Nutrition and Behaviour Consultations
backed by science.

Dr Emma provides informative and supportive consultations, backed by science. All advice is specifically tailored to your dog and their unique needs.

Let’s Get Your Dog Happy & Healthy Together

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Meet me, Dr Emma

PhD Veterinary Medicine & Science

I'm Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD. I'm a canine scientist, nutritionist and behaviourist. I have a PhD in Veterinary Medicine and Science from the University of Surrey, U.K. and an MSc in Animal Behaviour from University of Exeter, U.K.. I specialise in canine health, behaviour and quality of life in both healthy dogs and those with chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, dementia and pruritus. As a scientist, my advice is backed by the latest scientific evidence! I'm also not a veterinarian, so my advice is independent.

I'm looking forward to helping your pup receive the best advice and nutrition to lead a long and happy life! Check out my different consultation options to see how I can best help your pup. Or contact me today if you have any questions!

What I Specialise In...

Puppy Guides

Establishing Healthy Eating Habits

Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle

Personalised Guides

Setting Health Goals

Learn More

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Let’s Get Your Dog
Happy & Healthy Together

Featured in the news this week! 📰 🌟

With @caninecottages, I’ve been featuring in multiple news outlets talking about this common dog behaviour, which can be also mean something else… We all know dogs pant to keep cool, but many don’t realise or forget it can also be a sign of anxiety too!
Check out the articles online and follow the link in my ‘press’ highlight to read more.

#dogbehaviour #inthenews #dogbehaviourexpert #featured

Does feeding your dog feel stressful… or calming? 🍽️🐾

For some owners, mealtimes feel rushed, messy and frustrating.
For others, it’s one of the few quiet moments of connection in the day.

And honestly? Both are valid.

Modern dog owners are juggling busy homes, work, family, routines and endless advice online, so feeding can easily become just another task to tick off.

But food is about more than nutrition alone.

🧠 The way we feed our dogs can influence their:
• Behaviour
• Emotional wellbeing
• Stress levels
• Mental stimulation
• Routine & predictability
• Even the relationship between them and us owners

Small changes like slowing meals down, adding enrichment, or making feeding feel more intentional can turn mealtimes from chaotic to calming for both us and our dogs.

Not perfect.
Not Pinterest-worthy.
Just calmer, more connected and more enjoyable.

🐾 Sometimes improving your dog’s wellbeing starts with improving the daily moments you share together.

💬 So tell me honestly…
Does feeding your dog currently feel:
😵‍💫 Stressful & chaotic
or
😌 A peaceful part of your day?

#DogNutrition #DogBehaviour #CanineNutrition #EnrichmentForDogs #DogFoodTips

Win a week here? Yes please! 🐾✨

@caninecottages’ latest competition is giving you the chance to win a luxury stay at Tides View, Appledore - a stunning 5‑star Devon escape with sea views, an enclosed garden, a hot tub, space for up to 8 guests and room for 3 dogs 🏡🌊🐶

To enter:
😍 Share a short video showing what life looks like because of your dog - whether that’s scenic walks, holiday memories, muddy paws or total adorable chaos
😍 Use #CanineCottagesCollective in your caption
🏡 If you’d like, you can also tag @caninecottages to help other members spot your content easily 🐾

Your dog could win you a one‑week stay in Devon… 🐾✨

*T&Cs apply

#CompetitionTime #StaycationUK #Devon #DogFriendly

Just because it’s in a book or even a scientific journal, doesn’t always make it true or right. AI can only regurgitate information, it cannot tell you the quality, validity or accuracy of the information. And sometimes, it cannot tell you where it got the answer from at all!
Critical thinking can be hard and it is something I’ve had to consciously overcome myself. But it’s important to ask to see the original source, do our own research and question the information we’re being told.

What do you find scary about AI?

