if they are digging in the garden, practise the 'leave it' command as Dr. Emma describes, and it should start to discourage them from digging.

2. Distract them

You can also try distracting your doggie so that their attention is turned away from digging and redirected towards something else. 'Play a game with them such as fetch or chase, or give them something to keep themselves occupied, such as toys, a puzzle feeding toy or a long-lasting chew,' suggests Dr. Emma.

Though this isn't a long-term solution for how to stop dogs from digging in the garden, it's a good option for stopping the digging when it starts to happen.

3. Make sure they're getting enough exercise

'Some dog breeds require more exercise and playtime than others, and the first cause of digging is likely a combination of a lack of exercise and boredom,' says Dr. Nick Horniman MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon and Founder, MyPetsVet. 'Dogs, especially younger puppies, crave activity and ways to work off their energy, so I would recommend physical activities like playing fetch, running and swimming.'  

If you think your dog's digging behaviour might be brought on by a lack of exercise, this should be top of your list to try. Take them for a walk and let them release some pent-up energy before you let them in the garden.

4. Create cool areas in hot weather

'Weather can impact a dog’s behaviour,' says Carolyn Menteith, Dog Trainer and Behaviourist, tails.com. 'If temperatures are extremely warm and they have no place to retreat out of the heat or a place to cool down, you may find your dog digging holes in order to find shelter or some cool earth to lie in.'

With UK summers scorching and sizzling more than ever, the heat may be getting to your doggie. Knowing how often to water your garden in the heat will help keep your grass cooler, but encourage them to lie in the shade as well so they're less tempted to dig. Place cushions and toys in cooler areas and give them a treat when they lie there.

5. Use deterrents

You can also encourage your dog to keep away from their favourite digging spots by placing deterrents. Use scents that are unfavourable with dogs like cayenne, citrus peel, vinegar, and fresh herbs. Place these is a small sac or drawstring bag so you don't have to create any mess in your garden.

'You can also place non-fragrant deterrents in the space, such as rocks, which will make the area less appealing to dogs, stopping them from digging,' suggests William Mitchell, Owner, Sutton Manor Nursery . You could even create aesthetic rock garden ideas, and strategically place these in your dog's favourite digging spots.

6. Get rid of other garden residents

Another effective way of knowing how to stop dogs digging in garden is to get rid of any other animals or insects that might be encouraging your dog to dig. Dogs are curious creatures, and they have a tendency to dig to see what wildlife is lurking beneath the grass. 

'Try using safe, non-toxic or humane ways of keeping other wildlife out of your garden or call a company that will do it for you,' says animal behaviourist Carolyn Menteith. 

You can learn how to kill ants nest in lawn if you've spotted this in your garden and your dog keeps digging around it. Or if it might be fuzzy moss on your grass that's encouraging your pup to scratch away at it, in which case you need to get clued up on how to get rid of moss on lawn.  

7. Amp up the scope of your outdoor furniture

If you're still struggling to get your dog to stop digging, consider upgrading your outdoor furniture so that they simply don't have as much space to dig. 'Your dog is unlikely to go on a digging spree if there's not a lot of room for it to dig,' says Steve Chilton, Garden Expert, LeisureBench. 'Maybe this is a good time to create that outdoor seating area you've always dreamed of?'

This may not be viable if you're working with small garden ideas, but even if you can't add more furniture, consider rearranging what you already have. Spread out the garden chairs, move the table so that it's next to the flowerbeds; do whatever you need to do to stop your dog from digging.

8. Create a designated digging area

Lastly, if you've tried all the above steps and you're dog is still persistently digging, create a designated digging spot to contain the issue. This will at least keep the dog away from your flowerbeds and other areas of your garden you want to remain unspoiled. 

'Set up a sandpit (or similar) in this area - making sure whatever you use is safe and non-toxic - and fill it with treats and toys so it is the most interesting and rewarding place for your dog to dig,' says Carolyn from tails.com. 'Encourage them to dig here and make it a game you can join in with - so they are rewarded for digging in their own space.'

Now you know all the best ways how to stop dogs digging in the garden, you can go back to enjoying your garden without mounds of dirt spoiling the view!

FAQs

Creating a dog friendly garden requires a little more thought and a degree of extra planning than gardens designed solely for the benefit of humans. But with the proper execution, the best dog friendly garden ideas will create an outdoor space that is both playful and safe for your furry friends to roam around in. 

Most garden ideas centre around practicality and aesthetic, but when there's a small pup or two in the picture, a whole new level of planning is required. What makes dog friendly garden ideas so important is the fact that they help to keep dogs safe, whether from toxic plants, harmful soil, or from the temptation to run out of the garden and get lost. 

'If you're a dog owner and you love spending time in your garden, creating a dog-friendly outdoor space is essential,' says Wendy Kruger, Dog Behaviour and Training Specialist, Woodgreen Pets Charity. 'Not only will it keep your furry friend happy and healthy, but it will also provide a safe and enjoyable environment for both of you.'

Dog friendly garden ideas

So that you and your favourite pet can enjoy your garden this spring, we've asked the experts to share all their tips on dog friendly garden ideas. The suggestions in this list will make sure your garden is safe for your dog, whilst still being fun for them and relaxing for you. 

1. Secure the perimeter

Probably one of the most important dog friendly garden ideas is the garden's perimeter. It's essential that this is secure so that you can let your dog into the garden without the risk of losing it.

'Adventurous dogs may be inclined to find gaps in bushes and shrubs, leading them to enter your neighbour’s garden, or worse – a busy road,' says Nina Downing, Pet Nurse, PDSA. 'Installing a sturdy fence will prevent your pooch from squeezing through any holes.' 

So if your fence is looking dilapidated or you've previously relied on planting to corner off your garden, now is the time to look at sturdy garden fence ideas that will keep your furry friend safe. 'Well dug foundations, strong posts and tall panels (6ft high) are all essential especially if you have a large dog that jumps up against the fence,' says Leigh Barnes, Retail Sales Manager, Jacksons Fencing.

2. Identify toxic plants and flowers

Equally as important as a secure perimeter is the need to remove any plants that are toxic to dogs. Research is key here; check online before planting anything new in your garden, and do a quick Google search of any of your existing plants.

'Toxic plants are one of the biggest dog health hazards in your garden,' says Sean McCormack, Head Vet, Tails.com. 'Many common plants and flowers, such as daffodil buds and tulips, are toxic to animals, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea and even seizures.'

ASPCA have a full list of plants that are toxic to dogs, and sadly, it's a lengthy one! There are hundreds of plants that aren't safe for dogs, so if there is one that you aren't sure about, it's better to leave it out than risk putting it in. 

3. Create a shaded area

'Dogs love sitting in the sun in gardens throughout the year, but in summer the sun can get particularly hot for them with their fur coats,' says Bethany Morgan, Dog Expert, Doodlebone. 'This is why it's important that you make sure there is some shade for your dog to sit in when the sun gets too much. This will keep your dog comfortable and cool during the hottest days of the year.'

Garden shade ideas will prevent your pups from overheating during any summer heatwaves, and these don't have to be overly complicated either. Add a parasol to your garden table, or for larger garden seating areas, incorporate a retractable canopy. Work with the natural shady spots of your garden too, such as overhanging foliage and small trees.

4. Give dogs a grassy play area

Grass is a dog's best friend in the garden. Not only do they love to dig, it's the surface that will stay the most cool in peak summertime, so is more comfortable to sit on than the patio or decking. 

Consider having a designated grass area for doggies. This way, you can keep the majority of your garden lawn ideas looking neat and tidy, but the dog still gets to have a bit of fun in an area that doesn't need to stay well manicured.

'Letting your dog dig in a specific area will do them absolutely no harm,' says Bethany from Doodlebone. 'Dogs love to dig, and you can even get some toys that encourage digging and this element of exploration that dogs adore so much.'

5. Safely remove slugs and snails

We may not want them to be, but slugs and snails are unfortunately a part of most gardens, especially when the weather is colder and wetter. Dogs have a playful and curious nature that means they will inevitably come into contact with slugs and snails at some point, but the lungworm parasites in these creatures can be seriously harmful to dogs, risking heart problems, breathing problems, and haemorrhaging.

It's therefore best to make your dog friendly garden ideas as slime free as possible. 'To safely remove slugs and snails from your garden, do not use snail bait, as they are commonly mixed with toxics, and ingestion can be fatal for your dog,' says vet Sean. 

'Instead, fill tubs with beer around your garden that are accessible for slugs and snails but hidden from children and pets. The snails and slugs will be attracted to the beer, will fall into the tub and drown.'

6. Create a safe place for tools and equipment

Garden tool storage ideas are ideal for keeping any garden well organised, but they're especially important in dog friendly garden ideas because they'll keep potentially dangerous tools out of reach of pets. 

To avoid any potential injuries, keep all tools in a designated place where the dog can't access them; a shed is most ideal, but if you don't have space for this, a wall shelving unit or a lockable cupboard will work just as well.

'Garden tools, including lawnmowers, strimmers, sharp tools and loppers should be securely stored in a shed or in your home away from dogs,' says vet Sean. 'Screws, bolts and other small fittings can become a choking hazard for your dog, especially young puppies who enjoy exploring the garden with their nose and mouth.'

7. Be careful with compost

Compost is a great addition to the garden, as it puts leftover food and organic matter to good use by providing nutrient-rich soil. But dog friendly garden ideas will benefit from compost storage that is separate from the rest of the garden, or at least in an area that the dog won't be able to reach.

'Compost can be dangerous for dogs, as the decomposing organic material releases mycotoxins, which are released by the fungi which help to break down the compost,' says Lee Gibson, UK Managing Director, Pets4Homes. 

'These mycotoxins can cause vomiting, seizures and even death in dogs if they accidentally consume compost, so it is best to keep any compost heaps securely fenced off from dogs.'

You don't need to banish compost from the garden altogether, just don't let it spill into various area, and keep it sectioned off instead.

8. Add a small water feature

The good news is that you don't have to pass out on water feature ideas in a dog-friendly garden. 'The majority of dogs love water, whether that's a lake or a little waterfall feature in a back garden,' says dog expert Bethany. 'Water is not only fun to play in, but can also help your dog keep cool when it's hot.'

It's best to supervise your furry friends whilst they play in water, so they don't start drinking it. Having an easily accessible source of water for them to drink nearby will help prevent this. Any ponds or streams with blue green algae should be secure, as this poses serious health risks to dogs. 

'If your dog takes a quick drink from water with blue-green algae, it could lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy due to harmful toxins which can stop their liver from functioning properly,' says vet Sean.

Why not add a small water fountain, as these are generally safe for dogs to play in and look great in the garden too.

9. Choose paw friendly surfaces

As previously mentioned, a dog's favourite outdoor surface is grass, but this doesn't mean you have to forgo garden decking ideas completely. Just be choosy about the type of material you put down on hard surfaces. 

Gravel should be avoided, as this can get stuck between paws, and darker surfaces like tarmac will absorb a lot of heat in summer and be too uncomfortable for your dog to sit on. 

'Paving can be a good surface for a dog friendly garden, as it provides a sturdy and even surface for your dog to walk and play on,' says Wendy fromWoodgreen Pets Charity. 

However, it’s essential to choose the right type of paving to avoid any potential injuries. Some types of paving, such as concrete or asphalt, can become extremely hot in the sun, which can cause discomfort and even burns on your dog’s paws.'

Opt for brick paths or engineered wood decking instead, as these materials are more dog-friendly.

10. Used raised plant beds

So you don't have to worry about your pretty array of garden plants being trampled or urinated on, invest in raised plant beds. They'll keep your dog away from your plants so that your garden can still benefit from a colourful variety of flowers and shrubs. 

If the soil contains any sort of fertilisers, weed killers, or cocoa mulch, it's important to keep dogs away from this for health reasons too, so raised beds are a win win.

