Looking for more knowledge about your dog's health? On this page, you'll find various articles about the health and well-being of your dog. We discuss various herbs and minerals, but also delve deeper into conditions, diseases, and everything else related to dogs.
Guest blog
Feeding
Guest Blog Butternut: What Is Fresh Dog Food – and Why Are So Many Owners Fans?
Fresh dog food is a new kind of pet nutrition – focused on health, transparency, and convenience. And it’s no coincidence. More and more dogs suffer from sensitive stomachs, allergies, or weight issues. Others simply don’t enjoy their kibble. At the same time, dog parents want the best for their pets – but also convenience and peace of mind. That’s why fresh dog food is on the rise. But what exactly does “fresh” mean? And why should you switch?. What Is Fresh Dog Food? Think of fresh dog food like home cooking: fresh ingredients, gently cooked at low temperatures, with no unnecessary additives. Fresh meat, vegetables, herbs – tailored to what your dog really needs. No preservatives. No fillers. Just ingredients you recognise. Butternut Box cooks its meals at 90 °C and freezes them right away. This kills harmful bacteria while keeping vitamins and minerals intact – giving your dog the best of both worlds: safety and nutrition. Is It Diff...
Fleas & ticks
What are fleas and why do they make dogs itch?
Fleas are small parasitic insects that live on the bodies of animals such as dogs. They feed on blood and multiply quickly. Fleas are dark brown to black in color. They have no wings but can jump very well.. When your dog has fleas, it’s not necessarily due to poor hygiene – it can happen to anyone. For your dog, fleas are extremely irritating. They cause itching, red skin, and sometimes allergic reactions. Fleas can also transmit diseases. Fleas: an “explosive” problem Fleas feed on your dog’s blood. They reproduce very fast and can quickly become a serious infestation. Adult female fleas can lay hundreds of eggs, usually in the animal’s fur. The eggs fall off and develop in carpets, on sofas, or i...
Organs
Welfare
How to Keep Your Dog’s Heart and Blood Vessels Healthy
A strong heart and healthy blood vessels are vital for your dog’s well-being. Like humans, dogs can develop heart and circulatory diseases, especially as they age. While breed can play a role, proper nutrition and regular exercise are the main factors for a healthy cardiovascular system.. Heart problems are common in dogs. Certain breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dobermans, and Boxers are more prone to specific heart conditions. But other dogs can develop heart problems as well. Heart and blood vessel problems The most common cardiovascular problems in dogs are: valve diseases, heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathy), and high blood pressure. Small breeds often suffer from valve problems, while large dogs are more likely to develop heart muscle issues. Overweight, po...
Digestion
Digestive Problems in Dogs
The digestive tract runs “from mouth to tail,” and anywhere along the way, dogs can develop digestive issues. The stomach and intestines are most commonly affected. Here’s an overview of digestive problems in dogs.. After chewing, food passes through the esophagus into the stomach, where stomach acid begins the main digestion process. From there, it moves into the small intestine and then the large intestine, where nutrients are absorbed before waste leaves the body. Stomach Problems Typical signs of stomach issues include burping, nausea, and vomiting. When the stomach doesn’t function properly, ulcers are present, or food moves too slowly into the small intestine, a dog may vomit. Vomiting shortly after e...
Organs
Resistance
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The Function of the Spleen in Dogs
The spleen is an important but often overlooked organ in dogs. It functions as both a blood filter and a storage organ, and also plays a key role in the immune system. Dogs can develop several types of spleen disorders.. The spleen is a dark red, elongated organ located in the abdominal cavity near the stomach. It has several essential functions: Filtering blood: The spleen removes old or damaged red blood cells and other waste products from circulation. Storing blood: It stores blood and iron, which can be quickly released in emergencies such as blood loss. Immune system support: The spleen helps defend against infections by producing white blood cells and antibodies. Blood cell production: In young dogs, the s...
Detox
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Supporting Your Dog’s Liver and Kidneys
The liver and kidneys are vital organs for mammals. Both filter the blood and remove waste products. The liver also plays an important role in digestion, storing certain vitamins, and producing essential proteins. Healthy liver and kidney function is therefore crucial.. When your dog develops liver or kidney issues, you’ll often notice increased drinking and urination first. Other signs include poor appetite, weight loss, and blood in the urine. Yellow gums are a clear indicator of liver or bile duct problems. Healthy Nutrition Diet is one of the most important factors for supporting kidney and liver health. Choose high-quality food with easily digestible proteins and avoid excessive salt. For dogs with kidney problems, a special renal diet is recommended. Thes...
