Welcome to Dr Scott's Q&A page, where we post all of your doggy health and nutrition questions to Dr Scott for him to answer. Dr Scott is well known for the being the vet on ITV's This Morning show, as well as being Barking Heads' biggest advocate!
Plant-Powered Pooches update: we've had loads of great questions regarding our new veggie product, so we've got Dr Scott to make a special video to answer some of them - scroll to the bottom of this page to watch the video
Dogs are omnivores, so need both meat and vegetables in their diets and they need the vitamins and minerals that only the right combination of the two can provide. Barking Heads recipes all contain over 50% meat, which is a great starting point, but crucially they also all contain the right combination of veg and extra vitamins and minerals that dogs need to be at their best. Barking Heads even make a vegetarian product called Plant-Powered Pooches that can be mixed with their meat products or fed as an occasional alternative to meat, to give them an even healthier and more environmentally friendly diet.
It's always hard to know what to feed the newest member of your family, but I always recommend Barking Heads' Puppy Days to my clients when they ask me. It contains all the vitamins and minerals that young dogs need, such as extra calcium for bone development. Puppy days is available in two sizes, for larger breeds and standard breed dogs, as well as in a tasty wet pouch. I suggest mixing wet and dry to give the best dinner for your puppy.
I would always recommend introducing a new food slowly into your pet's diet, as you don't want to cause a shock to the system. I would suggest gently mixing your current food with the new product gradually over 5 days or so. As the days go by increase the amount of the new feed and decrease the amount of the old feed.
Aside from the company's great ethics and commitment to doing the right thing for pets, I recommend Barking Heads and Meowing Heads because the products simply contain everything your pet needs to maintain good health. The high meat content, combined with all the vitamins, fresh veg and minerals provides the perfect balance for your pet. All of the ingredients are natural and carefully sourced, so you can be sure that your're feeding the best with Barking and Meowing Heads.
The signs that your dog has an allergy are similar to what you'd expect from a human with an allergy. So, if you notice them itching a lot, or if their stools aren't consistent then you should consider taking them to a vet first and foremost to make sure there is nothing more seriously wrong. Once you're sure there is nothing serious underlying, you should definetely try them on a grain free product, such as Barking Heads Pooched Salmon or Duck.
We've just launched our new vegetarian food, Plant-Powered Pooches! We've already had lots of questions from customers regarding this exciting new launch, so we've got Dr Scott to make this video to talk you through the wonders of plant power!
In this report, we’re looking at what dog food waste really looks like, why it happens, and, most importantly, how you can tackle it at home. To give you the best advice, we’ve teamed up with our two top pet pros, Adem Fehmi and Dr Scott.
Discover expert advice on what to feed your dog from puppyhood to old age. Learn about the best dog food for each life stage, senior diets, and how to meet your dog’s changing nutritional needs.
Why meditate with your dog? Let’s face it - modern life can be ruff sometimes. We know our dogs bring us endless joy, but taking just a few minutes each day to be still with your dog can also do wonders for your mental wellbeing. Studies show that meditating with your dog can lower stress levels, improve focus, and deepen your bond with your pet - all contributing to better mental health. And it's not just the humans who benefit - dogs can pick up on our energy, so a calmer you means a calmer pooch. It’s a great way to bring a little balance to both your lives, and take a little time for yourself. From lowering heart rates to creating stronger connections, shared mindfulness can help both species feel more grounded. Getting started with dog meditation Ready to try it out? Here’s how to get started: 1. Pick a quiet space - a cosy corner, a soft rug, or even your garden. Anywhere that feels safe and still for both of you. 2. Choose a comfy position - you can sit cross-legged with your dog lying beside you, or even on your lap if they choose. You could also: Sit with your back against a wall and your legs stretched out, your dog curled up on your legs or chest. Lie down in Savasana (flat on your back) and let your dog snuggle next to you. Cuddle side-by-side on the sofa with your hand resting gently on their chest or belly. Kneel with your dog in front of you, stroking them gently as you breathe. 3. Breathe slowly and deeply - your calm breath will help soothe your pup. Inhale peace, exhale stress. 4. Try a meditation guide – if you’re struggling to quite your mind, why not try a guided meditation? There are many free guides available online. 5. Keep it short and sweet - start with just 5 minutes and build from there. It’s not a race to enlightenment - it’s about shared stillness. 6. Stay present - don’t worry if your dog fidgets, licks your nose or flops dramatically onto their back. That’s part of the fun. Let them be themselves. We asked dog yoga expert and author, Mahny Djahanguiri, to share a visualisation and breathing technique for meditation with your dog. This practice helps you reconnect with your body while also attuning to your dog’s energy. “Find a place to lie on your back in Shavasana. Palms turned up, feet relaxed, and eyes closed. You can use music to come into this space. Your dog doesn’t need to be next to you, even if he paces around in the room or comes to lick your face - ignore! Now imagine you had a piece of chalk, any colour you wish. Slowly, in your mind's eye draw a line around your outer body. Take as much time as you need but try to really focus on the shape of your body, eg draw along the inner arm, fingers, hair …. Try not to miss out any part…. Of course, relax, as you're doing this. Notice your breath slowing down. Breathing in and out, through your nose or open mouth. Notice your face softens, belly relaxes. Now do the same thing gain the other direction. Find out light your body is becoming or how heavy your body is becoming… notice the sensations in your body. Notice how the lines start to illuminate your body like a beautiful crystal frame… When your done try to do the same thing maybe choosing another colour and do the visualisation exercise keeping the shape of your dog's body in mind. This can be challenging at first, don’t worry if you can hold onto the form of your dog, if you draw the mind back without force.” Enhance the experience with relaxation sounds and music Did you know that dogs actually love chill music? Not only can it calm anxious dogs, but it can also help them settle faster and snooze more soundly. Try pairing your session with dog meditation music or dog relaxation sounds. We’re loving this soothing Spotify playlist tailored just for pups. Think gentle tones, steady rhythms, and serious tail-wag potential. How to build a lasting routine for you and your dog Consistency is key. Whether it’s a few mindful moments after your morning walk or a pre-bedtime cuddle and breathe session, weaving meditation into your daily routine can help it stick. Here are some positive reinforcement tips: Pair meditation with an already established habit (like mealtime or walkies). Use a soft voice cue or signal to start the session. Reward calm behaviour with gentle praise or a tasty treat. Let your dog come and go as they please - no pressure, just presence. And most importantly? Enjoy the journey. Every shared breath, every still moment, is a step towards a happier, healthier life together. Want to explore more ways to support your dog’s mental wellbeing? Take a peek at our Dog Mental Health Guide for expert tips, helpful signs to look out for, and everyday ways to help your best mate feel their best.