It's best to avoid adding these things to your soil if you can, as some of the chemicals in them are toxic to dogs. But a raised bed will at least prevent pets from going digging around in the soil, in case they come in to contact with anything they shouldn't.

How do I make my garden dog friendly?

The first thing to consider with dog friendly garden ideas is a secure perimeter, so your dogs can play in the garden without escaping to anywhere they shouldn't. 'A solid timber fence will eliminate any area for your dog to squeeze through', says Leigh from Jacksons Fencing. 'But depending on the nature of your dog, a solid panel may cause stress or frustration as they cannot see out. If your pet falls into this category, you'll likely require a semi solid panel, and a keen favourite with dog owners is the Picket Fence.'

A picket fence will keep your dog safe without making them feel trapped, though if your dog is really small and crafty, err on the side of the caution as it may be able to squeeze through the gaps.

What plants are safe for a dog friendly garden?

Be careful with the plants you incorporate into your garden. Tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths are unfortunately a no go, as these aren't safe for your dogs to be around. 

'Tulips contain molecules known as glycosides which can lead to several health issues in dogs,' explains Catrin George, Animal Wellbeing Specialist, Animal Friends Pet Insurance. 'Daffodils contain alkaloids and glycosides which are both highly toxic to both dogs, and hyacinths should be kept well away from dogs as they contain toxic calcium oxalate crystals.'

Always do your research before planting anything new in the garden to check your chosen flower is dog-friendly. There are plenty of options that are suitable for dog friendly garden ideas, like orchids, sunflowers and violets, so you can still have a colourful garden if you wish.

Lastly, consider giving the dog it's own space in the garden to play. Designate an area of the garden which is well shaded, so the dog can go there to cool down on hot days, and encourage them to use the space by leaving some toys there. 

'For dogs who love to dig, it’s worth creating a dedicated dig-pit where they can burrow and play without ruining any perfectly pruned borders,' suggests Nina from PDSA. 'You can encourage them to use this spot by praising them and offering treats when they use it correctly.'

What is the best outdoor surface for dogs?

'At Woodgreen we always recommend grass as the best surface for dogs,' says Wendy. 'Not only is it soft and comfortable under their paws, but it also doesn’t heat up in hot weather, which is crucial for your furry friend’s wellbeing.'

Aside from staying cooler than other surfaces in hot weather, grass also allows dogs to have fun through digging. This is why it's a good idea to let the dog have free reign over a patch of grass that won't spoil the garden's aesthetic if it gets ruined. 

'Large pebbles can be used as a surface, as well as stone, concrete and decking, but remember that these surfaces will get hotter than grass when the sun shines on them, often making them painful for dogs to stand and sit on in the height of the summer season,' says Bethany from Doodlebone. 

'If you do have these surfaces, make sure that you also have some grass, dirt or mulch that your dog can move to if their paws get too hot, or ensure that you have some blankets or dog bedding situated on the surface instead.'

The hot weather has finally hit, and we're making the most of every sunny minute, from long walks in the park to days lazy at home firing up the barbecue. The warm weather can get a bit much for our four-legged friends, however, who need some extra love and attention when the mercury rises. 

Aldi has come up with a solution that's cute and practical in equal measures, and it's selling fast. The new Aldi rattan dog lounger with canopy provides a shady spot for our furry friends to chill out outside. The stylish rattan design also means it'll blend in with your best garden furniture.

Aldi rattan dog lounger

The Aldi rattan dog lounger, £99.99 at Aldi comes in dark grey rattan with a light grey canopy and cushion. It's suitable for pets that weigh up to 30kg, and the dimensions are 92 x 63 x 71.5cm. 

As we mentioned earlier, the rattan material and sophisticated grey tones will mean it'll blend in nicely with your existing garden furniture ideas, so you can keep things looking stylish whether you have a small patio or a larger outdoor living space.

The luxury dog lounger isn't all style and no substance though, as it has various design features to help pets combat the heat when it's time to rest and nap. The canopy and cushion are water-resistant so it can be used rain or shine.

What's more, it has a handy compartment that holds a stainless steel bowl for water or treats for when your dog gets hungry or thirsty. According to the Aldi website, the rattan material is made with UV50+ protection, too. 

The canopy folds down, as shown in the pictures, so it can be used without the covering, and stored more easily when not in use. Keep it in good condition by cleaning it regularly with one of the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair. 

Don't forget to bring it in overnight to protect it from wear and tear due to being exposed to changes in temperature. Will you be treating your pet to this luxury dog lounger?

If recently announced proposals about pets in rental properties soon become law, pet-loving renters will no longer have to worry about being able to bring a furry friend into their new home.

New government proposals shared last week announced that landlords of buy-to-let properties should no longer be able place a blanket ban on tenants being allowed pets, as part of the new Renters Reform Bill.

In what is being deemed the biggest reform to renting rights in decades, the proposals state that people must now have a legal right to have a pet in a rental home, if they want to.

However, there are various caveats to the proposed law, which are important to note if you're keen to host a pet pooch or cat in your rented flat or house. Below, we've answered all of your questions about renting with a pet, to ensure you're well aware of your rights.

Do I need to ask for my landlord's permission to have a pet?

Yes - even though the proposal (if it goes ahead, and becomes enshrined into law) means your landlord can't legally refuse you a pet, it is still necessary to get your landlord's permission if you'd like to bring one into your home, as it is if you'd like to change almost anything in a rental.

This is especially the case if you are already renting a property, but is also essential if you are newly looking to rent a home.

What do I need to do to rent a property with a pet?

While the new proposal states that legally, a landlord should no longer be able to outright refuse you a pet, there are a few hoops to jump through in order to have your furry friend living with you.

Previously, landlords could increase tenancy deposits if you wanted a pet, to account for any potential damage caused. However, the Tenant Fee Ban of 2019 meant that this was no longer an option, meaning that some landlords simply placed an all-out ban on pets in their properties.

Now, in order to cover the risk of potential damage to a property that a fiesty dog or cat (or hamster, or bird) may cause, landlords will likely be within their rights to request that tenants obtain pet insurance, in order to cover any damages. 

Oli Sherlock, director of insurance at RentTech company, Goodlord, said, 'One thing that is specifically mentioned is that landlords may be able to demand that tenants own pet insurance, so that any damage to their property is covered. This is one additional cost that renters may need to prepare for in future.'

Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association of Property Buyers, also stated that, 'The 5 week deposit might also be at risk if the pet damages the property or there are fleas discovered. Therefore, a good inventory is essential when a tenant moves in.'

Is there any way my landlord can refuse me having a pet?

Although the new bill means that landlords cannot blanket refuse tenants the chance to own a pet, it doesn't mean that those in recent accommodation have a total and complete right to have one.

Oli Sherlock explained, 'When it comes to the new proposal, it’s hard to say exactly how or why a landlord could refuse. According to the whitepaper, the government will "legislate to ensure landlords do not unreasonably withhold their consent" to allow pets. 

'The word 'unreasonably' leaves a lot of room for interpretation though, and doesn’t necessarily guarantee that a pet will always be allowed. As this proposal changes into law, someone will need to work out what does and doesn’t count as a 'reasonable' refusal though.'

Jonathan Rolande explained that some reasons could include: 'if the pet was deemed unsuitable for the property due to size or noise, or if the head lease (in a block of flats) prevents it. Details are yet to be clarified by government though.'

What can I do if my landlord still says no to me keeping a pet?

If you are currently renting a property and have requested a pet, your landlord must object (in writing) within 28 reasons, and as mentioned, must provide a 'good reason' why they are refusing your request.

It's not yet clear though what the legal path would be for a tenant whose landlord was not granting permission for a reasonable request. If you experience this problem when and if the proposal becomes law, it may be well worth contacting the Citizens Advice Bureau, who can give provide support and advice on such issues.

As a nation of pet lovers, we love to pamper our pups. However, the increasing popularity of dog clothing has led to the rise of a household storage solution we never thought we'd see - a 'dog wardrobe'.

As any responsible pet owner knows, accommodating a dog means stocking up on creature comforts too. The long shopping list includes; a dog bed or crate, collar, lead, food, feeding equipment, chew toys. But, what about a doggy wardrobe storage idea to store fur-friendly fashion accessories too?

The term 'It's a dog's life' is losing its edge. These days consumers can't get enough merchandise and accessories to spoil their four-legged friends. From printed pyjamas for Pugs to waxed jackets that keep Weimaraners warm and dry, pet wear is proving extremely popular.

'Doggy Couture is a rapidly growing trend as the humanisation of pets continues. We’ve found that people tend to dress their dogs like they’d dress their children and even doggy wardrobes are becoming a thing!

Our urban customers tend to choose apparel based on style for example rain macs, hoodies and pyjamas whereas our rural customers opt for more practical performance clothing and matching their ‘human’ brands like Barbour and Schöffel.' explains Johanna Buitelaar-Warden, founder of Lords & Labradors.

Dog wardrobes

With pets owning more threads than the wardrobe department of Vanity Fair or should we say Vanity 'Fur'? Furniture manufacturers have 'cottoned on' to the fact we need somewhere to keep all this canine couture. Online-bedrooms.co.uk is now offering pet owners a place to store their piles of pet gear in a custom build doggy wardrobe.

As well as a fun way to make use of an awkward space, the pet storage solution for small spaces, allows you to keep everything you need for your dog in one handy place.

Nic Shacklock, from Online-bedrooms.co.uk, said 'We always encourage people to utilise the space in their homes and this is no different. The size of a doggy wardrobe will be relatively small, allowing you to make use of any awkward spaces or gaps that may be in your home.'

To order one of the new doggy wardrobes all owners have to do is measure up the space where you would like to fit the wardrobe using the online guide and send in your measurements.

A designer will put together a quote along with a visual render (demonstrated above) of what the wardrobe will look like. Once you go ahead, it’ll be manufactured and shipped to you in just four weeks for easy self-assembly.

Unlike standard wardrobes, these made-to-measure doggy wardrobes can fit in whatever space you need - ideal for clever design for alcoves, porch or entrance areas.

From now on the only doggy- wardrobe dilemma you will have is what to wear for tomorrow's walk. Will it be the 'hound hoodie' or 'bow wow bomber jacket' - why not let your pampered pooch choose?

The B&M egg chair has reached iconic status, selling out in a flash year after year. Now, the discount store has launched an adorable version for our four-legged friends to curl up in.

We're still wondering where to buy a hanging egg chair for ourselves, but that's another story...

B&M egg chair for pets

If you missed out on the B&M egg chair this year, at least you can now live vicariously through your pet. Coming just in time for Christmas, the B&M egg chair for cats comes in two stylish colourways, grey and a natural rattan tone.

The B&M egg chair for pets comes with a luxury cushion and has a gentle rocking motion. There's limited availability, so check to see if it's available in your local store on the B&M website.

The chair can take a weight of up to 8kg and measures W42 x D30 x H42cm. The frame is W45 x D45 x H75cm.

When B&M shared the news on Instagram, thousands of pet lovers rushed to the comment section. 'You're all fans of our sell-out egg chair,' B&M writes in the caption.

'So now we've launched a new version.... for cats! This rattan effect egg chair is in stores soon (some lucky people have already picked one up!) so don't miss out and it's only £55!

'Who's feline the need to pick this up?!' B&M says. 'How cute is this?' one B&M fan commented.

Many tagged their friends in the post, with one saying 'We all need these!' Whether you opt for cool grey or warm rattan, they're such a fun and cute addition to your living space.

Will our cats decide they'd rather sleep in an empty cardboard box leftover from Christmas? Probably. Do we still want one? Absolutely.

If you're looking for a couple of Christmas presents for your furry friends this year, Aldi's new pet collection has lots of affordable accessories. Will you be picking one of these up?

These new Aldi pets Specialbuys are not just for christmas; but they would make the ideal gifts for four-legged friends! The collection offers all manner of treats from comfy beds and warming winter coats to windowsill mattresses and cat scratching posts.

