From first thing in the morning when you are greeted by a wet nose to the excited tail wag when you return from work, you know that your dog is by your side, always. But why do dogs matter? What do they do for us without us knowing? We partner with a fantastic individual and a vital charity to investigate.

The Power of Getting Up and Out

It’s hard to describe the feeling of lacing up your hiking boots and heading out on an adventure with your furry friend but research shows there are many mental and physical health benefits to doing just that. It’s only in recent years that scientists have wanted to quantify and qualify this feeling, helping dog owners to articulate what it means to have your dog by your side.

Pets have evolved to become attuned to our emotions and behaviour. Have you ever noticed your pet cuddling in when you aren’t well and appreciating their affection even more? They can gauge your emotional state and will try to understand what you are thinking and feeling.

Research shows that 48% of dog owners adopted dogs to get more exercise and will average around 48 minutes of walking a day to help ensure they increase their pet’s quality of life. This has lots of health benefits according to the NHS, as walking briskly with your dog can help you to build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier too.

What Does Alfie Mean to Billy Billingham?

To celebrate that companionship and the value of having a dog by your side, we’ve teamed up with Mark ‘Billy’ Billingham, Chief Instructor on SAS: Who Dares Wins, and his Bulldog Alfie. Billy’s favourite part of the day is first thing in the morning, at the crack of dawn. There’s nothing he loves more than getting up and getting out. One of the best things? He’s got Alfie and he’s always by his side.

Alfie is a registered Service Dog and flies around the world supporting Billy and his wife Jules. Billy has seen the impact that the military can have on an individual and mentions how incredible he finds it, when Alfie just knows his moods. Alfie will always stick by him, whether out exploring nature or sat on the sofa for a cuddle.

What is an Assistance Dog and Why Do They Help?

You may have seen us talking to Becki Gude about training your own assistance dog in the past, but what is an assistance dog? Assistance Dogs UK describes them as; “Dogs that have been highly trained to carry out a range of tasks and alerts that support a disabled person or person with a long-term medical condition”. Examples include guide dogs for people that have visual impairments and assistance dogs that can provide support to people with a clinical diagnosis such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Meeting with BRAVEHOUND

We sent Billy and Alfie to meet with a charity Carnilove are proud to support – BRAVEHOUND. BRAVEHOUND supports former servicemen, women and their families through the provision of training and assistance dogs.

Billy met with Eddie and Leah, just two of the veterans the charity supports. Eddie and Leah shared their stories with us and how Hagrid and Gizmo support them. Eddie says that if it wasn’t for Hagrid, his three year old NewFoundland, he’d almost be housebound. He joined the army in 2000 and felt his mental health decline. They diagnosed him with complex PTSD and a complex depressive disorder. He was housebound, but Hagrid gave him the confidence to go outside and go for walks in the countryside. They now go everywhere together!

Leah says she was really low – Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso cross Gizmo is the only reason she is still here today. She doesn’t do anything unless he’s with her. He distracts her, takes her out of her own head and gives her access to a ‘normal’ life. Gizmo comes with her everywhere and is by her side, all the time. He helps her go out and explore, knowing that he’s right there.

Incredible Dogs Need Incredible Food

Billy Billingham says “The key to a healthy body and good wellness is nutrition” – and this is why he chooses Carnilove for Alfie. Carnilove is crafted with a deep respect for the longstanding history of pet and human companionship. The ingredients and ratios in Carnilove’s formulas are inspired by the pre-agricultural diets of dogs and cats, whilst using modern production methods and technologies. The wide spectrum of carefully selected wild-origin meats, such as reindeer, duck, pheasant, turkey, lamb, wild boar and salmon, corresponds to the composition of natural prey and ensures intake of important amino acids.

Some of Alfie and BRAVEHOUND’s favourites include:

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Categories: Dog Food, Wet Dog, Wet Dog Cans

Lamb & Wild Boar Wet Dog Food

£18.30

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Categories: Dog Food, True Fresh

True Fresh Beef Dog Food

£13.95 – £75.95

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Categories: Dog Treats, Meat Jerky, Treats

Turkey with Venison Fillet Meat Jerky Dog Treats

£4.25

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Categories: Dog Food, Dry Dog

Duck & Pheasant Dog Food

£11.45 – £62.95

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Categories: Dog Food, Dry Dog

CARNILOVE Salmon & Turkey (Large Breed Adult)

£11.45 – £65.95

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Categories: Crunchy, Dog Treats, Treats

Lamb with Cranberries Crunchy Dog Treats

£3.45

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Learn all about feeding kittens with this guide! Learn when to start, how to choose the right food and much more, all helping to ensure your kitten grows up healthy and happy.

