Your Top 10 Dog Questions, Answered by Betty & Butch

Every single day in our Chorlton and Handforth stores, our team gets asked brilliant questions by pet parents who genuinely want the very best for their dogs. Some come up again and again, and honestly, we love it every time. It means you care. So we thought it was about time we put the answers all in one place.

Here are the top 10 questions we get asked most, answered by the Betty & Butch team.

1. What Is the Best Food to Feed My Dog?

The honest answer? It depends on your dog. Age, breed, size, activity level and any health conditions all play a part. But here is what we always say: start with the ingredients list. The protein source should be the number one ingredient, and it should be something you recognise. Think named meats like chicken, salmon or turkey, not vague terms like "meat derivatives."

At Betty & Butch, we specialise in natural and grain-free nutrition, and we have seen first-hand how the right food can transform a dog's coat, digestion, energy levels and overall wellbeing. Whether you are looking for adult dog food, something specially formulated for puppies or the right nutrition for a senior dog, we have something for every stage of life.

Not sure where to start? Come in and have a chat with us. That is literally what we are here for.

2. Is Grain-Free Dog Food Actually Better?

This one comes up constantly, and it is a great question. Grain-free food was developed primarily for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies, and for those dogs, it can make a genuinely significant difference. Reduced itching, better digestion, improved coat condition, fewer upset tummies. We have heard it all.

What grain-free really means in practice is that the carbohydrate source comes from things like sweet potato, lentils or chickpeas rather than wheat, corn or rice. For many dogs, these are much easier to digest and sit far better in their system.

If your dog is thriving on their current food, there is no need to switch for the sake of it. But if you are noticing signs of sensitivity, it could absolutely be worth exploring. Our team in both stores can help you work through the options and find the right fit.

3. How Much Should I Feed My Dog?

More pet parents get this wrong than you might think, and it is not their fault. Feeding guides on packaging are a starting point, not a rule. Your dog's ideal portion depends on their weight, age, how active they are, and whether they are getting treats on top of their meals (which they absolutely should be, but more on that below).

A good rule of thumb is to feed to your dog's ideal body weight, not their current weight if they are carrying a few extra pounds. You should be able to feel, but not clearly see, your dog's ribs. And when you look down at them from above, there should be a visible waist.

If in doubt, our team are always happy to help you work it out in store. Bring them along if you can, we love the visitors.

4. Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

You are definitely not alone in wondering this. It is one of the most Googled dog questions in the UK, with over 130,000 searches every year. The truth is that scientists do not yet have a definitive answer. The most widely held theories are that dogs eat grass to settle an upset stomach, out of boredom, or simply because they enjoy the taste and texture.

The occasional munch on the lawn is generally nothing to worry about. However, if your dog is grazing obsessively or being sick regularly afterwards, it is always worth a visit to your vet to rule out anything underlying.

5. Can My Dog Eat Human Food?

Some of it, yes. A fair amount of it, absolutely not. Here is a quick guide to help you out.

Generally fine in moderation: Lean cooked meats, cooked salmon or white fish, carrots, blueberries, apple (no seeds or core), banana, cooked sweet potato and plain cooked rice.

Keep well away from your dog at all times: Chocolate, grapes and raisins (even tiny amounts can be toxic), onions and garlic, avocado, macadamia nuts, xylitol (found in many sugar-free products and chewing gum), and anything containing alcohol.

When in doubt, leave it out. If you are ever unsure whether something is safe, give us a shout or contact your vet before offering it to your dog.

6. What Are the Best Treats for Dogs?

Not all treats are created equal, and this is something we feel passionately about at Betty & Butch. Many mass-market treats are loaded with artificial colours, preservatives, added sugar and low-quality fillers. For a dog eating lovely natural food, it makes little sense to undo all of that good work with a treat full of ingredients you cannot pronounce.

We stock a brilliant range of natural dog treats including single-ingredient dried meats, fish treats, air-dried chews and functional treats that support joint health, dental hygiene and skin and coat condition. We also have a gorgeous range of treats specifically for puppies, and if you fancy treating your dog to something really special, our Dog Deli range is the stuff of tail-wagging dreams.

As a general guide, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

7. How Do I Know If My Dog Has a Food Allergy or Sensitivity?

Food sensitivities in dogs are more common than many people realise, and they often go undiagnosed for months or even years. The signs to look out for include:

• Persistent itching, particularly around the ears, paws and belly
• Recurring ear infections
• Red or inflamed skin
• Loose stools, excessive wind or frequent digestive upsets
• A dull, patchy or flaky coat

The most effective way to identify a food intolerance is through an elimination diet, where you feed a simple novel protein source for 8 to 12 weeks to see whether symptoms improve. Our Peptide+ Hypoallergenic Dog Food range is specifically developed for dogs with sensitivities, and our Superfood Dog Food collection offers a fantastic step up in ingredient quality for dogs who need a little extra love.

Our team can help you choose the right starting point in store.

8. Raw Feeding vs Dry Food: Which Is Better?

This is probably the most hotly debated topic in the pet food world, and the honest answer is that both can work brilliantly when done properly.

Raw feeding advocates often report improved digestion, better dental health, shinier coats and higher energy levels. Done well, with the right balance of meat, bone and offal, it is a genuinely fantastic option. If you prefer something closer to raw but without the complexity, our Fidelis Gently Cooked Dog Food offers minimally processed, high-quality nutrition that sits beautifully in the middle ground.

High-quality dry food made with natural ingredients, named protein sources and no artificial nasties can absolutely be the foundation of a healthy, happy life. Wet dog food is also a brilliant option for fussy eaters, dogs who need extra hydration or those who simply deserve a bit of variety in their bowl.

Come into either of our stores and we will talk you through everything, with no pressure and no jargon. Just honest advice.

9. How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?

Most dogs only need bathing every four to six weeks, though this varies depending on breed, coat type and how much of a talent your dog has for finding mud. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from your dog's skin and coat, leading to dryness and irritation, particularly in dogs already prone to sensitivities.

Between baths, a regular brushing routine works wonders. We stock a range of natural, chemical-free grooming products that are gentle on sensitive skin and kind to your dog's coat without any of the harsh ingredients you often find in mainstream brands.

If your dog has existing skin issues, look for shampoos that are soap-free, fragrance-free and pH balanced for dogs. Our team are always happy to point you in the right direction.

10. Why Does My Dog Eat So Fast?

Speed eating is very common, especially in rescue dogs who may have had to compete for food in their earlier life. The concern is that gulping food down quickly can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort, so it is well worth taking steps to slow things down.

Simple solutions include using a slow feeder bowl, a licki mat or a snuffle mat, all of which make mealtimes more mentally stimulating and naturally encourage your dog to eat at a slower, healthier pace. Feeding slightly smaller, more frequent meals can also help. You can explore a great range of interactive feeding toys and games in store and online.

If your dog regularly seems uncomfortable after eating, or you notice a visibly distended stomach or signs of distress, it is always worth speaking to your vet promptly.

We Are Always Here to Help

No question is too small when it comes to your dog's health and happiness. That is the whole reason Betty & Butch exists. Whether you pop into our Chorlton (Manchester) or Handforth (Wilmslow) store, our team are always on hand to help you find the right food, treats and products for your individual dog.

Shop our full range online or get in touch and we will do our best to help.

Because every dog deserves the very best.

Betty & Butch is an award-winning independent dog store specialising in natural, grain-free and chemical-free pet food, treats and accessories. Find us in Chorlton, Manchester and Handforth, Wilmslow.