Frequently Asked Questions
About The Food
Why should I switch to Barney & Max?
If you’ve ever thought “maybe my dog could be doing better on something else” — you’re not alone. Many owners switch when they notice digestion issues, fussy eating, or just want something less processed. We created Barney & Max to be a simple step up — better nutrition, easier digestion, without the cost or complexity of raw feeding.
What makes Barney & Max different?
We make our food differently to traditional kibble. Instead of cooking ingredients at extreme temperatures, we gently prepare and press them at low heat. That means more natural goodness stays in the food, while still giving your dog something that’s nutritious, easy to digest, and genuinely tasty.
What is cold pressed dog food?
Cold pressed simply means we make our food using lower temperatures. This helps keep nutrients intact and creates a food that breaks down more easily in your dog’s stomach — which many owners find leads to better digestion.
Why is your food easier to digest?
Our recipes are gently made and designed to break down naturally in the stomach, helping reduce issues like gas, loose stools, and heavy digestion.
Is your food grain free?
Yes — all of our recipes are completely grain free. We use ingredients like sweet potato instead of grains, which many dogs find easier to digest.
Is Barney & Max good for sensitive stomachs?
Yes — we specifically designed our recipes to be gentle on digestion. Many of our customers come to us because their dog struggles with traditional kibble.
Will my dog actually like it?
Most dogs absolutely love it — even fussy ones. We use high-quality meat and natural ingredients to make sure it smells and tastes great, not just looks good on paper.
Is Barney & Max expensive compared to other foods?
Per meal we are lower priced that most quality kibble providers. When comparing our costs against traditional kibble dry dog food you need to compare per meal, rather than per kg, typically we'll cost similar per kg, however our food is nutrionally dense, so your dog needs less per meal which is where the savings come into play.
Versus some low meat content supermarket brands we are more expensive, but this is offset by superior ingredients - Meat fit for human consumption, much higher meat or fish percentage and many vitamins and minerals.
Overall, per meal. We are great value for money.
Where can I see all the nutritional information?
Each recipe page features all the information you'll need. Or simply check the back of your bag if you have one at home.
Ingredients & Nutrition
What kind of meat do you use?
We use high-quality, named meat and fish — the kind that was cleared for human-grade consumption. No vague “meat derivatives”, just real, identifiable ingredients.
Why is high meat content important?
Dogs are naturally built to eat meat. A higher meat or fish content means better protein quality, improved energy, and a more satisfying meal.
Do you use artificial additives or fillers?
No — we don’t use artificial colours, flavourings, or preservatives. Just natural ingredients.
Why do you include turmeric?
We include turmeric to support overall wellbeing. It’s known for helping digestion and supporting the body’s natural balance — especially when paired with oils to aid absorption.
Do you include anything for gut health?
Yes — we include prebiotics like chicory inulin to support healthy digestion and gut flora.
Is this nutritionally complete?
Yes — our recipes are complete and balanced, meaning your dog gets everything they need in every meal.
Feeding
How much should I feed my dog?
This depends on their size, age, and activity level. You’ll find a full feeding guide on our product pages, and we recommend splitting the daily amount into two meals for best results.
Why do I feed less than other foods?
Our food is nutritionally dense, so your dog needs less per meal compared to traditional kibble. They’ll still feel full — just without the heavy stomach load
Can I mix this with raw food?
Yes — our food works really well alongside raw feeding. It’s a great way to get the benefits of raw without the cost or inconvenience of feeding it full-time.
What age is it suitable for?
Our food is suitable from 4 weeks old (weaning) right through to senior dogs.
How do I switch my dog over?
We recommend transitioning gradually over 2 weeks (or 3 weeks for sensitive dogs). Start by mixing a small amount with their current food and slowly increase it over time.
What if they don't like it?
This is a rare problem for us, but if it does happen to you don't worry, we offer a full refund on your last order with us.
Other Questions
Where is your food made?
Our food is made in the UK, in the Yorkshire Dales, in small batches to ensure quality and consistency.
Our office is based in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, where Barney & Max can often be seen taking their human Mum and Dad (or Grandads!) out for a walk:)
How long does delivery take?
We offer free tracked delivery, and most orders arrive within 3 working days.
Is delivery tracked?
Yes, most orders to mainland UK are tracked via DPD and you'll get email and sms updates.
Highland & islands - do you deliver
Yes, we'll select the most appropriate carrier for your location and get it out to you, please bear with us as delivery may take a little longer than 3 working days.
Do you offer subscriptions?
Yes — you can subscribe and save, with full control to pause, change, or cancel at any time.
Can I cancel my subscription?
Yes — At any time and we make it easy, log into your account in the top right of the screen and manage from their.
Am I locked into my subscription?
No, you can cancel, pause or reschedule at any time
Do you have a refer-a-friend scheme?
Yes — you and your friend both get £10 when they place their first order. To activate this, once our place your first order, you will get a notification on the order complete page. Or you can create and share your own unique link from within your account section of the site.
What if my dog doesn’t like it?
No problem — we offer a 100% happiness guarantee. If your dog doesn’t get on with it, we’ll give you your money back.
Can I return my order?
Yes — we accept returns on unopened products within 60 days.
Can I cancel my order?
If you contact us quickly (within a couple of hours), we’ll always do our best to stop it before it’s dispatched.
Cooked at less than 50℃
Instead of being cooked at extremely high temperatures and pressure (like most extruded kibble), cold pressed food is prepared at lower temperatures and then gently pressed into small pieces.
The result?
A food that’s easier to digest, retains more natural nutrients, and is kinder on sensitive stomachs
