Woof Bark Growl

23/09/2023

Tear stains in dogs are unsightly streaks, typically reddish-brown, that form below your pet's eyes due to a variety of factors, including breed predisposition, allergies, or health conditions.

As pet parents, it's natural to want to keep our fur babies in their best condition possible, and removing these tear stains is part of that routine.

Table of Contents

1

Understand and Address the Causes

2

Adopt Proper Grooming Habits

3

Seek Professional Advice

4

Wrapping Up

Understand and Address the Causes

Tear stains are more than a cosmetic issue. Their existence signifies a deeper issue that needs to be addressed.

As such, a key step to eliminating these stains is to understand the underlying causes and address them appropriately.

Step #1: Identify the Root Causes

Tear stains can result from a variety of factors, so identifying the root cause is crucial.

Genetic Factors: Some breeds, like Maltese, Shih Tzus, and Poodles, are more prone to tear staining due to their facial structure. If this is the case, your vet might suggest methods tailored specifically for your breed.

Health Conditions: Tear stains may be a symptom of an underlying health condition such as infections, allergies, or eye disorders. If your dog displays other signs of discomfort like excessive scratching, it's essential to consult a veterinarian.

Environmental Triggers: Items such as plastic feeding bowls can sometimes lead to tear stains as they are thought to harbour bacteria more easily than steel, glass or ceramic bowls. Switching to stainless steel or ceramic bowls can help alleviate this issue.

Step #2: Implement Suitable Changes

Once you've identified the root cause, it's crucial to make necessary changes to address it.

This could involve modifying your dog's diet, altering their environment, or introducing new healthcare routines.

Step #3: Monitor Changes Over Time

After implementing changes, you should monitor your dog to see if there's improvement.

This might take some time, so patience is key. If the tear stains persist or worsen, it may be a sign that your intervention is not effective, and it's time to consider other options.

Adopt Proper Grooming Habits

Just as we maintain our personal hygiene to keep ourselves healthy and presentable, grooming is a crucial part of pet care.

It is about more than just keeping your dog looking its best; it plays a vital role in their overall health and wellbeing.

Proper grooming can even aid in preventing and eliminating tear stains, transforming your pet’s appearance and improving their comfort level. This involves regular eye cleaning, trimming hair around the eyes, and providing a balanced diet.

Regular Eye Cleaning

When it comes to tear stains, prevention is often the best treatment. A cornerstone of this preventative approach is regular eye cleaning.

Tear stains are often the result of tears mixing with bacteria or yeast, creating a breeding ground for further infection.

Regularly cleaning your dog's eyes with a dog-specific eye wash or wipe can disrupt this process, preventing the accumulation of tear residue that can lead to stains.

When cleaning your dog's eyes, remember to always be gentle and use soft, clean materials. This is a sensitive area, and rough handling can cause discomfort or even injury.

Additionally, always clean the eyes in a downward motion away from the eye, as this helps to avoid introducing new bacteria into the eye area.

Trim Hair Around the Eyes

Another essential aspect of grooming for tear stain prevention is hair maintenance, particularly around the eyes.

Long hair around the eyes can irritate them, causing your dog to produce excess tears, which can lead to more tear stains. By keeping this area neatly trimmed, you can help reduce this irritation and, as a result, decrease the likelihood of tear stains.

However, trimming hair near the eyes is a delicate process that requires precision. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, don't hesitate to seek help from a professional groomer.

These experts have the training and experience needed to safely and effectively trim hair in sensitive areas, and they can provide invaluable advice on maintaining your pet's grooming regimen at home.

Provide a Healthy Diet

Grooming isn't just about external practices. Internal health is just as critical when it comes to preventing tear stains, and diet plays a significant role in this.

A balanced, nutritious diet can boost your pet's overall health and contribute to fewer tear stains.

Some pet foods may contain additives or allergens that can lead to excessive tearing, resulting in more tear stains. Thus, you may want to consider:

Feeding your dog high-quality, natural foods. These often contain fewer additives and are typically more easily digestible, contributing to better overall health.

Avoiding food with artificial colorants and additives. Such ingredients can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs, leading to increased tear production.

Keeping your dog hydrated with plenty of fresh water. Proper hydration can help regulate your dog's tear production and reduce the risk of tear stains.

Adopting proper grooming habits plays a vital role in preventing and eliminating tear stains.