When Do You Start Feeding Kittens?

Kittens should solely be feed from their mother until they are at least four weeks old. This is an important stage in the kittens feeding journey where they will take in colostrum and antibodies from their mother’s milk which will protect the kitten from disease.

At around four weeks, many breeders or rescue centers will begin to introduce kittens to kitten food. This process should happen very gradually over a period of weeks until they are feeding freely from a bowl. Most kittens are fully weaned at around 8-10 weeks.

Always make sure you talk to the breeder or rehoming centre to find out their feeding routine. When you bring your new kitten home, try to keep to the same food and frequency of feeding for at least two weeks to minimise sudden changes which may cause stomach upset.

What to Feed Kittens at Different Growth Stages

It is important to feed kittens with food rich in quality proteins, fats, vitamins and essential nutrients for healthy growth and optimal body development. Kitten-specific foods are specially formulated to provide the higher energy and nutrient content needed to support their rapid growth and development. CARNILOVE Kitten Food has been formulated with respect for the natural composition of the feline diet.

The CARNILOVE dry kitten food recipe is based on salmon and turkey, sources of essential amino acids, which in combination with forests fruits, vegetables, and herbs provide essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants every day for proper development of the skeleton, muscles, and natural immunity.

CARNILOVE Turkey & Salmon wet kitten food offers the texture of white muscle meat in a balanced holistic formula to satisfy your kittens instinctive love of meat. For those kittens that love gravy, CARNILOVE Rabbit rich in Marigold for kittens pouch offers a complete and balanced meal.

A good kitten food will support your kitten through their growth period until they reach adulthood. Carnilove recommends moving too an adult formula at 12 months old.

How Much Should You Feed a Kitten?

Young kittens have small stomachs and should be fed little and often. To start with your new feline family member will be fed at least four times per day, reducing down over a period of months to two meals per day at around 6 months old.

To calculate the daily feeding amount, it is best to look at the guidelines shown on the food packaging. For example a four month old kitten should receive 45g of Carnilove Salmon & Turkey Dry food divided into the required number of meals per day.

If you choose to also feed a complete wet food then the amount of dry food should be reduced in proportion.

It is a good idea to regularly weigh your kitten to ensure they are gaining weight at a steady pace. You should also keep an eye on their stools as this is a good digestive health indicator.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: What’s Best for Kittens?

Cats can often be discerning connoisseurs of food with their own personal preferences. When considering what to feed your new kitten the format, wet or dry, is less important than the quality of the ingredients in the food. Ensuring the food you select is balanced, complete and rich in quality proteins, fats, vitamins and essential nutrients for healthy growth and optimal body development is key. Carnilove offers dry kibble, wet cans with white muscle meat texture or pouches of wild origin fillets in gravy to satisfy your kitten’s instinctive love of meat.

Is Milk Necessary for Kittens?

No! Mother’s milk is vital for newborns but is not necessary or beneficial for kittens once fully weaned. After weaning, stick to a complete kitten-appropriate food to support healthy growth and provide with fresh water at all times for hydration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Feeding Kittens

Overfeeding often results in excess gas and loose stools. It is important to feed a measured amount each day so you can easily adjust this slightly up or down as required by your cat.

Kittens can have sensitive stomachs too so owners are advised to stick to one food for kittens and avoid switching or changing foods where possible.

You should also take into account the amount of treats you are feeding your kitten throughout the day. Treats should not make up more than 10% of the kitten’s diet. Treats are not intended to be a complete diet for your kitten and therefore will not offer the balanced of nutrients that your kitten needs to grow healthy and strong. Ensuring the majority of their calories are taken from a complete and balanced food is important to support their wellbeing.

Feeding older dogs? Learn how often you should feed an older dog and the best food choices to keep them healthy. Essential senior dog feeding tips!

How Aging Affects a Dog’s Nutritional Needs

Just like when your puppy reached adulthood, as your dog reaches middle-age it is a good time to do some research on what feeding options are available to support your canine friend as they get older. The average life expectancy of a dog can vary greatly between breeds. Generally, smaller dogs tend to live longer. Middle age is exactly that – mid way through their expected lifespan. For a larger dog this might be 6 or for a smaller dog it may be 7 or 8. Whilst we might not consider dogs to be ‘senior’ at this age, it is a good time to start thinking about the best way to support your canine partner as they age.

As dogs get older, they tend to become less active. They are also more likely to suffer from medical conditions such as arthritis, which can affect their activity levels and possibly lead to weight gain.