#aitools #dogscience #criticalthinking #caninescience #dogbehavior

Collagen chews are more than just a tasty treat! 🐶✨
They are a simple, more natural way to support your dog’s health from the inside out. My dog Leo’s been loving getting his teeth into these new long lasting collagen chews with lots of benefits 🦴

✔️ Supports joint health & mobility
✔️ Promotes healthy skin & a shiny coat
✔️ Helps maintain strong connective tissues
✔️ Aids in digestion and gut health
✔️ Helps clean teeth

This high-value chew is a fantastic way to supplement their diet with collagen. You’re boosting their wellbeing and keeping them happy!

@poochandmutt ‘s new collagen chews come in three flavours:
❤️ Primal - Beef chew 🥩 designed to support healthy skin & coat, joint and mobility, and cleans teeth & gums.
💚Health & Digestion - Tripe & Fennel chew = designed to support gut health, mobility & joint health and healthy skin & coat.
💜Calm & Relaxed - Chamomile & Hemp chew = designed to support with calming, joint & mobility and healthy skin & coat.

Have you tried collagen chews with your dog?

If you’d like to get your paws on some too, don’t forget you can use our code POOCHPACK-VR08 for a massive 30% off your whole order with @poochandmutt 💙 AD - AFFILIATE

#poochandmutt #poochcollagenchews #poochpack #collagenchews #dognutritionist

Dog-friendly holidays with you and your dog in mind! 🐶 🧳

AD | My dog and I had a magical stay at Tides View in Appledore, Devon. It was so relaxing and a much needed rest and re-set for me. They also really thought of everything to make the stay extra special for Leo, including providing treats, water/food bowls, blankets, tennis ball and poo bags! It really highlighted how special @caninecottages Canine Comfort Collection is for dog-friendly escapes. I can’t wait to visit again and their other incredible properties across the UK!

📍Tides View, Appledore, Devon (link in bio 🔗)
• 3 dogs welcomed
• 4 bed (2 super kings with en-suites, one double and one twin)
• Sea views
• Hot tub
• Electric real-flame feature fire
• Coast paths right on your doorstep
• Smart TVs
• Games room snug

Where will you visit next with your dog? 🐾

#caninecomfort #wellnessstays #dogfriendlyholidays #dogfriendlydevon #ukstaycation

Do you do canicross or trail runs with your dog? 🐕 🏃🏼‍♀️

I’ve been featured in a few local news outlets with @caninecottages talking about the benefits of being outdoors and going for a run with your dog! 👟 🐾

Check out the link in my “Press” highlight to read the top recommended places to visit. Make it a holiday with a @caninecottages stay! The Cotswolds made it to number 8…what do you think was voted number 1?!

#canicross #canicrossdogs #trailrunning #trailrundog #ukstaycation

How was @crufts 2 weeks ago already?!
I had the most incredible time working at Crufts with @poochandmutt 💟 Here was my day and all I got up to!

Featuring the adorable @ketteringdogwalkers @hattie_the_gsp @chester.apollo.ares 💙

#poochpackatcrufts #poochandmutt #dogbehaviourist #crufts2026 #spendthedaywithme

Does your dog love a party? 🥳 Or prefer the quiet life? 🍃
Some dogs love guests coming to the house and getting all the extra attention. However some dogs can really struggle with it and find it so stressful.

Watch for signs your dog is trying to leave, shaking, excessively panting and or drooling, licking their lips, whale eye and not acting themselves.
Always keep an eye on them, especially around children and food.
Consider using calming collars, calming treats or getting a sitter/boarder.

My dog love the extra cuddles! What does your dog think of them?

#dogbehaviour #dogparty #partydog #doganxietyhelp

Like so many of us, I was shocked and saddened to hear how the overall winner of Crufts’ owner was previously convicted of animal abuse and that the dog is promoting unhealthy breed standards. (Although it has been great to shine a light on a less well known breed).
However, I am not calling for Crufts to be boycotted or cancelled. Personally, I think Crufts is a fantastic event, there’s so much good in it. Instead, I call on The Royal Kennel Club and organisers to do more to educate owners; work with veterinarians, animal scientists and judges to amend current breed standards in favour of health breed standards; and to do more to prevent animal abuse in the ring and around the event.
Make it a platform for education and change.

What are your thoughts? Cancel Crufts, or time to make a change?

