Whether you are welcoming a new dog into your home or researching a new diet for an existing canine buddy, choosing the best food for your dog can be a bit confusing. With hundreds of dog foods on the market, we are here to help you explore Carnilove and what makes a good grain-free dog food.

What is Grain-Free Dog Food?

A grain-free diet is one that doesn’t contain any grain ingredients. For example, rice, oats and wheat which are commonly used in grain-inclusive dog foods.

The earliest recorded cohabitation between humans and dogs was around 12,000 BC, as this cohabitation evolved so did the diet of these wild dogs, and it began to align more closely to that of humans. Departing further from the dog’s anatomical need for a meat rich diet.

Being carnivorous dogs would naturally consume a diet mostly of prey, plus some fruits and vegetables. Yet many earlier dog foods were made with high grain content as these ingredients were easy to source and cheap!

Carnilove complete dog foods are made with careful consideration for the natural origin of dogs. Like their canine ancestors, our pet dogs cannot use the excess energy contained in grains and it is stored in the body as fat, often leading to obesity and related illnesses.

It is now known that dogs have no nutritional requirement for carbohydrates. Carnilove returns to the food that wild dogs would naturally eat. Which is why they have no grains or potatoes in any of their recipes.

Benefits of Grain-Free Diets for Dogs

Grain-free diets have increased in popularity over the last decade with owners having a better understanding of their dog’s needs and choosing to feed them food that reflects their ancestor’s diet.

But with grains still featuring in many dog foods, this leads many owners to consider what are the benefits of choosing a grain-free diet? Especially as some appear to be more expensive!

A diet high in meat content using quality proteins and highly digestible ingredients is more nutrient dense, which means you may feed less and the bag will last longer saving you money in the long-term.

To calculate the ‘daily cost’ simply divide the size of the bag (in grams) by the daily feeding amount, for example:

A 12kg bag of Carnilove Duck & Pheasant Dog Food has an SRP of £62.95. The feeding amount per day for a 15kg dog is 160g.

To work out how many days the bag will last:

12000g (12kg bag size) ÷ 160g daily feed = 75 days

You can then use this figure to work out the ‘daily cost’:

£62.95 cost per bag ÷ 75 days = 84p daily cost to feed per day

Instead of comparing the cost per bag, try our ‘daily cost’ calculation to see how they really compare.

Common Ingredients in Grain-Free Dog Food

A diet without grains or fillers means there is plenty of room for carefully chosen ingredients like novel meats, fruits and vegetables that provide your dog with essential nutrients.

Carnilove dog foods have up to 80% animal ingredients and smaller amounts of vegetables, forest fruits and herbs.

Meat is full of nutrient-rich proteins, essential for muscle development and overall growth.  Animal fats and oils support healthy skin and the nervous system. Vegetables provide sources of fibre for healthy stools and fruits are full of antioxidants.

Carnilove grain-free and potato-free dog foods are made up of quality novel animal proteins like duck, pheasant, wild boar and reindeer. Each providing their own nutritional benefits.

Is Grain-Free Food Right for Every Dog?

We all want to ensure we are doing the best for our dogs, and choosing a diet to suit them is top of the list. Grain-free diets are considered closer to the ancestral diet of your dog, they can also be beneficial for some dogs with sensitive digestion or those with grain allergies.

So, this must be the best choice for your dog, right? Well, it’s true what they say not one size fits all. If you are in doubt if grain-free is the best choice for your dog, speak with your trusted veterinarian.

How to Choose a High-Quality Grain-Free Dog Food

While grain-free diets are considered premium foods this isn’t true for all grain-free foods. Some pet food manufacturers will simply swap grains for another low-quality ingredient that offers little nutritional value for your dog. We recommend paying careful attention to the ingredients list:

• Look for real, named meat and animal ingredients. Carnilove dog food is made with nutrient rich ingredients, a minimum of 60% animal ingredients like fresh turkey.
• Avoid unnecessary fillers like soy, potato, grains and wheat.
• Quality oils and fats like salmon oil and chicken fat provide beneficial nutrients to help maintain healthy skin, coat and brain function.
• Carnilove is made without any added chemicals, preservatives or colourants.
• Look for a diet that offers a variety of animal proteins
• A brand with plenty of choice. Carnilove has many options to choose from including dry, wet, freeze-dried toppers and a variety of treats.