Keeping your dog at an ideal weight has a variety of health benefits from making life easier for aging joints to reducing associated health issues such as diabetes or breathing issues.
If your dog’s current food is working well, there may be no need to change it just because your dog hits a certain age. It is best to view your own dog as an individual, monitor their weight and activity and feed accordingly.

However, if you find that your dog’s weight is starting to creep up, it may be a good idea to considering an alternative food like CARNILOVE True Fresh Senior & Healthy Weight. Formulated for senior or overweight adult dogs, the recipe has all the nutritional benefits of the CARNILOVE True Fresh range, including supporting lean muscle maintenance. Made exclusively with fresh meat and no meat meal, the recipe also includes beneficial herbs and veggies to give it excellent taste and great digestibility.

Just as with older people, it is important to keep an eye on your older dog’s overall health. Did you know the risk of dental disease rises as dogs age? Not only can problems with teeth be uncomfortable for your dog, it could also mean they struggle to eat well. Poor teeth can also lead to further medical complications too. If you notice any changes in your senior dog’s health, it is best to visit the vet for a check-up.

How Often Should You Feed an Older Dog?

Carnilove is crafted with a deep respect for the longstanding history of pet and human companionship. The ingredients and ratios in our formulas are inspired by the pre-agricultural diets of dogs and cats, whilst using modern production methods and technologies. The wide spectrum of carefully selected wild-origin meats, such as reindeer, duck, pheasant, turkey, lamb, wild boar and salmon, corresponds to the composition of natural prey and ensures intake of important amino acids.

It is important that senior dogs have the required daily intake of quality animal proteins. All the meat and animal ingredients in Carnilove are selected with the greatest possible emphasis on quality and come from regulated farms in Europe.

The majority of Carnilove recipes contain salmon oil, which is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids support the nervous and cardiovascular systems and hair and skin quality. The salmon oil in Carnilove comes from Scottish salmon and contains high levels of DHA and EPA, both of which support mental capacities.

The inclusion of green lipped mussel and cartilage extract supports mobility and flexibility of joints and tendons too.

Dry vs. Wet Food for Senior Dogs

When speaking to owners about feeding older dogs, we are often asked ”what is better wet food or dry food?“. The answer is that it is down to the personal preference of either the owner or the dog! All Carnilove recipes are balanced and complete so you can be sure you are providing the nutrition your dog needs. The choice of whether to feed wet, dry or a combination of both is up to you.

Common Feeding Issues in Older Dogs & How to Solve Them

The most common issue many owners have when feeding older dogs is maintaining a healthy weight. If you have concerns that your dog is not a healthy weight, we would recommend that you consult your vet. They will be able to use a body score rating to evaluate your pet and suggest any changes to their diet.

Quite often as pets age, they become more prone to other health problems. Keeping on top of regular checkups with the vet and helping them maintain a healthy weight will support your pet as they get older.

If you would like to have a chat with one of our nutrition team about your pet’s specific dietary requirements, contact us here.

Struggling with a picky eater? Find the best dog food for fussy eaters and learn tips to encourage your dog to eat.

Why Are Some Dogs Picky Eaters?

This is a question we frequently get asked. When owners are at their wits end trying to get their dog to eat. For some dogs, this is a learnt behaviour which can be frustrating and upsetting for owners. However, sudden ‘picky’ eating or prolonged refusal to eat, may be related to an underlying health problem like bad teeth or digestive upset. It is always best to talk to your vet if your dog goes off their meals. They will be able to carry out a health check to rule out any illness.

Best Dog Food for Fussy Eaters: Top Choices

When we think about sharing a home with our dogs, it’s easy to start thinking of them like another member of our family. We certainly love them as much! But we mustn’t forget that even the smallest and fluffiest of breeds have an instinctive love of meat. Which is why Carnilove is formulated with respect for the natural origins of dogs. Each recipe corresponds to natural prey and ensures the intake of essential amino acids.

Dry vs. Wet Food for Picky Dogs

Which one is best? The answer is it is down to the personal preference of either the owner or the dog! All Carnilove foods are balanced and complete and will provide the nutrition your dog needs. The choice of whether to feed wet, dry or a combination of both is up to you. However, it is important to be consistent so choose a method of feeding that meets both your needs long-term.

How to Encourage a Picky Dog to Eat

Keep in mind that every dog is unique and what works for one dog may not work for another. Here are some tips that may help make meal times easier:

1. Choose a food with quality meat ingredients

Meat should be the main ingredient in your dog’s food. Remember, they may be cute, but they are carnivores that have a natural instinct to eat meat! Carnilove True Fresh is made with only fresh meat – no meat meal, all True Fresh Dog recipes have 60% fresh meat or fish resulting in extraordinary taste and great digestibility.

