Non-shedding dogs

The Cavapoo is a delightful hybrid dog, crossbred from the Poodle and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, prized for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and relatively low shedding coats. Emerging first in the 1950s in America, the Cavapoo is now a highly favoured companion across the UK, admired for combining the gentle charm of the Cavalier with the hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle. These dogs typically possess a soft, expressive face coupled with large, soulful eyes, making them visually endearing as well as emotionally engaging.

Perfect For

Cavapoos make excellent pets for first-time owners who appreciate a loving, sociable dog eager to please. Their adaptable nature suits both apartment living and homes with gardens, provided they receive ample daily exercise and mental stimulation. Families with older children will find the Cavapoo patient and gentle, while singles or retirees may delight in their devoted companionship and alert nature. Given their intelligence and friendly temperament, they also thrive in homes where ongoing obedience training and interaction are priorities.

Key Considerations

Potential owners should note that Cavapoos dislike extended periods of solitude and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long, which may lead to behavioural problems such as barking or destructive chewing. Because the breed is relatively new and hybrid in origin, there is variability in size, coat type, and temperament between individuals. Grooming is also a commitment; their coats require regular attention to prevent matting, especially for those leaning towards the curlier Poodle coat. Responsible ownership demands commitment to regular vet checks due to possible inherited health issues from both parent breeds, including heart and eye concerns.

Renowned for its distinctive appearance, the Chinese Crested is a breed that captivates with its unique divergence between the hairless and Powder Puff types. This petite and spirited breed is more than just a visual delight, offering a vibrant personality that makes it a cherished companion. Initially bred to control pests, these dogs are now adored as household pets and stars in the show ring. Their lively and clever nature makes them appealing to a variety of owners.

In terms of physicality, they are small and elegant, with either a sleek, hairless body or a soft, flowing coat in the Powder Puff variant. Their temperament combines loyalty, high energy, and a playful spirit, often behaving as if they are much larger than their size suggests. This makes them both entertaining and affectionate, thriving in environments where they receive ample attention and mental engagement.

The ideal owner is someone ready for a dedicated companion that requires social interaction and gentle yet consistent training. They are suitable for novice dog owners willing to learn about their special care needs, as well as families or individuals who can provide a secure and engaging environment. The hairless variety, with its delicate skin, requires specific care to protect against weather extremes, making them best suited to homes that can accommodate these needs.

Caring for a Chinese Crested involves tailored grooming routines for each type, protecting sensitive skin, and ensuring daily exercise to meet their active nature. Mental stimulation through play and training is crucial to channel their intelligence productively. Overall, the Chinese Crested offers a delightful blend of elegance, personality, and devoted companionship for those ready to embrace their unique requirements.

Perfect For

Those seeking a lively yet manageable companion, first-time dog owners prepared for a breed with particular care needs, and families with older children comfortable around smaller dogs. They also adapt well to apartment living due to their size, provided they receive daily exercise and mental enrichment.

Key Considerations

Hairless varieties require protection from cold and sun, need firm but gentle training to prevent stubbornness, demand regular social interaction to avoid separation anxiety, and require secure garden facilities due to their escape artist tendencies.

The Cockapoo is a uniquely charming and versatile hybrid dog breed, created by crossing the American or English Cocker Spaniel with the Poodle. Known for their affectionate, lively, and intelligent nature, Cockapoos have become widely cherished as family pets and companions in the UK and globally since their American origins in the 1950s. Their pleasant temperament coupled with their varied coat textures and hypoallergenic potential makes them especially appealing in diverse households.

Primarily bred as companions rather than working dogs, Cockapoos today thrive in roles as family pets and therapy dogs, valued for their sociable and adaptable persona. They often inherit the Cocker Spaniel27s friendliness and the Poodle27s keen intellect and low-shedding coat traits, resulting in a loyal, playful, and easily trainable dog. Their energetic but gentle nature suits families with children, apartment dwellers, and individuals seeking an allergy-friendly pet.

Ideal owners are those with a lifestyle that includes daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent social interaction, as Cockapoos can struggle with boredom or loneliness if left isolated for long periods. They require regular grooming to manage their coats and maintain skin health, reflecting the blend of parent breed characteristics that influence their physical traits. Their versatile size, ranging from small to medium, accommodates various living spaces.