The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring, when we all start to appreciate longer days and the delights of nature’s spring blossoms.

The celebration of Easter is also enjoyed by many families here in the UK. As a nation of pet lovers, it is not unusual to include our furry friends in everything we do. The Cats Protection reports one in four households’ own cat in the UK. But how can we keep our cats safe this Easter?

As many cat owners know, cats retain a lot of their characteristics of their wild ancestors. Taking joy in activities such as chasing and catching prey.

Like their ancestors, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must have meat and animal ingredients in their diet as they cannot obtain the nutrients they need to survive from plants alone.

Carnilove cat foods have been formulated to respect the natural origin of cats and using the latest technologies to produce irresistible recipes like Carnilove True Fresh Cat, made with only fresh meat, no meat meal.

No surprises so far right!? What may surprise some owners is the way cats experience taste, Feliway explored this in more detail, explaining cats cannot identify sweet sensations.

This is food for thought! Let’s take a closer look at what foods we should avoid sharing with our feline friends this Easter.

Why Some Human Foods Are Dangerous for Cats

So what foods are toxic for cats? Some human foods are dangerous for cats. Chocolate, raisins and artificial sweeteners such as xylitol can be found in many Easter treats. These can all pose serious health risks to our cats. Chocolate contains chemical compounds called theobromine which can be fatal when ingested. Nutmeg, which is often used in Hot Cross Buns and Simnel Cake contains a compound called myristicin that can be toxic even in small amounts.

Let’s keep those Easter treats strictly for our human family! For cats, it is better to choose a cat safe, meat based treats.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning in Cats

If your cat eats poisonous food, they will likely show some telling signs. The PDSA describes the typical symptoms of eating theobromine contained in chocolate are diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drinking and in serious cases fast breathing or seizures may occur.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Toxic Food

So, what to do if your cat eats toxic food? Contact your vet immediately! It is best to act fast, don’t wait for the symptoms to show if you know they have ingested a toxic or poisonous food.

Safe Alternatives to Harmful Foods

It is still possible to safely include our cats this Easter. Small amounts of cooked unseasoned chicken or lamb meat (fat removed), carrot or boiled egg may offer a nutritious reward for your cat.

However, for cats with diet sensitivities sticking to their usual food made specifically for cats is the safest option. Carnilove Chicken & Lamb wet cat food provides a complete balanced food for adult cats.

How to Prevent Accidental Ingestion

A popular family activity is ‘Easter Egg Hunts’, which often involves hiding chocolate eggs for children to find. However, it is important that your cat doesn’t discover these before the children do! The shiny wrappers make attractive playthings for cats and a risk of ingestion.

To keep cats out of harm’s way, move them indoors or in a separate room. Create a fun-filled game just for your cat using Carnilove cat treats or kibble, hide their favourite reward around the room keeping them busy until it is safe for them to return to the rest of the home/garden. The hunt is on! With Carnilove.

Top Tip – Note the number of chocolate Easter Eggs hidden for the hunt to ensure they have all been collected.

Featuring Merlin the Whippet Puppy!

Written by Becki Gude, BA (Hons) PACT-KSA ABTC-ATI

Surrey Canine Corner

Why Socialisation Matters

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting experience for the whole family! But it does come with a  big responsibility— socialising your pup in the best way possible to help them grow into a confident, well-adjusted dog. The world is full of unfamiliar sights, sounds and experiences, and good socialisation teaches your puppy how to navigate them without fear. A well-socialised pup is happier, more adaptable, and less likely to develop anxiety or behavioural issues. Studies also suggest that well socialised dogs are more optimistic! Whether it’s meeting new people, encountering other dogs, or adjusting to household noises, early exposure to different situations sets the stage for your puppy to grow into a well adjusted adult dog.