2.Taste

Taste is important. Consider trying alternative or novel animal proteins. Carnilove has a variety of complete recipes to choose from and includes wild-origin meats from novel sources such as Reindeer, Duck & Pheasant, Lamb & Wild Boar.

3. Kibble size or texture

These may play a role in your dog’s appetite. Smaller dogs may be more enthusiastic about mealtimes when fed a small bite kibble or senior dogs without teeth may do best on a wet food. Carnilove dry food may be served dry or moistened with lukewarm water.

4. Variety

Variety can reduce the likelihood of dogs becoming bored of having the same food every day. If you are feeding a complete dry food, you can consider using a tasty topper like Carnilove pouches, with 85% meat and organs in every flavour. Mixed thoroughly with the kibble to ensure your dog doesn’t start to favour one over the other. This can provide the variety they need without the stress of switching to an alternative diet.

5.Gentle encouragement

Gentle encouragement and providing a safe quiet place for your dog to eat their meals. This should be away from children, other pets and high-traffic areas. Some may prefer to eat alone without you watching over them. While others prefer calm, gentle praise while eating. It is important to take the time to learn what works well for them and this will help you build a lasting bond.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Feeding Fussy Dogs

1. Review feeding portions

This may seem obvious, but it is certainly worthwhile checking if you are feeding in line with the manufacturers feeding recommendations. If you are over feeding, this may be the reason why your dog isn’t finishing their meals.

2. Give it time

When your dog doesn’t eagerly accept their meal it can sometimes be easy or convenient to quickly opt for offering them an alternative food. Unfortunately, this may lead to more ‘fussy’ behaviour. It is better instead to focus on how you can encourage them to eat the food that has already been presented and feel better about mealtimes.

3. Follow a routine

Dogs thrive on routine! For most adult dogs Carnilove recommends feeding two meals a day. However, some smaller breeds may find it easier to manage three smaller meals. Either way, try to stick to set mealtimes, for example if you are feeding two meals these may be fed 8-12 hours apart. Following the manufacturers feeding guide, divide the food equally into the required number of meals. Present the food bowl at the allocated time and allow your dog 15-20 minutes to eat their food before removing the bowl. Any left-over food will need to be safely stored away and presented again at the next allocated mealtime. It is important that all household members remain consistent with the chosen routine for the best chance of success. Establishing a routine for mealtimes helps support their overall wellbeing.

4. Avoid snacking

It’s a good idea removing all other treats that includes human tit-bits. This will help them get used to a regular feeding routine and build their appetites for the next meal.

5. Feeding bowls

Bowls aren’t just about style. Some dogs may prefer a ceramic or plastic bowl over a metal bowl. Collars and tags can clang against metal bowls which may create a negative association with approaching the bowl. This is especially problematic with sound sensitive dogs. The size and depth of the bowl should also be factored into your choice based on size and breed of the dog.

Often patience and consistency are the most effective. If you are in any doubt or your dogs’ eating habits are out of character, it is recommended that you seek your vet’s advice.

Always make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.

Our pets are an integral part of the family dynamic, and so for Valentine’s Day 2025 we want to ensure that our four-legged members aren’t left out. That’s why we have set up the ultimate romantic night in…imagine rose petals, candles and a delicious meal that both you, your partner and your pet can enjoy…

For chef Melissa Hemsley this looks like mirroring the real ingredients of Carnilove’s UK bestseller and cooking a delicious duck & pheasant dish. For Nelly, it was only fitting to go for something just as scrumptious, Carnilove Duck & Pheasant dog food.

Melissa said: “Most of you know that sweet Nelly is my first love, and I couldn’t not celebrate this Valentine’s without involving the good girl. To ensure Nelly is not left out of the fun with me and Henry, I’ve created a unique duck & pheasant pie recipe inspired by Nelly’s food from Carnilove”.