Caring for a Cockapoo includes a commitment to early socialisation and training, alongside preventing separation anxiety and behavioural issues by providing enriching activities and companionship. Whether engaging in canine sports such as agility or enjoying gentle play, Cockapoos flourish with attention and structure. This comprehensive guide expands on their fascinating origins, personality, care, and practical ownership considerations to support responsible Cockapoo companionship.

Perfect For

Active families, allergy sufferers, first-time dog owners, and anyone seeking a cheerful, adaptable companion well suited for both urban and suburban living environments.

Key Considerations

Cockapoos need regular grooming and daily exercise, plus mental engagement to prevent anxiety or destructive behaviours. Prospective owners should source puppies responsibly due to variability in coat and temperament from different crosses and generations.

The Goldendoodle is a distinctive and beloved hybrid dog that combines the intelligence and hypoallergenic qualities of the Standard or Miniature Poodle with the affectionate, gentle nature of the Golden Retriever. This blend results in a family-friendly pet known for its low shedding coat, adaptability, and keen intelligence, making the Goldendoodle one of the most popular companion dogs in recent years. Although not recognised by The Kennel Club, numerous breed clubs advocate for responsible breeding practices to maintain health, temperament, and consistency.

Originally bred for enhanced companionship and assistance roles, Goldendoodles have transitioned seamlessly into versatile working roles such as therapy and assistance dogs, where their empathetic and patient demeanour shines. Physically, they exhibit moderate size, an athletic build, and a coat range from curly to wavy or straighter textures, influenced strongly by their parentage. Temperamentally, they are affectionate, highly trainable, and flourish in households where social interaction and mental engagement are priorities.

Ideal for active families including first-time dog owners, the Goldendoodle thrives in environments that provide ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their affectionate nature and social intelligence make them excellent companions for children, seniors, and other pets, given proper socialisation. However, they do require commitment to grooming and exercise routines reflective of their energetic disposition and coat type.

Potential owners should anticipate daily care involving coat maintenance, consistent training, and dedicated exercise schedules, accompanied by routine health checks to support their generally robust but hybrid vigour-influenced genetic makeup. This breed demands not only time and affection but also informed ownership to harness their full potential as a devoted and lively companion.

Perfect For

The Goldendoodle is perfect for families seeking a hypoallergenic medium-sized dog with an affectionate, intelligent temperament. They are great for those looking for a socially adaptable pet that excels in both companionship and working roles such as therapy or assistance. Their suitability extends to first-time dog owners who can commit to regular grooming and exercise. Homes with secure gardens and active lifestyles provide an ideal environment for larger Goldendoodles.

Key Considerations

Prospective owners need to be prepared to provide consistent exercise and mental challenges to prevent boredom that leads to destructive behaviour. The variability in coat type means grooming needs can range from moderate to high, requiring commitment to regular maintenance. Separation anxiety is common, so they do best in households where they are rarely left alone for long periods. Choosing a responsible breeder who prioritises health screening is crucial to ensure the best outcomes for this hybrid breed.

The Labradoodle is a charming and intelligent crossbreed dog that combines the best traits of the Labrador Retriever and Poodles, including Standard and Miniature varieties. Originally bred in the mid-20th century as hypoallergenic assistance dogs, Labradoodles have evolved into much-loved family companions prized for their affectionate nature and trainable intelligence. They exhibit a high energy level and often have low-shedding coats, making them suitable for allergy sufferers and active households.

While Labradoodles are still officially crossbreeds rather than pedigree dogs, their growing presence in the UK is undeniable. They blend physical traits ranging from athletic, well-balanced builds to soft, curly or wavy coats in a variety of colours. Their temperament is generally friendly, biddable, and outgoing, and they thrive in homes where they receive consistent training, plenty of exercise, and mental stimulation.

Ideal owners are those prepared to dedicate time to regular exercise and grooming and who appreciate a companion that excels in activities like obedience, agility, and therapy work. Labradoodles adapt well to both country and city living, provided they have secure outdoor space to explore. Their intelligence and alertness mean early socialisation and clear leadership are key to nurturing a confident, well-mannered dog.