The Critical Period of Socialisation

Between three and sixteen weeks of age, puppies are like little sponges, absorbing everything around them. This is the prime window for socialisation, where positive experiences have a lasting impact. Most puppies go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old, so the first two months of their lives with you are critical to their development.

Puppies exposed to a variety of environments, people, and sounds in a controlled manner during this time tend to grow into confident adults. However, this does not mean that your puppy needs to meet every single dog and person on their walk, it’s the quality of the interactions that are important! On the other hand, a lack of exposure can lead to nervousness or fearfulness later on.

You can also get socialising your puppy before they have completed their course of vaccinations! Carrying your puppy around in your arms or in a sling to observe the world around them can be a game changer in the early days. Ensure they are kept off the ground and away from other dogs to avoid the risk of infectious diseases.

Introducing Your Puppy to New Experiences

If you want your puppy to be a part of your daily life, now is the time to introduce them to those experiences. Whether it’s joining you at the office, commuting by train, relaxing at your favourite café, or even going on weekend hikes, early exposure will help them feel comfortable and confident in these situations.

The key to socialisation is making new experiences fun and positive. Introduce your puppy to a variety of people—kids, seniors, people in hats or sunglasses—so they learn that humans come in all shapes and sizes. Let them walk on different surfaces like grass, pavement, or sand to get them used to new textures. Household sounds like the vacuum, doorbell, or hairdryer should be introduced gradually, with plenty of treats and reassurance. Taking short car rides, visiting pet-friendly stores, or sitting in a park to watch the world go by are great ways to expose your pup to different sights and sounds in a safe and controlled way.

Meeting Other Dogs for the First Time

One of the most common questions we get asked, is how to introduce your puppy to other dogs. This should positive experience for you and your puppy, not a stressful one! Choose a friendly, well-socialised dog for their first meeting and pick a neutral, quiet location like a park or a friend’s garden. Keep both dogs on loose leads and allow them to approach at their own pace. Look for relaxed body language, like wagging tails and play bows. If either dog seems tense or unsure, give them space and try again later. Short, positive interactions will help your puppy build confidence and learn good social skills with other dogs.

Using Positive Reinforcement

Confidence grows with encouragement, and puppies thrive on positive reinforcement. Reward calm and curious behaviour with treats, praise, or playtime to create happy associations with new experiences. If your puppy seems nervous, don’t force them into the situation—let them observe from a distance and approach when they feel ready. Rushing the process or putting too much pressure on them can lead to fear, while patience and rewards build trust and confidence over time.

Ongoing Socialisation

Socialisation isn’t just for puppies—it should continue throughout your dog’s life. Regular outings, whether to a dog-friendly café, a hiking trail, or a friend’s house, help reinforce social skills and prevent anxiety. The more varied and positive experiences your dog has, the more adaptable and well-rounded they’ll be.

Helping your puppy become a well-socialised, confident dog is one of the most rewarding parts of pet ownership. With patience, encouragement, and a little sense of adventure, your pup will learn to navigate the world with ease. So grab some treats, get out there, and enjoy the journey of raising a happy, well-adjusted companion!

Click here to download the Surrey Canine Corner free socialisation checklist to help you on your way to a well socialised pup!

Get to know one of our CARNILOVE ambassadors as they share their favourite moments and the food they choose for all their adventures.

Name of Owner: Lorna

Name of Pet: Bear

Age of Pet: 4 years old

Social Media: @bear.wgsd

Location: North Yorkshire

Favourite memory so far with your pet?

My favourite memory was taking Bear to the beach for the first time as a puppy. He never left our side, even though he was a bit scared of the water. Now he will follow us anywhere and has been the most wonderfully loyal boy ever since.