Best of all, these purr-fect Christmas gifts for furry friends are all at unbeatable prices – starting from just £2.99.

The new pet collection is available to pre-order online now and in stores from 2nd December – with further products available to pre-order online from 5th December and in stores from 12th December. Don't delay if you see anything you want for your pooch or feline, because this Aldi pets range will sell out quicker than you can say 'fetch'.

Christmas Aldi pets range...

Give your pet the gift of a good night's sleep for Christmas! With the help of one of these plush new beds. The new beds are fleece-lined for maximum cosiness. The definition of dreamy.

Available in various sizes, and three stylish designs that won't cramp your living room decor, these beds are ideal for creatures great or small. Plus if they get a bit shabby, simply pop them in the washing machine to keep them looking fabulous.

Who said teepees are only fun for children? These totally adorable teepees are the home accessory we would like to see in every pet household. The simple teepee construction provides just enough of a sanctuary for pets to escape for a peaceful snooze. The cool monochrome stripe pattern and the all-grey pom pom designs adds a stylish touch to our homes too.

The super-cosy teddy bear lining is perfect for little pooches and cats to curl up in comfort. Plus the teepee features a non-slip base, so they won't be sliding around with excitement. 

It is the curious cat who love to sit in the window and watch the world go by. Ensure it's extra cosy with the simple addition of Aldi's Cat Windowsill Cosy (online only).

Buy now: Cat Windowsill cosy, £4.99, Aldi

How cute is this gingerbread playhouse and Christmas tree scratching post?! Cat accessories needn’t be dull thanks to Aldi’s fun new festive selection.

These unique, comfy beds are lined with a soft, plush cushioning to ensure a dreamy spot to curl up in. Made from a super-soft, plush material this stylish hideaway allows cats to lounge in luxury and style. The enclosed design allows them to retreat in solitude,  because just like us pets also need some ‘me’ time!

Festive pet food bowls

You can't set pets a place setting at the table, but you can make festive mealtimes as fun for pets with the help of these seasonal themed food bowls.

Don’t forget the Festive Catnip Toys, ideal for keeping kitties entertained while the family opens presents.

‘At Aldi, we know how important pets are to families and we want to make sure they are as happy and healthy as can be – without breaking the bank ‘ says Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi.

‘This range has everything from luxury beds and a fantastic range of toys, to ensure our shoppers can maintain a high standard of care and quality of life for their furry friends.’

This is a Specialbuys drop not to be missed by pet owners. Make sure to set a reminder this weekend to go fetch! These pet-tastic accessories drop this Sunday . As with all Specialbuys, once they're gone they're gone so best be quick!

Smart dog collars – are they the answer to your dog troubles, or are the benefits they're promising a little too good to be true?

Our team has had a chance to test one out on their beloved pups – and roped in a dog behaviourist to get the full low down on the new gadget. Could it save them from cleaning up after an anxious pet, or be little more than an expensive chew toy?

The Petpuls collar is a smart device that claims to be able to tell how a dog is feeling from the sound of its bark. The creators used recordings of 10,000 dog barks to create the smart device that will tell you whether your dog is 'happy', 'anxious', 'sad', or even 'depressed'.

Being able to know whether your dog is being loud because it's excited or agitated may sound like a dream come true for many pet owners. But does the device deliver on its promise? 

Two of our team Laura Crombie and Annie Collyer, and their dogs Evie and Doug took the smart collar for a test drive. As well as a passion for all things homes related, Laura has been breeding and showing dogs since she was 10, and is a Crufts commentator, so was keen to really put the collar to the test.

On first impressions, both Annie and Laura agreed that the device itself had a nice design, and the eco-friendly material was a bonus. 'I like that when I go out I can tell if Doug's moving about, it does say that he is usually about 100 per cent rested,’ Annie jokes. 

However, the collar did flag up two big issues for Annie and Laura. First of all the smart collar isn't waterproof, which meant no rainy day outings for Doug and Evie with the collar on. Also the internet connectivity wasn't always good, especially outside and during walks, a time when the collar would potentially be most useful.

But what about the emotional reading ability? On this Annie and Laura were both a little sceptical. While Annie's pug Doug had registered happy, sad and anxious during the trial, poor Evie's collar had swayed toward negative emotions.

To find out if the collar was really giving an accurate reading Annie and Laura checked in with Adem Fehmi, a dog behaviourist, trainer and Founder of Dog-Ease. Adem is trained to recognise what different dog barks mean, so was intrigued by the idea of the collar.

'My initial thoughts are it's nice if we can collect data on different dog behaviours, it’s just how specific we can be,' he explained.

After trying it on his own dog Penny for a few weeks he said: 'In terms of the barking and the measuring of emotions it seems to me that the science isn't strong enough for that.'

After observing Doug and Evie, Adem agreed that while Doug's content collar reading might be right, Evie reading as sad was definitely not accurate.

'She doesn't look sad at all here,' he said, revealing that he'd had the same issue with Penny. While the collar had registered her mood as sad, it hadn't matched up with what he was observing. 

Adem surmised that the collar does need improvement, and for a price tag of around £100 it simple wasn't worth the money. 'There's definitely a place for this science, it's just important that we get it right,' he added. 'Dogs can bark for a number of different reasons, it's got to be more precise to be a valuable tool.'

‘We have a collar that works if you’re on wifi if your dog is a barker, and even then it might not tell you the right emotions for your dogs,' says Laura. 

Our team of experts and doggy friends decided that while the Petpuls smart dog collar might be a good idea in theory. You might want to save your money for a dog behaviourist session until the collar kinks have been worked out.

Dog owners will likely know how it feels to have taken your pet for a walk, only to come home and have them walk muddy paws inside. To combat this ongoing issue one savvy lady decided to turn her garage into a place she could shower her two dogs.

For more DIY and decorating ideas visit our dedicated channel

Zoe Marquis from Berkshire spent £500 building a shower area for her two dogs – and it's an incredible transformation. After moving into her home back in October 2020, Zoe set about planning a full-house revamp, but it wasn't until after she'd given the family bathroom a makeover that she knew she needed a separate wash space for her dogs.

'I love to take Martell and Henny on walks in the local fields, whatever the weather,' Zoe told bathroom and heating retailer Drench. 'Them coming home muddy is inevitable, so showering them is a regular occurrence.'

Dog shower garage makeover

'Once we'd ordered a freestanding stone bath for the family bathroom, cleaning the dogs in that room became a no-go and so the dog shower idea was born,' she continues. 'I'd been combing Instagram for months looking at home accounts to gain inspiration and saw that a lot of American homes have dog washes. At first, it was just a wacky idea, but I soon realised it was actually possible and not at all expensive to create.'

Before

The garage was a nice sized space, but as the family didn't need it to house their cars, they'd already decided to convert it into a utility room.

'There was part of the room that ran under the stairs and had a huge void,' says Zoe. 'Several people suggested turning it into a storage cupboard, but we really didn't need another cupboard in the house and, let's be honest, cupboards are boring! I thought to myself, "that's where the dog wash will go."'

After

Planning out the space first to include room for the washing machine, a sink and the dog shower was key, and it's clear from the finished result that Zoe had a vision of how it should look from the start. 'Every tradesman laughed at the idea, and it's still a running joke today, but now it's built and they've seen it they all agree it's been a good and creative use of the redundant space,' she says.

So, how did she keep the cost down to just £500? To start with, Zoe was able to buy her materials direct from the builder’s merchant, cutting out the middle man, and she also employed a builder friend to do some of the work. 'His mates rates for labour were a godsend,' she says.

Other ways the family saved money were by finishing off the smaller jobs themselves, like grouting the tiles and applying the silicone sealant in the dog shower.

Making use of the alcove

What was originally the strange-shaped area under the stairs has become a neat little shower spot, with lighting, tiles and a removable handheld shower to make cleaning the dogs much easier.

Including storage

Zoe chose small hexagon-shaped mosaic tiles for the shower (as well as for the splashback behind the sink) in order to protect the walls and make them easy to wipe down. She's thought of everything, right down to a recessed bathroom shelf inside the shower for all the dogs' pampering products.

Adding the finishing touches

Above the sink area sits a neat shelf that houses a laundry room print and plants to give the monochrome room a touch of colour. Smart soap dispensers sit next to the sink, and the worktops are just the right size for sorting laundry.Satisfied customers

Satisfied customers

Dogs Martell (left) and Henny (right) look pretty pleased with their new modern shower, don't they? 'A walk-in shower is perfect for animals, but one built specifically for your pet washing is genius,' says Dominic Lees-Bell from Drench. 'For anyone looking to do the same, we recommend purchasing a removable handset shower, too, as it makes it a lot easier to get all of the shampoo out of their fur.'

Zoe admits that this isn't their "forever home" and that she did wonder if installing something so niche would be a hindrance when they decide to sell up and move house. 'With something crazy like 33% of UK households including a dog I highly doubt that will be the case, though,' she says. 'In fact, it'll probably be a good selling point!'

To see more of Zoe's home, you can find her on Instagram here.

Related: See how a savvy mum transformed her garden with an outdoor bar made from old pallets

Has this got you thinking about how you could include your own pet shower?

Aldi shoppers will be thrilled to know that the supermarket has launched a brand new range of beds and chairs for our furry friends. The Aldi dog beds come in a scalloped style to match the human-sized Aldi beds and chairs launched last year.

Related: Cleaning tips every pet-lover should know to keep their home spotless and hair free

They'll be a very cute and practical addition to the homes of dog lovers - and they're also suitable for cats. We predict these gems will sell out in no time, so don't delay adding them to your basket!

First came the coveted Aldi scalloped chair that is the perfect dupe for the Oliver Bonas scalloped chair. Now, not only are there beds to match but you can also get mini furniture for your four-legged friends.

We think the dog beds and chairs would work perfectly in a conservatory or living room, giving pets a luxurious spot to sleep in. The chairs come at an affordable price tag of £39.99, and the beds are reasonable too at just £44.99 each. If you already have your own chair or bed, it'd be rude not to match...

Aldi scalloped dog chair

Aldi has a range of different plush dog beds that you can browse on its website, but these latest scalloped additions are available online only. The Grey Scalloped Pet Chair is currently marked as sold out on the website, but it's worth checking back in case it comes back into stock.

No doubt many bargain lovers with a Mrs Hinch-inspired grey living room have already snapped these up, but fingers crossed they'll be back. Luckily, it also comes in pink, which will also work well with a grey colour scheme.

Buy now: Pink Scalloped Pet Chair, £39,99 at Aldi

Aldi scalloped dog bed

Buy now: Grey Scalloped Pet Bed, £44.99 at Aldi 

The matching dog bed to Aldi's first scalloped bed comes in chic grey or blush pink, and measures approximately 75 x 45 x 40cm. It's made of velvet material and has a removable cushion and rounded pine legs.

Buy now: Pink Scalloped Pet Bed, £44.99 at Aldi

We haven't been this excited about an Aldi Specialbuy since the news of its gorgeous rattan furniture.

Related: Attention star bakers! The Aldi stand mixer is back – just in time for Celebrity Bake Off

Will you be picking one of these up?

Sofology has partnered with sofa fabric brand Aquaclean to offer an exclusive pet-friendly fabric on their City Living ranges. 

Related: Cleaning tips every pet-lover should know to keep their home spotless and hair free

Let’s face it, it’s not uncommon for our beloved four-legged friends to find their way onto the sofa for a snuggle, but that can result in scratches, pulls and unpleasant odours. Ultimately the range means your sofa will last longer and stay looking (and smelling) lovely!

Announcing the partnership, Suzy McMahon, Buying Director at Sofology said, 'We know that life can be busy and sometimes the living room can get a little crowded. This collection is the ideal solution for families with pets and another way that we can help our customers feel at home on a sofa that they love.'