Perfect For

Families with active lifestyles, allergy sufferers seeking a low-shedding companion, individuals seeking a highly trainable assistance or therapy dog, and first-time dog owners who can provide consistent care and engagement.

Key Considerations

Labradoodles require at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily alongside mental challenges, regular grooming that can be time-consuming depending on coat type, and a structured training programme starting from puppyhood to prevent behavioural problems. Potential buyers should seek responsible breeders committed to health testing and transparency, as coat texture and temperament can vary significantly among litters.

The Maltipoo is an affectionate and intelligent small crossbreed, beloved for its charming personality and its low-shedding coat inherited from its parent breeds, the Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and the Maltese. This designer dog has carved a popular niche in modern living, prized especially by those seeking a playful yet loyal companion that adapts well to apartment or house life and requires social interaction and mental stimulation. Despite their small size, Maltipoos bring a lot of personality and activity, making them ideal for owners who value companionship and responsiveness in a dog.

Originally bred as companion animals, Maltipoos today serve primarily as beloved pets and therapy dogs thanks to their gentle nature and keen intelligence. Their typically low-shedding coats make them an attractive option for allergy sufferers, though prospective owners should spend time with individual dogs first due to variability in coat types and allergenic qualities. Their temperament combines the affectionate loyalty of the Maltese with the energetic intelligence of the Poodle, resulting in a sociable, eager-to-please dog with a playful streak and strong bonding tendencies.

Ideal owners are often active singles, families with older children or seniors looking for a devoted companion. They need an owner or household who can provide consistent interaction to avoid separation anxiety and manage their vocal tendencies. Maltipoos thrive on daily mental and physical activity but their exercise requirements are moderate and suitable for urban lifestyles. Proper grooming and early socialisation are important components of the care routine to maintain their health, happiness, and well-being.

Carefully choosing a reputable breeder who health-tests parent breeds is essential to mitigate some of the inherited health risks from the Maltese and Poodle lines. Owners should expect ongoing grooming needs, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise to keep a Maltipoo healthy and content throughout their lives. This delightful crossbreed continues to grow in popularity across the UK, maintaining a strong reputation for its charming looks and affectionate nature.

Perfect For

Urban dwellers seeking an intelligent, affectionate, low-shedding companion that adapts well to apartment or smaller home living. Families with older children who understand calm interaction and seniors wanting a devoted lapdog.

Key Considerations

Requires regular grooming every 4 to 6 weeks and daily brushing to prevent matting. Tends to develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Can be vocal and needs gentle training to control barking. Health can vary depending on parentage; responsible breeder selection is vital.

The Mexican Hairless, also affectionately known as the Xoloitzcuintle or Xolo, stands apart with its striking hairless appearance complemented by delicate tufts of hair on the head, tail, and feet. This ancient breed carries a deep legacy, being revered by the Aztecs who considered it a sacred "God Dog." Beyond its unique look, the Mexican Hairless is a highly intelligent and energy-filled dog, retaining many natural primitive instincts that demand both mental and physical engagement from their owners.

Originally bred for warmth and companionship, the breed today excels as a loyal, affectionate family dog with an adaptable nature suited to varied living environments, including urban settings. Their alertness and spirited temperament make Xolos excellent watchdogs, yet their social and sensitive disposition means they thrive best with attentive and experienced owners. Unlike many breeds, the Mexican Hairless requires specialised skin care due to its exposed skin, alongside routine exercise and mental stimulation to channel its energetic spirit constructively.

This breed is best suited to owners familiar with its distinct needs—those who appreciate a dog with a slower maturation rate, unique grooming routines, and a playful yet cautious personality. Despite its energy, the Mexican Hairless often bonds deeply with family members, demonstrating patience and gentleness with children when socialised correctly. Prospective owners must be prepared for the initial training challenges posed by the breed’s lengthy puppy phase and a natural inclination towards vocalisation and hunting instincts.

Care for a Mexican Hairless includes consistent skin protection, established training with positive reinforcement, and an enriched environment to prevent boredom-related behaviours. These charming dogs bring a fascinating history and a rewarding companionship to the right home willing to invest time, patience, and love in their upbringing.