What are your pet’s favourite games?

Bear’s most favourite game is chasing his flirt pole – he will go and stand over it to try and entice you to play with him at any opportunity. His preferred opponent is his Granny (my mum) as he knows he will always win!!

What would be your pet’s perfect day?

Bear’s perfect day would start with a lie in – he is a top snoozer. Breakfast would obviously be Carnilove which he likes to eat off the grass in the garden!! He’d then love to go out for an adventure run with his friends where he would get plenty of opportunity to play chase, wrestle and cover himself in mud. Once home he’d enjoy a snooze outside with the breeze tickling his fur before teatime. He’d then finish off his day by taking his most treasured toy ‘piggy’ (which he likes to suck and make purring noises) upstairs to bed for an early night.

Bear loves his Carnilove Salmon recipe which is both grain and potato-free. With 70% wild-origin meats and 30% forest fruits, veggies and herbs, this recipe provides a nutritious and delicious complete meal for adult dogs.

Get to know one of our CARNILOVE ambassadors as they share their favourite moments and the food they choose for all their adventures.

Name of Owner: Giulia

Name of Pet: Mia

Age of Pet: 5 years old

Social Media: @mia_thespringerspaniel

Location: Cambridgeshire, UK

Favourite memory so far with your pet?

One of my favourite memories with Mia was our first trip to the beach together. She was just over three months old, and it was one of her first real adventures after completing her vaccinations. Watching her run across the sand, chase the waves, and meet other dogs for the first time was pure joy. She was so full of excitement and energy, completely in her element. Seeing her so happy and free made the whole day truly unforgettable.

What are your pet’s favourite games?

Mia’s favourite activities include playing fetch with anything she can find. She also loves running through fields, bouncing with endless energy, almost like a spring in motion. She absolutely loves swimming – we spent 10 months in Sicily when Mia was still a puppy and we would go to the beach every single day.

What would be your pet’s perfect day?

Mia’s perfect day would start with a delicious Carnilove breakfast, followed by a cozy nap and some cuddles. After that, she’d love to go on an adventure—ideally a long walk or, even better, a swim in the sea, followed by a stroll along the coastline. Finally, she’d head back home, ready to snuggle up in bed with us, ending the day just as happily as it started!

Mia is fuelled by her Carnilove diet, rotating between recipes of Duck & Pheasant and Fresh Carp & Trout. Both recipes contain wild-origin meats, vegetables, and herbs that provide a nutritious and delicious balanced meal. They are also grain and potato-free, suitable for adult dogs.

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Categories: Dog Food, Dry Dog

Duck & Pheasant Dog Food

£11.45 – £62.95

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Categories: Dog Food, Fresh Dog

Fresh Carp & Trout Dog Food

£13.95 – £79.95

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Canicross means cross country running with dogs. It is trail running as a team with your dog, which originated from training sled dogs during the off-season period. Your dog wears a pulling harness, while the human wears a canicross belt and you are connected by a bungee leash, which absorbs shock and gentle on the backs of both you and your dog. The idea is your dog runs out in front and you give directional cues, though it’s not essential for your dog to run in front.

Can my dog Canicross?

Your dog should be fully grown, usually around 12-18 months, but age of maturity will vary depending on the breed and size of the dog. Dogs of all sizes can do canicross as long as you know the limit of your dog. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog is up for the challenge.

How do I get started?

If your dog is currently too young to start canicrossing, you can start teaching the skills needed in the meantime; directional cues, line out training (asking your dog to wait at the end of the bungee while in harness), the word ‘go’ (for starting to run), a steady/easy command (for the downhills!) and a stop command (in an emergency).