Joints
Clove
Silicon
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Silicon, Herbs or a Clove Supplement for Joint Problems?
When searching for solutions to joint issues and mobility problems in dogs, you’ll come across a variety of recommendations. On AskHeltie, you can also read about different supplements that may help relieve stiffness, pain, and lameness. But how do they work – and when should you choose which one?. As is often the case, it depends. Do you want to prevent joint problems because you have a young dog or a breed that is more prone to conditions such as osteoarthritis or arthritis? Or do you have an older dog with chronic joint issues that you want to relieve from pain and stiffness? Choosing the right supplement – or a combination – should be tailored to each dog. Building Block Let’s start with silicon: this mineral supports the production of joint fluid, collagen, cartilage, and bone. It sti...
Joints
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Devil’s Claw for Dogs: A Miracle Remedy for Pain?
Devil’s claw is often used for dogs suffering from joint problems such as osteoarthritis and arthritis. It has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, helping dogs feel less stiff and move more easily. But is it really a miracle cure?. The South African plant Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum spp.) has traditionally been used to relieve pain and inflammation – not only in humans but also in animals such as dogs and horses. It can be given long-term and is safe at the right dosage. Scientific research has shown that devil’s claw has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It also helps balance the immune system and supports liver function. Most commonly, it is used for joint problems – and its effectiveness for these issues h...
Joints
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How to Keep Your Dog’s Joints in Top Shape
As your dog gets older or if he is very active, various joint problems may arise. This can cause stiffness, slower movement, and difficulty getting up. To keep your dog’s joints in top condition for as long as possible, you need to make sure he gets all the essential building blocks. In addition, waste products must be eliminated properly to prevent damage. Finally, herbs can help fight joint inflammation.. Active dogs are prone to overuse and wear and tear. Overweight dogs also place extra strain on their joints and bones. In older dogs, cartilage – which cushions the joints – becomes thinner, joint fluid decreases, and wear can occur. When cartilage thins, the bones rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. This condition is known as osteoarthritis. Not only osteoarthritis but also arthritis can cause mobility problems in older dogs. Arthritis is characterized by swollen, inf...
Magnesium
Feeding
How to Keep Your Dog’s Muscles in Top Shape
A healthy and happy dog – that’s what we all want! Especially if you have an active breed, such as a working dog or a hunting dog, exercise is essential. Maybe you even want to do sports with your dog. But what else is important to get and keep your dog’s muscles in top condition?. When your dog is physically fit, has enough muscle mass, and good stamina, he will be happier, more energetic, and have a stronger immune system. The risk of injuries is also lower when your dog is well-muscled. Dogs that exercise regularly and are challenged by training are usually more obedient and less stressed. So there are plenty of reasons to pay attention to your dog’s muscles and overall fitness. Physical Exercise Regular exercise is essential for keeping your dog’s muscles and joints he...
Feeding
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Which vitamins does your dog produce itself?
Dogs can produce some essential vitamins in their own bodies, while others must be obtained through food. In short: Dogs can (partly) produce vitamin D, vitamin K, and vitamin C themselves. Vitamin A, vitamin E, and B vitamins must be included in their diet. Note: Even the self-produced vitamins often need some dietary supplementation. Don't give too much Dogs can produce vitamin D in their skin through exposure to sunlight, although this process is less efficient than in humans, partly due to t...
Feeding
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What Are Trace Elements and What Is Their Function?
A dog needs vitamins, minerals, and trace elements in its daily diet. Trace elements—also called microminerals—are required in very small amounts. Important trace elements for dogs include copper, iodine, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc. These minerals are needed in minimal quantities for proper bodily function.. Copper Recent years have seen more regulation around copper levels in dog food. In Europe, a legal maximum limit now exists (2.8 mg per 100 g dry matter). Copper is crucial for many physiological processes, including enzymatic reactions, neurotransmitter production, collagen formation, and iron absorption. Both deficiency and excess must be avoided. Regulation in the body depends on absorption in the gut, excretion, and interactions with other nutrients. Certain breeds, like Labrador Retrievers,...