Perfect For

Experienced dog owners seeking a unique, intelligent, and energetic companion who can provide dedicated time for training and skin care. Ideal for families who understand breed-specific needs and can offer daily exercise and mental challenges.

Key Considerations

Requires specialised skin care including sun protection and moisturisation. Not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their high energy, prey drive, and slow mental maturation. Needs socialisation with people and other pets early. Can develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently.

The Miniature Poodle is a splendid blend of charm, intelligence, and manageable size, making it a uniquely appealing dog for a variety of owners. Traditionally bred as a smaller version of the Standard Poodle, this breed retains the sharp wit and elegant appearance of its larger predecessor while fitting comfortably into a more compact frame. Today, Miniature Poodles serve primarily as devoted companions and family dogs, thrilling their owners with both affectionate loyalty and lively personalities.

Physically, Miniature Poodles stand out with their dense, curly coat that hardly sheds, offering an advantage for allergy sufferers and tidy households alike. Temperamentally, they exhibit a bright, friendly demeanour, not only eager to bond closely with their families but also highly trainable due to their sharp intellect and willingness to please. Their size and socially adaptable nature make them a suitable choice for both city apartments and more spacious country homes, provided their need for engagement and exercise is met.

Ideal owners of Miniature Poodles are those who appreciate a balance of mental stimulation, companionship, and grooming diligence. They thrive with families, singles, and seniors alike, particularly those who have enough time to foster their emotional bonds, given their susceptibility to separation anxiety. The breed’s coat demands regular attention from grooming enthusiasts willing to invest the time and care to keep their curly fur in peak condition. Physically active households that enjoy an interactive pet will find the Miniature Poodle especially rewarding.

Overall, caring for a Miniature Poodle requires commitment to training, grooming, and daily exercise, but the rewards include a companion that is intelligent, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining. Their long history of companionship combined with contemporary needs makes them a breed that balances elegance with practical family life.

Perfect For

Owners seeking an intelligent, non-shedding dog that fits comfortably in homes of various sizes and lifestyles. Families with older children, individuals working from home, and those prepared for regular grooming will find the Miniature Poodle an excellent match.

Key Considerations

Prospective owners must be prepared to devote time to regular professional grooming and daily mental and physical exercise. Awareness of the breed's potential for separation anxiety is vital, mandating gradual socialisation and emotional support to prevent behavioural issues.

The Poodle, celebrated for its extraordinary versatility and intellect, is distinguished by its three recognised size varieties: Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Standard Poodle. Renowned for ranking in the top five of the world’s most intelligent dog breeds, Poodles seamlessly blend roles from affectionate family companions to agile competitors in canine sports, highlighting their adaptability across diverse lifestyles.

Initially bred as water retrievers, the breed’s distinctive curly coat, low shedding nature, and alert yet gentle temperament make Poodles ideal for owners seeking an engaging and active canine partner. Their capacity for learning and eagerness to please ensure they thrive in environments where mental and physical stimulation are routinely provided.

Perfect For

Individuals or families that can commit to regular exercise, mental enrichment, and dedicated grooming will find the Poodle a rewarding companion. Active households, dog sport enthusiasts, and allergy-sensitive owners benefit greatly from this breed’s traits. The patient and playful nature of the Poodle suits children for those mindful of size differences, especially with the smaller Toy variety.

Key Considerations

Prospective owners must anticipate the maintenance demands of the Poodle’s unique curly coat, requiring professional grooming roughly every three months along with daily brushing to prevent mats. All sizes need consistent, daily activity and mental challenges to avoid behavioural issues. Careful supervision and gentler play are essential for the more delicate Toy Poodle, ensuring safety without stifling its lively character.

The Portuguese Water Dog is a strikingly unique breed known for its exceptional affinity with water, characterised by webbed feet that make it a powerful swimmer. Originally bred to assist fishermen, they boast a non-shedding, weather-resistant coat often styled in the traditional "lion clip" with clipped hindquarters and tail tips, lending them their distinctive appearance. Despite their relatively recent introduction to the UK, they remain immensely popular in their native Portugal and are appreciated worldwide as loyal family companions and skilled working dogs.