If your dog is old enough and you are happy that they are healthy and up for the challenge, you are going to need some kit! You will need:

• Canicross specific harness (if your dog does not pull, a well-fitting Y-front harness will suffice)
• Canicross belt for yourself (these take the strain off the lower back and promotes good running technique)
• Bungee lead (these are usually two metres, but one metre bungees are available and might be better suited to those who’s dogs do not pull or who want closer control)
• Trail trainers (for the human!)

We use Non-stop dogwear kit, but there are many other brands available.

It is really important to get a well-fitting harness for your dog that they will be comfortable in, often people go through quite a few before finding the correct harness. The best way to get fitted and try before you buy is to find a local canicross club; they often have a kit bag so you can try different styles to see what is right for your dog. Our local club, Geordie CaniSports, host free intro sessions where you can get fitted out and try it out on the trails. You can often find a local club by searching on Facebook, who might offer similar sessions.

Other ways to try kit in person is through events that have pop-up shops at the event. At TRAILDOG, we have Non-stop dogwear demo kit available to hire for free at the events so you can try before you buy!

Once you have the kit, you can start by gradually increasing the amount of exercise together. It is key to starting off slow at shorter distances until you learn you and your dog’s abilities. Anyone can do canicross; from experienced runners to those who have never ran before. Running with your dog can be the biggest motivator to start running!

A club is a great place to start, as you will get guidance and tips from the canicross trainer. Canicross is not only a lovely way to spend time and exercise with your dog, but it can also be a great social activity to do with likeminded people!

Nutrition: setting your dog up for success

Feeding your dog a good quality food is key to giving your dog the best chance of success. Food which supports healthy bone, brain, and muscle development, and provides enough energy to help support active dogs who participate in canicross.

Carnilove Dry food consists of three ranges, all of which contain unique animal ingredients rich in protein with smaller amounts of forest fruits, vegetables and herbs, providing a complete meal for your dog without any grain or potato. Our dogs are fed on Carnilove Fresh Chicken & Rabbit, with 80% wild origin meats, including fresh meats! They are thriving with plenty of energy for their sports.

It is always recommended to weigh your dog’s feeding portion. Most adult dogs will be fed twice daily as dogs like routine, but this is also a good way to manage their mealtimes carefully around training. Allowing a suitable gap between exercise and mealtimes can help reduce the likelihood of issues such as digestive upset or more seriously bloat (also known as gastric dilation volvulus (GDV) syndrome). Speak to your trusted vet for more advice.

Joining Canicross Events in your Area

If you have your kit, and you and your dog have been training together, you are ready to experience the fun of entering an event! There are a few options up and down the country. You can usually find information on these through canicross Facebook pages. If you are in the North East, you can check out our events at traildogevents.co.uk

Not everyone wants to enter an event, and it is perfectly fine to simply enjoy canicross on your own trails. The most important thing is that you and your dog are having fun together!

Six lucky handlers won the opportunity to train their up-and-coming young gundog puppies with Laura Hill of Stauntonvale Gundogs in Leicestershire. After some introductions and discussion about each of the dogs’ capabilities, the handlers went out into the paddock where Laura guided them through some of the foundation obedience skills with each dog in turn. With plenty of natural distractions in the new environment, Laura was able to demonstrate how Carnilove treats could be used effectively to engage and reward the young puppies for their heelwork, recalls, and stays.

Gundog Training: Building a Strong Foundation

Laura took the group through the basics of dealing with marked retrieves, before moving on to more advanced work where the handlers were able to build up towards doing blind retrieves. The dogs enjoyed being out for the morning, and then the handlers returned to have a brief Q&A session with Laura over lunch and discuss the homework they had been given.

Importance of Nutrition in Gundog Puppy Training

Alongside their place on the workshop, the six winners also received a Carnilove nutrition consultation with our expert nutritionist, a 12kg Carnilove bag of kibble and a treat goody box filled with delicious dog treats for their lovely dogs to enjoy while they learn. Teaching dogs’ foundation obedience skills and feeding them a grain and potato free diet rich in meat will help to prepare them for a healthy, safe, and successful future.