Sofology pet-friendly sofas - how it works

Velvet may seem too delicate as an option for both young families and households with pets, what with sticky fingers, spills, muddy prints and scratchy claws.

However, the Aquaclean polymide velvet fabric is stain resistant, plus the non-woven, super smooth finish makes it easy to remove pet hairs as its structure is more resistant than traditional fabrics. The barrier between the fabric loops and the top part of the fabric helps prevent any snagging and scratches. 

Buy now: Islington 2 seater sofa in Nordic Teal, £899, Sofology

The two innovative technologies, Aquaclean and Safe Front, are the secret and science behind the range.

The Aquaclean stain release technology is a protective, invisible cloak that means stains can be easily cleaned and wiped away with just water. This means they can withstand being cleaned over and over again. It also means those doggy odours won’t linger either.

The Safe Front component kills bacteria, viruses and dust mites, and prevents them from reproducing, protecting both pets and the family. 

The sofa ranges

Designed with trend-led style in mind, the City Living collection of sofas and footstools all feature the clever, pet-friendly Nordic fabric, including the Islington, Finchley and Bakerloo with clean, contemporary lines and plush finish. 

Buy now: Bakerloo 2 seater sofa in Nordic Mink, £899, Sofology

The eye-catching, fluted Marcie accent chairs also feature the problem-solving fabric - the perfect snoozing spot for a moggy we think! 

Buy now: Marcie in Nordic Tangerine, £449, Sofology

James Lowe, sofa fabric expert at Aquaclean, commented: 'With the sofa at the heart of every home, these Sofology sofas will keep the most important room in the house looking spotless, whatever life throws at it.'

Related: How to get rid of fleas – for a happier home and healthier pets

The fabrics are available in nine colours and four different ranges in Sofology showrooms nationwide and online, with a starting price of £899 for a two-seater sofa.

As Britain braces itself for freezing temperatures millions of households are set to crank up the heating, and for longer periods of time. But in doing so are inadvertently providing fleas with the optimum conditions needed to multiply. Yuk. Want to know how to get rid of fleas? If the answer is yes, then read on.

Stay warm: How to keep your house warm in winter – insulate against the cold and block those drafts

From natural ways to remove fleas to getting rid of fleas from your home and pets, we'll tell you how to get rid of these dreaded pests for your house with our step-by-step guide.

How to get rid of fleas

Did you know that fleas can multiply by 800 million in just a matter of days? Fleas live on their host, but eggs can be left on carpets, bedding and even you. Yes, you heard that right!

Warm environments lead to flea infestations, which is why you often see outbreaks at this time of year. Flea pupae – the cocoons in which fleas encase themselves in – can lie dormant in homes for months. They start hatching as temperatures indoors rise, with central heating being a catalyst. The warmer the home, the faster flea eggs develop into adults.

Dr. Karlien Heyrman, from Pets at Home, explains, 'If left untreated, long term flea infestations can cause real suffering for pets - including dogs, cats and even small furries. Repeated bites can be uncomfortable and itchy for the pet, sometimes resulting in hair loss or a secondary skin infection. Fleas can and may also bite humans in the most serious of cases. Regular, preventative treatment is a sensible precaution for all pet owners.' Enough said.

The first step after discovering you have a flea infestation is to clean everything that comes into contact with the host. This advice guide will walk you through the process of ridding yourselves and your home from these pesky blood-suckers.

1. Quarantine infected pets

Keep infected pets away from others and out of key living spaces to prevent the fleas from spreading.

2. Clean, clean, clean

Only adult fleas live on your pet but the eggs are in the environment. This is why, if your pets have fleas you must treat and clean your house as well.

• Collect all bedding, throws, rugs and clothing and wash them in soapy water - washing liquid will do. The soapy water is known to kill the eggs, larvae, pupae and adults.
• Vacuum everything. That includes all the carpets, furniture, cracks in the floor if you have wooden flooring, behind doors, mattresses and anywhere else that collects dust. Best practise is to throw away the dustbag or empty the canister after each clean.
• The remaining flea larvae can be dealt with by having the carpets steam-cleaned. You could also shampoo your carpet with insecticidal shampoo or have a pest control expert professionally apply an infrared heat treatment to the carpet, which kills all stages of fleas. However, this type of treatment is costly.
• Wash down your pets usual resting zones with plenty of soap and water to drown any existing fleas that might be awaiting their return. Check the label of your pet bedding and wash regularly at the temperature shown.

3. Check that you haven't been infected

• Fleas attack humans, too. If you suspect that you might be a victim of an infestation, it is best to take precautionary measures. Bathe one or two times daily with soap.
• Comb your hair with a specially designed flea comb designed to drag fleas out from hiding. A lice comb may be sufficient if the flea population in your home is relatively small.
• Anything you touch is a vector for fleas. Wash it thoroughly.

4. Make sure pets are thoroughly treated for fleas

• You need to make sure that you have effectively removed all fleas from your host.
• Wash your pet with soapy water (this might prove a little difficult for cats). Wash the neck first. This way, fleas don't jump up to the head during the bath. Keep lathering your pet for up to 15 minutes to ensure that all the fleas have been killed. Rinse your pet under lukewarm water for several minutes, making sure to cleanse all the soap from its skin.
• Comb your pet daily with a flea comb and dispose of any fleas you find in soapy water. Alternatively, you can use a lint roller to pat your animal down. This method works best on short haired animals.
• Please note: You may want to take your pet to the vet before giving the animal a bath or using an insecticide shampoo to ensure the pet's safety. Some pet supply stores will bathe your animal for a small fee.

Take caution when applying flea treatment to yourself and your pet. Only use treatments for the animal they are meant for. Cats and dogs may require different treatments.

How to prevent fleas

Prevention is always better than cure, so here are a few tips to control any future infestations.

5. Take further precautions

• Restrict pets to areas that are easily cleaned or changeable.
• Fleas love carpet fibres so be sure to vacuum as often as you can. Dispose of vacuum bags immediately after use.
• Lay towels anywhere that your pet is likely to sit, and wash them all every week until the fleas are gone, and every so often after that.
• Comb your pets daily with a flea comb and record you find so you can identify any surges in the flea population. Use soapy water to kill them.

Natural ways to remove fleas

• Spread salt over the surface of your carpet. The salt crystal will attaches itself to the flea, drying it out. After 2-3 days, vacuum the salted area very thoroughly, making sure to pick all the salt and flea carcasses from the carpet. Repeat the process.
• Make your own herbal flea bath. Take two cups fresh rosemary leaves and add them to two pints of water. Boil for approximately thirty minutes. Strain the liquid, discard the leaves and mix it with up to a gallon of warm water. Pour this over your pet. Do not rinse off, but allow your pet to air dry or dab them lightly with a towel or tissue paper.

Tips and warnings

• Always check with your vet for potential allergens. Please do not use tea tree oil, cedar oil and citrus oil on cats. It could be potentially fatal.
• When using any chemicals, follow the instructions carefully.
• Make sure you wash your hands before and after eating and using chemicals, especially children.

Related: The ‘invisible cleaning’ a Dyson expert says we should all be doing – but are you?

We hope this how to get rid of fleas article will help to control your flea infestation.

Cat owners will know only too well the perils of having a cat and a Christmas tree. Especially a real one! However this year there's a solution to suit all. The new cat-proof Christmas tree is a Nordmann Fir with a twist.

Talking of trees: Best artificial Christmas trees to dress your home for the festive season

That twist is the fact all the lower branches have been carefully removed, to keep decorations high enough above the ground. Providing space away from your cat’s swinging paws.

The 2020 cat-proof Christmas tree

The description on the website reads, 'Your feline friend can be a delight for most of the year, but at Christmas those claws can be a menace. A tree lovingly decorated with family baubles and swinging tinsel will prove an irresistible temptation.' Too true (see the images below for proof).

' That’s why we’ve produced our cat-proof Christmas tree. So you can decorate your tree without stress, knowing your baubles are out of harm’s way.'

The real trees are grown in the Scottish Borders. The firs offer soft rich-green needles, bushy branches so cat owners needn’t miss out on the feel of a real tree.

Once you’ve ordered your quirky cat tree it’s hand-selected from the specialist farm where it's grown. The online retailer aims to dispatch ordered trees the working day before your chosen delivery date – with an aim to reduce time in transit.Meaning your tree arrives in tip top condition.

Buy now: Cat-proof Christmas Tree, £129.99, Christmas Trees

For those that don't know what all the fuss is about, see below.

Reasons to keep cats away from Christmas trees...

This little cutie looks like butter wouldn't melt, but the comment suggests otherwise.

No explanation needed.

When the low level baubles prove too irresistible, hanging them higher is often the only option.

As this snap of the cat caught in the act proves, if they can reach they will try! A suggestion is to move any furniture away from the tree, to avoid temptation. At least with a cat-proof Christmas tree the branches are too high for such curiosity.

Related: An expert reveals the everyday cleaning products that could be harming your pets

Happy cat-friendly Christmas to one and all.

Carpets and sofa's matted with pet hair is a bad look in any household. However, cleaning guru Lynsey Crombie has shared her £2.99 secret weapon to get carpets looking like new – a Beldray gel lint roller.

Related: Cleaning tips every pet-lover should know to keep their home spotless and hair free

The Instagram cleaning sensation, also known as Lynsey Queen of Clean shared her tip over the weekend. In her Instagram stories, she revealed how she used the handheld lint roller and squeegee to give her stairs a revamp.

The owner of an adorable black pup herself, the Queen of Clean knows how difficult it is to keep a home pristine when looking after a pet. With the lint roller, she demonstrated how she was able to get into every corner of each step so no hair was left behind.

Beldray gel lint roller

Buy now: Beldray Pet Plus+ Handheld Gel Lint Roller, £2.99, Amazon

The gel lint roller is part of the new Beldray Pet Plus+ range available on Amazon. Even if you don't have a pet, a lint roller is a handy cleaning gadget to have around the home.

Lynsey has previous demonstrated the wonders of using one to keep lampshades and furniture dust-free. The added bonus of the Beldray version is that it's easy to clean and you don't need to throw away sticky sheets of paper.

Simply wash the roller with soap and water when you're done and leave to dry. It will remain sticky and ready to use.

If you struggle to get on your hands and knees to tackle pet hair ridden carpets, it is also available with a telescopic handle. Perfect for tackling any patches the vacuum cleaner struggles with.

Buy now: Beldray Pet Plus+ TPR Gel Lint Roller with Telescopic Handle, £5.99, Amazon

The new Beldray Pet Plus+ range includes a whole range of innovative cleaning tools for mucky pups. From hardworking mops to a clever brush-turn-mop, each tool is designed to make it easy to clean up after your four-legged friend.

I don't own a pet, but living in a house with two long-haired girls I'll be adding the lint roller to my Amazon basket ASAP.

Meet Lloyd, the most stylish Whippet on Instagram. Lloyd is a fan of the latest Aldi pets range – and for good reason, it's the best yet!

The supermarket has partnered with Lloyd of @AllAboutLloyd, Britain’s poshest pooch, to launch the new Specialbuys collection. More used to wearing £150 Burberry jumpers as seen elsewhere on his feed, Lloyd has been trying out Aldi’s latest range for size, with the highest priced item available for less than £20.

He's given the two paws up to Aldi's new premium pet range. Enjoying the comfy new pet beds and ergonomically crafted slanted food bowls.

Related: Attention star bakers! The Aldi stand mixer is back – just in time for Bake Off

Aldi’s Essential Winter Pet range is available to pre-order online from today, in stores from 8th October, while stocks last.

New Aldi pets range

'Every pet owner out there wants to give their best friend the very best, and we’re adamant that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to delivering on that desire' explains Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK.

'Working with Lloyd has proven that you can treat your pets to the best no matter what your budget. Thanks to the high-quality yet affordable products that we’re proud to offer our customers.'

