Gemma Johnstone

Gemma is a freelance writer and official dog nut. With 15 years of experience in the pet industry, she is a passionate animal welfare advocate. She has worked for the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ran her own specialist dog shop for ten years, has volunteered for her local rescue shelter, and is studying towards completing an Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour. Gemma is currently travelling around Europe with her wonderful rescue dog, Annie.

Expertise:

Canine Behaviour

Dog Products

Rescue Dogs

Latest Articles From This Author

Cute dog sitting on the floor

How to Get Rid of a Dog Smell in the House

The infamous ‘doggie smell’ can be unpleasant for your family and embarrassing when you have visitors. Here are 11 practical tips for reducing or eliminating those nasty odors. While us ... Read more
close up of two sweet potatoes

Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes? (Raw, Cooked & Fries)

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious food for humans. But can dogs eat sweet potatoes? Or is this root vegetable unsafe for your dog to consume? Read on to ... Read more
A wooden bowl and a spoon with poppy seeds

Can Dogs Eat Poppy Seeds?

Poppy seeds may be packed with vitamins and minerals, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe for dogs to eat. Read on to discover why you shouldn’t let your dog eat ... Read more
Dog rolling on his back

Why Do Dogs Roll On Their Backs?

There are many reasons why your dog might roll on his or her back. Here’s an overview of the most common reasons, along with tips for identifying the most likely ... Read more
Three pieces of delicious caramel

Can Dogs Eat Caramel?

Caramel might seem like a relatively harmless treat. But can dogs eat caramel? Or should you keep this sugary food away from your pup? Keep reading to find out. Caramel ... Read more
Close up of a cute little puppy

What to Do When You Adopt a Puppy: A Guide to the First Week

As exciting as it can be to welcome a puppy into your home, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the demands of a new family member. Read on for tips ... Read more
Close up of a cute puppy

New Puppy Checklist: A Complete List of Essential Gear for Your New Puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time, but it’s easy to become overwhelmed by everything that needs to be prepared. Our new puppy checklist will help keep you ... Read more
Dog licking his paw

Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws? (And What to Do About It)

Dogs often lick their paws as part of a self-grooming routine, but it can also signal a behavioral or medical issue. Read on to learn why your dog might lick ... Read more
A bunch of radishes

Can Dogs Eat Radishes?

Radishes make a crunchy addition to salads. But can dogs eat radishes? Or should your canine friend avoid this root vegetable? Read on to find out more. The radish is ... Read more
Mashed potatoes in a bowl

Can Dogs Eat Mashed Potatoes?

Creamy mashed potatoes are popular around the world (and not just at Thanksgiving!) But can dogs eat mashed potatoes? Or are they unhealthy for our canine friends? Read on to ... Read more
a bowl of spinach leaves

Can Dogs Eat Spinach?

Spinach is a leafy green that’s considered a superfood due to its vitamin and mineral content. But is spinach safe for your dog to eat? Read on to find out. ... Read more
three pieces of beets on a wooden surface

Can Dogs Eat Beets? (And When You Should Be Concerned)

Beetroot, commonly called beet, is a root vegetable containing plenty of nutrients. But can dogs eat beets? Or are they toxic to our canine friends? Read on to find out ... Read more
A large rose field

Are Rose Bushes or Petals Poisonous to Dogs?

Should you keep your dog away from a Valentine’s Day bouquet of roses? And are rose bushes potentially toxic to your pet? Read on to find out whether roses are ... Read more
A bowl full with black olives

Can Dogs Eat Black Olives? (And When To Be Concerned)

Black and green olives are popular appetizers, salad additions, or table snacks. But should you be worried if your dog snaffles one when you’re not looking? Read on to find ... Read more
Dog feeling hot

How to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer: 9 Easy Cooling Tips!

Every dog owner looks forward to summer walks and sunny days in the garden. It’s easy to underestimate how quickly dogs can overheat though! Here’s how to keep your dog ... Read more
Happy puppy touching human hands

How to Bond With Your Puppy: 10 Fun and Loving Tips for Bonding

Developing a strong bond with your puppy helps them settle in and gain confidence. They’ll also be more receptive to training. Read on for tips on how to bond with ... Read more
Cute dog tilting head

Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads?

We don’t know exactly why dogs tilt their head, but there are several strong theories. Here’s an overview of the most likely reasons for head tilting – including when you ... Read more
Red, yellow and green bell peppers

Can Dogs Have Bell Peppers (Green, Yellow and Red)?

Bell Peppers are a popular vegetable with lots of nutritional value. But can dogs eat bell peppers? Or are they toxic to canines? Keep reading to find out. The good ... Read more
Two cooked mushroom pieces

Can Dogs Eat Cooked Mushrooms? (And When To Contact a Vet)

Shop bought mushrooms are low-calorie and packed with vitamins and minerals. But can your dog eat cooked mushrooms? And what are the risks if they eat raw or wild mushrooms? ... Read more
Happy dog with a sunflower in his mouth

10 Dog Safe Flowers That are Non-Toxic for Your Pooch

A surprising number of flowers are toxic to dogs. If you love to fill your home with fresh blooms, or want to select dog safe flowers for your garden, read ... Read more