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/ 

Select options

Categories: Dog Food, Dry Dog

Duck & Pheasant Dog Food

£11.45 – £62.95

Select options

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.

Select options

Categories: Puppy Food

Salmon & Turkey Puppy Food

£11.95 – £68.95

Select options

Select options

Categories: Puppy Food

Carnilove Salmon with Blueberries Wet Puppy Food

£36.60

Select options

Select options

Categories: Puppy Food, True Fresh

True Fresh Turkey Puppy Food

£12.95 – £73.95

Select options

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!

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:

By Becki Gude – Trustee of the Assistance Dog Assessment Association (ADAA)

Assistance dogs are remarkable companions that empower individuals with disabilities to lead more independent lives. These specially trained dogs provide invaluable support for a wide range of needs, including mobility challenges, mental health conditions, autism, and medical detection for alerting in advance of medical episodes.

Whilst many choose to get a pre-trained dog, training your own assistance dog comes with some pretty special benefits. As an assistance dog trainer who specialises in owner-training these dogs, I have seen some truly unique benefits to training your own dog in this way. It’s not just about teaching your dog to do things to help; it’s about creating and cementing that special bond and a unique partnership. Here are some of my favourite unique benefits you will experience if you decide to train your own assistance dog.

1. Building an Unbreakable Bond – from the get go!

Training your dog yourself means you have the benefit of starting this partnership during your dog’s puppyhood or younger months. Spending quality time together from day 1 whilst your puppy is still learning to understand the world creates an unbreakable bond. The relationship that develops during puppyhood can tune your dog into your needs, often knowing what you need before you even ask!

2. Avoiding the waiting lists

Whilst there are some incredible charities training assistance dogs in house to hand over to people in need later on, some of these charities have waiting lists of up to five years long! By selecting a puppy and training them yourself to become your assistance dog, you can start work right away without any waiting for your new best friend.

3. Personalised Training Just for You

When you train your own assistance dog, you get to customise their skills to fit your life perfectly. Need help grabbing items off the shelf? No problem. Want them to alert you to a specific sound or task? You’ve got it. By focusing on what you really need, you can train your dog to become perfectly tuned in to your day-to-day routines.

Assistance dog-in-training Humphrey (pictured) is making excellent progress on his journey to become a dedicated support companion for his young handler, 14-year-old Imogene. Now moving through his adolescence, Humphrey will soon begin learning specialised mobility assistance tasks tailored to Imogene’s unique needs. Having been by her side since he was just 8 weeks old, his training has been a rewarding experience for the entire family, strengthening their bond every step of the way!

4. Choose their food

Feeding good food is a key part of giving your dog the best chance of success. Their support deserves to be rewarded with quality food that supports healthy bone, brain and muscle development. Ideally with food that satisfies their instinctive desire for meat and fuels their energy. Make sure you follow recommended feeding guidelines as your pup becomes an adult and then a senior dog as their needs will change over time. Treats should be age appropriate and given in moderation and should represent 10% or less of your dog’s daily food intake. The rest should come from a nutritionally complete food. When using treats frequently, during training exercises, try to use small pieces.

5. Train at Your Own Pace

One of the best things about training your own dog is the flexibility. You set the pace, so if you need to take things slow, that’s completely fine! Around 50% of pre-trained assistance dogs coming through various charities don’t make the cut, and a lot of this is down to them not meeting certain milestones at certain points of the puppys life. With a slower pace of training, your dog is more likely to succeed. Plus, you get to choose the training methods that work best for you and your dog. It’s all about making the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

6. Save Some Money

Getting a fully trained assistance dog can be pricey, whether that is purchasing a dog through an organisation or having to donate a considerable amount to a charity. Training your own dog can save you a lot of money. While there are still costs involved, like classes and gear, it’s generally more budget-friendly than paying for a pre-trained dog. And if you already have a dog with potential, you’re even further ahead!