My human just can't stop treating me with the finest things, and when she told me how affordable my new cozy coat from the @aldiuk pet range was, I couldn't believe it!' reads the message posted on the popular Instagram account. The adorable Dog Parka retails for £9.99.

In addition to the pet jackets the premium range offers pet bowls (£4.99); blankets (£7.99); cat scratching post (£14.99) and pet beds galore (from £8.99). Premium but still all highly affordable.

Pre-order now: Aldi Essential Winter Pet range

Paz, owner of Lloyd, says, 'The new Aldi pet range was an instant hit with Lloyd. He loved the squeaky Food Bag Dog Toy and immediately settled into the Comfy Pet Bed, making it his own. Lloyd has been lucky enough to model for a number of luxurious brands, so we know about quality, but we both agreed that Aldi’s pet range exceeded expectations and met his high standards! Amazing value for such great quality and style.'

Here's more of Lloyd just being fabulous...

Related: Keep homes safe with pet-friendly houseplants – expert reveals toxic plants to avoid with animals

We hope your pet loves the range as much as Lloyd does, and we'd love to see the snaps.

Related: Stop blaming the kids – your pampered pet could be the one wracking up the energy bill

The range is in stores for this Thursday 8th October.

Dog owners across the nation will be familiar with the nightly sofa struggle. You get up to make a cup of tea and, oh look! Your canine companion has curled up in the warm spot you left behind. Perhaps it's time to treat your beloved pooch to a sofa of their own? Look no further than the latest collection of Made.com dog beds.

Related: Marks & Spencer launches a sofa range that your kids and pets can't ruin!

Big or small, dogs have an in-built talent for taking advantage of even the smallest sofa gap and before you know it, the whole family is on the floor while they snooze outstretched, paws-akimbo!

But we wouldn't change a thing, right? We love them no matter what, and that's why they deserve their very own pet sofa. These super luxe loungers will even the fussiest Fido relinquishing ownership of the family couch.

Kyali dog sofa & storage

The best-selling Kyali dog sofa design has had a super-charged makeover for the new season. The ultra-modern sofa now comes in a sleek walnut finish with a smart navy padded cushion. Perfect for fitting in with a contemporary interior.

This really is the chicest pet bed solution around, with its sleek wooden frame and upholstered cushioning. It provides style and comfort in equal measure. There’s even a handy drawer concealed with the base to provide for any storage needs.

Buy now: Kyali Dog Sofa & Storage, from £189, Made.com

Syla rattan pet bed

Even our beloved pets can get in on the 70s boho vibe that is currently trending, thanks to this super stylish Syla bed. Crafted from natural rattan with a comfy green cushion, this design is ideal for any fashion conscious pet owner. Measuring 100 by 65cm it’s the perfect size for larger canines, such as Golden Retrievers or Labradors.

Buy now: Syla Rattan Pet Bed, from £129, Made.com

Kysler pet bed

A comfy, modern pet bed that's easy to keep clean – as it’s machine washable. What more could you want?! The Kysler design is a squishy number that your dog will adore, and better still your decor will appreciate it too. The design is now available in Navy, Burnt Orange and Leaf Print. But our personal favourite of the new shades is that of the Mustard corduroy – both the shade and material are key trends for the seasons ahead.

Buy now: Kysler pet bed in grey, from £45, Made.com

And it's not all about the pups, Made have a purrrfect selection of new cat beds too.

Cats, as opposed to dogs, are more like a shifty flatmate with no boundaries – sneakily taking up residence on a shoulder or even head while you're trying to catch up on the latest nail-biting episode of a Netflix documentary.

Tonka cat house

Almost too cute for words, is this novelty cat bed with little ears. Suitable stylish enough in a black woven finish but with a little fun factor thanks to the ear-shaped design – this bed is ideal for the family home with pets, to make the children happy too.

Buy now: Tonka Novelty Shaped Woven Cat House, £49, Made.com

Moby pet sofa

Posh pussies and pooches will adore this velvet pet sofa complete with copper legs. You can match this one with the full-sized (human!) Moby sofa for the ultimate co-ordinated living room look. Also available in mustard.

Buy now: Moby pet sofa in vintage pink velvet and copper, from £129, Made.com

Related: 5 genius non-toxic pet cleaning hacks you can try today

There are many more pet bed designs to check out at Made.com, plus stylish accessories such as cool copper and brass bowls and food storage sets. You'd be barking mad to miss them!

Imagine wearing a fur coat during the current sizzling temperatures?! With that image in our heads, we're looking for ways to keep beloved pooches cool.

Well Pets at Home has our four-legged friends needs covered with a range of summer accessories, all designed to keep pets safe in the summer sunshine. Including a dedicated doggy paddling pool, sun shade, cooling vests and even sun lotion. The new Pets at Home cooling range is available in stores and online now.

Related: Keep homes safe with pet-friendly plants – expert reveals toxic plants to avoid with animals

And what’s more, from Friday 7th August until Thursday 13th August, products in the cooling range will be included in a 25 per cent off promotion.

Let's help our pets stay cool in style this summer...

Pets at Home cooling product range

Cool and the gang! This looks like a garden party we all want n invite to this summer.

'With foreign holidays seeming a long way off for many, we’re turning to our gardens this summer and getting out and about with our pets in the sunshine' explains Claire Gavin from Pets at Home. 'But just as the sun can be damaging to our skin, it poses a risk for the health of our pets too.'

'We know that keeping pets cool during the summer months can be a challenge, so our new range has been created with the health, welfare and safety needs of our pets top of mind. Whilst ensuring they can keep cool and have fun in the sun too.'

Dog paddling pool

Not just for the kids...give. your pooch their own pool to splash about to cool off. The durable pool has been designed to withstand even the most excitable pup. It featuring a mesh pocket and convenient leash retainer, and pops up and down in seconds for ease.

Buy now: Cool Club Dog Paddling Pool, from £18, Pets at Home

Cooling vest for dogs

This cooling vest will help keep your pooch cool for up to 6 hours. It also helps to protect them against UV and heat-related illness.

Buy now: Elastofit Ice Blue Dog Vest, S– XXL  from £9.75, Pets at Home

UV Sun shade for pets

Throw some shade, in a good sense. The pop up shade tent provides pups with a shady spot to rest from the heat. In stores only, was £18 now £13.50.

Sunscreen for dogs

Buy now: Petkin Doggy Sunmist Spray SPF15, £4.50, Pets at Home

The experts at Pets at Home offer the following tips to aid with your pets welfare during the heat.

Ways to help your dog stay cool during the summer

1.Never leave them in the car alone

It's a no no. Even in shade or with the window open.

2. Take water  on the go

If you're heading out and about take water and a bowl with you if you're going on a long walk.

3. Avoid the hottest parts of the day

Same as is recommended for humans, avoid strenuous walks and exercise during the hottest part of the day.

4. Stick to shaded areas

When venturing out stick to paths or parks where you know there's shade.

5. Never leave your dog in a warm room

Think about them when you're out. Never leave them in hot rooms such as a conservatory when you go out. Ensure your pet always has an option of somewhere cool to go.

6. Give them a groom

Give long-haired or fluffy dogs a summertime groom

7. Use aids and sunscreen

Use cooling aids or toys, and protect your dog with dog-friendly sunscreen

Drink dispenser

If taking drink out with you, these handy new dispensers are invaluable. You can pop them in the fridge or even freezer before you leave the house, to ensure the water is perfectly cooled.

Buy now: Cool Club Prism Travel Dog Water Bottle, £2.25, Pets at Home`

Related: An expert reveals the everyday cleaning products that could be harming your pets

This range helps the whole family to live their best life in the sunshine.

If your furry best friends bedding has been missing from your cleaning to-do list, you're not alone. However, our guide for how to clean your pet's bedding shows how often you should be washing it.

Related: Pet owner creates under stairs dog bedroom of dreams for beloved whippets

Pet bedding is part of the home that many of us forget to clean. However, the bed can become a sea of ticks, mites, fleas, even e.coli and salmonella if not cleaned properly. Not to mention a bit smelly.

To make sure your pet's bed is kept as clean as your bed, laundry expert and CEO of Laundryheap, Deyan Dimitrov has shared his top tips for how to clean your pet's bedding.

How to clean your pet's bedding

1.Vacuum up the pet hair

'Firstly you'll want to remove all the pet hair from your pet's bed or blanket,' explains Deyan.

You can do this either with a lint roller. If there is a lot of hair on the bed try using a vacuum.

2.Pre-treat any stains

If the bed has any stains on it, treat them with your usual stain remover before putting the bedding into wash.

'The stain remover will be washed off during the cleaning process, so don't worry about it harming your pet,' says Deyan. 'For a more natural alternative, opt for some white vinegar and let that sink into the stain for five to ten minutes before washing it.'

3. Put all the bedding and blankets in the washing machine

'Put all your pets bedding and blankets in the washing machine and wash separately from any other laundry on a cold wash,' advises Deyan.

However, be sure to use pet-safe laundry detergent and add in some pet hair dissolver to get rid of any leftover hairs.

4. Leave it to try naturally

'Drying the bedding in the sun is not only more eco-friendly, but the ultra-violet rays are superb at getting rid of any leftover odours,' explains Deyan.

However, in the UK a sunny day is not always on hand. In that case, you can dry the pet bedding in a tumble dryer too.

4.Clean your pet bedding once a week

That's right, you should be cleaning your pets bedding as frequently as you clean your own.

Give the bed a good vacuum in between cleans to keep hair from building up. 'You can also wipe down your pets beds with a few sprays of pet bed cleaner in between washes to keep things fresh and clean.'

Related: Attention pet owners! Aldi has a new range for beloved pets – including an automatic feeder

Follow these tips to keep that wet pet smell at bay, and your home smelling clean.

It's back! Last year's sell-out Lidl dog bed with sun shade is back this Thursday 25th June in stores, alongside a pooch paddling pool.

These are, quite literally, the coolest pet accessories to ever land in the middle aisle of the budget supermarket. Shoppers can even pick up a range of Nerf Water Dog Toys for £6.99, for playful pups. All-in-all Lidl is the place to shop for pets this week.

The quirky accessories are part of the Lidl Pet range arriving in stores this week, perfectly timed for the predicted heatwave.

More pets: Pet owner creates under stairs dog bedroom of dreams for whippets

Lidl dog bed with sun shade

Treat your four-legged friend to a bed with a shade protector. When the temperatures rise our furry friends struggle even more so than we do, so we're always trying to think up shady garden ideas that will keep them cool. 

Thanks to Lidl, dogs can laze outside sheltered from scorching rays, courtesy of the protective UV50 sun shade screen overhead.

Coming this week: Zoofari Dog Bed with Sun Shade, £19.99, Lidl

What could be better than a first-hand customer review?

One Lidl shopper wrote of the bed last year, 'The dog bed with sun roof is absolutely brilliant. Very easy to assemble, durable, well made and big enough for most dogs. The sun roof is detachable which is great as the bed can then be used outdoors or inside. It is a perfect height so even smaller dogs can easily get onto it.' 

'My dogs did not hesitate to try it out. They both just fell in love with it. I would highly recommend this product to dog and cat owners, family and friends. I would give it a definite 5/5.’

Who said paddling pools were just for the kids? Treat your pup to a refreshing dip with the help of this robust dog pool. Quick to set up, requiring no inflation, this pool is breeze to get ready as soon as things hot up.

The pool has a non-slip base and sturdy walls, allowing pooches to safely enjoy a summer swim.  it's the ideal solution for furry friends that really want to cool down in the hot weather.

Coming soon: Zoofari Dog Pool, £29.99, Lidl

Related: Expert reveals the everyday cleaning products that could be harming your pets

That's our beloved pets sorted for the summer in style.

Looking for inspirational under stairs dog bedroom ideas? Look no more, we've found all the inspiration you'll need.

Homeowner Jenny Harris, from Manchester, has imaginatively repurposed the cupboard under her stairs to fashion a bedroom for her beloved pooches.