This involves regular eye cleaning, appropriate hair maintenance, and provision of a healthy diet.

By integrating these practices into your pet care routine, you can help your beloved canine look and feel their best.

Seek Professional Advice

If all else fails or if your dog's tear stains are accompanied by signs of discomfort or other health issues, seeking professional advice should be your next step.

Consult a Veterinarian

A professional veterinarian can provide a thorough examination to diagnose underlying health conditions that could be causing excessive tearing.

They may suggest specific treatments or interventions, such as antibiotics or tear duct surgery for more severe cases.

Visit a Professional Groomer

Professional groomers are trained in handling dogs and can provide a deeper clean than what you might be able to achieve at home. They can also safely trim hair around the eyes, further reducing the likelihood of tear stains.

Consider Tear Stain Products

Several products in the market are designed to reduce or eliminate tear stains. These include wipes, solutions, and nutritional supplements.

However, it's essential to use these under the guidance of a vet to ensure they're safe for your pet.

Wrapping Up

There are several effective ways to eliminate tear stains in your beloved canine. By understanding the underlying causes of tear stains, such as genetics, diet, and eye health, pet owners can implement targeted strategies to address this issue.

Regular grooming, including gentle cleaning of the eye area, is essential to prevent tear stains from accumulating.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in high-quality proteins and minimal additives can help reduce excessive tearing.

Addressing any underlying health conditions, such as allergies or infections, through proper veterinary care is crucial in managing tear stains.

Finally, seeking professional advice and using specialized products, such as tear stain removers or supplements, can provide additional support in eliminating tear stains.

By combining these approaches and consistently monitoring your canine companion's eye health, you can effectively reduce tear stains and ensure the well-being and happiness of your beloved pet.

The post Effective Ways to Eliminate Tear Stains on Your Dog appeared first on Woof Bark Growl.

Learn how to treat dog tear stains with this simple guide. Identify the main causes and treat them effectively in just a few easy steps.

09/08/2023

Learn how to administer CBD to a dog in the safest way with our guide.

We also explain dosages and how to monitor a dog effectively.

Just remember, none of this information replaces the expertise of your local vet! If you have any questions then they are the best people to ask.

Table of Contents

1

Understanding CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know

2

Step-by-Step Guide to Administering CBD Oil to Dogs

Selecting the Appropriate Dosage for Your Dog's Size and Needs

Methods of Administration: Oral, Topical, or Mixed with Food

Tips and Tricks for Making CBD Oil Administration Easier for Your Dog

How Long Does it Take CBD to Start Working?

How Long Will CBD Last For My Dog?

Monitoring Your Dog's Reaction to CBD Oil: Safety Guidelines

Consulting with a Veterinarian: When and Why It's Necessary

3

Conclusion

Understanding CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know

CBD is a natural compound, derived from the h**p plant, has been making waves for its potential therapeutic benefits. But what exactly is CBD oil, and how can it be used for man's best friend?

First and foremost, it's essential to understand the legality of CBD oil in the UK. As long as the oil contains less than 0.2% THC (the psychoactive compound found in cannabis) and is derived from an EU-approved industrial h**p strain, it is legal.

However, no dedicated CBD products for pets have yet been licensed. This means only CBD oil meant for human consumption or topical application may be used.

Related: Don't miss our guide on CBD laws in the UK in 2023.

The usage of CBD oil for dogs is quite versatile. It has been employed by people to treat various ailments, including anxiety, arthritis, seizures, and chronic pain. Many pet owners are turning to CBD oil as a natural alternative to traditional medications, seeking a gentle yet effective solution.

Quality control is paramount when selecting CBD oil for your dog. Only consider organic products from reputable companies that have been third-party lab-tested.

Note, you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving your pet CBD.

While CBD oil is generally considered safe, it may cause side effects in some dogs, such as dry mouth, lowered blood pressure, or drowsiness. Careful monitoring of your dog's reaction is vital to ensure that the treatment is well-tolerated.

CBD oil for dogs offers a promising and natural avenue for treating various ailments. By understanding the legal landscape, focusing on quality, adhering to proper dosing guidelines, and seeking professional guidance, dog owners in the UK can explore this exciting option with confidence and care.

The journey into the world of CBD oil is filled with potential and discovery, opening new doors for enhancing the well-being of our cherished canine companions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Administering CBD Oil to Dogs

By following these steps you can ensure you are taking the necessary precautions and you are administering CBD oil to your pet in the safest way possible.

