Mutterly Hampshire

24/08/2026

💦 Before your dog jumps in…

Most waterside walks can be enjoyed safely, but conditions can change quickly.

Blue-green algae warnings have recently been issued at Lakeside Country Park, the River Hamble around Botley and nearby Frensham Great Pond.

Before allowing your dog into the water, check:

🐾 Are there any warning signs?
🐾 Is the water green, foamy, stagnant or smelly?
🐾 Has there been heavy rain or a pollution alert?
🐾 Can your dog get out easily?
🐾 Have you brought clean drinking water?

If anything looks questionable, skip the swim. A dog splash pool, clean paddling pool or shady woodland walk can be a much safer alternative.

Read our practical guide to water safety for Hampshire dogs — including local warnings, leptospirosis and where to check before you visit: https://www.mutterlyhampshire.co.uk/post/before-your-dog-jumps-in-water-safety-for-hampshire-dogs

There is something irresistible about water on a warm walk. One glimpse of a pond, stream or muddy riverbank and some dogs are already halfway in before we have considered whether it is actually safe.Most waterside walks can still be enjoyed perfectly safely. This isn’t about keeping every dog out...

18/06/2026

Sadly another dog missing. Please keep an eye out but DO NOT try and catch him. Call the number on this poster instead.

17/06/2026

Could your dog be changing your home’s microbiome? 🐾

We all know dogs bring the outside world into the house.

Usually in the form of muddy paws, damp ears, grass seeds, twigs and whatever mystery item they found under a hedge.

But recent research suggests they may also bring in something much less visible: microbes.

A new study looked at how dogs affect indoor air, including the bacteria, fungi and tiny particles they contribute to the home environment.

Which means your dog may be doing more than making a mess.

They may be adding biodiversity.

I’ve written a new blog on the surprising science behind dogs, microbes and the tiny invisible ecosystem we share with them at home.

Read it here:

Most dog owners know their dog brings the outside world into the house.Usually in fairly obvious ways.Muddy pawprints. Leaves stuck to their ears. Half the garden on their belly. A mysterious twig that definitely wasn’t there five minutes ago.But according to recent research, dogs may also bring s...

17/06/2026

MISSING DOG

If anyone is in the Fernhurst area please look out for Barney. Details and guardian's number in pics 🤞

17/06/2026

The weather is heating up again in Hampshire over the coming week. With temperatures set to hit the high 20s again, check out some of the best shaded walks to keep you and your hound cool 👇

https://www.mutterlyhampshire.co.uk/post/best-dog-friendly-shaded-walks-in-hampshire-with-water

P.S. Know of any other shaded dog walks we should include? Let me know!

Summer in Hampshire is perfect for shady trails and cool dips. Here are 12 top dog walks where your canine companions can enjoy both shade and water. These locations are ideal for hot weather outings.1. Waggoners Wells (Grayshott, GU26 6DT) • Parking & Terrain: Tiny National Trust car park (height...

25/05/2026

I hope everyone is keeping cool in this heat.

We walked in the woods at 0730, finished with a cooling dunk in the river, and have done very little since then.

How about you?

And if you're looking for shady spots to walk your dogs, check out my blog:

https://www.mutterlyhampshire.co.uk/post/best-dog-friendly-shaded-walks-in-hampshire-with-water

15/05/2026

At Mutterly Hampshire, we are on a mission to curate the ultimate "Gold Standard" list of dog services in the county. We’re currently scouting for the most talented Pet Photographers and Portrait Artists to join our directory!

With nearly 700 monthly visitors to our site and our community here growing every day, we want to make sure we’re recommending only the absolute best to our readers.

We need your help! Do you know a photographer who captures the perfect action shot? Or an artist who creates stunning, soul-filled portraits?

Tag your favorites in the comments below! 👇
Help us shine a light on local Hampshire talent.

14/05/2026

📣 Calling all Hampshire Dog Owners: I need your noses! 🐾🍻

I'm on a mission at Mutterly Hampshire to build the ultimate, curated guide to the very best dog-friendly pubs and cafés in the county.

I already have 35 fantastic, vetted spots listed, but I know that is just the tip of the tail!

Hampshire is huge, and there are hundreds more hidden gems that truly welcome our canine friends.

I need your help to sniff them out! 🕵️‍♀️🐶

Where is your absolute favourite local? The place where your dog is greeted with a genuine smile (and maybe a biscuit) rather than just "tolerated"?

Tell me their names in the comments below! 👇

Whether it’s a cozy corner in a New Forest pub after a muddy walk, or a spacious café in Basingstoke perfect for puppy socialization—tell me where they are and why you love them.

Let’s build the best resource for Hampshire’s dog community, together!

https://www.mutterlyhampshire.co.uk/hampshire-dog-friendly-cafes-and-pubs

12/05/2026

What’s your dog’s favourite part of a dog show? The scurry run? The natural treats? Or the quiet "safe pocket" snuggles? 🍦🐕

While we love the buzz of a summer show, it can be a lot for our four-legged friends to process.

So I've put together a guide on how to spot stress signals and why you should never feel guilty about skipping a "hello" to give your dog some space.

Read my top tips for a stress-free show day:
https://www.mutterlyhampshire.co.uk/post/the-dog-show-survival-guide