#crufts2026 #crufts #thekennelclubuk #cruftscontroversy #bestinshow

Being part of @poochandmutt ‘s stand at @crufts was an absolute dream! 💚🏆🐾
Chatting to owners about their dog’s behaviour, giving two talks, lots of mini interviews, working with an incredible team, it was all so much fun! I was so proud to represent @poochandmutt as well! 🌟

Massive thank you to everyone who came to support me and Pooch & Mutt! The puppy cuddles and chats made my day!

Did you spot @poochandmutt ‘s MASSIVE announcement in my pics?! 👀 LAUNCHING SOON! 🚀

#poochandmutt #poochpackatcrufts #crufts #crufts2026 #forallbreedsandneeds

@poochandmutt at @crufts 2026 sneak peak!🌟
I had the absolute best time at Crufts with Pooch & Mutt! It was a fantastic atmosphere, phenomenal stall and all round brilliant day!

Massive thanks to everyone who came to say hi, who agreed to a little interview and listened to my talks! 💙

Who else spotted the new food launching soon 👀 SO EXCITING!!

#crufts #crufts2026 #poochandmutt #dogfood

The top tips you didn’t know you needed for @crufts 2026 💚 Part 2!

#crufts #crufts2026 #cruftsdogshow #toptips

The top tips you didn’t know you needed for @crufts 2026 💚 Part 1!

#crufts #crufts2026 #cruftsdogshow #toptips

🌟 Exciting news! I’m heading to @crufts this year to appear on @poochandmutt ‘s incredible stand! 🏆

Head to Hall 3, Stall 134 to meet me and ask your dog behaviour questions, pick up your free goodies including exclusive crufts treats and free coffee AND so much more!
I’m honoured to be included in their panel of experts and this stand isn’t to be missed! Can’t wait to meet you there 💙

Let me know in the comments if you’re going! 😃

#crufts #crufts2026 #meetandgreet #dogshow #bestdogfood

AD | A whole year on…here are my thoughts and how we’ve been using @tractive .

Spoiler alert! We’re still going strong! I’m so surprised how many ways it has helped us. From seeing what my dog REALLY thinks of our new adopted cat, to helping support his separation anxiety.

Not only can it give you peace of mind, but also a better understanding of your dog! Allowing you to seek veterinary or behavioural advice for them sooner.

If you don’t have one already for your dog, use my code DREMMA to get a massive 40% off! 💙

#tractivegps #pethealthtips #doghealth #wearabletechnology #dogbehaviourist

📰 Top signs your dog loves you too! 💘🐶 Featured in Express & other outlets.

With @caninecottages, I shared the key behaviours that dogs use to show their love.

Can you guess all 11?! 💖 Check out the article to reveal them all - link on my ‘Press’ highlight.

#inthenews #featured #valentinesdog #puppylove #dogbehaviourist

Why practising recall matters …even if your dog is “good enough” 🐕‍🦺✨

Recall isn’t about control, it’s about safety, freedom and trust 🩵

🧠 Practising recall with positive reinforcement strengthens neural pathways linked to motivation and focus. Repeated success builds confidence and confidence supports calmer decision-making in dogs.

😋 High-value rewards matter because they compete with the environment — not every situation is equally motivating. If you need to keep bringing treats to ensure it works - BRING THE TREATS! 💕

A reliable recall:
🐾 Keeps your dog safe around roads, livestock and other dogs
🐾 Allows more off-lead freedom and choice
🐾 Builds responsiveness in exciting or distracting environments
🐾 Strengthens your dog’s bond with you by working on your dog’s ability to check in with you

🌟 #happierdogchallenge day 22:
Practice 3 recall reps on your walk today:
• Start close
• Reward generously
• End on a success!

Remember to use the hashtag and tag us if you practice this. I’d love to see!

🐾 Treats featured are @poochandmutt ‘s calming meaty treats! Use code POOCHPACK-VR08 for a massive 30% off 💜 Ad

💬 Let me know in the comments, where does your dog find recall hardest?
Beach / Park / Woods / Around dogs?