Selecting the Appropriate Dosage for Your Dog's Size and Needs

Generally speaking we want to give 2mg of CBD for every 10 pounds (4.5kg) of dog weight.

This should be applied twice a day, every 4-8 hours.

You should monitor your dog closely for the first few days. Maintain consistency with the CBD application and then you can adjust based on what you experience.

Each dog is different and CBD is also different for each condition being treated. For example, dosing CBD for a dog's anxiety may be different than dosing for pain.

If you want to adjust the dosing, then only do so in small increments and monitor closely. You should also seek the advice of your vet before adjusting the dosing.

CBD Dosage Chart for Dogs

Cell

Weight

CBD Dosage

Very Small

Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese etc.

5 lbs

1 mg

10 lbs

2 mg

Small

Shetland Sheepdog, Pug, King Charles Spaniel etc.

15 lbs

3 mg

20 lbs

4 mg

25 lbs

5 mg

Medium

Bulldog, Beagle, Dachshund, Spaniel etc.

30 lbs

6 mg

40 lbs

8 mg

50 lbs

10 mg

Large

Retriever, German Shepherd, Boxer etc.

60 lbs

12 mg

75 lbs

15 mg

80 lbs

16 mg

Very Large

Great Dane, St Bernards, Newfoundlands etc.

100 lbs

20 mg

150 lbs

30 mg

Methods of Administration: Oral, Topical, or Mixed with Food

Administering CBD oil to a dog can be done in several ways, and the method you choose may depend on your dog's preferences, the reason for administering CBD, and your own comfort level with the different methods.

Here's a detailed look at the three primary methods of administering CBD oil to a dog: orally, topically, or mixed with food.

Oral Administration

Oral administration is a direct method where the CBD oil is given to the dog by placing it directly into the mouth. This can be done using a dropper, which is often provided with the CBD oil bottle. Here's how you might do it:

Measure the Correct Dosage: Using the dropper, measure the correct dosage according to the dog's size, age, and needs. The product's packaging should provide guidelines on the appropriate dosage.

Hold Your Dog Calmly: Gently hold your dog's head and reassure it with calm and soothing words.

Administer the Oil: Place the dropper into the dog's mouth, preferably under the tongue, and slowly release the oil. This area absorbs substances quickly, allowing for faster effects.

Reward Your Dog: After administering the oil, reward your dog with praise or a treat to create a positive association with the experience.

Topical Administration

Topical administration involves applying the CBD oil directly to the dog's skin. This method is often used for localised issues such as skin conditions or joint pain. Here's how to do it:

Measure the Correct Dosage: As with oral administration, measure the correct dosage using the dropper.

Find the Target Area: Identify the area of the skin where you want to apply the oil. If it's for joint pain, it might be near a specific joint.

Apply the Oil: Gently rub the oil into the skin using your fingers or a soft cloth. Make sure to massage it in well so that it's absorbed.

Avoid Washing: Try to keep your dog from licking the area or getting it wet for a while to allow the oil to be absorbed.

Mixed with Food

Some dogs might be resistant to the taste or sensation of CBD oil, so mixing it with food can be an effective way to administer it. Here's how:

Measure the Correct Dosage: Again, use the dropper to measure the correct dosage.

Choose the Right Food: Select a food that your dog loves and that will easily mask the taste of the CBD oil.

Mix the Oil with the Food: Add the CBD oil to the food and mix it well to ensure that it's evenly distributed.

Serve the Food: Give the food to your dog as you normally would, watching to make sure it eats all of it.

Each of these methods has its own benefits and may be more suitable for different situations or different dogs.

Oral administration might provide the fastest effects, while topical application could be best for localised problems, and mixing with food might be the easiest method if your dog is resistant to the taste of CBD oil.

Always consult with a veterinarian or a professional who is knowledgeable about CBD products for pets to ensure that you are using the right method and dosage for your dog's specific needs and condition.

Tips and Tricks for Making CBD Oil Administration Easier for Your Dog

Administering CBD oil to your dog might seem daunting at first, especially if your pet is not used to taking supplements or medications.

Here are some handy tips and tricks to make the process easier for both you and your furry friend:

Use Positive Reinforcement: Always reward your dog with a treat or affectionate praise after administering the CBD oil. This creates a positive association and can make future administrations easier.