Ingredients Needed:
For the pie

• Olive oil
• 2 onions or 6 shallots, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery, finely diced
• 200ml red wine
• 150g roughly chopped pheasant breast
• 350g roughly chopped diced duck breast
• 2 tbsp chickpea flour
• 1 tbsp tomato puree
• 2 fresh thyme sprig or 1/2 tsp dried
• 2 fresh rosemary sprig or 1/2 tsp dried
• 2 garlic cloves, finely diced
• 500ml chicken stock
• sea salt & pepper

• 1 small pumpkin or squash, peeled & deseeded, fresh roughly chopped, roughly 600g weight
• 3 tbsp milk
• 3 tbsp butter
• sea salt & pepper to taste

1. Fry the onions, carrots and celery in olive oil
2. Add thyme, rosemary, garlic and tomato puree
3. Set aside
4. In the same pan, dust the meat with flour, salt and pepper and brown for a few minutes on each side with a little extra oil
5. Add everything together with wine and the chicken stock
6. Meanwhile simmer the pumpkin chunks in salted water until tender. Mash with milk, butter and salt
7. Transfer everything to a tin, top with mash and shuzzzh up the mash
8. Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden brown
9. Serve with buttered cabbage and a kiss from the sous chef

Watch the recipe come to life here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFvZdgBoS67/ 

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Categories: Dog Food, Dry Dog

Duck & Pheasant Dog Food

£11.45 – £62.95

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How Much Should You Feed Your Puppy?

When working out the amount you should be feeding puppies, the best place to look is the packaging of your selected puppy food formula. This will show you the daily amount your puppy will consume against their age, usually shown in months, and their weight. When selecting the weight category, it is important to note that on Carnilove packaging this refers to the expected adult weight of the dog. Of course, you will not know this exactly, but your best estimate should be based on the ideal breed average or size of the parent dogs. As your puppy grows your estimated adult weight may change and the feeding portion should be adjusted as needed.

Before you bring your new puppy home, you should ask the breeder or rehoming center the current routine and number of times a day they are being fed. It is recommended to stick to a similar routine for feeding for the first couple of weeks, at least, after you bring the puppy home.

For example, if your new puppy is 12 weeks old, has an expected adult weight of 15kg and is currently being fed 3 times per day you would use the table on the packaging to work out they require 110g of per day. You would then split this amount into three meals for your puppy.

It is important to remember that the feeding amount is a guide. It is best to monitor your puppies weight gain and stools and make any small adjustments as needed for your individual dog.

What Should You Be Feeding Puppies at Different Ages?

Carnilove puppy foods are specifically formulated to support the growing needs of your puppy. Available in Salmon & Turkey Puppy Food, Salmon & Turkey Large Puppy Food, True Fresh Turkey Puppy and True Fresh Chicken Junior Large Breed, each is tailored to nurture your little hunter’s wild instincts. As puppies reach maturity and stop growing, their nutrition needs change, and this is the time to think about moving onto an adult food. The time your dog reaches maturity can vary between breeds but more importantly the size of your puppy, from anywhere between 12 months for small dogs and as long as 30month (fed Carnilove) for some large breeds.

When Do You Stop Feeding Puppies 3 Times a Day?

Your pup is likely to be ready to drop from being fed three times a day down to twice a day at around six months of age. If your pup loves their lunch, to make this transition less abrupt you can still take a portion of their daily kibble to use for enrichment during the day for example for training or in feeding toys.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food for Puppies: Pros and Cons

Carnilove wet puppy food and Carnilove dry puppy food both provide complete nutrition for your growing pup with high meat content, no grains and no potato. Each puppy may have their own preferences but the choice to provide wet, dry or combination of both is up to you.

Particularly for puppies and young dogs, you may find that you want to use a portion of their daily food to create enrichment opportunities and this may affect which format of food you choose to purchase (our pouches work very well with lickimats due to soft pate consistency whereas our kibble is great in a snuffle mat!).

Transitioning Puppies to Adult Dog Food: When and How

When you are content that your puppy has reached maturity and stopped growing, it is time to think about transitioning onto adult food. Your vet can help advise if you are unsure. We recommend for this transition selecting an adult food with a similar animal protein to their puppy food. For example, if you are currently feeding Carnilove Puppy Salmon and Turkey formula, you may want to consider transitioning to the Salmon adult food.

It is best to slowly transition your puppy to the adult food. Starting with 75% of their puppy food and 25% of the adult food, slowly adjust this over a number of days until they are on 50% puppy and 50% adult. Continue to make the change over a period of a 7-10 days, gradually increasing the amount of adult food and reducing the puppy food until they are on 100% adult food.

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Categories: Puppy Food

Salmon & Turkey Puppy Food

£11.95 – £68.95

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Categories: Puppy Food

Carnilove Salmon with Blueberries Wet Puppy Food

£36.60

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Categories: Puppy Food, True Fresh

True Fresh Turkey Puppy Food

£12.95 – £73.95

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Like humans every dog is unique. Labradors are notoriously food focused, some might even say greedy. They wolf down their dinners and seem to have plenty of room for more! Other dogs seemingly have small appetites and will turn up their noses at the most tempting of treats.

Carnilove dog food is made with respect for the natural origins of dogs. They contain lots of quality meat plus beneficial fruits, veggies, and herbs. With three ranges to choose from its easy to find a recipe to suit every dog.