Primarily, Portuguese Water Dogs were bred to work alongside fishermen, adept at herding fish into nets, retrieving lost tackles, and messenger duties across water. Today, they fulfil multifaceted roles ranging from active family pets to therapy and assistance dogs, thriving in environments where their intelligence and high energy can be effectively harnessed. Their strong, muscular build, coupled with an intelligent and playful temperament, makes them excellent for canine sports such as agility and obedience.

Portuguese Water Dogs suit active owners who appreciate the demands of an energetic, intelligent working breed. They thrive in households with access to secure outdoor space and benefit from owners committed to providing ample exercise, mental stimulation, and detailed grooming. Due to their willful but loyal nature, they require firm, consistent training executed with kindness and patience.

Potential owners should prepare for a dedicated grooming regimen to maintain the curly coat and regular exercise routines to manage their energy levels. Early socialisation and sustained training are essential to harness their intelligence positively, making them excellent companions for families familiar with active dog breeds.

Perfect For

Active individuals or families with a secure garden who engage in outdoor activities, water sports enthusiasts, experienced dog owners who are comfortable with grooming and training a high-energy breed, and those seeking a versatile working or therapy dog.

Key Considerations

Requires daily mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom-induced behaviours, needs a firm yet gentle training approach, regular professional grooming alongside daily coat maintenance, and may develop separation anxiety if left alone excessively.

The Sheepadoodle is a captivating hybrid dog breed that combines the gentle, robust qualities of the Old English Sheepdog with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat traits of the Poodle. Exceptionally affectionate and playful, this medium to large-sized designer dog suits energetic families looking for a loyal and engaging companion that thrives on activity and social interaction.

Originally bred for therapy and service, the Sheepadoodle today excels as a family pet endowed with a calm yet spirited temperament. Their distinctive 7panda-like8 black and white coat, often wavy to curly, not only makes them striking but also contributes to their appeal among allergy sufferers. Physically, they exhibit a sturdy, square build with expressive eyes and a teddy bear-like appearance, combining strength and softness in balanced harmony.

Ideal owners are those who can offer ample daily exercise, mental challenges, and consistent training to satisfy this breeds high intelligence and social drive. While settled and gentle with children and other pets, Sheepadoodles do require dedicated grooming and early socialisation to flourish fully in a family setting. Their need for companionship means they are best suited for households where they are rarely left alone for long periods.

Prospective owners should be prepared for a moderate to high maintenance grooming routine and active lifestyle to keep their Sheepadoodle healthy and happy. The breeds unique blend of amiability, intelligence, and size demands a responsible approach to care, making it a rewarding choice for experienced dog lovers ready to commit.

Perfect For

Active families who want a playful, intelligent dog that bonds deeply and adapts to various living environments; owners who appreciate a hypoallergenic coat requiring regular grooming; those seeking a medium to large companion comfortable with children; and people committed to daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Key Considerations

Requires dedicated grooming three to four times weekly plus professional trims; needs early socialisation and consistent training to manage any independent tendencies; not suited for owners frequently away from home due to separation anxiety risk; their large size necessitates adequate space and supervision around small children.

The Spanish Water Dog is a distinctive medium-sized breed celebrated for its unique corded coat and boundless energy. Traditionally prized for its versatility in herding and retrieving tasks, this breed boasts impressive stamina and intelligence, making it a superb sporting companion. Today, they thrive just as well as affectionate family pets, blending loyalty with a gentle nature that endears them to households with older children and active lifestyles.

Known for their woolly, corded coats that require specific grooming care, Spanish Water Dogs also possess keen senses of smell, sight, and sound, typical of a working breed. Their temperament balances alertness with sensitivity: they are protective without being aggressive and form strong, enduring bonds with their human families. Their natural affinity for water and activities like swimming and retrieving invigorates their playful side, aligning well with owners who appreciate an active, outdoorsy companion.

This breed suits owners who value consistent, fair training and have time to dedicate to daily mental and physical exercise. They thrive in homes with secure gardens and preferably countryside or suburban environments where they can explore safely. Owners should be mindful of their specific coat grooming needs and cautious around water to ensure their safety while harnessing their innate working instincts.

While they adapt well to family life, Spanish Water Dogs need purposeful socialisation from puppyhood and benefit significantly from structured training that includes clear boundaries. Their care involves attention to grooming, exercise, health monitoring, and diet tailored to their active nature, setting the foundation for a rewarding relationship with this unique and dynamic breed.