Go Slow and Be Patient: If your dog is new to CBD oil, start with a smaller dose and gradually increase it as needed. Be patient and gentle, especially if you are administering the oil directly into the mouth.

Mix with Strong-Flavored Foods: If you're mixing the CBD oil with food, choose something with a strong flavor that your dog loves. This can help mask the taste of the CBD oil.

Utilise Distraction Techniques: Sometimes, distracting your dog with a toy or treat can make administration easier, especially if you're using the oral method.

Consult with Your Veterinarian: If you're unsure about the correct dosage or method of administration, don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific needs and condition.

Follow the Instructions: Always follow the instructions provided by the CBD oil manufacturer. They will include guidelines on dosage and administration based on the product's concentration and formulation.

Keep a Routine: Administering the CBD oil at the same time and in the same way every day can help your dog get used to the routine, making it easier over time.

Monitor Your Dog's Reaction: Keep an eye on how your dog reacts to the CBD oil, especially the first few times you administer it. If you notice any adverse reactions, consult with your veterinarian.

Use a Special Feeding Tool: If you're struggling with oral administration, consider using a special feeding syringe or tool designed for administering liquids to pets. These can be found at pet stores and might make the process smoother.

Consider Topical Application for Specific Issues: If your dog needs CBD oil for a skin or joint issue, consider topical application. It might be easier to apply the oil directly to the affected area.

Avoid Force: Never force the CBD oil into your dog's mouth, as this can create a negative experience and make future administrations more difficult.

How Long Does it Take CBD to Start Working?

CBD generally takes 30-60 minutes to start working. Oil administered without food will start working more quickly.

When administered with food it will taker longer to affect older dogs than younger dogs as they take longer to digest their food.

How Long Will CBD Last For My Dog?

It's hard to say for sure as there are a lot of variables. Factors like the size of your dog, how active it is, the breed, age, and the how severe the symptoms are, can all affect the the length of time the CBD will last.

Anything between 4 to 8 hours is what you can expect.

Monitoring Your Dog's Reaction to CBD Oil: Safety Guidelines

Monitoring your dog's reaction to CBD oil is a crucial aspect of ensuring its safety and effectiveness. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the signals to be aware of and how to monitor your dog after it has consumed CBD oil:

Understanding Your Dog's Normal Behavior

Before administering CBD oil, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your dog's normal behavior, energy levels, appetite, and other daily patterns. This baseline will help you recognize any changes or reactions that may occur after consuming CBD oil.

Observing Immediate Reactions

After administering CBD oil, pay close attention to your dog's immediate reactions. Look for signs of discomfort, such as drooling, pawing at the mouth, or signs of nausea. These may indicate an adverse reaction to the taste or texture of the oil.

Monitoring Physical Symptoms

Keep an eye on physical symptoms that may indicate an adverse reaction or overdose. These can include:

Lethargy or Drowsiness: While some relaxation is normal, excessive sleepiness may be a concern.

Diarrhea or Vomiting: These could signal an upset stomach or intolerance to the oil.

Changes in Appetite: A sudden increase or decrease in appetite may indicate a reaction.

Coordination Issues: Difficulty walking or a lack of coordination may be signs of an overdose.

Assessing Behavioral Changes

Observe your dog's behavior for any unusual changes, such as increased anxiety, aggression, or other behavioral shifts that are out of character. These could be signs of an underlying issue related to the CBD oil.

Monitoring for Long-Term Use

If you're using CBD oil for chronic conditions, regular monitoring is essential. Keep a journal or log of your dog's reactions, behavior, and any symptoms. Note the dosage and frequency, and make regular observations to detect any long-term effects or gradual changes.

Consulting with a Veterinarian

If you notice any concerning symptoms or reactions, consult with a veterinarian immediately. Regular check-ups with a vet can also be beneficial for ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the CBD oil regimen.

Consulting with a Veterinarian: When and Why It's Necessary

Consulting with a veterinarian is a vital step in the process of administering CBD oil to your dog, and it's essential to understand when and why it's necessary. Here's a detailed explanation:

Before Starting CBD Oil Treatment

Before introducing CBD oil into your dog's routine, it's wise to consult with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about CBD and its potential effects on animals. This initial consultation serves several purposes:

Assessment of Suitability: A veterinarian can evaluate your dog's specific condition, age, size, and overall health to determine if CBD oil is an appropriate treatment.