The characterful space is now a warm and welcoming home for whippets Lara, Baz and Bear.

No pets? Mum transforms space under stairs into a serene Mum cave for only £17

Jenny felt her three best friends deserved a room of their own. So she got to work on transforming the old cupboard into an alternative dog home – and might we say it's utterly brilliant.

Under stairs cupboard before

A sizeable cupboard under the stairs can provide a storage space for all manner of household clutter, but why not make more of it just like Jenny.

Jenny tells Ideal Home, ‘I wanted to create a space for the whippets as they are very spoilt! I also didn’t want dog beds all over the place so I emptied the cupboard under the stairs which was known as the ‘shoe cupboard’.’

The whippets new bedroom

The pink painted space is complete with personalised cushions, rosettes and artwork of three whippet pups. The adorable factor is off the scale, what a sweet dedication to Lara, Baz & Bear.

Speaking of the project Jenny tells us, 'I painted the space pink with some paint I found in the shed and ordered the beautiful personalised cushions online from Yappy.'

'I also ordered the three whippet poster and stickers from Redbubble. The bed is foam and I had it made to measure.'

Here's adorable Lara enjoying her comfy new set up : )

Jenny adds, 'I love the bedroom and although the whippets would rather be in my bed with me, they love it too!'.

Jenny shared her fabulous pet creation on the Extreme Budget DIY & Life Hacks Facebook group.

Writing, ‘Hi all, just thought I’d share with you how I’ve made use of the cupboard under the stairs by making it into the whippets bedroom 🤣’. In less than 24 hours the post received 47 comments and over 700 reactions.

The brilliant dog bedroom idea has generated a lot of love – with other members posting;

'I love it all , lucky doggies 🐶🐶’

‘Love this , great to see pampered pooches X’

‘Beautiful ♥️ comfy ♥️ cosy ♥️’

‘Such a good idea! X’

Related: One DIY pro installs ingenious under-bath storage – even Mrs Hinch is a fan!

Anyone who's had pets will know they are the extended family we love unconditionally. Every pet deserves a loving space to call their own. Thanks for inspiring us Jenny.

Keep your loveable pup in the best of health with these top tips…

If you want your family dog to be happy and well-behaved, then keeping him healthy and fit is the best place to start. Here's how…

1. Walks and games

An active dog is a happy dog. The more you exercise and play with him, the better behaved he'll be – and you'll reduce the chances of bored behaviour (like shredding cushions!). Exercise will also help to keep your pup’s weight within a healthy range, and boost overall fitness.

Depending on age, breed and size, your dog should have between half an hour to two hours of exercise per day. Some dogs may need extra care when planning exercise, so talk to your vet if you have concerns.

2. A nutritious diet

Feeding your dog high-quality, well-balanced meals is essential. Pedigree® recommends feeding your dog 50 per cent wet food and 50 per cent dry food, which will give him different health benefits, tastes and textures. Treats are a great way of bonding with your pet and act as a good reward for good behaviour, but should only make up 10 per cent of your dog's daily calories.

3. Personal space

All dogs need a place to call their own, where they can sleep, relax and take time out. Keep his bed or basket in a particular place, and wash the bedding regularly on a hot wash setting to keep it clean.

4. Healthy teeth

A dog’s oral health is something many owners overlook, but it’s incredibly important if you want to avoid future health problems. Daily tooth-brushing is the very best thing you can do to look after your dog's teeth. Dog dental care chews such as Pedigree® Dentastix are also avaiable. Giving your dog one of these every day is scientifically proven to reduce tartar by up to 80%.

5. Good company

All experts say the same thing – the more you socialise your dog, the happier and well balanced he'll be. Dogs need company, and thrive on mental and physical stimulation, so make sure you don't leave him alone for long periods. Dog walkers and minders can step in if you're working, but young dogs especially can become distressed and show destructive behaviour if left alone for any length of time.

6. Regular grooming

Even smooth-coated dogs need regular grooming, and a serious weekly brushing is a must for long-haired pups. It's also a good time to note any new lumps, bumps, scabs or irritated skin, so that you can bring them to your vet’s attention.

Professional grooming services can wash, cut and clip dog's coats and this is particularly important for breeds that have coats that need special attention. Don't forget your pet's monthly flea and worming treatments as recommended by your vet's to keep him happy and comfortable - and keep his vaccinations up to date.

7. Give rewards

Good behaviour should be rewarded, and this is especially important when you're training a puppy or trying to change difficult behaviour. Choose specially-designed dog treats, like the range from Pedigree®. They'll go down a treat, and you'll know they have nutritional benefits as well as helping with your training programme. Sorted!

With the arrival of spring on our doorstep, thoughts turn to giving our homes the first spring clean of the year, and for many dog owners, that also means getting rid of any harbouring doggy smells from our furry, four-legged friends.

Keep your house looking and smelling gorgeous with more care and cleaning tips

With 9.9 million pet dog filled homes across the country, it’s fair to say we’re a nation of dog lovers, but not the whiffy smells they can sometimes bring into your home.

Handily, TastyBone, the dog chew specialists have created this simple guide to getting rid of unwanted smells.

How to get rid of dog smells in the house

1. Clean your dog’s bed regularly

Our pooches love their beds and while it’s important they maintain a familiar scent so they feel safe and cosy, giving their bed a vacuum once a week, and a wash every two weeks, will help keep unwanted smells under control.

Related: Are these the most stylish dog beds ever?

2. Keep floors sparkling clean

Be sure to sweep hard floors daily and wash them with a strong, pet-friendly cleaning solution and hot water on a regular basis, helping to combat odours and clean mucky paw prints.

Dog smells can also easily linger in carpet and rug fibres so vacuuming twice a week and steam cleaning once a month, will help bust dust, hair and unwanted odours.

3. Let the air in

Keeping internal doors open in your home so air can circulate, and opening up windows when the weather is warmer, will allow smells to disperse quicker and instead leave you with a fresh smelling home.

4. Cover up snoozing spots

Use blankets and throws on sofas and armchairs or anywhere else your furry friend might like to sit to protect fabrics and make it easier to keep on top of odours.

Wash them weekly and even pop a dryer sheet inside cushions and pillows to maintain the freshness.

5. Fill your home with fragrance

Scented candles and reed diffusers and both great ways to fill your home with pleasant fragrances, to mask any whiffy smells.

Best placed in corridors, bathrooms and living rooms, be careful to keep them well out of reach from your prized pet and keep a close eye on them while the candle is lit.

6. Give your buddy a bath

Before giving your dog a wash, its important to ensure you’re clued up on their breed, as some require specialist grooming and the nature of some coats will need more regular washing.

Related: How to clean a bathroom – the easy way to get your bath, loo, shower and sink sparkling

If you’re unsure, check with your vet, but generally an occasional bath will help with stinky smells and leave them with that ‘just washed’ glow.

 We're always on the look out for small-space storage solutions, to help homes optimise space. And we love the notion of pets making our homes feel all the more homely. So imagine our delight when we stumbled across these gems.

Especially the quirky new pet side table at Next – that's ticking all the boxes. The clever side table-cum-pet cubby helps make use of space, while providing a hide out for pets.

Check it out, along with more brilliantly bonkers pet beds which double-up as unique furniture pieces.

Furniture for pet owners: Marks & Spencer launch a sofa range that your kids and pets can't ruin!

Bronx pet side table

As much as we love our four-legged friends, often we don't love to see their beds out on display. They can often look messy and not very chic – nothing ruins the decor quite like a scruffy, tired-looking pet bed. While we want our pets to feel at home, we don't want their bedding to impose on our perfectly styled homes.

This side table-cum-pet cubby allows pets to curl up inside, so your home remains stylish yet animal-friendly. The rustic oak-effect furniture piece is designed large enough to fit a comfy cushion inside.

Buy now: Bronx Pet Side Table, £99, Next

The side table got us thinking about all the ingenious ideas for pet beds. And let us just say, some of them are AMAZING!

This design literally took our breath away! What a way to up-cycle a retro TV cabinet. Finished to perfection with a floral wallpaper in the background, to give kitty a room with a view. The abundance of surrounding plants also gets our stamp of approval.

Another ingenious DIY ideas comes from this suitcase cat bed. If you have a retro suitcase, why not add some feet and line with a cosy blanket to invite your cat to snooze in style.

A crate with a name on it, so simple but soooo cute? Get yourself a stencil from a craft retailer, such Hobbycraft, and personalise your pet's bed.

Cat teepees, why not? You could fashion your own, relatively easily, using doweling poles and a decorative fabric of your choice.

And just because it's too cute not to share, here's an avocado bed.

Related: Got kids or pets? These new cordless blinds from Swish are as stylish as they are safe

Is it just us or do some of these pets have better beds than us?

It's December on Sunday! Meaning this week's Aldi Christmas jumpers are perfectly timed. From Kevin the Carrot and a flamingo there's a fabulous knitted number for every family member, even beloved pets!

With premium designs for Mum, Dad, Kids and dogs from just £4.99 – there's a festive knit for all.

The limited-edition range of Christmas jumpers are online and in stores this week. Be quick not to miss out, once they're gone they're gone!

In stores & online now: Aldi Christmas jumpers

From matching elf jumpers for all the family to more humorous designs there's a jumper for everyone in the middle aisle this week. The matchy-matchy look is BIG news for maximum impact again this year, making these alpine and festive motif jumpers a winning design.

Perfect for those wanting to channel their inner Mark Darcey these designs feature traditional Fair Isle designs. To make the look all the more festive the design is decorated with snowflakes, Santa, Christmas trees and fairy lights.

Sizes range from Kids age 3-12 years; Ladies S-L to Men's S-XXL.

Buy now: Ladies Fair Isle Christmas Jumper, £7.99, Aldi

Here's the star of the show, quite literally this year!! It's Kevin the Carrot and his family on a Christmas jumper, a characterful new addition to the range this year.

In stores only: Lily & Dan Kevin and Family Jumper, £7.99, Aldi

For little ones there's  a range of Lily & Dan Children’s Christmas Jumpers for £5.99. With a whole host of cute designs, including a shark and a penguin, any of them will make for a beautifully soft and snuggly addition to a kids winter wardrobes.

We love this characterful polar bear gilding along the ice in style.

Buy now: Kids Christmas Polar Bear Jumper, £5.99, Aldi

This is literally my dream Christmas jumper, so much so that I've already ordered it! If you too love flamingos snap up this fabulous design pronto.

Buy now: Avenue Ladies Flamingo Jumper, £7.99, Aldi

Give pups an extra layer of warmth with the addition of this cute knit, sweetly adorned with 'Santa Paws'.
In stores now: Christmas Pet Jumper, £4.99, Aldi

With all prices under £10 you'll struggle to top that for banter on a budget!

Whether you're at a party, lounging at home or working you can't help but feel festive when wearing a Christmas jumper!

All Christmas clothing and accessories are in stores or online now, while stocks.

Fireworks can be magical for both adults and children alike. But when it comes to our pets, it's often a different story. Many animals can become stressed out and frightened by the bangs and flashes caused by fireworks. They perceive them as a real threat, triggering their 'flight' response – and resulting in panicked pooches and crazy kitties across the country.

And this affects us owners, too. Research from smart home experts Hive reveal that over a quarter of us (27 per cent) dread firework season because of the stress it causes our pets. This causes 42 per cent of pet owners to stay indoors on Bonfire night because we feel guilty or anxious about leaving our animals.

They'll love you for it! 7 ways to make your home more dog-friendly

So to make sure your pet stays safe this bonfire night, we've asked some pet experts for their top tips on how to calm your dog down or comfort a cat on Bonfire Night.

1. Embrace smart tech

It can be difficult to make sure your pets are safe and happy if you’re out for the festivities.

But smart home cameras allow you to monitor how your animals are doing, wherever you are.