So how can you ensure you are feeding your dog the right amount each day?

All Carnilove dog foods are complete and balanced, providing your dog with everything they need. To ensure your dog gets all the right nutrients in sufficient amounts, each recipe has a feeding guide printed on the label.

This is generally based on your dog’s weight. As mentioned, this is provided as a guide, keep in mind your dog is unique and the feeding amount may vary based on age, activity, health, genetics etc. We recommend using this as a starting point and adjusting accordingly to cater for their individual needs.

What Your Dog Needs

To ensure your dog enjoys every meal it’s important to choose a dog food that is tailored your individual dogs needs and preferences. This may be based on a number of different factors, for example.

• Taste – Quality meats like Fish or turkey. Flavour plays a key part in their enthusiasm for food.
• Age – Choose a food appropriate to their age puppy, adult or senior
• Size – Smaller breeds may favour a small bite kibble
• Wet, Dry or a combination of both?

Fundamentally, whatever their preference a complete and balanced diet is essential.

Carnilove dog foods are not only complete, they are grain-free and potato-free. Inspired by the pre-agricultural diets of dogs each recipe has lots of quality meat ingredients.

Transitioning to Carnilove

If you are considering switching your dog’s food from another brand onto Carnilove we always suggest that you start slowly. Sudden changes in your dog’s food make it difficult for their digestive systems to adapt, especially if you are transitioning from a food that is low in meat and high in carbohydrates to Carnilove, a high-quality dog food with plenty of easily digestible, wild-origin meat ingredients.

We recommend starting with 25 percent of Carnilove with 75 percent of the old food. Slowly increasing the amount of Carnilove fed proportionately over the next 7-10 days until you are feeding 100 percent Carnilove. Your dog should be happy and thriving on a fully Carnilove diet!

If you need help choosing a Carnilove recipe, feeding portions or transition advice. Get in touch here.

Carnilove Feeding Guide

We recommend adult dogs are fed twice a day, morning and evening.

Look for a complete food, like Carnilove dog food. ‘Complete’ means the product contains all the nutrients a pet needs for healthy bodily function in each daily ration.

Use the feeding guide provided by the manufacturer. For example, Carnilove Duck & Pheasant for Adult Dogs: Feeding portions available for adult dogs of all sizes from Miniature Daschund to Great Dane!

If you are feeding a 15kg dog this would mean 160g per day, divided into two meals of 80g spread evenly apart throughout the day.

Use this as a starting point. Monitor your dog’s body condition and adjust according to their unique requirement. Every recipe is different so ensure you check the label for the most accurate feeding recommendations.

It is important that your dog maintains a healthy body weight. Keeping a routine of regular walks and playtime are great ways to look after your dog and help keep them trim.

If you are concerned that your dog might be overweight or underweight you should consult your vet. They will be best to assess your dog’s weight according to the body condition score.

Once an ideal weight has been determined it will then be easier to put a weight loss/gain plan in place to suit your dog’s unique calorie requirements.

Whichever recipe you choose we always recommend that dogs have access to fresh water all day to keep them hydrated.

We’ve recently explored training your own Assistance Dog with one of our Dog Trainers, but have you ever wondered about the journey a puppy has to make, from adorable fluffy friend to a fully accredited Assistance Dog? Join us as we follow Diesel, the newest recruit to BRAVEHOUND’s Assistance Dog program.

The Role of Assistance Dogs for Veterans

Assistance Dogs are invaluable partners to Veterans who have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder*. The dogs provide companionship, promote exercise outdoors and help to add purpose and a structure to their chosen partner each day. Furthermore, they help to give their owner the confidence they need to tackle daily life challenges that may have been previously unachievable.

When speaking to Carnilove UK, Henry, a Veteran with a BRAVEHOUND named Theo who is Diesel’s Uncle told us a little more about what Theo means to him: “With my anxiety, two years ago, I couldn’t go into Princess Street. Because Theo is there, he gives me a focus. It keeps me in the here and now and I’m not looking at the crowd, I’m more concerned about what he’s doing. … I was on my knees for 17 years and I couldn’t see a way back. Theo helped me and to be honest with you, if the angels exist, Theo is my angel.”

*(All of the veterans have a PTSD diagnosis which is an umbrella term for many other mental health issues, including anxiety and depression).

How does Diesel’s journey as an Assistance Dog begin?

When a puppy first joins the BRAVEHOUND team, they get introduced to their volunteer BRAVEHOUND Buddy. Their buddy dedicates the next 2-6 months of their time and energy to help successfully prepare Diesel for his career as an assistance dog.