Dosage Recommendations: Proper dosing is crucial for effectiveness and safety. A veterinarian can provide personalized dosage guidelines based on your dog's unique needs.

Understanding Potential Interactions: If your dog is on other medications or supplements, a veterinarian can identify any potential interactions or contraindications with CBD oil.

During CBD Oil Treatment

Once you've started administering CBD oil, regular check-ins with a veterinarian can be beneficial for ongoing monitoring and adjustments:

Monitoring Reactions: A veterinarian can help you understand what reactions are normal and what might be a cause for concern.

Adjusting Dosage: As your dog's condition changes or if you notice specific reactions, a veterinarian can help adjust the dosage or frequency of CBD oil.

Addressing Concerns: If you have any questions or uncertainties during the treatment, a veterinarian can provide expert guidance and reassurance.

In Case of Adverse Reactions

If you notice any adverse reactions or symptoms that concern you, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is essential:

Emergency Situations: In the event of severe reactions, such as extreme lethargy, vomiting, or coordination issues, seek veterinary care right away.

Understanding Side Effects: A veterinarian can help you discern between normal side effects and signs of a more serious problem.

For Long-Term Use

If you plan to use CBD oil as a long-term treatment for chronic conditions, regular veterinary check-ups are advisable:

Ongoing Monitoring: Regular veterinary visits allow for ongoing monitoring of your dog's reaction to CBD oil and any potential long-term effects.

Tailoring Treatment: Over time, your dog's needs may change, and a veterinarian can help tailor the CBD oil treatment to continue meeting those needs effectively.

Conclusion

When administering CBD oil to a dog, just like with any other medicinal product, you must take precautions.

The first step is to consult your vet and regular communication with your vet is recommended.

This article is only a guide intended for informational purposes and can never replace the advice of a veterinary professional.

The post How to Administer CBD Oil to Dogs: Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Woof Bark Growl.

Learn how to administer CBD oil to a dog in the easiest and safest way possible. We explain dosage, methods of application and a lot more!

08/08/2023

CBD oil is often touted as an effective treatment for ailments like anxiety and epilepsy in dogs.

But, is it legal to give CBD oil to dogs? Should you give it to your dog?

In this guide, we explain where the UK law stands on CBD, especially for pets.

Table of Contents

1

Introduction to CBD and Its Uses

2

The Legal Status of CBD in the UK

3

The UK Law on CBD for Pets in 2023

4

Veterinary Perspective on CBD for Dogs

5

Conclusion

Introduction to CBD and Its Uses

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike its cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce the "high" associated with cannabis use.

Instead, CBD has been praised for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep.

CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system in the body that plays a role in regulating a wide array of functions and processes, including sleep, mood, appetite, memory, reproduction, and pain sensation.

By influencing the activity of the ECS, CBD can potentially help maintain balance in the body and promote overall well-being.

In recent years, CBD has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various health conditions in humans. It's used in various forms, including oils, edibles, creams, and capsules. Some people use it to relieve symptoms of chronic pain and inflammation, manage stress and anxiety, or improve sleep quality.

In this guide, we'll be concentrating on the application of CBD oil for dogs.

The Legal Status of CBD in the UK

In the United Kingdom, CBD is legal as long as it meets certain criteria.

Back in 2016, the government announced that CBD products could be classed as medicines instead of just general food supplements.

Some confusion arose in 2021, when the Food Standards Agency announced that companies had to apply for a novel foods license (novel foods are basically those that weren't available before 1997) to continue selling their CBD products in the UK. However, this just ensured stricter regulations to protect the consumer.

So, what criteria must CBD oil in the UK meet?

It can't contain more than 1mg of THC per container (THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis).

It must be derived from an industrial strain of h**p that is EU-approved.

Companies cannot guarantee any effects of well being.

It must be authorised by the FSA after meeting all criteria.

The UK Law on CBD for Pets in 2023

As of 2023, the use of CBD for pets in the UK is subject to the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, which stipulate that any product making medicinal claims must be authorized as a veterinary medicine.

As of now, no CBD products have been authorized for use in animals in the UK.

Therefore, it's illegal to sell CBD products for pets that claim to have medicinal properties.

However, CBD products can be used for pets if they are prescribed by a vet under the 'cascade' system.