The two-way audio function allows you to speak to your pets from afar. So if they are not enjoying the fireworks, you can sooth them through your phone, or if necessary, rush back to comfort them!

2. Keep calm with colour

Whether you’re a human or a doggo, chromotherapy (colour therapy) has been proven to help improve calmness, and even reduce blood pressure and anxiety levels.

If you live in a smart home, you can use colour therapy wherever you are. Using your smartphone, you can turn on your lights and control the brightness of your pet’s room.

You can even dim the lights for a calm, cosy ambience to keep your pet calm.

3. The power of aromas

Some scents have the power to reignite memories and remind us of home.

Prepare a number of your most used sprays and plug-in fragrances ahead of time.

So when you're out and about celebrating fireworks night, your pet will be comforted by the smells of home.

4. Be prepared

As with any big occasion, preparation is key. Check local groups and media for details of upcoming events such as fireworks displays in your area and ask your neighbours if they are planning to host any bonfire parties so you can keep your pet indoors. Giving your animal as much exercise as possible earlier in the day will burn their energy and help to keep your pet calm during the evening’s celebrations.

Take your dog for a walk before it gets dark and the fireworks start. Get cats indoors and try to protect outdoor animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs by covering sheds and hutches with old carpets or tarpaulins to muffle light and sound.

Closing the curtains and playing music or putting the TV on can help to mask sounds once indoors. Or try and distract your pet by playing games with them or teaching them a new trick using toys or treats.

5. Keep a close eye on them

While some pets may seem to be unaffected by a firework display, they may be frozen with fear, so it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on them and monitor their behaviour. Don’t tell them off or try to force them to confront their fears as this will only increase their stress or anxiety.

6. Give them a cuddle

Be sure to show your pet plenty of love, attention and companionship throughout the day and evening .'Don’t be afraid to comfort your pet if they are scared,' advises Jenny Philp, managing director and senior practicing vet at Vet’s Kitchen.

'Previous training advice was to ignore fearful behaviour in case this reinforced the fear, but this is now considered to be outdated advice.'

7. Create a safe space

Both cats and dogs love having their own safe space and that can be especially true when loud fireworks are going off. If using a crate, add in some warm and cozy blankets and some of their favourite toys and treats. Drape a sheet over the top, which will muffle any noise and light.

8. Try CBD oil

Dr Robert Silver, vet with over 30 years’ experience and author of the book Medical Marijuana and Your Pet, believes the extract can help reduce pets’ anxiety around stressful occasions like Bonfire Night: 'A CBD supplement can curb these emotions in your dog and protect the animal against unnecessary stress.'

We know what you're thinking – but you can 'relax, man'! Although CBD oil is made from hemp, it doesn’t contain any of the psychoactive properties found in other cannabis compounds. So no, your pet won’t get 'high'.

Endoca is an expert in CBD oil, with 30ml costing around EUR26

9. Use a natural remedy

There are lots of natural remedies for anxiety that could help to give your pet pooch some relief on fireworks night. Favourites include chamomile and lemon balm.

If you’re looking to give your cat stress relief, try catnip. It's made from a natural perennial herb from the mint family, called labiatae, and it's relatively easy to grow. Give catnip to your cat 15 minutes prior to a stressful event – after a bit of excitement, they'll settle down into a period of extended calm.

10. Explore sound therapy

Sound therapy involves playing the sounds of fireworks, thunder or other noises your pets could become scared of, and hopefully training them out of their fear. The idea is to play them quietly at first and for short periods of time, whilst ensuring they feel safe and reassured.

It's best to play the sounds in combination with positive things such as treats and toys, before increasing the volume and length of time played gradually.

Like with point one, embracing smart tech could make it easier to use sound therapy.

Tech like Hive Active Plugs allow you to switch appliances like radios on and off from your smart phone. So if you are planning to head our yourself, make sure to tune your radio to some classical music. Then when the fireworks kick off, use the Hive app to switch on the radio from afar – allowing your pet to chill out to their favourite tunes.

Look after your pets: How to get rid of fleas – for happy, healthy pets

'To be at its most beneficial, it is worth beginning with sound therapy a couple of months before the event. Use it as a way of desensitising your pet to different noises,' advises Jenny Philp. 'So whilst it may be a little late for 5thNovember, this could be a great way of managing your pets’ anxiety ahead of New Year’s Eve.'

If you have a dog, your pooch's place in the living room is usually in one of two spots. Either you allow them to curl up on the sofa beside you (often with them taking up most of the space) or they have a dedicated dog bed on which to sleep on. The average dog bed usually wears quite quickly though, ending up looking grubby and a bit of an eyesore in your otherwise smart lounge.

Related: Are these the most stylish dog beds ever?

Sofology is aiming to tackle this issue by launching its first new range of dog beds, made from the finest of materials – because only the best will do for our furry friends AND our homes.

Sofology Persia dog bed

Buy now: Persia dog sofa, from £399, Sofology

Inspired by the company's existing Persia collection of sofas and armchairs, the sumptuously cosy dog bed is covered in charcoal smoke leather and comes with a choice of weathered oak or dark wood feet to make it easier to co-ordinate with your living room's decor. Button backed and studded for the ultimate in style, it comes in two sizes, accommodating both small and large dogs.

Related: See how this Lidl dog bed is putting pooches in the hot seat this winter

The new dog beds have proved so popular that celeb canines have flocked (or is that scampered?) to snap theirs up, particularly now that the company has made all of its showrooms completely pet friendly, too. Celebrity sausage dogs Hugo & Ollie are big fans, with one of the small beds providing ample space for both pooches to cosy up on.

Other furry fans of the new range include the fabulously fluffy Marcel le Corgi, who was particularly excited to be able to test out ALL the company's sofas on a recent showroom visit.

Related: Asda's sausage dog homeware gets an adorable makeover 

Jan Duckworth, Sofology’s Head of Marketing says: 'We are thrilled to finally be launching our first range of sofas for dogs. So many families go shopping for their new sofa with the whole family in mind, including the dog… so why not create a range especially for our pawsome pals?'

Do you love your pooch enough to treat them to a throne of their own?

Renting with a pet is not easy, whether it is a cat or tiny dog, finding a landlord that will take you and your furry friend can be a challenge.

Related: Keep your pets safe this Christmas with dog-friendly wrapping paper

Since an estimated 45 per cent of the UK population own a pet of some description, it is a challenge many of us are familiar with. However, Phil Spencer has some advice on renting with a pet and trying to persuade your prospective landlord to embrace your furry friend.

Phil Spencer's tips for renting with a pet

On his podcast, MoveIQ, the property guru shared his experience of renting to a pet owner and the things you can do to make a good case for your pet.

‘I’ve actually let a flat to somebody who came to me and said I’ve got a little dog,’ the presenter explained. ‘He said here’s the little dog, a picture of it, here’s a reference from the previous landlord to say that the dog caused no damage.’

Both of these tips can go along way. Introducing the landlord to your dog and proving that he hasn’t been a problem in past rental properties will help get the landlord onside and more amenable to the idea of renting to a pet owner.

It is best to be upfront about your pet when you first speak to the landlord about renting to avoid being let down later along in the process.

If your landlord is still reluctant, consider offering a larger deposit that they’re asking for. ‘You’re asking for one month's deposit, and I’m offering two months because I recognise that this is a big problem,’ Phil suggests telling the landlord.

Due to new legislation landlords are no longer able to ask for more than five weeks deposit. So if the landlord is already asking for five weeks deposit, consider offering a slightly higher rent. If you do go down this route the landlord will need to specify in your contract what the rent is with a pet, and without.

As long as you are upfront and honest and present you and your pet as good tenants you should hopefully convince your landlord. But even if you don’t manage to convince them, never be tempted to sneak an animal into the property without the landlord's consent.

Related: These are the UK cities to avoid if you're looking to rent with a pet

Will you be trying out Phil’s advice?

Give your best friend the best seat in the house this winter with ingenious new Lidl dog bed. The clever pet bed is designed especially to retain body heat to warm up, to ensure beloved pooches won't be freezing their paws off as temperatures drop.

The simple yet smart design acts as a heated dog bed without the need for electricity. With this home accessory there'll be no more sleeping on cold tiled and wooden floors for pampered pets this winter.

The latest quirky pet accessory is in stores this week, while stocks last.

Pet owners take note: Marks & Spencer launch a sofa range that your kids and pets can't ruin!

Smart Lidl dog bed

The Zoofari material bed is specially designed to trap body heat, like a self-heating cushion to keep pets cosy. Lidl explains, 'The warming side reflects the dog's body heat, providing additional warmth. The cooling side draws the heat away from the dog's body to keep them cool.’

Made in a stylish grey material the dog bed needn't detract from your well thought out home decor choices.

The generous L90 x W60 x H24cm size makes it ideal for almost all breeds of dog, from large labradors to small sausage dogs.

The padded cushion design looks extra comfy and inviting for dogs, great and small.

The simple yet effective design doesn't require electricity to generate heat – saving you money on your heating bill, while still keeping pets snug.

The padded bed is machine washable, ideal for when pets may have been out and about in the mug and rain. It's recommended to be washed at a maximum 30 degrees setting to preserve it's condition.

While the bed is designed with dogs in mind, but there's no saying it can't be used by cats too.

One for the humans: Get cosy with new B&M faux fur bedding – warming the hearts of shoppers

Sadly Lidl don't yet have a transactional website, meaning you'll have to track one down in stores.

Take walkies to the Middle of Lidl this week if your want to snap up a dreamy dog bed.

1. Golden Retriever
No traditional country pub scene would be complete without a beautiful Golden Retriever snoozing beneath the table after a long country walk. These gentle giants are extremely loving, unconditionally devoted and everybody's best friend... perhaps not the best choice if you're looking for an effective guard dog!

2. Border Collie
Known as the workaholics of the dog world, Border Collies are still used today to herd sheep on farms. Endless amounts of energy, stamina and drive keep them going all day long. Highly intelligent, they're easy to train, too – just make sure you're prepared to live with a dog that's smarter than you are!

3. Cocker Spaniel
When the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge decided to get a dog, they opted for a Cocker Spaniel – and we can see why!
These royal favourites will accompany you anywhere and always with a hypothetical
‘smile on their face'; they're just as happy cuddling up on the sofa as they are charging through fields on a rainy day!

4. Labrador
We've all seen the Andrex ad – gambling Labrador puppies melt even the coldest of hearts. Don't be fooled by their comical clumsiness and compact size, this boisterous breed quickly grows into a big strong adult that needs plenty of space, exercise and food to keep it from chewing everything in sight!

5. Border Terrier
Calm and compassionate in nature, Border Terriers are an appealing addition to any country home, particularly one with children. However, while they may love cuddles, they're certainly no lapdog; originally bred in the 18th century by farmers to catch rats, they're prized for their boundless energy and hunting instincts to this day.

6. Jack Russell
What Jack Russells lack in height they make up for in boldness. Naughty, noisy and sometimes feisty, it takes a firm hand to show these top dogs whose boss, but their hilariously mischievous mishaps make it hard to stay cross with them for too long!

7. Beagle
Friendly, fun and peaceful with other pets, Beagles are never happier than when they're following an interesting scent, a trait that can result in owners spending a fair bit of time with their heads down rabbit holes – you've been warned!

******

If your beloved furry friend is your housemate of choice, you might want to reconsider your postcode. New research conducted by HomeLet, a leading supplier of landlord insurance, tenant referencing and tenant insurance has revealed the best UK cities for renting with pets.

If you’re looking for a rental property that welcomes pets, you will only be able to choose from 2 per cent of all available rentals nationwide. Limiting to say the least.

More renting reveals: Tenants would pay MORE rent for these features

So which is the best city for pet lovers to consider? The research placed London as the best UK city for renting with a pet, with Southhampton and Cardiff being named as the worst.

The best cities for renting with pets revealed

If you’re looking to rent with your pet, but can't afford London, Birmingham is the next best choice – coming in a close second across the board.