Diesel has just been placed with his very own buddy and will spend the next few weeks doing the following:

• Week One Diesel is left to settle in his new environment. Although boundaries are set, he learns he is safe and has choices. The charity’s training team visit regularly to prepare the Buddy.
• Week Two – This week sees Diesel and his buddy receive training basics and gentle, structured socialisation.
• Week Three to Six – They will then attend two x 2-hour training sessions with BRAVEHOUND training team, plus home visits as required.
• Week Six and beyond – They will follow a continuation of training on a weekly basis or more frequently as required.

As well as training, Diesel will be transitioned onto Carnilove Salmon & Turkey dry puppy food. This grain-free and potato-free formula is suitable for puppies of all breeds aged between 1-12 months old. This puppy food has an excellent source of highly digestible proteins as well as omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids, which have a positive impact on mental development, the cardiovascular system and metabolism – all perfect building blocks for fueling a growing Assistance Dog in training for their important job.

How can you get involved?

The costs of training newest recruit, Diesel, and all 27+ other dogs within the team are all covered by BRAVEHOUND. This charity is committed to the long-term welfare of each BRAVEHOUND Dog and the veteran they have partnered with over the dog’s lifetime. Veterans sacrifice so much to maintain our freedom and by sponsoring a BRAVEHOUND, you can give something back.

Click here to sponsor a Bravehound.

By Becki Gude

The holiday season is a joyous time filled with celebrations, cosy decorations, and delicious dog treats—and it’s not just for us! Our dogs can share in the joy too. With more relaxed humans around, extra walks, and snuggly sofa time, your furry friend will soak up the festive vibes.

Whether it’s the calm of a lazy morning or the excitement of family gatherings, the holidays offer plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories with your pup. But while we’re busy decking the halls and gathering with loved ones, it’s crucial to remember that the hustle and bustle can pose certain risks to our furry friends. Dogs, with their curious noses and love for exploring, can sometimes get into trouble amidst the seasonal festivities. To keep your canine companion safe, comfortable, and happy throughout the festivities, here are our top 5 essential tips for a dog-friendly Christmas.

1. Mind the Christmas Treats and Toxic Foods*

Christmas is a time for indulgence, but many of the foods we enjoy can be dangerous for dogs. Some common holiday foods to keep away from your dog include:

• Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially harmful.
• Grapes and Raisins: These might pop up in Christmas recipes, but they can cause serious kidney trouble for your pup. Keep them far away from curious noses!
• Onions: While they add flavour to your holiday dishes, they can harm your dog’s red blood cells and cause anaemia. Not the kind of gift we want to give!
• Alcohol: No festive sips for your puppy! Even a small taste can be dangerous for dogs, leading to confusion, tummy troubles, or worse! Let’s keep the eggnog for the humans.

Instead, consider treating your dog with special dog treats. Carnilove has an excellent range of treats in stock including Crunchy, Soft, Meat Jerky and Freeze-Dried Raw Treats. These treats come in a variety of delicious, Christmas themed flavours including Duck with Rosemary, Lamb with Cranberries, Turkey with Venison Fillet Meat Jerky and Salmon with Blueberries to name a few.

*If your dog does eat something that may be toxic you should immediately contact your veterinarian for advice.

2. Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

Christmas often means extra guests and more noise, which can be stressful for some dogs. To help your pet feel comfortable:

• Set Up a Quiet Zone: Create a cosy area where your dog can retreat to if they need a break from the excitement. Include their bed, favourite toys, and a water bowl to make it as relaxing as possible.
• Introduce Guests Gradually: If your dog is a little shy, think of introductions like a meet-and-greet—one guest at a time! It’s a great way to help them warm up without feeling overwhelmed.
• Teach the Humans: Let your guests know the house rules – no sneaky snack sharing (your dog will thank you later!) and gentle play only. Little ones especially might need a quick “doggy manners” crash course to keep everyone happy and wagging.­­

3. Keep Christmas Decorations Out of Reach

Holiday decorations can be tempting for dogs, but many pose a choking hazard or contain toxins:

• Tinsel and Ornaments: Shiny tinsel can be especially appealing, but if swallowed, it can lead to a not-so-festive trip to the vet. And those shiny, delicate ornaments? If they break, they can leave sharp surprises for curious mouths and paws. So, it’s best to keep these out of reach and save the sparkle for the tree!
• Fairy Lights and Electric Cords: Chewing on cords can lead to burns or electric shocks. Keep cords tucked away or protected, so your furry friend can enjoy the glow of fairy lights safely from a distance.