7. Feel-Good Factor

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of teaching your dog to do something that makes your life easier. The sense of accomplishment is huge, and it’s empowering to know you’ve taken an active role in your own support. Plus, the training process can be a great way to stay focused and positive. I have seen many of my own clients grow in confidence as a result of training their own dogs, it is one of the best things about the process!

8. Long-Lasting Partnership

When you train your own dog, you’re setting up a long-term partnership. As your needs change over time, you can continue to teach your dog new tasks, keeping them a valuable part of your life for years to come. This adaptability is a big plus and ensures your dog is always there to support you. You also have the security that your dog belongs to you, not an organisation or charity, and they will be able to stay with you for their whole life.

9. Qualifying for Public Access and Aviation

While there is no official register for assistance dogs in the UK, many individuals choose to have their dogs professionally assessed through recognised organisations. The Assistance Dog Association (ADAA) a UK based charity, offers independent assessments for assistance dog partnerships, providing valuable peace of mind and ongoing support for those in need.

Our mission is to include individuals with disabilities who may not meet the criteria of existing ADUK charities or who are unable to access their services. The sense of achievement our teams experience when they qualify is truly inspiring. The hard work and dedication that go into this process are immense, and we couldn’t be prouder of our clients’ accomplishments.

In a nutshell

Training your own assistance dog is a fun, rewarding, and incredibly beneficial experience. From creating a dog that’s perfectly suited to your needs to saving money and making new friends, the perks are endless. If you’re up for the challenge, the bond and partnership you’ll build with your dog will be well worth the effort.

Carnilove UK is delighted to be supporting BRAVEHOUND, a charity which supports service men, women and their families in Scotland.

BRAVEHOUND was established in 2013 with a mission to help heal the invisible wounds of military veterans with specially trained assistance dogs. Veterans can develop conditions including PTSD, depression and anxiety and BRAVEHOUND assistance dogs provide companionship, a purpose, a reason to take regular exercise and provide a natural structure to the day. They are also trained to help facilitate daily life and tasks such as prompting their veteran to take medication and helping them navigate public transport and cope in crowds.

To ensure ongoing support, BRAVEHOUND provides regular training and hosts group sessions for the veterans and their assistance dogs. This regular contact provides valuable social connection and ensures that both dog and veteran continue to thrive.

Karen Rodger, Director at Carnilove UK said: “We are very proud to be supporting BRAVEHOUND. These wonderful dogs provide so much to their veterans, it’s only right they are fed a great diet. With its high meat content and zero grain, potato or fillers, Carnilove food rewards their hard work and will keep them in great condition.”

Carnilove is currently helping to feed 25 dogs in service with Carnilove Dry Dog Food which contains 70% wild-origin meat and is grain and potato-free. The high meat percentage ensures these hard-working dogs receive a diet which supports optimal body condition.

Fiona MacDonald, CEO of BRAVEHOUND said: “There is so much demand amongst veterans for assistance dogs and we need support to help as many of them as possible. The support from Carnilove means we can ensure our dogs are getting the nourishment they need to keep giving the companionship and critical support to our veterans.”

To support BRAVEHOUND, please follow the link here: https://www.bravehound.co.uk/sponsor-a-bravehound/

Owning a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the world, but let’s be honest— sometimes you might find yourself running into some behavioural hiccups. Whether that’s minor annoyances at home or on a walk, to more serious issues that can affect you and your dog’s day-to-day life. As someone who’s spent countless hours training dogs and running a doggy daycare, I’ve pretty much seen it all! If your dog develops behavioural problems, it’s really important to get to the bottom of what is going on and figure out how to tackle these issues head on. That way, you and your pup can get back to enjoying the fun and love that comes with having a four-legged best friend!

Getting to the Bottom of Dog Behaviour Issues

Behaviour problems in dogs can come from all sorts of places – maybe they missed out on early training, had a difficult past, are dealing with a health issue, or are just plain bored! Recognising that problem behaviours usually have an underlying cause is the first step to fixing them. Dog’s don’t do these things on purpose or to annoy you – there is always an underlying reason!

Common behaviour Problems in Adult Dogs, and some simple tips to help!

1. Toileting in the House

Accidents happen, but if your adult dog is frequently having them indoors, it could be due to poor training, anxiety, medical problems, or marking their territory. It’s essential to figure out the cause to address it properly.

TOP TIP: Take your dog outside once every hour, as well as after meals and playtime, to encourage them to toilet outside. Reward every success with lots of praise and a high-value treat. The more they succeed and associate going outside with positive experiences, the quicker they’ll learn that outside is the best place to go!

2. Excessive Barking

We all know dogs bark to communicate, but when your dog turns into a non-stop woofing machine, it can be a problem. Excessive barking can be their way of telling you they’re bored, anxious, or just craving some attention.

TOP TIP: If your dog is barking for attention, they may be asking for something! Make sure that all of their basic needs are being met, such as having water, routine meals, things to do like puzzle games and enough physical and mental stimulation. A dog that has all of its simple needs met is much less likely to seek constant attention and can settle down more easily.

3. Destructive Chewing

Chewing is natural and something that should be encouraged with dog friendly chewing items, but when it becomes destructive, it’s an issue. This behaviour might stem from anxiety, boredom, or learned habits from puppy teething days.

TOP TIP: Always have a variety of chews available for your dog. This way, if they get bored with one, they have other options to keep them entertained. Pay attention to what they like to chew on and when. Offering a selection of different chews can keep things interesting and might just save your favourite shoes from becoming their next target!

Preventing behaviour issues in dogs is much easier than fixing them once they have become established. Start off on the right foot with early training, socialisation, and ensuring your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Tackling health issues quickly and understanding your dog’s breed-specific traits can also help you stay ahead of potential problems.

But what if you’ve tried the basics and behaviour issues continue or get worse? Don’t worry! Here’s your step-by-step expert guide to getting things back on track:

1.    Figure Out the Cause

First things first: figure out what’s triggering the behaviour. Pay attention to when and where it happens. Keeping a diary of events can help you spot any patterns.

2.    Check in with Your Vet

Sometimes, a health issue is the culprit. Dogs are masters at hiding pain, so even if they seem fine, a sudden change in behaviour might be due to discomfort. A vet check-up can rule out or address medical problems, especially if the behaviour change is sudden and without an obvious cause.

3.    Training and Socialisation

Basic training can work wonders! Teaching new skills that enhance your dog’s impulse control and engagement with you can be very useful. Cues like sit, stay, and come are essential! Gradually exposing your dog to different environments, people, and dogs can help them become more adaptable and help diminish some behavioural issues. Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, or playtime instead of using punishment. This builds a strong bond and encourages your dog to behave well.

4.    Get Professional Help

Sometimes, you need to call in the experts. A professional trainer or animal behaviourist can offer customised strategies for your dog. They might use techniques like counter-conditioning and desensitisation to manage triggers. Having your trainer or behaviourist communicate with your vet is also a good idea, especially if your dog has underlying health issues.

5.    Stick to a Routine

Dogs thrive on routines. A regular schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime can make your dog feel secure and reduce anxiety.

6.    Keep Them Busy

Bored dogs can become naughty dogs! Make sure your pup gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Toys, chews, puzzles, and playtime are great for keeping them entertained. Tailoring activities to your dog’s breed-specific needs can also be very effective.

7.    Create a Safe Space

Give your dog a quiet, safe spot to retreat to when they’re scared, anxious or tired. This could be a crate, a room, or a cosy corner where they feel secure.

In a nutshell…

Dealing with behaviour issues in adult dogs involves understanding the root cause, consistent training, and sometimes seeking professional help. Changing behaviour takes time, but with patience and the right strategies, you can manage most behaviour problems and enjoy a happier life with your dog. Remember, fixing behaviour issues is a team effort between you and your dog, built on trust, respect, and lots of love!

Becki Gude BA (Hons) PACT-KSA ABTC-ATI

Surrey Canine Corner