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.

Max the dog

Health

Can Dogs Get Hiccups?

Yes, dogs can get hiccups. Similarly to humans, they usually occur due to eating too quickly, excitement, stress or gastrointestinal issues.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Timmy the dog tilting his head

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.

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.

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.

Sleeping staffy

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.

Molly the dog

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Get Zoomies?

Dogs usually get the zoomies as a result of playful interactions, but they can also occur due to excess energy or as a way of releasing tension.

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.

Lemon the dog howling

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Howl?

Dogs may howl due to a number of reasons, such as separation anxiety, environmental stimulation, discomfort, anxiety and illness.

Obie the dog

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Roll In Poop?

Dogs roll in poop for lots of reasons, such as ancient instincts, social bonding or claiming territory. Thankfully, this behaviour can be discouraged.

Norman the dog

Behaviour & Training

Why Do Dogs Stare At You?

Dogs may stare at you for a number of reasons. The most common reason is that they're trying to get your attention for some much-needed love and attention.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Bad Gas

Bad gas in dogs can be due to food intolerances. Sensitivities to certain ingredients, such as grains and dairy, could be the cause of their stomach upset.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Bad Breath

Bad breath in dogs is usually due to plaque build-up. Feeding a diet rich in vegetables and using a dental stick with seaweed will help to break it down.

For dogs suffering form acid reflux, there are a few lifestyle changes you can make to help, such as choosing an easily-digestible diet and trying out puzzle feeders.

Health

Best Dog Food for Acid Reflux

For dogs suffering form acid reflux, certain lifestyle changes can help, such as choosing an easily-digestible diet and introducing puzzle feeders.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Bad Teeth

Dental problems can really affect a dog's quality of life, causing pain and discomfort. Regular teeth brushing and feeding them easily-chewable meals will help.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Zinc Deficiency

If your dog has a zinc deficiency, it is a good idea to swap to a food that contains ingredients which are rich in zinc, such as chicken, lentils and spinach.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Easy Digestion

Easily-digestible food for dogs should contain ingredients which can be broken down effectively after eating, such as lean proteins and cooked vegetables.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Flatulence

Excessive flatulence in dogs is most often caused by poor diet. Feeding them a diet which is free from common allergens, such as corn and soy, can help.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Dementia

For dogs with dementia, feeding a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, is essential for helping to alleviate their symptoms.

Butternut Box fresh dog food meal variety

Health

Best Dog Food for Constipation

For dogs with constipation, it is best to feed them a high-fibre diet with ingredients like lentils, carrots and broccoli to promote regular bowel movements.