#recalltraining #puppyrecall #recallpractice #dogrecall

All the ways I can tell if a dog’s food suits them 🧠🍽️
(as a dog nutritionist)

I don’t judge a diet by trends, buzzwords or ingredient lists alone.
I start with what the dog is showing me.

Here’s what I look for first:

💩 Stools
Consistent, well-formed stools usually suggest digestion is coping well.

⚡ Energy
Not hyper, not flat — steady, appropriate energy for the dog’s age and lifestyle.

✨ Coat & skin
A healthy coat and skin often reflects good nutrient absorption and fat balance.

🍽️ Appetite
Interest in food without anxiety, fussiness or constant hunger.

🐾 Behaviour
An often neglected sign, but a crucial one! The gut and brain are so link it is surprising how much your dog’s behaviour can be influenced by what they eat.

No food is perfect.
No dog is the same.
And nutrition should be personalised, not rule-based.

🎯 If you’re unsure whether your dog’s food suits them, start by observing..because their body tells you more than any label ever could.

🌟 #happierdogchallenge day 21 - Review these areas in your own dog. 💬 Which sign do you find hardest to interpret? Stools / Energy / Coat / Appetite / Behaviour? Let me know in the comments if you want to feel more confident about what you feed your dog.

#dogfood #caninenutritionist #dogfoodtips #bestdogfood

✨ Sunday Funday! ✨
Today, Leo and I met up with family to walk around a park and visit a garden centre. Teaching Leo to settle was one of the best things I could do for him! It makes us (and him!) far more relaxed when we stop for something to eat and drink.

🌟 #HappierDogChallenge Day 18’s Challenge: Teach your dog settle or practice it with them if they already know it! 🐾

Being able to relax helps dogs process their environment, regulate emotions and cope with everyday life. It can help them be less reactive to other dogs around. A dog who can settle is often a dog who feels safe and in turn, this helps you feel safe. It’s a win-win for your dog! If they can enjoy being out, you’re more likely to take them out and about with you on days out 🥾

Calm isn’t the absence of activity — it’s a skill worth teaching 🩵

What have you got up to today?
📸 If you take part, share a picture using the hashtag and tag me!

Harness by @pawsomepawsboutique 🩷

#sundayfunday #dogwellbeing #dogdayout #sundaydogwalk

Why I use treats to build positive associations 🧠🐶

Treats aren’t just “rewards” — they’re a powerful learning tool.

By pairing experiences with something your dog loves (like food), you help create positive emotional associations. Likewise, pairing the treats with happiness often enough, then smelling and eating the treats can remind him of his happy place! Just like a smell or food can take us back to a happy memory of our childhood, for example.

✨ The science bit:
• Food activates dopamine (motivation & learning)
• Repeated positive pairings build emotional safety
• Over time, the environment itself becomes calming and enjoyable

This is how dogs learn to feel confident, not by being forced through situations, but by learning that good things happen there. Whether it’s the beach, a café, the vets or everyday walks — positive associations shape behaviour.

What are your dog’s favourite treats?

✨ Week 2 #happierdogchallenge - Think about what treats you’d like to be your dog’s “special treats” and take them out with you on your next adventure! Remember to tag me and use the hashtag to share your adventure and taking part!

[Apologies for the delay in challenges this last week - adopting a nervous cat has taken a lot of my energy and spare time to get her settled in! Daily challenges are resuming 💕]

Treats by @poochandmutt! Use code POOCHPACK-VR08 for a massive 30% off! 💜 AD

#dogbehaviourist #dogtreatsuk #poochpack #poochandmutt

What do you think your dog’s named you?! 😅

I saw this on @tobysunbeam’s insta and it really got me thinking. 🤔 Do dogs have names for us in their heads? Names for their other dog/pet friends? Of course, we’ll never know for sure, but it’s a really interesting idea scientifically and thinking about dog consciousness…

Collar & harness by @pawsomepawsboutique 🩷

#dogname #hoomum #dogmama #dogmumlife #dogpawrents

Snow days can be supaw fun days ⛄️ 🐾
but it’s so important to remember these:

1. Protect paws
• Snow, ice and grit can irritate pads.
• Rinse paws after walks to remove salt/de-icers.
• Consider paw balm or boots for sensitive dogs.