Despite Newcastle holding the most pet owners, it was deemed one of the worst for renters. Ranking low for both pet-friendly rentals and green spaces, it seems Newcastle renters could struggle to make their pets feel at home.

See the rest of the findings below...

‘With the recent introduction of the Tenant Fees Act, both Landlord and Tenants alike will be concerned, about the impact on renting with pets,’ explains Rob Wishart, Group Data Manager at HomeLet.

The study considered the number of pet-friendly rentals, the amount of green space available, percentage of people with pets and the ratio of vets – all per city.

It also weighed up the ratio of dog walkers, ratio of kennels and pet sitting facilities, number of pet shops and ratio of pet friendly pubs.

'The research shows a lack of rental options for tenants with pets. London highlights that there are areas with everything in place, that could make a perfect home for renters with pets,' says Rob.

'Since the introduction of the Tenants Fee Act, deposits are legally capped to a maximum of five weeks rent. Landlords who previously allowed pets, based on a higher deposit in case of damage, will no longer be legally allowed to do so.'

'This may reduce the number of Landlords who are willing to accept pets. But as it was only introduced 1 June 2019, it may be too early to say.'

Rob advises pet lovers, 'When looking for your next rental, it’s worth having an open an honest conversation with your potential landlord. Introducing a pet if your tenancy agreement states you cannot could risk you being evicted.'

More renting news: Renters are missing out on £41m of energy savings because of this one misconception

'Asking for a pet-reference from an existing landlord may go some way to reassure a landlord to take on a renter with pets.'

Would you consider relocating to ensure your four-legged friend can live with you?

For many dog and cat owners, pets are a firm fixture of family life. And sensing this our four-legged friends think nothing of lazing on our sofas, setting up residence at the end of our beds and generally making themselves feel right at home wherever they are.

Related: 5 genius cleaning hacks from the Queen of Clean Lynsey Crombie that you'll want to try right now!

Inevitably they leave a trail of fur and more in their wake, and it's up to their human counterparts to clean up after them. Thankfully there are a number of easy-to-execute pet cleaning hacks – including those from online pet store My Pet Needs That below – that help to banish pet odours and restore our homes almost back to their pre-pet days.

Pet cleaning hacks

Here are five of the best...

1. Rosemary

This hardy, fragrant herb is easy-to-grow and works wonders on any smudges that appear on wood flooring or walls as a result of paw prints. Fill a spray bottle half-way with water, and put white distilled vinegar in the other half. Pop some sprigs of rosemary and a squeeze of lemon juice into the mixture, shake and leave in a cool dry place for a week and use as and when needed.

2. White Vinegar

Any water-soluble stains will be gone in a jiffy with this solution, and it works particularly well on mud stains (dog owners take note). Mix one tablespoon of white distilled vinegar – you should be able to pick this up at most supermarkets – with 1.4 litres of water. Spray directly onto a mud stain, leave to settle for a few minutes and rinse clean with warm water.

3. Vodka

Who knew that spirits could hold the key to a fresher scent? If you have lingering pet odours spritz a small amount of neat original vodka – the kind without any added flavourings – on fabrics and leave to evaporate to lift any unwanted smells. It shouldn't affect your fabric colour, but you can always do a test patch to be safe.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

It's vinegar to the rescue once again. If the ‘smell of dog’ has taken hold in your rugs and carpets, then an apple cider mix could be the solution you've been searching for. Mix apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle, spray the affected area and leave to soak for up to 5 minutes. Soak up the excess solution by blotting a towel over the area. Leave the remaining solution to evaporate.

5. Baking Soda

Baking soda is another great solution for neutralising unwanted pet smells. Dust baking soda over rugs, carpets and fabrics where it will absorb odours, and hoover up to complete this cleaning hack.

Related: How to keep your pets cool this summer

Which pet cleaning hack will you be trying out?

There's nothing more we love than a feel good story. And when it involves our four-legged friends, our heartstrings get a second pull.

Design does dogs: Love Sausage dogs? You'll love this new Graham & Brown wallpaper

Both of these boxes were recently ticked when news emerged that an Italian branch of Swedish homeware giant Ikea had thrown open its doors to stray dogs in a search of a place to lay their heads.

The city of Catania – on Sicily's eastern coast – had experienced torrential rainfall which led to serious flooding over the past two weeks. Knowing that the area's homeless dogs would be overwhelmed by the deluge, an Ikea store allowed the presumably morose mutts some respite by enabling them to find shelter amongst its displays.

The good deed came to the attention of world when a video of a contented pair of doggies taking nap in a mock living room set up was shared on Facebook by Vittoria Taccia Gabrielli.

Filmed by Vittoria's daughter, the now viral video has already attracted more than 1 million views. In it she can be heard saying: 'Mum, look how sweet! In Ikea, they are giving shelter to strays.'

The Gazzetta del Sud newspaper confirmed that 'store staff let the strays wander around the aisles' and that the move had been met with approving nods from customers.

Since that date, pet lovers have taken to social media to share their own in-store snaps, and they've received scores of positive comments in response.

These dogs have swerved the furnishings in favour of the floor. Commenting on the pic, one person simply wrote: 'THANK YOU IKEA CATANIA'

Is that a dog bed we can spy? If so, it seems that this little doggy was so pooped that he caught some much needed shut eye on the super soft rug rather than make that extra stretch to it. That hint of a sleepy smile seems to have really touched the hearts of commentators.

One said: 'This is so wonderful... love it'

While another added: 'Wonderful! Poor lovely dogs...'

Seasonal savings: It's back! Here's how to bag to a real Ikea Christmas tree for just £5

What do you think of this IKEA store's initiative?

We’re all familiar with the iconic English Heritage blue plaques, which denote that a person of historic interest has lived or spent time in a property. Think Mary Poppins author PL Travers or Bauhaus designers and teachers Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer and László Moholy-Nagy – all of whom have been awarded with the honour this year.

Doggie delights: This Asda sausage dog bedding has fans rolling over in delight

But now a brand new plaque has stepped into the mix, and this time it’s designed especially for our four-legged companions.

‘Pet Plaques’ in a distinctive shade of olive green have been launched today by TrustedHousesitters – the world’s biggest house and pet-sitting site. As far as we know, it's the first plaque scheme dedicated to animals.

Commemorating the achievements of our furry friends, the distinctive pointy-eared plaques are already being attached to homes the length and breadth of the UK.

There have been 20 recipients of the plaque so far, including heroic pets. These include Flora the dog (pictured below), who developed a life-saving sense of smell that could predict her owner Robert's oncoming blackouts. And Walnut the whippet, who completed his favourite beach walk with owner Mark and scores of four and two-legged fans from across the country before he was laid to rest.

For the kitty contingent, we have the likes of Smudge the cat, who squared up to bullies trying to intimidate her nine-year-old owner Ethan.

Commenting on the launch, Tim Lyons, Managing Director at TrustedHousesitters said: ‘There are countless stories across the country of pets who have a special bond with their owners or do something incredibly heroic.

‘For over a hundred years we have honoured deserving people with blue plaques. We felt it was time to celebrate the nation’s love for our animals by honouring them in a similar way. We’re now looking forward to hearing more inspirational tales of cherished pets as the scheme continues to grow.’

If you know an animal you think is deserving of the award, you can nominate them here.

Make a great first impression: How to paint your front door – to create plenty of kerb appeal

This gives a whole new meaning to the idea of making your neighbours green with envy. And we can just imagine pets puffing out their chests as they take a tour of their neighbourhood post award-win!

The summer season can be a tricky time for pets and with the latest weather predictions revealing that the heatwave in Britain is set to stay for another two weeks, and temperatures soaring up to 33 degrees, it’s important to keep your pets cool and calm.

Jenny Philp, managing director and practising vet at Vet’s Kitchen, gives her five top tips on keeping your dog or cat happy and healthy as temperatures continue to hit new heights.

1. Avoid walking your dog during the hottest periods of the day

Be sure to walk your dog either early in the morning or late at night as hot pavements can burn delicate paws. Even at cooler periods of the day, the pavement can still be warm so try to keep to the shade, wherever possible. If it’s too hot for you to hold the palm of your hand against the pavement, it will most certainly be too hot for your dog to walk on.

2. Identify the coolest rooms in your home

Keep your pets as comfortable as possible by encouraging them to stay in the coolest areas of your home. Rooms with tiled floors can provide a good space for them to relax away from the sun, whilst cooling mats and wet towels can help keep their body temperature down. Drawing the curtains will also prevent direct sunlight from heating up your home but your pets are still suffering from the heat, wetting their ears and paws can help to cool them down.

3. Protect your pets’ skin and coat

Similar to humans, sunburn can affect animals too so it’s important to keep them protected with pet safe sun cream, by providing plenty of shade and using protective t-shirts for hairless breeds.

Cool coats have become increasingly popular items for dogs to keep their body temperature down and protect against sunburn however, these only work if the coat is kept wet at all times. If allowed to dry out, it will heat up and will make your dog even warmer. A good alternative would be to drape a wet towel over them and sitting them in front of a fan!

4. Keep your pet hydrated

Hydration is very important, particularly in warm weather, so why not use ice cubes in your pet’s water bowl to keep the water cool? This will give them a cold, refreshing treat and by providing extra bowls in different areas around the home, you can ensure they are properly hydrated in the heat.

5. Think creatively when it comes to treats and exercise

Freezing treats in ice cubes can be a fun reward that will keep your dog cool. Also, why not get your dog a paddling pool? This provides a creative alternative to walking them and playing with toys in a shade covered pool can be just as rewarding and will keep them cool whilst ensuring they are still getting enough exercise.

For smaller animals, be sure to move hutches into the shade and use ice pods or frozen water bottles to keep them cool. To avoid sun stroke, it’s also important to ensure that protective rain covers are not covering the hutch and blocking air flow.

How will you keep your pets cool this summer?

It’s a well-known fact that Brits adore their pets! A study commissioned by Lidl, has revealed that a quarter of Brits spend a whopping £480 on gifts for their pets each year, but only 15 per cent will stretch to spending this much on their partner. However, that figure should drop thanks to this latest Lidl pet range.

'We have put ourselves in the shoes of pet owners when choosing this range, ensuring each item will please pets and purses.' explains Josie Stone, Head of Non Food. 'Pets are an important part of the family and deserve to be treated as such. At Lidl, this doesn’t come at too high a cost.'

Related: Brilliant or bonkers? There's a new social network just for PETS!

Warning: the following images contain adorable animals! Sadly they don't come with the accessories – they are purely for your viewing pleasure!

Doesn't this look like the cat who got the cream? A clear indication that the new Scratching Roller with its plush interior is super cosy.

In store now: Zoofari Cat Scratching Roller, £6.99, Lidl

Lidl commissioned the study to coincide with the launch of their new pet range, which is available in stores nationwide from today. The limited edition collections include a wide range of toys to entertain, cosy beds to ensure a restful night's sleep and stylish blankets to keep pet households look on point.

Give your cat hours of fun with this simple treat ball. Fill it with snacks a give your cat a brain workout as it figures out how to free them.

In store now: Zoofari Snack Ball, £2.99, Lidl

Related: 5 worrying signs you could be pet obsessed

And talking of obsession, the research shows that over 27 per cent of those surveyed have ditched a night out in favour of staying home with their pet. One in five admit to confiding in their pets, telling them all of their secrets.

Dog owners can fetch this handy retractable lead for just £6.99. As promised by Lidl that's not too far a stretch for those purse strings.

In store now: Zoofari Retractable Dog lead, £6.99, Lidl

A handy seat cover protects car interiors from dirty paws and fur with zero effort, especially after muddy walks. You'd be barking mad not to get one!

In store now: Zoofari Pet Car Seat Cover, £4.99, Lidl

The products are available whilst stocks last so fetch them quickly before they run out! Right, we're off for walkies down to Lidl to spoil our pets.