THE DOG LISTENING BLOG

Step into the calm, kind world of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie.

Here, we share real stories, reflections, and lessons inspired by everyday life with dogs, written by Russ, Mooby the Cat, and our Boxer duo, Charlie and Elsie. From quiet moments of connection to muddy pawprints of mayhem, each story reveals how Dog Listening brings trust, understanding, and peace to every home.

Language of Interactions

How dogs relate to humans and visitors, greetings, affection, and attention-seeking on the right terms.

Illuminated canvas bell tent and enclosed porch at night on a fenced campsite pitch during our first camping trip with Charlie and Elsie.

To the Retreat: What We Found When We Got There

We planned, packed and wondered whether we were asking too much. Then we went. Our first camping trip with Charlie and Elsie became a reminder that Dog Listening isn't something we learn and do once. We're always listening, adapting and managing our world together — sometimes by making it a little smaller. Less is more.

Russ

Sep 2914 min read

Elsie sitting quietly observing the people and activity around her, watching the relationships and interactions unfolding in her home.

Back to Routine

As summer comes to an end, it's easy to think we're simply getting back to normal. But while our routines change, our dogs are quietly observing something much bigger—the changing relationships, interactions and conversations that shape their world.

Russ

Aug 205 min read

Charlie and Elsie meeting through a paddock fence during their first introduction at Thornwood Kennels.

The Myth of the Perfect Introduction

Many adopters worry about whether their rescue dog can meet their existing dog before coming home. Reflecting on Charlie and Elsie's story, Russ explores why the first meeting isn't the relationship, why calm coexistence matters more than instant friendship, and why the environment created after arrival often shapes the future far more than the introduction itself.

Russell Anthony Brooks

Jul 306 min read

Charlie and Elsie resting together in their shaded outdoor hammock bed after returning home from kennels.

What's the Worst That Could Happen?

Elsie dreams about the garden party she missed and quickly discovers that food, guests, greetings and garden security might be harder to manage than expected.

Elsie

Jul 133 min read

Separate Spaces, Shared Trust

Sitting on a sunlounger overlooking the sea should make switching off easy. Yet Charlie and Elsie are still on my mind. A reflection on planning ahead, reducing pressure, and why sometimes the best thing we do for our dogs is ask less of them.

Russ

Jul 93 min read

Charlie and Elsie standing behind a gate in the utility room watching activity around the house and noticing changes in their environment.

Consistency on Holiday – Why Dogs Still Need Structure

Holidays begin long before we leave home. Suitcases appear, routines shift, energy changes and dogs notice long before we do. A reflection on excitement, responsibility and carrying calm through change.

Russ

Jul 22 min read

Charlie the boxer enjoys a refreshing moment with his splash fountain on a scorching summer day, perfectly embracing a laid-back vibe.

Humans Who Don’t Understand Shade

Cats are superior in this way. We are in charge. Dogs, however, are socially loyal creatures. They follow energy.

Mooby the Cat

Jun 112 min read

Elsie standing at the cabin window looking out across a Norfolk meadow during a woodland staycation.

Two Sides of the Same Coin

Two moments. Two very different outcomes. One reminded me how easily leadership can drift when life feels relaxed and safe. The other reminded me what dogs are capable of when they trust someone else to carry responsibility completely.

Russ

May 283 min read