Butternut blog

Jack Russell being stroked

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Like Being Stroked?

Some dogs like being stroked and some do not. If your pooch revels in affection it is likely due to a desire for comfort, stress relief and connection.

Dates for dogs

Nutrition

Can Dogs Eat Dates?

Yes, dogs can eat dates. They are rich in fibre and antioxidants. However, they should only be fed in very small quantities due to their high sugar content.

Loki and Freyja the dogs

Health

Can Dogs Get Asthma?

Yes, dogs can get asthma. If you suspect that your dog is showing symptoms, you should consult your vet immediately. Do not give them a human inhaler.

Gracie the dog and her Butternut Box food

Health

Why Isn't My Dog Eating?

From stress and anxiety, to fussiness and health issues. There's various reasons why your dog may not be eating. It's important to find the cause quickly.

Samson the dog sighing

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Sigh?

Dogs may sigh for a number of reasons but, unlike humans, it's not always bad. Often, dogs use sighing as a way to convey relaxation and contentment.

Dogs and popcorn

Nutrition

Can Dogs Eat Popcorn?

No, dogs should not eat popcorn. It has little-to-no nutritional benefit and can cause throat irritation or, even worse, choking in dogs.

Susan the Chihuahua

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Shake?

Dogs may shake for a number of reasons. It's not always something be be worried about, they may just be nervous or excited.

Tarka lying down

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Circle Before Lying Down?

Have you noticed that your dog likes to perform a strange circling ritual before they lie down? This is due to ingrained instincts to nest and mark territory.

Barley the dog

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Bark?

There are a number of reasons why dogs may bark, such as to gain attention, protect their territory or fear.

Timmy the dog tilting his head

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads?

Usually when dogs tilt their head it's their way of communicating with you and expressing curiosity, which explains why it happens when you say walkies.

Eddie the dog yawning

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Yawn?

Like us, dogs man yawn because they're tired. However, they may also yawn due to stress or as a means of expressing comfort and contentment.

Rice for dogs

Nutrition

Can Dogs Eat Rice?

Yes, dogs can eat rice. However, it does not provide much nutritional benefit and if given to dogs, should be fed in small quantities.

Conkers for dogs

Health

Are Conkers Poisonous to Dogs?

Yes, conkers are poisonous to dogs. Even small quantities can be fatal, so be sure to consult your vet if you think your dog may have eaten conkers.

Acorns for dogs

Health

Are Acorns Poisonous to Dogs?

Yes, acorns can be poisonous to dogs. If your dog has eaten an acorn, we recommend getting in touch with your vet for advice.

Puppy sitting on lap

Puppies

How Much Should My Puppy Weigh?

It can be difficult to know whether or not your puppy is growing and developing at a normal rate. Thankfully Butternut Box's vet Dr Bolu, is here to help.

Butternut Box fresh dog food for good gut health

Health

Best Dog Food for Good Gut Health

Choosing a fresh food that is rich in lean protein and fibre is the best way to improve gut health in dogs. Avoid dog food with preservatives and fillers.

Dogs and tomatoes

Nutrition

Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?

We would not recommend feeding tomatoes to dogs. Tomatoes contain a substance called solanine, which can be harmful to dogs in large quantities.

Protein in our dog food

Nutrition

The Importance of Protein in Dog Food

Protein is the most important part of a dog's diet. It helps to support muscle growth and repair, cell turnover and a strong immune system.

Hope the dog

Breeds

Best Food for Large Breeds

Larger dog breeds typically need more calories to sustain their stature and activity levels. This food should be rich in protein and complex carbohydrates.

Pasta for dogs

Nutrition

Can Dogs Eat Pasta?

Yes, dogs can eat pasta. As long as it's cooked. However, it doesn't provide much nutritional benefit, a better option would be quinoa or pearl barley.

Robin the dog

Breeds

Best Food for Small Breeds

Pint-sized pooches may need smaller portions, but their food should be just as nutritious as food given to their bigger counterparts.

Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much?

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much?

It's normal for adult dogs to sleep for the majority of the day, usually between 12-14 hours. Sleep is essential for their vitality, growth and development.

Lemon the dog

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Pant?

Dogs may pant for a number of reasons: cooling themselves down, expressing excitement or even due to stress and anxiety.

Golden Retriever and Butternut Box food

Nutrition

Best Dog Food for Joints

Joint health in dogs can be improved with a healthy diet that is rich in things like omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as turmeric.

Hope the dog

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

Dogs chasing their tail can be hilarious, but why do they do it? It's completely normal and occurs due to ancient instinct, breed traits and sensory stimulation.