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Why Good Nutrition Is the Foundation of a Well-Behaved, Happy Dog

 Why Good Nutrition Is the Foundation of a Well-Behaved, Happy Dog

By Lauren Conway, Lead the Way Dog Training

We all know that food fuels our bodies but it also shapes our behaviour, mood, energy, and even our ability to learn. The same is true for dogs. As a dog trainer, one of the first questions I ask new clients is: What are you feeding your dog?

Why? Because nutrition directly impacts behaviour, training success, and overall wellbeing.

In this blog, I’ll explain why high-quality nutrition matters and share my favourite dog food brand Butternut Box that makes feeding fresh, healthy meals simple and stress-free.

Behaviour Starts in the Bowl

Just like us, dogs can’t focus, learn, or stay calm when their nutritional needs aren’t being met. Poor-quality kibble or overly processed food can lead to:

  • Hyperactivity or low energy

  • Digestive issues or discomfort

  • Excessive barking or reactivity

  • Difficulty focusing during training

  • Skin or coat problems

  • Frequent illness or a weakened immune system

I’ve seen dramatic behavioural improvements in dogs simply by upgrading their diet. More energy in the right way, better mood regulation, and an overall boost in trainability.

What Makes a Great Dog Food?

When choosing a food for your dog, look for:

  • Real, whole-food ingredients: Meat, veg, healthy fats, and no fillers.

  • High-quality protein sources: Not just “meat meal” or by-products.

  • No artificial preservatives, colours, or additives

  • Tailored to your dog’s age, size, and lifestyle

  • Easy to digest and free from common irritants (like wheat or soy)

This is where fresh dog food shines and where Butternut Box absolutely delivers.

Why I Recommend Butternut Box

I don’t recommend just any dog food brand. But Butternut Box stands out for all the right reasons:

  • Human-quality ingredients cooked gently and delivered fresh to your door

  • Personalised meal plans based on your dog’s age, breed, activity level, and health

  • Transparent labelling you can actually understand every ingredient listed

  • Dogs love the taste (seriously, even fussy eaters go wild for it)

  • Eco-conscious packaging and a commitment to animal welfare

It’s a brilliant option whether you're feeding a brand-new puppy or looking to support an older dog with a sensitive stomach or behavioural challenges.

And the best bit? You can try it with 50% off your first 2 boxes using my referral link below.

www.butternutbox.com/Leadtheway50 

Nutrition & Training Go Hand-in-Hand

When your dog is getting the nutrients they need:

  • Their brain functions better, making training more effective

  • Their energy levels stabilise, reducing frustration-based behaviours

  • Their gut health improves, which boosts mood and overall resilience

  • You’ll likely notice better sleep, coat, teeth, and even breath

Training is easier and more enjoyable for both of you when your dog feels good from the inside out.

A Few Tips for Feeding Success

  • Use part of your dog’s meals for training treats—especially with high-value food like Butternut Box

  • Introduce new food gradually to avoid upset stomachs

  • Always provide fresh water

  • If your dog is particularly anxious or reactive, talk to your vet about using a fresh food diet to support behaviour work

Let’s Set Your Dog Up for Success

At Lead the Way Dog Training, I believe in a holistic approach to behaviour because a dog’s body and brain are deeply connected. Whether your dog struggles with reactivity, focus, or just needs a better start, nutrition is always part of the bigger picture.

Ready to support your dog from the inside out?

Switch to Butternut Box today and enjoy 50% off your first 2 boxes:
www.butternutbox.com/Leadtheway50

Or reach out to me to chat about how we can combine good food, smart training, and compassionate support to bring out the best in your dog.

Lead the Way Dog Training
Science-based, reward-focused, and ready to help your dog thrive.

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