2. Watch for cold stress
• Small, elderly and short-coated dogs lose heat faster.
• Shivering, lifting paws or slowing down = time to head home.

3. Avoid icy hazards
• Frozen ponds and lakes aren’t safe to let your dog walk on.
• Keep dogs on lead near ice — it can crack suddenly!

4. Mind what they eat outside
• Snow can contain salt, antifreeze residue or toxins.
• Discourage snow-eating where possible.
• Snow can hide dangerous items you don’t want your dog eating!

5. Adjust walks, not eliminate them
• Shorter, sniff-based walks still provide mental enrichment.
• Enrichment at home can replace longer outdoor sessions.

How does your pooch feel about the snow?

🌟 Day 6+7 of the #happierdogchallenge! If you have snow or not, play an enrichment game with your dog to boost their walks and activity! Let me know with the hashtag and tag if you’re joining the challenge and what game you play 💞

#snowdog #snowdogwalk #doginsnow #dogsnowfun

5 ways supplements can support your dog to live a long and happy life 🐶✨
(when used thoughtfully)

Supplements aren’t magic — and they’re not essential for every dog.
But when chosen for the right reason, they can play a powerful supporting role in your dog’s wellbeing.

From 🧠 brain health and behaviour
to ✨ skin and coat
to 🦴 joints, 🌱 gut health and 🧬 immune support —
the key is purpose over quantity.

🎯 Supplements should:
✔️ Fill a specific gap
✔️ Support a known need
✔️ Work with good nutrition — not replace it

🌟 Day 5 of the #happierdogchallenge :
Review what supplements your dog uses and consider how they’re helping your dog 🐶

Let me know, What would you most like to support for your dog right now?
🧠 Brain | 🦴 Joints | 🌱 Gut | ✨ Skin | ❓ Not sure

Drop it in the comments — and I’ll cover it in a future post 💛 Or drop me a DM to book a Supplement Support Consultation and I can help you find the pawfect ones for your pooch! 💌

#dogsupplements #caninenutritiontips #doghealthuk #dogfood

✨ Sunday Funday! ✨
Today, Leo and I have been enjoying the snow ⛄️ He loves playing in the snow and experiencing the new sights, sounds, textures and smells ❄️.

🌟 #HappierDogChallenge Day 4’s Challenge: Schedule one Sunday (or any day!) this month to dedicate to your dog! 🐶
This could be:
🐾 A new place to explore
🐾 Extra play, enrichment or cuddles
🐾 Letting them set the pace for the day
🐾 Playing with a new toy or new game
🐾 Learning a new trick together

✨ Why this matters:
Quality time strengthens the our bond with our dog, reduces stress for both of you, and increases feel-good chemicals like oxytocin (in both us humans and our dogs!).
For dogs, choice, novelty and shared experiences are key contributors to emotional wellbeing.

📸 If you take part, share what you get up to using the hashtag and tag me!
Comment SUNDAY FUNDAY below so we can cheer each other on.

A happier dog doesn’t need more stuff —
sometimes they just need more you 🩵

#sundayfunday #dogwellbeing #dogday #dogfun

Food isn’t just fuel for dogs, it’s information, stimulation and emotional regulation.

In the wild, dogs wouldn’t eat from a bowl in 30 seconds. They’d search, sniff, problem-solve and work for their food. When we pour meals into a plain bowl every day, we remove a huge opportunity for mental enrichment.

That’s why I regularly swap the bowl for:
🐾 Slow feeders
🐾 Puzzle feeders
🐾 Scatter feeding or enrichment toys

• Sniffing and problem-solving activates the brain and increase dopamine (feel-good motivation)
• Slower eating supports digestion and gut comfort
• Enrichment feeding helps reduce frustration, boredom and stress
• Mental work can be more calming than physical exercise

This isn’t about perfection or fancy equipment. Even one enriched meal a week can make a difference.

🌟 Day 3 of the #happierdogchallenge - Today’s challenge:
Try feeding one meal in a more enriching way and notice how your dog behaves afterwards.

Did they slow down?
Seem more settled?
Look satisfied rather than overstimulated?

Tell me what you tried below 👇
And if you’re taking part in the Happier Dog Challenge — you’re doing exactly what your dog’s brain loves 💛

#mentalstimulationfordogs #dogenrichmentactivities #dogenrichmentideas #slowfeederbowl

Your dog’s superpower? Their nose 🐽✨

Dogs experience the world through scent. In fact, their brains are hard-wired for sniffing — the olfactory area of a dog’s brain is proportionally far larger than ours, and scent work activates areas linked to calm, focus and emotional regulation.
Their nostrils also work independently so they can take in and process far more scents at once that we can!

When dogs are allowed to sniff:
• Heart rate and stress hormones can reduce
• Dopamine is released, supporting positive mood
• Mental fatigue increases (the good kind!) from all the mental stimulation
• Confidence and curiosity grow

That’s why a slow, sniff-heavy walk can be more enriching than a fast, step-count-focused one.

✨ Day 2 of the #HappierDogChallenge: Take your dog on a Sniffari! 🦮
Let your dog choose the route with their nose.
No rushing. No correcting. Just following curiosity.

This isn’t “spoiling” your dog — it’s meeting a biological need.

🐾 Try it today and see: did your dog come home calmer, happier or more settled?

Comment 🐶 if you’re doing today’s challenge and remember to use the hashtag when you share videos doing today’s challenge!

#dogbehaviour #dogenrichment #dognose #sniffari

2026 energy: more joy, more adventure, more dog 🐾✨

2026 is going to be a year full of adventures, dog-friendly days out, making memories and lots of fun…I can feel it! 💞

What are your plans with your dog for 2026? 🐶

#doggoals #2026energy #newyearnewgoals #moreadventures #dogfriendly

Why daily mindfulness with your dog is something you don’t want to miss out on 🐾✨

#HappierDogChallenge day 1 challenge is a small but powerful one.
Take 60 seconds to just to BE with your dog. Be fully present.

No phone.
No commands.
No multitasking.

Just quiet observation.

🧠 Calm, intentional interaction increases oxytocin in both us AND our dogs. The hormone is linked to bonding, trust and emotional safety.
🧘🏼‍♀️ Mindful presence can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels in owners, which dogs naturally pick up on.
🐶 Regular observation helps you notice subtle changes in your dog’s mood, behaviour or comfort — key markers of wellbeing and quality of life.

This isn’t about doing more…it’s about noticing more.

🐶 Today’s challenge:
Pause for one minute and observe your dog.
How are they moving? Resting? Breathing?
What’s one thing you noticed that you don’t usually?

Comment below with one thing you observed and use the hashtag to share your mindfulness sessions with your pup 💞
This is where calmer, happier days begin.

#2026challenge #mindfuldog #doghumanbond #dogcommunity

What an incredible year 2025 has been! Through all the challenges, there’s been so much fun. I’m so excited to share with you everything planned for the New Year! And I can’t wait to see what 2026 brings! Here’s to an even better 2026! 🌟

What are your goals for the new year? ✨

#2025recap #2026goals #newyearnewgoals #newchallenges #dogcommunity

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Nutrition and Behaviour Consultations
backed by science.

Let’s Get Your Dog Happy & Healthy Together

Meet me, Dr Emma

What I Specialise In...

- Sam Tyler

- Olivia Green

- Will Jackson

Let’s Get Your Dog
Happy & Healthy Together

Follow me on Instagram

Let's connect

Join my Mailing List for regular Health Tips & Updates!

Nutrition and Behaviour Consultations backed by science.

Let’s Get Your Dog Happy & Healthy Together

Meet me, Dr Emma

What I Specialise In...

- Sam Tyler

- Olivia Green

- Will Jackson

Let’s Get Your Dog Happy & Healthy Together

​

Follow me on Instagram

Let's connect

Join my Mailing List for regular Health Tips & Updates!

Nutrition and Behaviour Consultations
backed by science.

Let’s Get Your Dog
Happy & Healthy Together