A view from the farm Adam Henson

There’s a reason why dogs are called ‘man’s best friend’. They are companionable, faithful and good for our health, reducing stress, loneliness and depression, not to mention all those calorie-burning daily walks.

Most farmers own at least one dog and they have always been a part of my life. I’ve had working dogs, like my border collie Peg, who was such viewers before we retired the old girl earlier this year, as well as house dogs, such as my Hungarian wirehaired vizsla, Olive, and our miniature dachshund, Minnie – both fabulous breeds and, in terms of height, opposite ends of the scale.