4. Be Cautious with Candles and Open Flames

Candles, fireplaces, and scented oil burners bring all the cosy holiday vibes, but for your dog, they can be potential hazards! Keep things merry (and safe) with these tips:

• Monitoring Fireplaces: Cosy fires are great, but make sure there’s a sturdy screen so your pup doesn’t try to investigate—or roast their tail!
• Placing Candles Out of Reach: Place real candles on high, stable spots where curious noses and wiggly tails can’t reach them.

5. Be Careful with Wrapping Paper and Gifts

Holiday gifts wrapped in shiny paper and topped with ribbons might look like irresistible treasures to your dog, but not everything is as fun (or safe) as it seems!

• Skip Ribbon Tug-of-War: Sure, ribbons are fun to chase and chew, but if swallowed, they can lead to a not-so-festive trip to the vet. Stick to toys made just for pups!
• Clean Up the Chaos: Once the gift wrap frenzy is over, tidy up those scraps, tape, and bows—your dog doesn’t need a second round of unwrapping adventures.
• Pick Paw-fect Presents: Giving your dog gifts? Choose toys that are the right size for your furry friend and free of small, breakable bits. Ones that are made for dogs to ensure a safer holiday are the best! Alternatively, consider gifting Carnilove treats and refer to this tutorial for a festive way to wrap your dog treats.

Bonus tip: Stick to Their Routine as Much as Possible

While the holiday season is often full of unusual and novel activities and schedules, try to maintain your dog’s regular feeding, walking, and play routines. Consistency will help keep them calm and reduce anxiety.

Wrapping Up

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and happy Christmas for both you and your dog. The holidays are a time for togetherness, and taking these precautions will let you focus on enjoying the season without worrying. Make this Christmas special for your furry friend with love and plenty of pet-safe holiday cheer!

Christmas is a time to give back to those that mean the most to you, and that includes your four-legged family members. “But what’s the best way to wrap a present for them” we hear you ask. Well, we’ve got you covered. We’ve partnered with professional gift wrapper, Jane Means to show you the best way to wrap presents for your pet ahead of Christmas.

Kimono Wrap Gift Wrapping Tutorial for Dogs

This kimono-style wrap is sure to impress, and it makes unwrapping the treats a fun experience for your hound. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this:

Materials Needed:

1. Brown paper (provided in wrapping package)
2. Scissors
3. Double-sided tape
4. Gift Tag or embellishment (avoid any choking hazards)
5. A Bag of Carnilove Dog treats to wrap
6. Carnilove Dog treats to layer in between

1. Cut the brown paper – measure your brown paper to be large enough to fully wrap the bag of dog treats with extra for the kimono layer. Add about 4 inches of width on each side for the folding design
2. Position the treat bag – place the treat bag in the center of the paper
3. Create the base wrap – fold the top edge of the paper down and over the treat bag. Secure it with a very small tab of double-sided tape
4. Form the kimono sleeves – fold each side of the paper inward diagonally, creating a triangular overlap over the treat bag. Insert the odd treat as you go along. Secure the last folded edge with tape
5. Neatly fold over the open end and secure with double sided tape
6. Final embellishments – add decorative accents, like a small tag with the dog’s name or a stamped paw print. In this tutorial I’ve cut out a dog bone and added the name.

Christmas Cone Gift Wrapping Tutorial for Cats

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making personalised paper cones for cat treats:

Materials Needed:

1. Brown paper
2. Double-sided tape
3. Scissors
4. Sharpie Pen or a stamp
5. Carnilove Cat treats of your choice

1. Prepare the brown paper – doodle your design with a sharpie pen onto some brown paper then cut the brown paper into a square. E.g. 8”x8” (or adjust depending on desired cone size).
2. Form the cone roll the square diagonally to create a cone shape. Adjust to ensure the bottom is slightly open so the treats can just fall through. Use double-sided tape or glue to secure the overlapping edges of the cone
3. Personalise the cone – write the cat’s name or a fun phrase like “Purr-fect Treats”, Add paw prints, fish shapes, or cute drawings with a marker pen or a stamp.
4. Fill with treats
5. Seal the cone – fold the top slightly or leave it open for an inviting look. Use a small sticker or a piece of double sided tape to keep the cone closed if needed. You can also fold some card over the top and write the pets name.

Tips for Wrapping Gifts for Pets

• If you’re giving these as gifts to other cat owners, you can include a handwritten tag or a playful message
• Consider eco-friendly packaging wherever possible
• Your furry friend (or your friends’ cats) will adore this thoughtful, handmade gift. It’s a treat dispenser too

Watch the Tutorial: