Dental disease and oral health problems are common in dogs. By just two years of age, 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have some form of periodontal disease (gum disease), with small and toy breed dogs, who are increasing in popularity, being particularly susceptible.

In this article, we will cover: 

• The importance of good oral health in dogs
• How to estimate the condition of your dog’s mouth and teeth
• Signs that your dog may need a vet to treat their teeth or gums and what this can involve
• Factors that affect the condition of a dog's teeth and the progression of dental disease
• Information about how to keep your dog's mouth in good condition

Why should I feed my dog raw? What's the health benefit? My vet recommends kibble. Why wouldn't I feed that? What does a raw diet look like? How do I transition from a dry food diet? Should I give my dog bones? What is the best meat for a raw diet? Can I feed my puppy raw? We answer these questions and more in our Guide to Raw Food Diet for Dogs.

Did you know dogs are living longer than ever? In fact,

a dog’s lifespan has increased by about 10% between 2002 and 2012. Many age-related issues dogs experience are associated with oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between antioxidants and oxidants in the body. In this article we explain how nutraceuticals for dogs containing antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins with immunomodulatory properties have been shown in many studies to benefit age-related health issues in senior dogs, particularly canine cognitive dysfunction, heart disease, and some forms of cancer.

Behavioural problems in dogs are often a result of stress during early development. Puppies are also most vulnerable to stress during the socialisation period of development. Research has shown that the  environment provided by many private and commercial dog breeders can be stressful and overlaps with the most sensitive periods of behavioural development. Main stressors include confined living, inadequate socialisation, and early weaning. And the adverse effects of stress include a short attention span, anxiety, fear, and aggression. Here are some things you can do, to manage these early-life stresses.

Pasta is primarily starch, which the body breaks down into simple sugars. However, unlike humans, dogs don’t require dietary carbohydrates as an energy source. Feeding your dog pasta can lead to hyperglycemia and affect their overall health. In this article we explain why dogs can eat pasta, but they probably shouldn't.

In a nutshell: Rock melon is packed with antioxidants such as carotene, beta-carotene, vitamins A and C. The nutrients in rock melon have immune-boosting properties. Rock melon can be given as an occasional healthy treat for dogs. So yes, dogs can eat rock melon, but only in moderation.

Obesity is currently one of the greatest health and welfare problems facing domestic cats around the world. 

But is there something about us, that makes cat fat? It turns out there is.We break down the insights from some interesting research to help you understand if you're going to have to 'work against type' to avoid ending up with a fat cat! 

Sustainability right through our supply chain is an ongoing work in progress. One area where we're continuing to improve, is packaging. Here's where we're at.

When bestie was a little under a year old, I found myself in the first cohort of the CSIRO's Innovate to Grow program. One of the things I saw there, was data that showed a correlation between business growth and R&D activity.

Leaving the litter, moving into a new home, weaning, growing, training: there’s a lot to stress out puppies! The early developmental period lays the foundation for health later in life and longer term behaviours may start here.

 

The Chill-Pup is an immune-boosting and calming health jelly that helps reduce reactivity and the impact of stress.

Chronic inflammation and stress can actually suppress the immune system, and have a long term impact on health. In fact, anxiety is a form of stress but there are others and the knock-on health impacts can be wide-ranging and serious

 

Adaptogens and other foods and herbs can support the immune system and help it return to normal function; adaptogens are also 'stress-protective'. They're ingredients in The Pep-Up, an anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting health jelly is designed to support your dog’s immune function and put a pep back in their step!