This system allows vets to prescribe unauthorised medicines where there is no suitable authorised medicine available.

It's important to note that the decision to prescribe an unauthorised product is at the vet's professional discretion.

Veterinary Perspective on CBD for Dogs

From a veterinary perspective, the use of CBD in dogs is a topic of ongoing research and discussion.

While some studies suggest potential benefits of CBD for dogs, including relief from pain and anxiety, the evidence is not yet strong enough to make definitive conclusions.

The UK government advises pet owners to consult with their vets before giving their pets CBD products.

They caution that while CBD is often marketed as a natural remedy, it can still have side effects and interact with other medications. Plus, the dosages listed for humans would need to be significantly reduced for soemthing like a dog.

Therefore, it's crucial to use these products under the guidance of a vet.

In conclusion, while CBD has potential therapeutic benefits, its use in pets, particularly dogs, should be approached with caution.

Pet owners should always consult with their vet before introducing any new substances or medications into their pet's regimen.

As research continues, we can hope for clearer guidelines and more definitive evidence on the benefits and risks of CBD for pets. An interesting trial currently underway is investigating CBD as a treatment for canine epilepsy. If results of such trials were to show CBD oil as an effective treatment then we could see regulations change quite quickly in the UK.

Conclusion

The key takeaways here are as follows:

- Dedicated CBD oil for dogs just doesn't exist yet in the UK. The government is waiting for more research on the subject to be performed before regulating such a thing.

- That means you can't buy CBD for pets in the UK. If you see it then it has not been authorised and you should avoid it.

- Your vet can subscribe CBD oil for your dog (the same stuff humans take) if they feel it would be beneficial.

- You should consult your vet before giving your dog CBD oil yourself.

- If you choose to buy CBD oil make sure it's bought from a reputable store.

The post Can You Give Dogs CBD Oil? [UK Law On Pet CBD in 2023] appeared first on Woof Bark Growl.

02/02/2023

Ultimutt are a UK based company that offer home delivered dog boxes straight to your door.

Simply fill in a few details on their website about your dog's size, breed, name, and likes and dislikes and you can have a one-off or subscription box heading your way in just a day or two.

But what can you expect from a dog box and specifically what can you expect from an Ultimutt dog box?

Well, I was lucky enough to recently receive a complimentary birthday box from Ultimutt for my dog Edna.

In this article, I explain the process, what I received, what I thought about the whole thing, and most importantly what Edna thought about it all!

Table of Contents

1

What's a Dog Subscription Box?

2

What Do Ultimutt Offer?

3

What Did Edna Receive?

4

What Did Edna Think? Hit or Miss?

5

What Do I Think About Ultimutt Dog Boxes?

What's a Dog Subscription Box?

Dog subscription boxes are an increasingly popular way to keep your dog stimulated and entertained with very minimal effort on the owner's behalf.

A carefully curated box tailored to your dog arrives either monthly or bi-monthly. In it, you can expect to find treats, toys, grooming accessories and all sorts of goodies aimed at keeping your dog happy.

Not everyone has time to visit the pet shop or browse online, and one of the huge benefits with dog boxes like these is that it's a 'done for you' service. The only work required on the owner's part is initially divulging some basic facts about their dog in order to receive suitable gifts.

What Do Ultimutt Offer?

Ultimutt offer a dog box service with contents sourced from UK suppliers. They have a preference for operating with smaller, family run businesses so you'll find some really gorgeous treats in their boxes that you might not find in your local pet store.

They offer both one off dog boxes and subscription based boxes. Here's the current selection and prices, as of February 2023:

Subscription Boxes

Monthly Subscription: £22.99 per month

Bi-Monthly Subscription: £27.99 every 2 months

One Off Boxes

Birthday Box: £32.99

One Off Surprise Box: £29.99

Puppy Box: £21.99

Tough Dog Surprise Box: £29.99

What Did Edna Receive?

Edna with her Ultimutt birthday box

I was offered a box of my choosing for my dog, Edna. The timing was just perfect to be honest, with her birthday just days away. So, naturally I chose a birthday box.

I informed the Ultimutt team of her size and the fact that she's not overly keen on bones.

The custom birthday box arrived less than 48 hours later.

