I know I’m not the only dog owner who feels I’ve come to understand and appreciate my dog that much more during the coronavirus restrictions.

Not that I haven’t always been appreciative of Bertie’s terrier charms, or understood the motivation behind some of his more quirky behaviours, but spending more time with him has definitely helped us to strengthen our existing bond.

And on that theme, there is some great bonding content in this issue of Your Dog Magazine. Carol Price’s ‘Six of the best’ article looks at essential exercises to teach your dog — and there’s no better place to start on these than at home. We’ve also been taking a closer look at the sport of parkour, another activity that you can enjoy in your home or out on your daily walks. Photojournalist Ruth Downing explains how she’s found it the perfect activity for her bright and energetic dog.

And if some of your dog’s behaviour has proved more challenging during lockdown, there’s advice on that too. If his recall’s gone a bit haywire, try a long line — behaviourist Toni Shelbourne explains how to introduce and use it — and if he’s starting to show some boundary issues after all that time out in the garden, there are tips on how to turn that around as well.

Finally, do read Sue Corfield’s feature on the challenges facing the dog welfare charities during this pandemic. Supporting them in any way we can is so important at this time.

Until next month,

Sarah Wright, Editor