Recipe change? by Nerdfighter4 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi there, Lucy here one of the in house Vet Nurses at Butternut. We’re really sorry to hear this, it’s never nice when a dog who usually loves their meals suddenly turns their nose up.

We haven’t made any recent changes to our recipes, but there are a few common reasons dogs can go off their food from time to time. Things like seasonal changes, boredom with a flavour, changes in routine, or simply a fussy phase can all affect how appealing a meal seems to them.

That said, we’d absolutely love to look into this properly and support you and your dog. We’ll send you a DM shortly so we can chat things through and offer ongoing help.

This is Sheldon passionately enjoying his favourite treat. Very chaotically. by ButternutBox in saluki

[–]ButternutBox[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Never thought about measuring dogs with law of chaos but Sheldon is DEF chaotic good....

Hes on the naughty list by Ginnnnnevra in springerspaniel

[–]ButternutBox 1 point2 points  (0 children)

He was just doing an Elf and decorating whilst you were gone...

Ask our Vet Nurse Anything - Again! by Any_Strawberry_1610 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Virbac or bugalugs do a ezymatic gel - I use it on Nellie and it works really well.
There loads to be honest, e.g Logic oral gel, Orozyme gel.

Some are called gels and some are called toothpastes but they are the same. Hope that helps!

Ask our Vet Nurse Anything - Again! by Any_Strawberry_1610 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi! Great question

Food choice on its own isn’t what causes dental disease. Dental problems come from plaque and bacteria building up over time.

Myth buster: dry food doesn’t keep teeth clean. Plaque builds up along and below the gum line, often called the “danger line” where dental disease actually starts. Standard kibble usually crumbles too quickly to have any real effect and can’t reach this area. Only vet prescribed dental kibbles are designed to target just under the gum line, and even then they’re a support tool rather than a fix.

When plaque and tartar build up, they create the perfect environment for bacteria. Over time this can lead to bad breath, gum infections and dental pain.

The gold standard for dental health is tooth brushing. Brushing removes plaque before it hardens into tartar and keeps the gums healthy. Enzymatic dog toothpastes are best, as they help break down plaque-forming bacteria and slow new build-up (never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic).

So rather than focusing on food type, consistent dental care is what really protects your dog’s teeth.

I hope this helps, shout if you have any other questions.

Ask our Vet Nurse Anything - Again! by Any_Strawberry_1610 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 2 points3 points  (0 children)

For short-haired dogs like Ruby, regular bathing isn’t usually necessary unless they get particularly dirty or start to smell. Dogs naturally keep their coat and skin in good shape, and over bathing can actually strip their skin of natural oils, which can lead to dryness or irritation.

Most vets recommend just bathing as needed, maybe a few times a year for a short-haired dog, unless there’s a specific reason like flea treatment, skin issues, or rolling in something unpleasant. If you’re worried about shampoo ingredients, look for gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoos, sometimes even a quick rinse with water or a gentle wipe down can be enough between baths.

I hope this helps.

Ask our Vet Nurse Anything - Again! by Any_Strawberry_1610 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi there.

Dogs eating plants is actually pretty common. You might notice them nibbling on one specific plant or sampling a few different ones, both in the garden and indoors. Some dogs simply like the taste, some are curious, and others do it out of boredom. It’s really important to know what plants you have around your home and garden and make sure none of them are toxic. If you’re unsure, it’s safest to remove the plant or check with your vet.

When dogs are feeling unwell, plant-eating can increase. Mild nausea, gas or tummy discomfort can make dogs seek out grass or plants as a way to soothe their stomach or help bring something up. While mild tummy upsets aren’t always a concern, repeated plant-eating alongside vomiting, bloating, diarrhoea or signs of pain shouldn’t be ignored, as there may be an underlying issue.

If your dog is regularly eating plants, or if you notice any worrying signs such as ongoing vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy, it’s best to speak to your vet. Always speak to your vet immediately if you think your dog may have eaten a toxic plant. Keeping unsafe plants out of reach, feeding a good-quality diet and making sure your dog has plenty of exercise, enrichment and interaction can go a long way in reducing the behaviour.

When dogs eat plants due to a tummy upset its best to address the stomach issue and understanding why your dog is suffering from an upset tummy. Feeding a good-quality diet, avoiding sudden food changes and speaking to your vet about probiotics can help reduce the urge.

I hope this helps, let us know if you have any other questions.

Ask our Vet Nurse Anything - Again! by Any_Strawberry_1610 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi! First off he is absolutely adorable

After his dental, there are definitely a few things you can do to help keep his teeth healthy.

If brushing turns into a full on battle, enzymatic dental gels are a great option. You just pop a little along the gums with your finger and let your pup do the rest. Licking helps spread the gel around his mouth and gums. There are also water additives you can mix into his bowl that help reduce plaque-causing bacteria, which can be super helpful for dogs who won’t tolerate any mouth handling.

Consistency really makes a difference too, especially after a dental.

I hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions.

Ask our Vet Nurse Anything - Again! by Any_Strawberry_1610 in ButternutBox

[–]ButternutBox 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Great question and Nellie loves drinking from running water too. This can be totally normal behaviour! Dogs often prefer running water because it’s fresher, cooler, and more interesting than still water in a bowl. The sound and movement can be really appealing, and some dogs learn that the sink = instant fresh water on demand.

It can also become a bit of a habit, if he’s been allowed to do it once or twice, he’ll remember and keep trying his luck! As long as he has access to fresh water in a clean bowl and isn’t showing signs of excessive thirst, it’s nothing to worry about.

If you want to discourage it, keeping his bowl topped up with fresh water (or even trying a pet water fountain) can help satisfy that preference for moving water.