Perfect For

Experienced owners or active families who enjoy outdoor activities and watersports. Those seeking a loyal, intelligent companion with moderate grooming needs, who can provide consistent training and socialisation.

Key Considerations

Requires regular maintenance of the corded coat, including gentle cord separation and occasional clipping. Demands at least 60 minutes of daily exercise coupled with mental stimulation. Not suited for apartment living or for owners unfamiliar with working breeds. Early socialisation is essential to manage herding instincts and wary nature towards strangers.

Standard Poodles are the largest of their breed, celebrated for their regal and athletic stature, extraordinary intelligence, and affectionate temperament. Originally bred as water retrievers, these versatile dogs have evolved into cherished family companions who combine elegance with exceptional trainability. Their dynamic yet gentle disposition makes them outstanding partners for active households seeking an engaging and loyal canine friend.

Physically, Standard Poodles possess a sleek, muscular build characterised by a dense, curly coat that demands regular grooming to maintain its health and distinctive appearance. Temperamentally, they are alert, gentle, and highly social, forming strong bonds without unnecessary aggression. These qualities, paired with their high intellect, enable them to excel in various roles, from competitive dog sports to therapy and assistance work.

Ideal owners are those who can dedicate time and energy to daily exercise and mental challenges. Families who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle or experienced handlers familiar with intelligent working breeds will find the Standard Poodle a rewarding companion. Their need for structure and activity means they thrive in environments that offer both physical outlets and cognitive stimulation.

Caring for a Standard Poodle involves consistent grooming routines, early socialisation and training, and ensuring plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and content. Adaptable to both spacious homes and well-managed apartments, they perform best when their energy and intelligence are engaged meaningfully. Their eager-to-please nature combined with sensitivity requires owners to provide firm, positive leadership.

Perfect For

Energetic families or individuals able to support daily walks, interactive play, and mental exercises. Experienced dog owners who value a highly trainable and intelligent breed. Homes with access to secure outdoor spaces for freedom and safe exploration. Those seeking a blend of a capable working dog and an affectionate, social pet.

Key Considerations

The breed requires professional grooming every six to eight weeks to manage its unique coat and prevent mats. Standard Poodles need substantial daily physical and mental stimulation to avoid boredom-related behavioural issues. They can experience separation anxiety if isolated for long durations, thriving on active family involvement. Regular health screening for hereditary conditions and disciplined weight management are vital for their wellbeing.

The Toy Poodle is the smallest member of the Poodle family, boasting an elegant and intelligent nature, which has made it a beloved companion not only in the UK but worldwide. Renowned for its hypoallergenic coat and remarkable trainability, this breed combines a refined appearance with a playful and loyal temperament. The Toy Poodle seamlessly fits into modern lifestyles, excelling both as an active family dog and a show ring star.

Originally bred for tasks requiring sharp noses and nimble paws, such as truffle hunting, Toy Poodles today are versatile pets thriving in a variety of homes, from city apartments to countryside retreats. Their non-shedding, curly coats make them ideal for allergy sufferers, while their bright minds demand continuous mental stimulation. The breed's ability to quickly learn commands and tricks ensures a rewarding experience for owners willing to invest time and consistency in training.

Ideal owners are those who value a close bond and enjoy engaging their dog with activities, from agility to obedience competitions. However, prospective owners should be prepared for the breed’s grooming needs and potential health concerns, which require regular attention and responsible care. The Toy Poodle thrives where affection is abundant and companionship is constant, making it a perfect choice for dedicated families or individuals.

Perfect For

Owners seeking an intelligent, low-allergen companion suited to both active lifestyles and indoor living environments will find the Toy Poodle an excellent match. They are particularly perfect for those with a willingness to engage in training and interactive play and who can commit to regular grooming.

Key Considerations

Potential Toy Poodle owners should consider the breed's need for consistent mental and physical stimulation, daily grooming, and its susceptibility to separation anxiety if left alone for long stretches. Commitment to early socialisation and training is essential to prevent behavioural problems like excessive barking and small dog syndrome. Awareness of common health issues and prepared investment in their care are also important.