I've never had a birthday box before so I was curious what it contained. Here's what Edna got inside her Ultimutt box:

Benyfit Natural - Benyfit Bites

Petface Squeaky Ball

Iced Woofin - Dog Muffin

Smart Choice Happy Birthday Plush Toy

Smart Choice Glow in the Dark Squeaky Toy

Leaps & Bounds Woof Bar - Peanut Choc

Kong - Occasions Squeaky Toy

Pooch & Mutt - Mini Bone Dog Treats

A card addressed to Edna, a party hat, and a candle

What Did Edna Think? Hit or Miss?

Edna couldn't wait to get her box open. Something inside obviously smelled very attractive to her and she was immediately very excited.

Turns out it was a combination of the Benyfit Natural Bites and the Iced Woofin dog muffin.

Here's a summary of how each treat or toy was received by Edna and myself.

Benyfit Natural - Benyfit Bites

Edna has only has a few of these so far but they've been well received. 100% natural and grain free, they fall in line with the type of treats Edna gets on a regular basis. An unspectacular but crowd pleasing addition to the box.

Petface Squeaky Ball

Now Edna isn't actually a big fan of balls, well not tennis balls anyway, they're just a bit too big for her small jaws. However, this small ball was an instant hit. She was disinterested at first but when she heard the high pitched squeak it makes, she became obsessed! This ball was a surprise hit.

Iced Woofin - Dog Muffin

The smell of this carob sponge muffin topped with a crunchy bone immediately captivated Edna. There was no chance it was going to last long once opened and true to form it disappeared in a minute or so.

Actually, so too did Edna.

I was hoping to get a video of her eating it but she took it under the kitchen table, so I could only get a dimly lit picture of some crumbs. Here you go...

Edna finishing off the crumbs

Smart Choice Happy Birthday Plush Toy

This one was a bit of a miss. She loves the sound of the squeak but there's something about the shape and size of it that just doesn't appeal to her.

Smart Choice Glow in the Dark Squeaky Toy

I have to say, it's a curious design choice and a toy that I think we'll keep inside the house so none of the neighbours see and get their wires crossed! Anyway, see what you think from the picture below.

But, this one was a massive hit with Edna. She can't get enough of it and loves playing tug of war with it.

Leaps & Bounds Woof Bar - Peanut Choc

Another snack that was a big hit with Edna. It's a faux chocolate bar made with peanuts and oils. It smells just like peanut butter and is definitely one of the better smelling dog treats out there!

Kong - Occasions Squeaky Toy

This toy has so far been ignored in favour of the ball and the long pink thing. It may fall into favour if they get lost as she loves pulling on rope, so we'll see. The jury is out on this one so far.

Pooch & Mutt - Mini Bone Dog Treats

These wheat-free treats made with 100% natural ingredients were another hit with Edna. This is something I'll buy for her in the future.

Card, Party Hat and Candle

It was a nice touch to receive a personalised card. Edna wouldn't let me put the party hat on and I couldn't find matches to light the candle but they were gratefully received too.

What Do I Think About Ultimutt Dog Boxes?

Our Ultimutt Dog Birthday Box was a huge success.

Two of the toys in the box have become immediate favorites of Edna's (the pink squeaker and the ball) while every snack has been immediately devoured.

One of the toys has been disregarded (the plush bone toy) and one ignored in the meantime (the Kong squeaky toy). But, I'm confident the Kong toy will see some playtime in the near future.

I'd say that's a pretty impressive success rate. Of 8 items in the box, there's only been one 'miss'.

Now, there are certainly a few caveats to add here.

For starters, Edna is not a particularly fussy dog, not with food anyway. Being an ex-street dog, she's fond of any food she can get her paws on.

There's also the fact that every box is different. You need to trust that the team at Ultimutt know what they're doing and combined with the instructions you give them, that they can craft the perfect box for your dog too.

In my experience, the answer is yes they certainly can be relied on.

The final caveat here is that I didn't pay for my birthday box.

For that reason, I can't really comment on the value for money on offer here. All I can say is yes I had a positive experience.

This is something I'd definitely recommend as a birthday treat for your dog or somebody that you knows dog. There's no need to put time and effort into choosing a gift yourself when you can have things reliably chosen for you.

The post Ultimutt Dog Box Review: Tried & Tested appeared first on Woof Bark Growl.

I've tried the Ultimutt Dog Box service. Find out what I thought & if I recommend it in this Ultimutt Dog Box review.